Montagu Herb Festival

We visited the quaint town of Monatgu in the Western Cape over the Heritage day weekend in September this year. Montagu is situated in the Breede River Valley at the foot of the majestic Langeberg mountains and surrounded by beautiful fynbos vegetation, lush vineyards and fruit orchards. It is known for its location on the famous Route 62 and for the numerous outdoor activities on offer including hiking, rock climbing and mountain biking. Interestingly Montagu boasts the most number of national monuments in one street than any other town in the country and the town has a rich cultural and architectural history.

 While the main aim of our visit was to have a relaxing getaway (i.e. fun-filled girls weekend) in a beautiful part of the country, we discovered much to our delight, that it serendipitously coincided with the annual Montagu Herb Festival or Kruiefees.

Exploring Montagu

Doing the Scavenger Hike by Bike!

The Herb Festival is in it’s 4th year of existence and is organised by the Montagu Museum which has a long standing history of documenting knowledge about medicinal plants. Since I love all things botanical this was an event I was so excited to experience and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The festival included: exhibitions, cooking demos, workshops, plant discovery walks and enlightening talks on medicinal herbs, mushrooms, and healing traditions.

The Fynbos Healing Plant Discovery Walk was on Sunday morning

I thoroughly enjoyed learning more about the local flora on the Fynbos walk with Liana Muller from Fijn Botanicals. She shared on the medicinal and healing properties of the plants in the area that she uses to create Botanical perfumes, creams and other skin products.

Liana Jansen from Fijn Botanicals sharing her knowledge about the Fynbos plants she uses in her products

We also enjoyed the Herb Walk in the Montagu Nature Garden with curator Hugo de Wet and Patti van Dyk. The Nature Garden is an indigenous wildflower reserve with plants of the Klein Karoo and contains numerous walking trails which offer lovely views of the town below as you make your way up the hill.   

Hiking through the Montagu Nature Garden

Montagu Nature Garden

The exhibition at the Montagu Museum consisted of companies that make use of botanical products and included the following: Canna Gold, Chivas Oils, Dagga Farmacy, Earthwell Pet Products, Eporia, Fell Flora, Fijn Botanicals, Folio Books, Gentle Rain Traditional Healing, Greyton Candles, Grow Folk, Indikaap, Karoo Mantis, Khoe Cure, Montagu Museum Herbs, Shop@Yamu Botanicals and Therapeutic Naturals.

See image of Herb Festival Program for 2024:

 I had just walked through fynbos for a few hours - studying and learning about the medicinal plants of this region - so when I saw dried plants in jars on the table of Khoe Cure I wanted to try them out for myself. I bought their Herbal Tonic which contains the following plants: Sutherlandia frutescens, Artemesia afra, Dicoma capensis, Lobostemon fruticosus, Agathosma, Aucalyptus globulus, Bulbine natalensis, Hypoxis hemerocallidea, Tulbaghia violacea, Chrysocoma ciliata, Cissampelos, Clychrrhiza glabra and Cannabis. The tonic has a strong garlic taste from the Tulbaghia violacea, which makes it a bit hard to swallow, but Megan suggested I mix it with tonic water and that has definitely helped.

While there are certainly many beautiful accommodation options in the area I highly recommend the self-catering cottage we stayed in called Exhale Cottage. The cottage is well equipped and in the most breathtakingly beautiful location. The hosts were incredibly gracious and generous and went out of their way to make our stay unforgettable. Here are some pics of our accommodation:

We had a really memorable weekend!

Montagu's Herb Festival is a must-visit for anyone who is interested in medicinal plants or who just wants to enjoy the beautiful scenery and relaxed atmosphere of this charming town.

Some reference links: 

https://montagumuseum.co.za/

https://www.sahistory.org.za/place/montagu-route-62

https://www.south-africa-info.co.za/country/town/227/montagu

Mapungubwe National Park

For several years I have wanted to visit Mapungubwe National Park, but it was always a bit far (5 hours from Johannesburg) and I was worried about Malaria for my young children. This year we made it happen and visited in May which was surprisingly warm and we were really taken aback by the incredible beauty of this park.

Location

Mapungubwe is located on the border between South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana. It is on the South African side of the confluence between the Shashe and Limpopo Rivers. The reserve is actually bisected into two parts - the Eastern and Western Sections - with private land in between. It also forms part of a greater reserve that extends into the neighbouring countries called the Greater Mapungubwe Transfrontier Conservation Area.

Maps from SANParks website

History

“In December 1932, Ernst van Graan, his son Jerry and three other men searched the farm Greefswald, where both Mapungubwe and K2 are located, for a sacred hill rumoured to hold the treasure of kings. Arriving eventually at the steep-sided and seemingly unscaleable hill, a local man, known only as Mowena, reluctantly pointed the way to a narrow path well concealed in a cleft in the rock. Reaching the top of the hill, the men found remnants of stone walls and large quantities of potsherds, some iron tools and copper and glass beads scattered on the ground. They returned the next day with spades and soon unearthed ancient graves, three which were different and probably belonged to royalty.”

