SOUTH AFRICA | KWAZULU-NATAL | SOUTH COAST

EZEMVELO WILDLIFE RESERVES

Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve

The Vernon Crookes reserve boasts 56 mammal species. These include zebra, blue wildebeest, bushbuck, blesbok, oribi, reedbuck, blue and grey duiker, black-backed jackal, vervet monkeys, rock hyrax, tree hyrax, caracal, slender mongoose, white tailed mongoose, egyptian mongoose, banded mongoose and porcupine.

The abundant birdlife (some 300 confirmed species) includes a number of spectacular raptors like the Crowned and Martial eagle which nest in the reserve, while an interesting variety of indigenous flora adds to the reserve's attractions, not least in spring when the veld is alive with colour.

This secluded getaway is found on the South Coast some 12 km inland from Umzinto, along the Ixopo road. The reserve's wooded slopes, grassland ridges and clear views of the ocean to the east offer the ideal setting for communing with nature whilst enjoying the excellent trails, picnic facilities and autotrail - www.kznwildlife.com

Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve

One of KwaZulu-Natal's most spectacular natural settings, the scenic Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve lies some 21km inland from Port Shepstone. Ideal for a weekend getaway or day excursion. Oribi offers many delightful walks and self-guided trails to scenic spots in the reserve. Details of these walks may be obtained from the Camp Manager. The scenery along the gorge formed by the Umzimkulwana River is a photographer's and nature lover's paradise.

There are numerous idyllic picnic spots on the banks of the river. Be advised, though and do not swim or paddle in the river because of the risk of contracting bilharzia. There is a reservoir swimming pool, with a sundeck in the camp for residents.

The bird list numbers 250 and with its diverse habitats bird watching in Oribi is a rewarding experience - www.kznwildlife.com

Skyline Nature Reserve

Known for its arboretum, this reserve is situated conveniently between Uvongo and Margate. Founded in 1962, Skyline Nature Reserve includes 76 indigenous coastal tree species, about 300 other indigenous trees and 400 exotic tree species. A series of one-hour self-guided trails are demarcated.

Although game such as blue and grey duiker, and bushbuck occur, the emphasis is on botanical species. Most tree species are clearly labelled.

Skyline is an ideal venue for an easy walk or picnic and an escape from the beach when the weather is inclement. Please note that there are no ablution facilities and though people may picnic there are no barbacue facilities. No charge is levied to enter the reserve - www.kznwildlife.com

Mpenjati Nature Reserve

This lush little coastal reserve is 20 km south of Margate on the lower south coast. At present Mpenjati caters essentially for the day visitor. The 60 hectare reserve comprises a system of interlinking wetlands, grasslands and dune forests. The most popular activities are birding, fishing, swimming, and hiking. Two picnic sites on each bank of the Mpenjati River have barbecue facilities, ablution blocks, and a chidren's playground.

The Ipithi trail on the south bank is 1,2 km long and offers visitors the opportunity of sighting blue, red and grey duiker and bushbuck. The Yengele trail on the north bank is 1,8 km long and is routed through one of the largest dune forests on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast. The forest is home to forest antelope and a host of bird species, as well as a breeding pair of Fish Eagles. Observation platforms on both trails provide breathtaking views of the lagoon, wetland system and the coast. The lagoon is ideal for canoeing, windsurfing, fishing and swimming - www.kznwildlife.com

Umtamvuna Nature Reserve

This southernmost nature reserve in KwaZulu-Natal is a botanical paradise consisting of an interesting stretch of riverine forest and steep rocky cliffs. Bordering the Umtamvuna River, the 3 247 hectare reserve boasts a fine display of flowers in springtime. There are numerous walks highlighting the fantastic scenery of different parts of the reserve.

These trails vary in duration from one to three-hour or an all-day hike. Many hours and days can be spent exploring the diverse habitats. Both the Cape vulture and fish eagle breed in the reserve and many other bird species have been recorded. Bushbuck, serval, baboon, samango monkeys, blue and grey duiker and common reedbuck occur in the reserve. No accommodation, caravaning or camping facilities are available in the reserve.

An entrance fee is payable at the gate. The field ranger will provide maps and details of the reserve, Contact the Officer-in-Charge 039 311 2383 - www.kznwildlife.com

Tourism South Coast and the Southern Explorer are actively and continuously working to improve the quality of Tourism Product and the Tourist Experience on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast. Please contact either of these associations with any feedback - positive or negative - we are working for you! Please help us by sharing your experiences.

The Southern Explorer: info@southernexplorer.co.za

Toursim South Coast: info@tourismsouthcoast.co.za

THERE ARE 4 ACCREDITED AND 4 PILOT BLUE FLAG BEACHES ON THE SOUTH COAST.

THE BLUE FLAG IS AN EXCLUSIVE ECO-LABEL WITH STRICT CRITERIA DEALING WITH WATER QUALITY, ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION AND INFORMATION, ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AND SAFETY.

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