I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Golden Gate Highlands National Park and it was truly an unforgettable experience. The scenery was absolutely breathtaking, and I was blown away by the natural beauty of the park. Despite paying for park entrance, I was surprised that no one checked our tickets. However, this did not detract from my overall experience in any way. The park was incredibly well-maintained and the facilities were clean and modern. I appreciated the park's commitment to preserving the natural environment and ensuring that visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience. One of the highlights of my visit was hiking through the park's stunning mountain trails. The views were absolutely stunning and I felt completely immersed in nature. It was an experience that I will never forget. I would highly recommend visiting the Golden Gate Highlands National Park to anyone who loves the outdoors and appreciates the beauty of nature. It truly is a hidden gem and a must-visit destination for anyone traveling in the area.

Could certainly be a better visited NP. Maybe a lack of game could be addressed. Scenery is unlike anywhere else and is stunning in every season of the year. The campsite is wonderful and next to a river. And the vulture hide is worth a visit. If no vultures often there are jackals around.

The mountains are absolutely amazing…the place is well maintained and staff are very friendly. Would 100% recommend that this is a must.the pictures cannot capture the real beauty.

What a lovely destination. Short and easy hike suits or for children. Lots of antelope to see with a rock pool and a chain ladder to climb on the other side of the pool The facilities were neat and clean, the guide was knowledgeable and friendly. We had a great time

I did the overnight Ribbok trail at Golden gate national park. The park is absolutely beautiful with stunning views. The trail was moderately difficult but the views were well worth the effort. The facilities at the hut are basic, but the hut is well taken care of. We also spotted wildebeest, antelopes, baboons and zebras.

I finally got to tick my bucket list and making use of our Wildcard so we didn't have to pay for park entrance. Pity we only stayed 2 nights - would've loved to do more hikes. We stayed high up in the mountain lodges - absolutely spectacular views and this is where we saw mountain zebra, black wildebeest and lots of buck. Naughty baboons tip over bins - make sure you lock your unit and close all windows. We did a short hike 45 min to Mushroom Rock - this was breathtaking. We looped through to see the construction of the dinosaur Centre - would be great to see this on completion - it looks amazing. The vulture hide was awesome as we watched the vultures feed and fly off.

What an amazing getaway! This place is so breathtaking! Every view and everywhere you look the scenery is wonderful The mountains are so beautiful The accommodation is good too. They provide everything you could need and with great staff to assist There is a hotel and restaurant. A kiosk for getting snacks. Great hiking trails and lots to choose from. From short hikes to long hikes! Definitely recommend. Last thing. Network coverage is scarce. But it’s okay if you there to kick back and relax from socials

A very beautiful and scenic place indeed. Paid less R130 for 2 people for conservation fees. Was on vacation with my partner and being the photographer I am I took the opportunity to turn it into work.

Everyone needs to hike here. You realize how grateful we should be for the beauty that exists in the world. Won't ever take that for granted again. I did the Brandwag Buttress trail which is supposed to be an hour. However, give yourself grace if its the first time because its so stunning you will spend most of the time taking pictures and looking at every single angle. The views are gorgeous and heavenly. DO IT !🤗

The Golden Gate Highlands Park is superb. Apart from stunning scenery, the park is in immaculate condition. The trails are well maintained and although some are quite strenuous, the views are well worth it. We stayed in the Highlands Camp, which is stunning up against the mountains. It’s really worth the visit!!!

Personally the park is worth a visit for the hiking trails and views. The trails are lead to the most beautiful views , the 2 loops are pretty aswell unfortunately didn't see to many animals this time around , however we did se the massive vulture souring in the air not at the hide ( there were no fresh carcasses for feeding ). The staff members are not ready friendly , felt glad I just had to pay & leave to be honest.

Beautiful Hiking trials (this was the eco trail) wonderful cold waterfalls and natural swimming pools. Lots of fun activities in the area and the drive itself through the park is a beautiful experience

The loops are AWESOME. The views are spectacular. Loved every second of my time driving through the Golden Gate reserve. A must to for anybody who visit this part of our lovely South Africa

Our hike on the Wodehouse Peak Trail at Golden Gate Nature Reserve was truly invigorating. The 11.5km loop led us over the mountains, treating us to stunning views of the scenery. It's a challenging walk, so it's best suited for those comfortable with more strenuous hikes. However, the effort is worth it as each step reveals breathtaking landscapes. From majestic peaks to hidden gems, the trail showcases Golden Gate's natural beauty beautifully. If you're up for an adventure amid awe-inspiring surroundings, the Wodehouse Peak Trail is a must-try. Just keep in mind it's a bit of a workout, but the views make it all worthwhile.

