One hour from the city. A world away from everything else.
A Place Where the City Falls Away
There are few places in South Africa where you can leave the rhythm of city life behind — not after a long road trip or flight — but within an hour’s drive.
Dinokeng Game Reserve is one of them.
Just north of Johannesburg and Pretoria, this malaria-free Big 5 reserve offers something rare: the feeling of being completely immersed in the wild, without the long-distance travel.
This is why Dinokeng has become one of South Africa’s most loved safari regions for locals, short-stay travellers, families, couples, wellness seekers, and international visitors looking for a taste of authentic African wilderness.
And within this reserve sits NAKO Safari Lodge, a luxury sanctuary designed to help you reconnect with nature through stillness, simplicity, and unforgettable wildlife moments.
Where the Big 5 Still Roam Free
Dinokeng is home to:
- Lions
- Leopards
- Elephants
- Rhinos
- Buffalo
…along with cheetah, giraffe, zebra, hyena, and over 360 bird species.
Game drives here feel raw and real — not staged, not rushed, not overcrowded. The reserve maintains an authentic ecosystem where animals move freely, and every sighting is something special.
Whether it’s lions calling at night, elephants crossing a road at dawn, or rhinos grazing in the golden light, Dinokeng delivers true safari magic.
A Short Drive With a Big Reward
One of Dinokeng’s greatest advantages is accessibility.
Only 1 hour from Johannesburg
You can leave the city after work and arrive in time for a sunset drink on the deck.
Malaria-free
Peace of mind for families, seniors, solo travellers, and internationals.
Well-marked, easy roads
Perfect for quick weekend escapes or last-minute getaways.
It’s a safari destination that fits into real life — without compromising the wilderness.
The Only Place in Gauteng Offering a True Big 5 Experience
Dinokeng holds a unique title:
It’s the only public Big 5 game reserve in Gauteng.
This makes it:
- A favourite choice for families
- A convenient option for short romantic escapes
- A top pick for executives needing quiet and clarity
- An ideal place for international visitors with limited time
You don’t have to travel to the Lowveld or the North West to experience world-class wildlife.
Dinokeng brings it right to Joburg’s doorstep.
A Landscape Shaped by Stillness and Story
The name “Dinokeng” means “a place of rivers” — a reference to the ancient water systems that once shaped the region.
It is an ecosystem that feels alive — constantly shifting, quietly breathing, endlessly teaching.
At NAKO Safari Lodge, this landscape becomes your backdrop for rest, reflection, adventure, and connection.
Perfect for Every Kind of Traveller
Dinokeng’s diversity makes it a destination for everyone:
For couples
Romantic seclusion, nature walks, private decks, candlelit dinners.
For families
Malaria-free safaris, educational sightings, kid-friendly experiences.
For solo travellers
Peace, grounding, stillness, wildlife photography opportunities.
For pensioners
Gentle-paced drives, comfortable luxury, easy travel distance.
For corporate groups
A quiet setting to focus, plan, reset, and reconnect away from the city.
For international guests
A true safari experience without long travel or transfers.
Why Dinokeng + NAKO Is a Perfect Match
NAKO Safari Lodge is designed around the philosophy of time in nature — the meaning behind the Setswana word nako.
Here, the beauty of Dinokeng meets:
- luxury suites with private decks
- personalised hospitality
- stillness-focused experiences
- authentic local design
- thoughtful dining
- curated game drives
The result is a safari escape that feels grounding, restorative, and deeply connected to the land around it.
Quick Escape. Deep Reset. Long-Lasting Peace.
Dinokeng is more than a convenient destination — it’s a sanctuary.
A place where the noise of the city fades, the air changes, and nature quietly resets you.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend, a celebration, a romantic escape, or a wellness retreat, this Big 5 reserve offers the perfect blend of accessibility, authenticity, and unforgettable wilderness.
Experience Dinokeng Through the Eyes of NAKO
We invite you to discover why guests return to this reserve year after year — and why NAKO is the perfect place to experience it.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend escape, a family holiday, or a memorable safari experience, NAKO Safari Lodge offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and wildlife.
Visit our website to explore our suites, discover our experiences, and book your stay.
Book Your Stay at NAKO Safari Lodge
bookings@nakosafarilodge.com
+27 82 887 8614
We look forward to welcoming you to NAKO Safari Lodge.