Loskop Dam Nature Reserve, nestled in northern Mpumalanga on the Olifants River and spanning over 22,000 ha, is one of South Africa’s most diverse natural landscapes, home to large mammals including rhino, buffalo, and giraffe, as well as many leopards, and to amazing waterbirds and fish eagles that are drawn to the massive reservoir.

The next two months are an exceptional time to visit. As the reserve transitions into the drier season, the bushveld stays green, but dropping water levels will draw wildlife more predictably to open water and grazing areas. Daytime temperatures will become milder, and nights will cool.

In addition to self-drive game viewing, visitors can enjoy boat trips on the dam, fishing, and picnic areas, all just over 2 hours from Johannesburg.

Accommodations are varied: inside the reserve, there are self-catering chalets managed by the reserve; outside of the reserve, there are a variety of accommodation options from camping to cliff-edge chalets and luxurious homes on a golf estate. 

We’re excited about what 2026 holds for our ongoing work there! In the meantime, enjoy some of our wildlife sightings from just one morning on the reserve.

Image 1: A lucky catch by our in-house photographer, Wiki West, as a spotted eagle owl swooped past her car while she briefly stopped to photograph a troop of baboons.

Image 2: One of the familiar faces of many nature reserves, a warthog.

Image 3: The rolling hills and long grasses of the autumn season can make for unique and natural photographs.

Image 4: With a variety of antelope species, there is always something to see at Loskop

Image 5: Remember to be careful of dung beetles crossing the road as you enjoy your game drive!