Dinokeng – “A place of rivers” where animals roam freely in their natural habitat.
The name Dinokeng is derived from the languages of the baTswana and baPedi people who traditionally inhabited the area. Meaning “a place of rivers”, Dinokeng lies in the catchment area of two rivers that flow into the Olifants and Limpopo rivers and on to the Indian Ocean.
The reserve is a Blue IQ initiative by the Gauteng Provincial Government, with the objective of establishing a premier tourism destination close to the city. The project aims to promote economic growth, job creation and social upliftment through conserving and developing the historical, natural and cultural heritage of the area. As a result the Dinokeng Big 5 Game Reserve has been established.
Dinokeng Game Reserve has been financially supported and developed by the Blue IQ Projects but is managed by the Land Owners Association. Dinokeng Game Resserve is based on a unique concept whereby the entire reserve is made up of individually owned lands. The initial start-up phase, approximately 12 000 ha, is owned by a total of 170 land owners. At this stage the Dinokeng area covers approximately 25 000 hectares.
Therefore Dinokeng Game Reserve is not exclusively a tourism destination or protected area, but rather a social and economic core that will benefit the region. The project will have huge benefits to the local communities and will contribute towards the overall improvement of the quality of life of largely disadvantaged rural communities and individuals.
Some of the activities in the area include the following:
- Guided Safari Game Drives – In house activity.
- Guided Safari Bushwalks – In house activity.
- Guided Birding Safari – In house activity.
- Romantic Bush Picnics – In house activity.
- Bushveld Spa – In house activity.
- Microlight Family Adventures – 083 544 7042
- Hot Air Ballooning with Big Sky Ballooning – 083 486 1308
- Mystic Monkeys & Feathers Zoo and Wildlife Centre – 082 566 4929