Verloren Valei is a closed reserve, so casual visitors have only restricted access – visitors can walk from the office or traverse the provincial road that cuts through the reserve (but be warned, it is in poor condition and a high-clearance vehicle with 4WD is recommended). There is at present no driving on the reserve except with a guide. During the summer months, the reserve may also be closed owing to heavy rains.

It is essential to make an appointment.

To book a visit, contact the Reserve Manager, Patrick Serakwana, on 078 5500 489 (phone or WhatsApp) or e-mail Patrick.Serakwana@mtpa.co.za. Communication links are poor, so WhatsApp or e-mail are recommended.

ADMISSION FEES: R54 for adults and R27 for children under 12 and pensioners.

PLEASE NOTE: Verloren Valei is now cashless, so please have a card on you to pay entrance and other fees.

General contact for Friends of Verloren Valei is info@verlorenvalei.org.za.


The best way to visit the Reserve is on one of the expert-led field trips organised by the Friends of Verloren Valei — see the current list of field trips.


The Escarpment Bird Club, based in Dullstroom, also organises regular outings to birding hot spots, including Verloren Valei.

E-mail the Escarpment Bird Club for more information.


Gotcha! Without these seasoned pointers the francolin, masters of camouflage, would not have been found and recorded
Gotcha! Without these seasoned pointers the francolin, masters of camouflage, would not have been found and recorded
Susan Abell and Geoff Lockwood lead a group to explore flowers and birds 2018
Susan Abell and Geoff Lockwood lead a group to explore flowers and birds
Birding at Verloren Valei in March (Photograph by George Skinner)
Birding at Verloren Valei in March (Photograph: George Skinner)
Searching for butterflies in the orchid triangle, Verloren Valei
Searching for butterflies in the orchid triangle, Verloren Valei
Visitors attend a birding workshop
Visitors attend a birding workshop