Several graves were uncovered including precious artefacts such as a golden bowl, scepter and the famous golden rhino. The Golden Rhino has become a symbol for Mapungubwe.

Architecture

I first heard about Mapungubwe while studying at the University of Pretoria when architect Peter Rich came to give a guest lecture on his award-winning Interpretive Centre. The visuals he showed stuck in my mind - brick vaulted domes clad in sandstone. I really wanted to visit this building. He explained how unemployed people from the local community were trained in making the clay tiles and in the tile-vaulting construction technique.

The Mapungubwe Interpretive Centre functions as a museum and holds a smallish collection of artefacts with historical information on the story of Mapungubwe. (Note that Museum entrance needs to be paid at Reception, a short drive away). There is also a cafeteria and small curio shop.

The architect clearly intended the experience of the museum to include exiting the building and walking on the rocky mesa to overlook the dramatic landscape below. Unfortunately, there is not even a signpost to indicate that you should go on the short walk to see this incredible view, so if you visit make sure that find a small dirt track from the cafeteria to the top of the hill.

link to architect’s page: https://www.peterricharchitects.com/mapungubwe-interpretation-centre

Cultural Landscape

The Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape has been occupied by diverse peoples over thousands of years. It demonstrates the rise and fall of the first powerful indigenous kingdom in Southern Africa between 900 and 1,300 AD and laid the foundation for subsequent settlement patterns in the region. In the 21st century Mapungubwe has been embraced as a site of significance by South Africans as well as the international community. The Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape (MCL) was declared as a National Heritage Site in 2001 and it was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2003.

The MCL was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2003 because it is believed to be of outstanding universal value for the following reasons:

• The MCL contains evidence for an important interchange of human values that led to far-reaching cultural and social changes in southern Africa between AD 900 and 1300.

• The remains in the MCL are a remarkably complete testimony to the growth and subsequent decline of the Mapungubwe State which at its height was the largest kingdom on the African subcontinent.

• The establishment of Mapungubwe as a powerful state trading through the East African ports with Arabia and India was a significant stage in the history of the African sub-continent.

• The remains in the MCL graphically illustrate the impact of climate change and record the growth, and then decline, of the Kingdom of Mapungubwe as a clear record of a culture that became vulnerable to irreversible change.

Take the time to contemplate the landscape. Marvel at the wonder of Nature and the layers of memory and history in this place.

Vegetation

The Park comprises Subtropical Alluvial Vegetation, Musina Mopane Bushveld and Limpopo Ridge Bushveld vegetation types. The Mopani trees were particularly striking when we visited - all golden shades of yellow, orange and red and I also loved the Large Leaved Rock Figs (Ficus abutilifolia) clinging to the dramatic rock formations. But the highlight for me must be the magnificent Baobabs (Adansonia digitata). They are so enormous that you can’t help be in awe of them. They are even more dramatic without leaves and their grey bark almost shimmers like a snake’s skin in the sunlight. The Park has tried to protect many of the larger trees with a type of wire mesh wrapped around the trunk to protect the trees from elephants.

Geology

The landscape is really poetic. I wanted to do some research on the geology of the area and found this incerpt in the Integrated Management Plan for the period of 2019 - 2028, prepared by Dr Andre Spies, found on the SANParks website: “The park comprises of an attractive semi-arid landscape with varying geological structures and formations, including extremely old Archaean rocks, metamorphics of intermediate age, karoo sandstone / conglomerate uplands that are about 200 million years old, and recent alluvium and sands. Kimberlites about 100 million years old are found in the region, which explains the existence of a large diamond mine at Venetia, about 50 km south of the park boundary. ” (https://www.sanparks.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/integrated-management-plan-3.pdf)

Animals & Birds

We saw lovely general game in Mapungubwe. My kids enjoyed seeing Spring Hares for the first time!

Birdlife is abundant and there are some amazing specials that can be found here. I really wanted to see Pel’s Fishing Owl, this bird attracts many birding fanatics countrywide, but unfortunately I did not see it. I did see Meyer’s Parrot and Meve’s (Longtailed) Starling for the first time. This place is a Birder’s Paradise!

Giraffe in Leokwe Rest Camp

Accommodation

There are several accommodation options available at Mapungubwe National Park: Well equipped Chalets at Leokwe Camp; Tented huts at Limpopo Forest Tented Camp; Campsites at Mazhou Campsite; Tshugulu Lodge caters for larger groups and also there are also cabins at Vhembe Wilderness Camp. I have only stayed at Leokwe Rest Camp so unfortunately can’t give more information about the other options. Our rondawel at Leokwe was very spacious and we loved braaiing on the patio with a beautiful view over the indigenous bush. The camp is not fenced off so animals roam freely but I believe there are not a lot of lions in the reserve, but even so they ask you to refrain from walking in the camp after nightfall.