The Golden Gate National Park is absolutely breathtaking. It is one of my favourite places in South Africa. The loop drives are lovely and I love the hikes you can do from them. Catching a sunset here is truly spectacular. I would definitely recommend a visit.

Great place to visit you wouldn't know it existed until you go there great scenery awesome landscape. Permit Fee only R60 to hike and drove through the hills, the hike goes from moderate to extreme we did a moderate one roughly 1 hour to the top plenty of trails to choose from but it should be booked 3 days in advance and it is a guided tour. Moderate hike kids can also join takes you right up the mountain top.

Wonderful nature! Calming and peaceful. Amenities could have been better though... one element of oven did not work, electrical blanket on two beds did not work. But a wonderful stay nonetheless.

Golden Gate National Park has been on my to do list for a number of years now and finally got a chance to visit. What a beautiful, scenic part of the Country. We decided on the Holkrans hiking trail as it was classified as short and suitable for young families. The first 100m or so is strenuous as it is a steep climb however, once you get to the top, it flattens out and is pleasurable. There are two caves to view which are accessed by a set of ladders. Once the caves are visited, be sure to hike a little bit further, there is a great viewing point with two benches were you can stop for a snack. Just be careful of the drop off on the other side as there are no railings. Overall , highly recommended for novice hikers as it is short and scenic.

Golden Gate National Park in South Africa is a breathtakingly scenic park that showcases the natural beauty of the region in a way that is nothing short of phenomenal. From the moment you enter the park, you're greeted with landscapes that seem almost too beautiful to be real. The park's diverse ecosystems and wildlife add to its allure, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers. One of the park's highlights is the Cathedral hike, an experience I found to be absolutely amazing. The trail offers a perfect blend of challenge and beauty, leading hikers through stunning vistas that are sure to impress. The panoramic views of the park's unique geological formations and the vibrant colors of the flora are unforgettable. For adventure seekers, taking a swim in the natural pools encountered during the hike is an experience I highly recommend. The pools provide a refreshing and serene escape, perfectly complementing the exhilarating hike. It's a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of South Africa, and it epitomizes the adventurous spirit of the park. Golden Gate National Park truly is a testament to South Africa's natural beauty. Whether you're an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the great outdoors, this park has something special to offer. Its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the remarkable Cathedral hike make it a top recommendation for anyone looking to explore the best of what South Africa has to offer.

Probably thee most amazing place in South Africa if you appreciate natural mountain peaks untouched by man. Beauty at its finest well worth the drive.

Beautiful part of the world, with amazing vistas and unspoilt landscapes. Easy to access and with newly tarred roads making the drive around the park a breeze even for normal vehicles. Be warned though, going off the tarred road onto the dirt paths does require skill as sedans can scrape and grind. Easily accessible from the picturesque town of Clarens.

Speechless. How do I describe such a heavenly place. Its just the most beautiful place in free state. I loved every minute of it. Its beautiful beautiful beautiful and perfect. Its literally perfect.

My husband and I hiked up to the echo ravine. It was a nice hike, incredible views. The hiking trails are well marked. It was great. We then drove around the rest of golden gate... the roads are in great condition. The views are stunning. The only thing I didn't really enjoy was the vultures hide... but I don't think that is for everyone.

An absolute must do for any avid hiker. Even if you're not a hiker but just a nature watcher or nature lover, take a weekend and go explore this place. Be careful with the hikes up the mountains, the trails are not well marked and it is fairly easy to get lost. I loved it. The views from up there, in any direction, are breathtaking.

Spectacular place. We camped for 2 night in the tranquility of Glen Reenen camp

Driving from Clarens towards Harrismith on the R712 you go through the Golden Gate National Park. What an amazing sight of beautiful mountains and nature. The R712 road is poorly maintained with potholes, yet there are 2 smaller tarred roads leading to view points in the park which are in good condition and can be used by a standard vehicle. There are also specific areas to pull off and view these majestic mountains. Truly beautiful scenery.

