The Palala and Blocklands rivers flow through Lapalala for over 60 km and are identified as National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas.

[2] Eight different types of land have been identified in the reserve, which is an indicator of heterogeneity, and thus the diversity of Lapalala habitats.

The diversity of habitats and long-term conservation is attractive to a large number of birds and wildlife.

[3] It was the first privately protected area in South Africa to reintroduce black rhinoceros in 1981.

Lapalala Wilderness School was established in 1985 with the aim of promoting wildlife conservation among young people – often from historically disadvantaged communities.