Maria Moroka Game Reserve is near the little town and big mountain called Thaba Nchu, less than an hour's drive from Bloemfontein. Its proximity to Bloemfontein, the fact that it’s en route to Lesotho, plus its wide skies and mountain scenery, make it a lovely stopover.

Almost all nature reserves in the Free State province are created around large, scenic dams, and the Maria Moroka Game Reserve is no exception.

But one of the things that sets this park apart is that it is close to a very special mountain, called Thaba Nchu mountain, the spiritual homeland of the Basotho people who have lived here for hundreds of years, first under Chief Moroka in 1830, and later under the more famous Chief Moshoeshoe.

The mountain, only about 70km from the provincial capital (and airport) of Bloemfontein, rises above the Maria Moroka Game Reserve.
The air here is clear, the horizons are wide, and the nearby mountain Thaba Nchu (Black Mountain) makes it all jump into focus.

Interestingly, the large hotel within the game reserve used to be a casino, and has a swimming pool, putt-putt course, jacuzzi, sauna and a few other glitzy attractions – completely different to the standard little self-catering chalets you usually find at a provincial park like this.

You’re less than an hour’s drive from the city of Bloemfontein, but it feels as if you’re far, far away. As a bonus, this is a great stopover point if you’re travelling to the Lesotho border post and Maseru.
HOW TO GET HERE

From Bloemfontein, take the N8 towards Lesotho. After 65km you'll find the little town of Thaba Nchu. Follow the signs to the game reserve and Black Mountain Hotel from here.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The grassland is in full flower between November and January.

GET AROUND

Within the reserve, you can drive, go on game drives, or take a scenic eight km hike.

LENGTH OF STAY

You could stay overnight or for more game viewing, relaxing or exploring hotel facilities, stay two nights or more.

WHERE TO STAY

There are self-catering chalets if you'd prefer the simple life, and a rather large hotel if you like more comfort (and putt-putt).