Wonderboom Nature Reserve

Afrikaans name: Wonderboom-natuurreservaat

The Big Tree in the Wonderboom Nature Reserve

Photo © Steven Herbert

Gauteng

The Wonderboom Nature Reserve is located in the northern part of Pretoria and is 200 hectares in size. It has two main features: the massive fig tree known as the "Wonderboom" and the Magaliesberg mountain range.

The Wonderboom (Wonder Tree) is the Afrikaans name for Ficus salicifolia. This particular tree is believed to be around 1,000 years old and, despite its massive size, is much smaller than what it was in the 1800's when it was ravaged by fire. At its peak it could give shade to 1,000 people. It is still an impressive tree and is nicely protected with fences and walkways.

The reserve includes some of the northern extent of the Magaliesberg. There are a number of trails in these hills.

The entrance to the reserve is situated on a busy intersection with a large shopping mall on the other side of the street. Near the entrance to the reserve is plenty of space for those wishing to picnic.

Is Wonderboom Nature Reserve worth a visit?

Above - The picnic area with the Magaliesberg hills in the background

Photo © Steven Herbert

References and further reading

The Chamberlain Guide to Birding Gauteng - Author: Etienne Marais and Faansie Peacock - Published: 2008 - Page: 91

Places to Visit in Southern Africa - Author: AA RSA - Published: 1995 - Page: 40

Family Fun - Author: Lisa McNamara - Published: 2015 - Page: 147

Hit the Road - 2nd Edition - Author: MapStudio - Published: 2018 - Page: 117

Illustrated Guide to the Game Parks and Nature Reserves of SA - 2nd edn - Author: Readers Digest - Published: 1991 - Page: 85

City of Tshwane - Wonderboom Nature Reserve

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