Again and again at all seasons.I did it while I lived in South Africa about 10 times. Its such a lovely and awesome place to hike, watching the game or to linger and enjoying the pure nature. Passing the main entry coming from Bethlehem or Fouriesburg via Clarens or the East entrance coming from Phuthaditjhaba or via N5 Kestell. There are no fees if you are only on the journey trough.For hiking, walking , a day trip or longer you have to pay at the office at Glen Reenen rest camp. It is worth it.

Still an amazing natural wonder to see. Great mountainous hiking trails, good camping terrain and a variety of wildlife.

A national park with a great geological and archeological history. Majestic views, fascinating rock formations and a network of hiking trails allowing you to explore the area. The picnic area was not maintained unfortunately. There are a number of accomodation options from campsites to hotel rooms.

Great Service... Compliments to the Parks staff. They were very helpful & available when needed. We had a wonderful hike & beautiful stay at the hike. Our bags & people that could not hike day 2 were transported safely back to the base. Big Ups to the SANParks team.

A beautiful place to get away and relax. The accommodation offering is varied and has something for everyone. My favourite is Highlands Mountain Retreat with spectacular views and cozy log cabins.

Absolutely stunning! The scenery was completely amazing, providing for a most wonderful bike ride. Definitely worth revisiting many times in years to come.

This is a national park you must put on your bucket list. Just so accessible, great for family adventures and more intrepid hikers. Spectacular sunsets obviously

Tranquil and quiet. Clean and safe. A great breakaway from city hustle

It's so wonderful.....

In my opinion, it must be thé most beautiful place one will ever see on earth. Yes, people from various places all over the world night disagree. One needs to look at what you see, only then will you appreciate it.

Stayed 4days with my sisters here. What a beautiful place for relaxation. I could do my meditation and yoga in peace. Would like to go back in winter

We stayed at the Mountain Retreat. Power supply not good. Only fridge was effective working. Lights in chalet very poor . Cant read at night.

The drive through the park is scenic and so tranquil.The BaSotho cultural village was the highlight. The traditional beer should be bottled and sold!! Delicious!!

Always beautiful

(Translated by Google) Always beautiful, especially just before sunset. (Original) Altyd pragtig, veral net voor sonsondergang.

(Translated by Google) It was illuminated at night and it was beautiful. (Original) 夜、ライトアップされていて、綺麗でした。

Spectacular views

A hidden gem.

Great place and friendly service from staff

One of the most special nature reserves in our country, being open, free and beautiful. The Ribbok trail a definite must do ?? I just wish the staff could be more engaging and appreciative of the natural beauty that surrounds all of us.

Very beautiful!!!

Natural, peaceful and attractive

Lovely

(Translated by Google) Golden Gate on the way to Clarence When the sunset comes, you can see why this place is Golden Gate. (Original) 클라렌스 가는 길목의 골든게이트 석양이 지는 시점에 오면 이곳이 왜 골든게이트인지 알수있다

☀️

Nature at its best. Beautiful mountains indeed

Breathtaking

Lovely place. Enjoyed hiking and the horse riding. Stayed for the sunsets as well which was breathtaking. Stay in Clarens and go and explore this magical place

Breathtaking views

Nature

Always stunning, views, trails and so on

Beautiful as always!!!

Breathtaking

Serenity

This place is beautiful,I wanna go back

If you are there when the sun shines on the mountain you will understand why the park is named Golden Gate! Spend time hiking, walking, riding a bicycle.....

Appearance and scenery

Perfect experience indeed....the hiking trails r wonderful yet tiring....nd very friendly staff

Go see for yourself

One of the brst National Park is South Africa by far

Amazing hike!! Can't get over the joy it brings

Awesome

Outstanding views and log cabins are unbelievable

Cool Place to Hike. It was a scary mountain to climb, but atleast there was no wild or dangerous animals on the way.

Great place ... fresh air and beautiful sunshine

Great place to drive for fun , no distractions just you the road and nature and the scenery is amazing

The mountains, fauna and flora is as always, a must see. The 2 loops, which can be driven by any car, are in a good condition. I visited this park a couple of years back and was astounded how much fauna were present. This time I was actually shocked to observe the reduction of animals. Our feathered friends are still in abdudance and gives you inner piece to watch them. The public road through the park is a big problem. Baboons are fed, noise polution, littering, etc. Read also my review on Glen Reenen Rest Camp.

Unbelievable beautiful nature.Just a pity that some people has no respect in appreciation of this magical place.

