Cradle Moon Lakeside Game Lodge is a popular destination located within the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, near Johannesburg and Pretoria in Gauteng, South Africa. It offers a convenient and accessible bushveld experience, combining game viewing with lakeside relaxation and a variety of activities. It's a popular choice for day trips, weekend getaways, and families.
Key Features
- Convenient Location: Its proximity to Johannesburg and Pretoria makes it easily accessible for those wanting a quick escape to nature without traveling far.
- Cradle of Humankind Setting: Being located in this UNESCO World Heritage Site adds a unique dimension to the experience, connecting your wildlife encounter with the rich history of human origins.
- Lakeside Setting: The presence of a large lake adds a beautiful and tranquil element to the reserve, offering opportunities for watersports and relaxation.
- Diverse Wildlife: While it's not a "Big Five" reserve, Cradle Moon is home to a variety of animals, including giraffe, zebra, various antelope species (kudu, impala, springbok, etc.), and a wealth of birdlife. It's a good place to see typical bushveld fauna.
Range of Activities: Cradle Moon offers a variety of activities to cater to different interests, including:
- Game drives (day and night)
- Guided walks
- Hiking trails
- Mountain biking
- Fishing
- Watersports (kayaking, paddleboarding, etc.)
- Picnics
- Restaurant and bar facilities
- Conference and event venues
- Family-Friendly: Cradle Moon is a great option for families, offering activities suitable for all ages.
Why visit?
- Convenient and Accessible: A quick and easy escape to nature close to major cities.
- Cradle of Humankind Connection: Combine wildlife viewing with exploring the history of human origins.
- Lakeside Relaxation: Enjoy the tranquil setting and watersports.
- Variety of Activities: There's something for everyone, from game drives to hiking and watersports.
- Family Fun: A great destination for a family outing.
Things to do
- Game Drives: Explore the reserve on guided game drives.
- Guided Walks: Embark on guided walks to learn about the flora and fauna.
- Hiking and Mountain Biking: Enjoy the network of trails.
- Fishing: Try your luck at fishing in the lake.
- Watersports: Kayaking, paddleboarding, and other non-motorized watersports.
- Picnics: Relax and enjoy a meal in a scenic spot.
- Visit the Cradle of Humankind: Explore the nearby Sterkfontein Caves and other paleontological sites.
- Relax by the Lake: Take in the views and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Important Considerations
- Not a "Big Five" Reserve: While the reserve has a good variety of wildlife, it doesn't have all of the "Big Five."
- Smaller Reserve: Compared to large national parks, it's a smaller reserve, so game drives might not cover vast distances.
- Popular Spot: Being close to major cities, it can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays.
Cradle Moon Lakeside Game Lodge offers a convenient and enjoyable bushveld experience, particularly for those located in or near Johannesburg and Pretoria. It's a great option for families, day trips, and weekend getaways, combining wildlife encounters with lakeside relaxation and a variety of activities. The location in the Cradle of Humankind adds a unique element to the experience.