Laohu Valley Reserve, Wildlife conservation area in Free State and Northern Cape, South Africa
Laohu Valley Reserve is a protected area extending across about 350 square kilometers of land, covering both sides of the Orange River near Vanderkloof Dam. The terrain incorporates diverse habitats that support various wildlife species within a natural setting.
The reserve was created in 2002 by converting 17 former sheep farms into a wildlife protection area. This transformation allowed a connected landscape to be restored for ecological conservation.
The name comes from Chinese and reflects the reserve's role in global tiger conservation efforts. Visitors can learn about this international connection through the educational displays and information centers throughout the property.
The area sits in a semi-arid climate receiving about 400 millimeters of annual rainfall, with thunderstorms occurring between January and April. Plan visits around the cooler months if possible, as winters are cold and summers are hot.
Around 20 South China tigers live in the reserve, representing roughly one-fifth of the global population of this critically endangered subspecies. These animals are central to international efforts to save this nearly extinct cat.
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