Lovely nature. Terrible service

Amazing scenery and hiking. Nature at it's best

Free entry is a bonus to this beautiful site. You can ride bikes, go for a hike and there are even 4 X 4 trails that can be followed which is great for the adventure seeker. There are amazing viewpoints to stop at which make for brilliant photo opportunities.

Really great trails for hiking. Very well marked and the views on the different walks are well worth the climbs! All levels of fitness can do most of the walks. The area is clean. Loved seeing the butterflies and birds out on my walk. Can definitely recommend hiking here. Just take cash for your entrance fee - it’s currently R59 per person.

Beautiful mountain range for driving and hiking. Most trails are very easy and suitable for children. Cathedral hiking trail requires advance booking. Staff at reception is friendly and gives good advice.

Awesome with brilliant views and some breath taking scenery. Excellent space just to unwind and enjoy quality time with family and friends. Hiking trails available for varying levels of expertise. Intermittent cellphone reception and a quaint little village of Clarens to visit nearby. Downside, did not see much of the wildlife that inhabit the park and there should be more signage explaining the points of interest.

Very helpful and friendly staff. Units in Glen Reenen rest camp were clean and had everything you need (only bad thing was that the fridges do not cool efficiently). Roads well maintained and views are magnificent. Staff at the hotel restaurant were very friendly and efficient. They have camping and self catering facilities available.

What a lovely peaceful place, the locals are friendly and the mountainous views are breath taking. Great hiking trails and games. Good for a family visit or a group of friends

Beautiful campsite and lovely, helpful staff! All the other campers came to check up on us and made us feel very welcome. There is a bathroom with showers ( bring your own toiletries) and a kitchen with a wash up section that's very well maintained. Lovely Game Drive and Game watching games to play on the way. Must stop if you are on your way through Graaff-Reinet on the N1 even just for a Game Drive. I also love that all the staff have pride in wearing their masks it made me feel really safe and cared for!

Breathtaking views, easy drive and great walking trails. Sanparks and Sasol have a vulture feeding project, well worth a visit

(Translated by Google) Spectacular view! So green! (Original) Spectaculair view! So green!

It is very nice, and amazingly beautiful. When entering the park, the instructions are a little uncleat at the beginning. Other than that, lovely

Yoh, amazing views!!! Stumbled accross this piece of heaven by accident. Best getting lost/detour we ever made. Baboons greeted us, waterfall, stunning views, gorgeous lookout points, meanders and more breathtaking scenery. There is this petrol port with a shop and chalets etc about 20min before you reach Clarens. This is the perfect place to have lunch!! Forsure they will see me again!

(Translated by Google) Each park is special (Original) Svaki je park poseban

Good camping site with enjoyable hikes. Beautiful scenery.

Lovely place and scenery but the road bit bad. Camping site doesn't look good.

Recommended to everybody. What a place, breathtaking views from the Highlands Retreat where we stayed. The hiking trails are some of the best I have seen, with great guides to show you the way and keep you safe. Restaurant is so modern and staff are so friendly and welcoming. Definately one to add to everybody's bucket list to come and hike horse ride or simply sit in the coffee shop and admire the Brandwag Buttress.

Magnificent views, great hikes, comfortable accommodation, lots of game. Wonderful!

The place is beautiful

The place is very nice.

Magnificent weatherd Sandston cliff faces. Nature's beauty.

It's a beautiful place . The mountains are breathtaking

Beautiful sights... one of the best things I have seen in South Africa.

The most beautiful natural scenery that I have seen! If you are in Clarens....you have to visit this national park

Beautiful scenery, good food but bedding needs improvement. Staff is out of this world, from the security officers at the gate to the cleaning ladies. Everybody is loving and caring. Great job ladies!!!

Great place worth another visit....

Beautiful nature.... Woooza

It's a beautiful place worth a visit

A ok stopover ,however upon arrival no electricity for 2 nights and tonight will be the 3rd all.our meat went off in the fridge with no explanation from staff, broken toilet seat, when the power did come on there is no TV channels as promised in the booking , allot of load music till later wich put a damper on the tranquil setting.

i was in awe every single moment.

Excellent

A very good hiking line for almost everyone

What a beautiful place, friendly staff from the gate

Loved hiking to bites

No entry fee or gate access control. Just drove through. Picnic areas closed and the holiday resorts look abandoned and poorly maintained.

