Welgevonden Game Reserve extends Reserve closure following continued rains

Vaalwater, 17th of March 2025 – Following the severe and sustained rainfall across Welgevonden Game Reserve since mid-February, which caused structural damage to primary access roads, rendering them impassable, Welgevonden Game Reserve has extended the closure of the Reserve until the 31st of March 2025.

Since November 2024, the reserve has recorded its highest rainfall since 2000, making this the second wettest year on record (30 years). The rains have continued to fall in the region, rendering repairs and road reconstruction impossible, until such time as things will begin drying out.

Neil Davison, COO at Welgevonden Game Reserve, confirmed:
“Most of our roads remain severely compromised and, in many cases, unsafe. Our teams have been working around the Reserve to maintain safe emergency access routes on and off the reserve, but with the progress slowed by the continued rainfall, the difficult decision was made to extend the Reserves closure”.

He adds:
“Work has been done with our neighbours to ensure we tackle the worst roads around the Reserve too, with negotiations underway to have the provincial roads repaired that give access to the Reserves four access gates. Maximising this time is important whilst we remain closed to all visitors.”

Welgevonden Game Reserve will remain closed to all visitors until the 31st of March, when the situation will be reassessed. Updates will be provided as the roads continue to dry out, but it is likely to take weeks to affect the necessary repairs, once this is possible.