The Struben Mine Shafts, Kloofendal, Roodepoort

The Confidence Reef was discovered by the Struben brothers on 18 September 1884. This sparked off a flood of prospectors to the Witwatersrand, and eventually resulted in the discovery of the Main gold reef in 1886. The first payable gold on the Rand was extracted by the Strubens on this site. It was declared a National Monument under old NMC legislation on 29 July 1983.

 

The Kloofendal Nature Reserve is situated in the Suburb of Kloofendal, Roodepoort. It is on the West side of Johannesburg, Midway between Westgate and Clearwater Mall. The Entrance is on Galena Street, between Topaz and Ouklip Roads, in the Suburb of Kloofendal.

It is a 110 Hectare Reserve within easy reach, of the Centre of Johannesburg and consists of pristine Highveld Vegetation with craggy Quartzite Outcrops. There is a Bird Hide at the small Dam on the Reserve and a while spent here can be well worthwhile. The Wildlife on the Reserve is restricted to smaller creatures but it is surprisingly varied. Many Highveld Tree Species have their home in the Reserve. The Reserve also is Home to the first Mine on the Witwatersrand, which is a National Heritage Site. This Enclosed Area can only be visited by special arrangement. 

Guided or Self guided walks: 

Walks can be self guided or one can join one of the excellent trails lead by a qualified Field Guide. Take a Picnic and enjoy the day out. Explore the paths that crisscross the Reserve. Visit the Bird Hide and spy on our 'feathered friend's. The Amphitheater Area inside the Reserve has Picnic and Ablution Facilities. The Mine Shaft (Confidence Reef) is fenced off and can only be visited with a guide. A Security Guard (paid by Johannesburg City Parks) is on duty every Day. 

 

Please be aware that dogs are definitely not allowed in the Reserve. Guided walks are 2 hours, usually longer. Booking essential to assist with numbers. 

 

Notes regarding events- 

All events include walks in the Reserve and are led by qualified guides. 

Evening events include a Presentation and you are invited to Picnic, on the lawn. 

Meet at the Friends of Kloofendal Display Centre Opposite the Stamp Mills 15 minutes before start time. 

There are Picnic and Ablution facilities. 

Entry into the Reserve is free.