Durban – Nature Reserves
There are round about 20 nature reserves, varying in size in the greater Durban area. If the hustle and bustle of the city life gets a bit to much the easiest way to relax is pack your hiking gear and picnic and go on an exploration trip into the Durban flora and fauna just like the locals do. Every Durban nature reserves has its own special flair but after visiting a few you will surely have a favorite that leaves you with the feeling that you want to go there again.
The four biggest reserves, near to Durban each with its own special character :
Kranzkloof Nature Reserve : The gorges of the Molweni and the Nqutu river meet here. There are three waterfalls , the tallest being 90m. On the trail through the gorge you might see monkeys, zebra and an abundance of birds. At the entrance to the reserve there is a dam adjacent to which is a big picnic area with braai facilities
Stainbank Nature Reserve: A 250 hectare mixture of forest and grassland awaits you here with various types of buck, monkeys, zebras and birds galore. This reserve caters even for sight impaired and physically disabled people with a 500 m trail. The adventure seeker can book a night drive through the reserve.
Palmiet Nature Reserve: The Palmiet River running through a valley in-between sandstone cliffs gives this reserve its name. The vegetation ranges from forest to grassland and is home to quite a few indigenous plants and birds.
Paradise Valley Nature Reserve: Grassland and forest along the banks of the Umbilo River housing buck, otter and mongoose. Several trail leading through the reserve with a beautiful waterfall along the way. Like nearly all reserves in South Africa with places for picnics and braais
