Rust de Winter Dam and Nature Reserve

Afrikaans name: Rust de Winter Natuur Reservaat

Rust de Winter Nature Reserve

Photo © Steven Herbert

Limpopo

Rust de Winter Nature Reserve is a bit over an hours drive from Johannesburg and even less from Pretoria. It is very scenic and is a very peaceful spot apart from the odd boat that passes.

This is one of the best birding spots in the area and birders have built up a checklist of around 400 species of birds. The Rust de Winter Dam attracts numerous species of waterbirds, particularly during winter.

Other game that is found in the reserve includes Nile Crocodile, Kudu, Waterbuck, Warthog, Bushpig and Burchells Zebra. Unfortunately the game is not easily seen in the thick bush.

Only a portion of the reserve can be accessed by visitors and most of what can be reached is along the shores of the dam.

The dam is popular amongst anglers and is also a good spot for a picnic. One may camp along the waters edge but there is very little in the way of facilities in the reserve so take everything you need with you. The roads are rocky but shouldn't present a problem to your car.

Have you visited Rust de Winter Nature Reserve? How was it?

Rust de Winter Nature Reserve

Photo © Steven Herbert

References and further reading

Top Birding Spots in Southern Africa - Author: Hugh Chittenden - Published: 1992 - Page: 138

Southern African Birdfinder - Author: Cohen, Spottiswoode and Rossouw - Published: 2006 - Page: 168

The Chamberlain Guide to Birding Gauteng - Author: Etienne Marais and Faansie Peacock - Published: 2008 - Page: 198

Illustrated Guide to the Game Parks and Nature Reserves of SA - 2nd edn - Author: Readers Digest - Published: 1991 - Page: 84

Drive Out 4X4 Trail Guide - Author: - Published: 2011 - Page: 48

Go Birding in the Transvaal - Author: Brendan Ryan and John Isom - Published: 1990 - Page: 95

Chris and Tilde Stuarts Guide to Southern African Game and Nature Reserves - Author: Chris and Tilde Stuart - Published: 1989 - Page: 61

Country Life - Issue 285 - Author: - Published: 2020 - Page: 72

Caravan & Outdoor Life - Issue 630 - Author: - Published: 2014 - Page: 9

Atlas of National Parks and Reserves of South Africa - Author: Marielle Renssen - Published: 2006 - Page: 124

Rust de Winter Conservancy

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