National Park Free State
Golden Gate Highlands National Park
Sandstone cliffs and golden light in the foothills of the Maluti, near Clarens.
Overnight
Source Verified
Trip Role
Overnight
Ideal stay
2 days
Best for
Mountain hiking and birding.
Our take
A scenic, high-altitude sanctuary that prioritizes landscape over big game.
A scenic, high-altitude sanctuary that prioritizes landscape over big game.
- Trip Role
- Overnight
- Ideal Stay
- 2 days
- Time Needed
- 2 days
- Best For
- Mountain hiking and birding.
- Go If
- You enjoy hiking, dramatic mountain photography, and crisp, high-altitude air.
Source Verified
Why it's worth your time
Set in the Free State foothills of the Maluti Mountains, this park is defined by its dramatic, eroded sandstone cliffs and high-altitude grasslands. It offers a cool, mountainous escape with a focus on scenery and raptor sightings.
What we love
The golden, ochre-hued cliffs that glow intensely during sunrise and sunset.
What to know
Winters are extremely cold with frequent frost and occasional snow; pack accordingly.