Heidelberg’s Natural Heritage
Heidelberg’s natural heritage is made prominent by its prime position along the eastern side of the Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve. This reserve is Gauteng’s highest geographical point at 2 000 metres above sea level. The lush reserve is believed to cover approximately 11 595 km² of land that includes ridges, kloofs and an expansive array of flora and fauna.
Animals known to populate this region include the common duiker, steenbok, grey duiker, oribi, blesbok, black wildebeest, zebra, kudus, hyenas, and over 200 species of indigenous birds.
It’s animal rich feature comes as no surprise as the fertile region is covered in vegetation that includes grassy hillsides, wooded plains, fynbos and the area’s eponymous sugarbush (suikerbos), making it an ideal home for a variety of animal species.
For bipedals, the Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve plays host to a number of hiking trails, featuring trails that span 1 to 6 days as well as day walks (10 or 17 km) that provide a pleasant meditative quality. Game viewing can also be experienced from this location.