The Kouga Region of the Eastern Cape boasts one of the most varied biodiversities of the world; where marine and coastal ecosystems and seven biomes come together - Succulent Karoo, Savanna, Fynbos, Grasslands, Forests, Thicket, Nama-Karoo.
Situated within a breathtaking landscape that encompasses mountain ranges, valleys, rivers and pristine coastline - the area can be best enjoyed by visiting any of the thirteen nature reserves.
Baviaans Mega Reserve
The Baviaanskloof Mega Reserve, proclaimed World Heritage Site, is nestled between the Baviaans Mountain Range in the north and the Kouga Mountain Range in the south. This 192 000 ha conservation area, incorporating seven biomes, is home to an amazing diversity of habitat types and species. From forest yellowoods to karoo bossies, thicket spekboom to fynbos proteas, the Kloof is a nature lover's paradise. Here the mountain leopard prowls in safety amidst ancient cycads. Numerous campsites and lodges, hiking and 4x4 trails are a must-see.
Gamtoos River Mouth Coastal Nature Reserve
Over a 1,000ha of reserve incorporating dune forest, coastal thicket, fynbos, wetlands and dune fields. Small buck species, abundant marine life, rich wader population and marine bird nesting site. Khoisan Shell Middens are plentiful – please do not remove any objects from midden sites.
Kabeljous Nature Reserve
The nature reserve comprises an area of 250ha & includes parts of the Kabeljous River & estuary, with a coastline of 2.5km. It has beautiful sand dunes covered in natural vegetation, wetlands & valley bushveld, with Euphorbia forest. The vegetation consists of Dune Thicket, Valley Bushveld & wetlands. Bushbuck, blue duiker, bush pig, grysbok, porcupine, rooikat, mongoose & large spotted genet are some of the animal species. The area is rich in bird life & 100 species have been identified. There is a hiking trail of 3-7km depending on the options taken. The waterfall is a highlight and stunning picnic spot. (Jeffreys Bay)
Noorsekloof Nature Reserve
The reserve comprises of 28.7 ha stretching from near the beach up the valley through Wavecrest. The giant Euphorbia Triangularus gives its name to the kloof & is naturally the predominant tree. The vegetation in the kloof is an excellent example of Valley Bushveld. It is characterised by dense, sometimes impenetrable thorny or succulent shrubs. More than 50 bird species have been observed with specials including the Turaco & Knysna Woodpecker. Paradise flycatchers tend to be very tame & can offer some very enjoyable moments as they flutter around catching insects. Small buck species are frequent to the kloof. A 3km trail meanders up the kloof along the stream. The trail starts at the entrance to Kloof in Eland street, Jeffreys Bay.
Seekoei Nature Reserve
Over 60ha of reserve at the confluence of the Seekoei & Swart Rivers, where it forms an estuary. The bulk of the reserve is only accessible by way of a small pontoon. The reserve is mainly Kaffrarian Thicket with the most common trees being ghwarrie, Boer boon, milkwood, sage wood, bitou & aloes. There are patches of coastal fynbos with Erica, Passerine & Metalasia species. Bushbuck, grysbok, blue duiker, bush pig, porcupine, caracal, yellow & grey mongoose & large spotted genet are some of the species that occur. Thousands of red knobbed coots also nest on the lagoon. 120 Different bird species have been identified. There is a 3km hiking trail that can be reached by crossing the river or pontoon.
Cape St Francis Nature Reserve
Over a 100ha of land is managed by the reserve and includes endangered coastal dune forest. Includes a 1 hour hiking trail and spectacular viewpoint. A walk along the beach to Shark Point will lead you to the shipwreck of the "Genesis".
Irma Booysen Floral Reserve
Discover the wonder of the fynbos world and a wealth of indigenous plants and prolific birdlife. Beautiful walking trails, easy access. (Cape St Francis)
Seal Bay Nature Reserve
This fynbos reserve lies along a particularly beautiful curved stretch of beach. (Cape St Francis)
Seal Point Nature Reserve
This coastal reserve has a number of marked trails to wander whilst enjoying the ocean views. (Cape St Francis)
Swan Island Nature Reserve
4ha of provincial nature reserve located on the estuary of the Kromme River at the confluence of the Kromme and Geelhoutboom Rivers. The reserve provides a variety of habitats for waterbirds.
Oyster Bay Private Nature Reserve
Over 80ha of coastal fynbos reserve which includes excellent facilities and access to horse, hiking and walking trails.
Klasies River Cave Natural Heritage Site
Including four caves of international archaeological significance, the natural heritage site comprises over 80ha of dune forest located west of Oyster Bay.
Huisklip Nature Reserve
Over 300ha of coastal scrub forest and fynbos reserve located west of Oyster Bay at the mouth of the Tsitsikamma River.
