Dinokeng Game Reserve – Big Five, Close to the City
Dinokeng is Gauteng's own Big Five game reserve, just 30km from Pretoria, and Timeline Travel's 3-Day Dinokeng Honeymoon Package is built specifically around it — welcome champagne and a honeymoon room set-up on arrival, open-vehicle game drives morning and afternoon, and high tea between them at Ritsako Lodge.
Things to Do
Arrival game drive with high tea
A first afternoon open-vehicle game drive in search of the Big Five, preceded by high tea at the lodge.
Morning and afternoon safari drives
A full day of guided open-vehicle game drives exploring the Dinokeng bushveld.
Honeymoon touches
Welcome champagne and a honeymoon room set-up mark this out from a standard game-drive package.
Pretoria heritage stop
On departure, a stop at the Voortrekker Monument, Freedom Park Square and the Union Buildings before the tour ends.
Travel Information
Dinokeng is the shortest way to pair a genuine safari with time in Pretoria, without leaving Gauteng or booking a long-haul flight to a bigger reserve. Timeline Travel's package is written for honeymooners, but the game-viewing itself suits any traveller wanting a two-night bushveld escape close to the capital.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dinokeng only for honeymooners?
No — the game drives and lodge are open to any traveller, but Timeline Travel's Dinokeng package specifically adds romantic touches like champagne and a honeymoon room set-up.
Where is Dinokeng Game Reserve located?
Dinokeng is located in Gauteng Province, South Africa. It sits about 40 minutes north of Pretoria and approximately 1 hour from O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.
What does "Dinokeng" mean?
The name comes from the Setswana/Sotho language and means "a place of rivers," referring to the catchments that feed the area.
Is Dinokeng a true Big Five reserve?
Yes. It is the only free-roaming Big Five reserve in the Gauteng province, home to lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino.
Can I do a self-drive safari in my rental car?
Yes, Dinokeng features over 140 km of winding self-drive tracks accessible to standard sedans and high-clearance vehicles. You must stay on marked roads, keep windows closed/doors locked near dangerous game, and pay the required self-drive permit fee.
Are guided game drives available?
Yes, most lodges within the reserve offer open 4x4 vehicle game drives with professional rangers, which is highly recommended for optimal wildlife tracking and safety.
Is Dinokeng in a malaria area?
No, Dinokeng is completely malaria-free, making medical prophylaxis unnecessary.
How do conservation fees and permits work?
All visitors pay daily conservation fees. International Adults: R200/day International Children (2–12): R100/day Self-Drive Permit: R250 per vehicle (valid for the duration of stay) (Fees can be paid online or at the entrance gates).
What are the main gate hours for day visitors?
Gates generally open at 06:00 and close at 18:00 (winter) or 18:30 (summer). Self-driving after dark is strictly prohibited.
How long should I stay?
Day trips: Ideal for travelers with tight schedules or layovers at O.R. Tambo. 1–3 nights: Recommended for a full safari experience with morning/afternoon game drives and bush dinners.
What is the best time of year to visit?
Dry Season (May to September): Best for game viewing as vegetation thins out and animals gather around waterholes. Wet/Summer Season (October to April): Lush green scenery, ideal for birdwatching and newborn animals, though temperatures can get hot.
Don't See a Tour for This Yet?
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