Beautiful views

Nature at its best

Beautiful views, a few more spots to stop safely would be good though.

Beautiful stunning and great atmosphere! Strongly recommended!

Extremely beautiful place. Decent filter coffee at the hotel.

Wow, a must see Gem area in SA. The beauty of nature there is just mindblowing!

Beautiful setting, wonderful views! Staff are incredibly friendly and helpful. Rooms were clean with all promised amenities. Will definitely be back!

This is a great National Park, with good hikes both day and overnight, and all the amenities, camping, chalets etc. The views of the rock prominaces

Absolutely breathtaking! Drove through the Golden Gate Highlands on our way to Johannesburg from Clarens. It was the longer but more scenic route, no regrets!

The gem of Free State. I enjoy driving here the scenery is so magical, beautiful mountains, be sure to drive through in the afternoon so that you can see the Golden Gate in the sunset. Absolutely amazing anf worth the drive!

A wonderful place to stay and hike. It is very close to Clarens and the hotel and Chalets are well looked after and clean. The staff are also very friendly and accommodating. Will definitely be back!!

Beautiful mountains but what happened to the park. Look to me that it is only a drive through road to Harrismith. People drive you of the road, no speed limit, no entrance gates. You need permits to drive the circular roads but you don't know where to get it and there was no one at office. So sad.

Beautiful scenery but nothing spectacular. Even the Basotho Cultural Village was not really kept up. Well I suppose 1 has to visit the area at least once. Didn't manage to see a vulture feed (I suppose they weren't hungry 😁)

For all the nature lovers, this is the perfect getaway for the weekend. A place filled with scenery calmness, hiking trails and offering a lot of adventure. Observing the best in nature such as the birds and other wild animals,

What a beautiful place with the most spectacular views We were on a family trip to Clarens and had to come to this national park. I’ve heard of the national park before but never expected it to be so vast and beautiful with its orange mountains. Lots of people were camping as it was festive season so the camping area was quite full. We needed to use the toilets and it was surrounded by monkeys. It was obvious that they were used to human interaction. I was so fascinated by this place that we decided to drive through and spend more time here, as we left Clarens for the Eastern Cape. Will be returning for sure. 👌⭐️

Excellent experience in nature. One of the most beautiful mountains one can find. I would like to recommend to use the Harrismith route to Golden Gate Highlands and Clarens. Road much better, only a few potholes. Enjoy!😊

Beautiful and picturesque. Drove around to enjoy the scenery. Not much wildlife but beautiful mountains and scenery.

One of, if not the best hiking experiences I have ever been on. The overall Maluti Mountain range is simply gorgeous with its vastness being overwhelming at times. The hiking trails, particularly up to the Brandwag Buttress, is varied and interesting, with the area seeming like a whole new country just begging to be explored. I would recommend bringing a bag to help pick up some of the litter that is scattered throughout the trails

What a view with a capital V! The majestic Maluti mountains, very nosy baboons (not aggressive, but do not approach as they are still wild at heart), watching out over the small van Reenen cemetery. Even fossils of years gone by (Dinosaur tour) transporting your back in time. Closer to nature, you won't easily get.

Beautiful nestled in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains in the Free State Province beholds a spectacular breathtaking views. This area offers beautiful nature resorts and accommodation. There is wildlife that you can see on a gale drive. Starts from Phuthaditjhaba into Clarens.

The views is to die for. I stayed at the mountain view retreat. The views from up there was exquist. God's creation. Staff so friendly. Management so helpful. I recommend this place to anyone. It is a place to see.

Hare KRISHNA 🛐 Please accept my humble obeisances 😊 All glories to Srila Prabhupada 💗 Thank you so much for your association and advice always 😊 What an amazing awesome and spiritual experience spent with beautiful like minded souls last weekend 💗😊🙏 Will definitely be back here with the family and make it an even more awesome experience than before 😊Thank you so much for your awesome hospitality love and kindness in accomadating us 😄 Really appreciate it 😊 Take care and GOD bless yol and don't forget to keep being awesome Jay Sri Radhe KRISHNA Haribol 😊💗🛐☪️✝️🕉️

Hikes and views were beautiful. It can get icey on a cloudy day so dress warm. Did the echo ravine and it was thrilling to get to the cliffs.

Quite a strenuous hike up to the Buttress. Beautiful views, well maintained path, although very narrow and a slightly easier trip down the mountain.