Lekgalameetse is an immense 18, 718-ha mountain wilderness area of protected escarpment, scenic landscape, mountain vegetation and wildlife.  The place of water, this is where many of the prominent rivers of the Lowveld originate. In the Wolkberg Mountains, which form part of the world- famous Drakensberg mountain range, the reserve offers a diversity of plant and insect species. It is also world renowned for its rare butterfly species.

The Downs forms part of the Limpopo Province Drakensberg and offers a lovely matrix of Afromontane grasslands and forests set in a dramatic environment of steep gorges and spectacular vistas. This reserve on the escarpment of the Drakensberg, between Tzaneen and the Able Erasmus pass, has spectacular forest and rolling grasslands. There are historical records of Blue Swallows in the grassland, and this is a good site to see Black Saw-wing Swallow and other montane grassland species like Wing-snapping; Croaking and Wailing Cisticola, Denham’s Bustard, Cape Rock Thrush, to name a few. The forested gorges hold Cape Parrot, Red-capped Robin Chat, White-starred Robin, African Emerald Cuckoo and Yellow-throated Woodland Warbler.

The awesome natural beauty of this reserve with its crystal clear rivers and waterfalls is the foremost reason to visit this attraction bordering the Wolkberg Wilderness Area. There is a simple picnic area set in the dappled shade of the forest canopy. Forested streams and waterfalls offer pools for swimming and lazy picnicking at this top local attraction.
    
The reserve is situated between Tzaneen and Hoedspruit. Follow the R 36 from Tzaneen to Hoedspruit for approx 40 km; then turn right, following the signboards to The Downs. The Reserve has various cottages that can be rented out and there is also a camp site, for reservations contact Glory at the number provided.

The Lekgalameetse Nature Reserve is open daily between 6am and 6pm, day visitors fees are: R20.00 per car, R10.00 per adult, R5.00 for children between 6 and 12 years, and R5.00 for pensioners. Children under 6 enter for free. To arrange day visits to the Reserve, please contact Aaron to confirm your time of arrival, number provided below.