Who are we?
Who We Are
Who We Are Not
Koedoeslaagte is a nature reserve where nature comes first and preserving it for future generations stands central. (unfortunately no dogs allowed)
Koedoeslaagte is an activity park where we promote healthy, physical activities. Our trail-network connects our visitors to the rich biodiversity and unique geological structures of the Vredefort Impact Crater.
Koedoeslaagte is South African and we welcome the many different peoples of our country to enjoy our local beauty, rich diversity and colourful history at affordable rates.
Koedoeslaagte is a family venue where you and whoever you call your family can play, enjoy each other’s company and feel safe and cared for at all times.
Koedoeslaagte is not an outdoor bar – drinking, parties will not be tolerated.
Koedoeslaagte is not a loud music venue – we invite visitors to come to enjoy the sound of the wind, the river, the insects, the birds and our wild animals.
Koedoeslaagte is not a fishing or hunting farm. No collecting of plants allowed.
Koedoeslaagte is not a racetrack for motorsport lovers. Koedoeslaagte is not a campsite where you can light a fire or set up camp wherever you want.
Our Story
The recorded history of Koedoeslaagte dates back to the Great Trek. The Koekemoers and Van Vuurens were part of the Battle of Blood River on 16 December 1838. The Voortrekkers there after left the Republic of Natalia (Kwazulu-Natal today) and settled in the Eastern Free State and Transvaal. Great-grandfather Van Vuuren settled here on Koedoeslaagte along the Vaal River. Because of his part in the Battle of Blood River, the then Commission of Monuments honoured him by covering his grave with this commemorative stone. The monument is still here at Die Ou-plaas. Visitors are welcome.
One of Great-grandfather Van Vuuren’s daughters married Gottlieb Rudolph Koekemoer and she inherited this part of the farm where the Koekemoers live today. The ruins of the original farmhouse are still here at Die Ou-plaas.
During World War II, Johannes Gerhardus Koekemoer (Hannes), was born right here on the farm. Since there has been no commercial farming here since 1971 we are left with a bushveld wilderness ready to be explored. The Vaal River is the source of live on the farm and Koedoeslaagte boasts a 1,2 km river front with a network of rapids, pools and islands. The farm also features its own mountains and interestingly it was here on this mountain where geologists in the 70’s studied the possibility of a meteorite being responsible for the mountainous landscape in the midst of the pan-flat Northern Free State and Northwest. Koedoeslaagte is now proudly part of the UNESCO Vredefort Dome World Heritage Site.
The newly found Koedoeslaagte Trail Park & Venue aims to offer visitors an unique opportunity to enjoy this famous crater and wilderness.