South Coast Nature Reserves

Mpenjati Nature Reserve
Palm beach near Southbroom, about 18 km south of Margate. The resort embraces the Mpenjati river lagoon. Trafalgar Marine reserve adjoins Mpenjati Public Resort and extends 500 metres out to sea along its length. This marine reserve has been proclaimed in order to protect the unique fossil found in the area. A popular venue for board sailing , boating and canoeing. Fishing in the lagoon and surf angling are other popular recreational sports.

Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve
Some 21 km along the Harding road(N2), west of Port Shepstone. The turn-off is marked ‘nature reserve’. Contains leopards, baboons, small antelope and a prolific bird life, including five kingfisher and seven eagle species.

Umtamvuna Nature Reserve
This reserve is accessed off the road to Izingolweni from Port Edward. It is renowned for its magnificent views of the deep Umtamvuna River Gorge. Umtamvuna is a treasure house of rare and endemic trees and plant species in a diversity of habitats, with spectacular wild flower displays after the spring rains. The reserve has the best nature walks along the entire KwaZulu-Natall coastline, with several marked trails to explore. A large colony of Cape vultures can be observed on their nesting sites. A small picnic site is situated above the office within the reserve, and a day visit is a rewarding experience.

Uvongo Nature Reserve
This reserve contains a well conserved coastal forest with a diversity of trees, shrubs, ferns, coastal birds species and orchids. A circular 2 hour walking trail can be undertaken. The reserve is found in greater Margate area, between Uvongo and Manaba Beach.
SOUTH COAST HIKING AND TRAILS

Umtamvuna Nature Reserve Trails
Hiking/Walking
8km From Port Edward
There are 3 trails. It is a beautiful reserve with a magnificent display of Clivias in the Spring. Several species of Antelope may be seen. Birdlife is plentiful.

Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve Trail
Hiking/Walking
There are 6 trails. Baboon View, Is A Short Walk Of 1km, Hoopoe Falls – 7km, Samango River – 1,5km, View Trail – 9km, Nkonka Trail – 5km and Horseman’s Point – 4,5 Km Trail. The hiker will encounter thick forest and magnificent views of the Gorge which is 24km long, 5km Wide and 400m deep. Baboons, Vervet And Samango Monkeys may be seen.

Skyline Nature Reserve Trails
Hiking/Walking

Palm Beach Area
A variety of 1hr walking trails which feature many indigenous and exotic trees, As well as small game and many bird species.

Southbroom Area
Enjoy the splendid beaches, rock formations, animal life, and vegetation of Mpenjati, on one of the scenic walking trails. Starting from the Mpenjati River, walks of various distances are available, The longest being a leisurely 4 Hour ( 9km ) walk to the Mbizana River at Southbroom. The area between the high and Low water mark is ideal for walking as it is relatively firm. The sand dunes house delicate fauna and flora, and should be left undisturbed.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]