EMPISINI NATURE RESERVE (039) 973 0093
A Wildlife Society Nature Reserve on 120 ha of pristine coastal forest and
old canefields converted to grasslands. There are a number of walking trails through dense marshland, along the grassy slopes near the dam, past a waterfall and through a clear running stream. Monkeys, mongoose, bushbuck, blue duiker, otter, bushpig and several species of bats have made Empisini their home. Pack a picnic lunch or stay overnight in the treehouse and enjoy what nature has to offer.
T C ROBERTSON NATURE RESERVE 082 2536330 (OFFICER IN CHARGE)
Situated along the banks of the Mpambonyoni River, the TC Robertson Nature Reserve offers its visitors a unique nature experience. The reserve has become a popular picnic and braai venue for people who enjoy spending a pleasant day in the country. A walk in the reserve will take one through coastal forest, coastal grasslands, wetlands, riverine and estuarine systems, palmveld and thornveld. An interpretation of the name Mpamonyoni, is “where birds gather” and the bird life is indeed prolific with over 200 species having been recorded here. A strategically placed hide offers the bird watcher the chance to observe both terrestrial and aquatic birds. Also in the reserve, one can find an assortment of smaller wildlife from buck to butterflies and mongoose to monkeys. There are 12km of established trails which can either be self-guided or guided walks by a ranger.
VERNON CROOKES NATURE RESERVE 039 9742222
Situated in Umzinto, this reserve was proclaimed on 4 January 1973 and is now 2189 hectares and comprises fine coastal forest and grasslands with abundant wildlife such as impala, blue wildebeest, zebra, bushbuck, blesbok, reedbuck, duiker, blackbacked jackal, vervet monkey, mongoose, eland and porcupine. There are 12 km of tourist roads in the reserve and pleasant picnic sites are available.