View of Leokwe Camp from Pool Area

Pool at Leokwe Rest Camp

For bookings go to SANParks website

References:

• SANParks website - Mapungubwe National Park – SANParks https://www.sanparks.org/parks/mapungubwe

• Mapungubwe National Park and World Heritage Site Integrated Management Plan, 2019 - 2028, by Andre Spies, Integrated Management Plan

• MAPUNGUBWE NATIONAL PARK AND WHS Heritage and Palaeontological Impact Assessment for the Overnight Youth Facility (Dormitories) & Mapungubwe Valley Orientation Centres January 2020, by Stephan Gaigher, Heritage Impact Assessment

• https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1099/
  

Doornkop Fish & Wildlife Reserve

Friends of ours introduced us to Doornkop Nature Reserve which is situated between Carolina and Mashadodorp in Mpumalanga. It was the ideal location for us to spend a few nights on route to Nelspruit in December. I was really impressed with the accommodation (there are several homes available to rent on AirBnB) and the estate facilities on offer. The clubhouse has a small shop, tennis courts, a games room with pool table and wonderful swimming pool. There is beautiful wildlife to be seen, amazing bird life and stunning vegetation to explore. I loved this place and will definitely go back! Their website is very comprehensive, and you will find a lot of detail about the reserve there: https://doornkopresort.co.za/

There are many hiking trails and mountain bike routes on offer. We enjoyed hiking to a beautiful waterfall which even the kids managed. The reserve also offers special activities for kids during holiday seasons, and we took our kids to free horse-riding lessons which they loved. There were other activities on offer so you can join in organised events or just relax and enjoy the surrounding beauty.

Pony rides for kids at Doornkop

Dung beetles near the horses paddocks

We saw these beautiful cows on the way to the reserve and I had to stop and photograph them!

~ G.S

Mkhambathi Nature Reserve

It is undeniable that South Africa is filled with incredible nature destinations, and I love visiting them and discovering the beauty that our country holds. One of these destinations is a hidden gem called Mkhambathi Nature Reserve in the Eastern Cape.

location

Mkhambathi Nature Reserve is situated on the coast between Port Edward and Port St Johns and while it is an effort to get there it is definitely worth it. The roads to get there are riddled with potholes and the 40km dirt road stretch from Flagstaff can be challenging. The reserve is bounded by two rivers, the Mtentu to the north and Msikaba to the south.

Information

The reserve covers an area of over 8000ha and consists of open grasslands dotted with forest patches and swamp forests making it a unique landscape to experience. It forms part of the greater Pondoland Marine Protected Area and the Pondoland Centre of Endemism, making it one of the most important centres of plant diversity and endemism in Africa. The reserve is managed by the Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency (ECPTA) and accommodation bookings can be made through their website.

I have added a map here from the information we gathered on our trip as the map they provided isn’t very clear, it is not very detailed but gives you an idea of where the main points of interest are located

History

In 1922 people were moved out of the area and a leper colony with a hospital was established on 18 000 ha of rolling coastal grassland. When leprosy was cured, the facility became a TB hospital. In 1977 a provincial nature reserve was proclaimed in a third of the 18 000 ha. A land claim for the reserve, including the surrounding area, was lodged and granted in 2004 and the applicants were constituted as the Mkhambathi Land Trust (MLT), with the condition that Mkhambathi Nature Reserve be maintained as a reserve and co-managed with ECPTA. The reserve has remained in an untransformed state and there are few settlements in close proximity to it. The adjacent grassland areas are just as valuable in terms of biodiversity and there is a possibility that more land will be incorporated into the reserve in future. (https://www.birdlife.org.za/iba-directory/mkhambathi-nature-reserve/)

Vegetation

Some extremely important vegetation types are protected in Mkhambathi. Examples of the Pondoland-Ugu Sandstone Coastal Sourveld grasslands in this reserve are the only ones under formal conservation, while its Pondoland Scarp Forests are some of the most significant forests in South Africa. The false water-berry Rhynchocalyx lawsonioides and the endangered Pondo palm Jubaeopsis caffra are endemic to this area.

Things to Do

While you may want to relax, there is a lot to keep visitors busy including: fishing in designated areas (with a permit), swimming, mountain biking, birdwatching and self driving to see animals - a 4x4 is necessary especially in the rainy season. We did not have a 4x4 and made use of the game drive service which I highly recommend (enquire at reception for pricing). Most visitors enjoy hiking through the reserve especially along the coast and the trail from Mkhambathi Falls to Horseshoe Falls. There is no dangerous game which makes it safe to explore and we especially enjoyed swimming in the many rock pools - see video below.

