The Venetia Limpopo Nature Reserve is situated in the northern-most parts of South Africa, and is owned by the De Beers Diamond Mining Company - the mine itself is actually within the confines of the reserve.
The reserve is approximately 33 000 ha in size, and is characterised by the dominant mopane veld- type (Colophospermum mopane). Whilst scenic, the area is hot — summer temperatures regularly pass the 40 degrees Celsius mark.
The reserve is home to three of the big 5 (lion, elephant and leopard — rhino and buffalo are not found in the park). There was a population of African Wild Dogs resident in the park, who were in fact part of a research project being undertaken by the Carnivore Conservation Group, a branch of the Endangered Wildlife Trust.
Literally across the road is one of South Africa's newest national parks — the Mapungubwe National Park.
Famous quotes containing the words nature and/or reserve:
“I think that we may safely trust a good deal more than we do. We may waive just so much care of ourselves as we honestly bestow elsewhere. Nature is as well adapted to our weakness as to our strength.”
—Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862)
“I do not know what right I have to so much happiness, but rather hold it in reserve till the time of my desert.”
—Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862)