Accommodation

When we visited the reserve several years ago, we stayed in GweGwe Rondawels which is an incredible location right at the foot of the ocean. People who visited Mkhambahti in the past would have fond memories of those huts. Apparently these rondawels have been demolished to make way for a new boutique hotel which is said to open in 2024. The current accommodation options are basic but functional cottages.

We loved visiting this reserve and would love to return again as there is a lot to explore!

2 x Stone Cottages while Cottage no.6 is an old house

Tips: Remember that is it is far away from everything with no cellphone signal so you really do relax, but that also means you need to plan well in advance and take everything that you may need. Perhaps the boutique lodge is up and running sometime this year and then you can stay there in luxury!

~ G.S

References:

https://www.birdlife.org.za/iba-directory/mkhambathi-nature-reserve/

https://visiteasterncape.co.za/parks/mkhambathi/

http://bookonline.ecpta.co.za/?q=node/45 - website to book accommodation

Storm's River Mouth

I have been wanting to return to the Garden Route National Park to share this beautiful part of the world with my kids for a few years now. Although they are still too young to do the Otter Trail I knew they would love the scenery and surroundings. It is really a nature lover’s paradise.

Dramatic scenery at Storm’s River Mouth

We spent a wonderful long weekend there with family and enjoyed the lilo adventure up the gorge. I didn’t want to risk my camera falling in the water so unfortunately I don’t have any pics of that experience!

Suspension bridge

We enjoyed the hike to suspension bridge as well as the short Lourie Trail inside the Storms River Mouth Restcamp. Some of the more energetic also did the Waterfal hike which is the first part of the Otter Trail. See further trail information on the SANParks website .

One of the highlights of the trip was finding and interacting with a beautiful Octopus as well as several starfish in one of the rock pools. We enjoyed watching whales, birdwatching and even spotted an otter.
The beautiful forests are an experience in themselves and I loved seeing the natural beauty and vegetation. Because the reserve is in a protected area you don’t see any ships on the ocean and the natural environment is pristine.

Inquisitive Octopus

We visited the Big Tree just off the N2 highway where a lovely forest walk leads you to the impressive tree. The Outeniqua Yellowwood boasts an age of over 1000 years, height of 36 metres, main trunk length of 18.3 metres, crown spread of 33 metres and average circumference of 8.5 metres.

We had an amazing visit to the beautiful part of South Africa and look forward to visiting again whenever we get another chance!

Benvie Gardens, Midlands

Tucked away along a dirt track in the mountains of Karkloof in the Midlands is a magical forest filled  with flowers and birdsong. The trees reach up to the sky and you feel as if you are transported to another world. It is a garden flowing with Azaleas, Hydrangeas, Camellias and other shade loving plants and the circular walk around its perimeter encourages you to come up close to these botanical beauties.

Trees

The garden is a generous 31 hectares in size and consists of a wide selection of species and impressive trees that make you feel very small because of their size and stature. If you contemplate the life of a tree and how stoic, steadfast and sure it stands for so many years (some of these trees are over a hundred years old) it makes you consider your life and its brevity. There is something very contemplative about spending time around these majestic monuments.

History

The founder John Geekie (1836- 1908) came from Dundee Scotland and settled in Pietermartizburg in 1860. He because a successful businessman and was able to realise his dream of recreating his garden in Scotland by purchasing the farm “Nooitgedacht”. He imported seeds, seedlings and plants from around the world. The imported stock travelled by boat to Durban Harbour and was then taken by rail to Merrivale before finally being driven by ox wagon up to Benvie.

Seeds and seedlings were imported from Howdens & Co in Inverness, Scotland while further seedlings of Conifer trees, Fruit trees and Hydrangeas came from Berkman’s Nursery in Georgia, USA. He received the nucleus stock of Azaleas, Camellias and Rhododendrons from the Botanical Gardens in Durban. During this time he requested the help of his relative Bill Marriott, who had worked at Kew Gardens, to assist him with the garden layout and planning. He began planting the garden around 1889 and it took him 6 years to establish. All trees were planted to the required distance apart to enable them to grow to their full capacity.

Birds

If you are a birdwatcher you may have already heard of this location as it is where the seldom spotted Orange Ground Thrush can be seen. Benvie has the most dense population of the Orange Ground Thrush in South Africa.

Visiting the Garden

The garden is open to the public for certain times of the year and the generous lawns allow for lovely picnics. It is best to call them ahead of the time to check if it is open. An entrance fee is charged (check for latest rates). The Rhododendron come into flower between October and December and this is an especially beautiful time to visit. The Clivias start flowering in the first week of September.

A signboard encased in glass depicts the history of the garden and even shows the receipt for some of the plants purchased. Maintenance is an ongoing process and includes collecting seeds and propagating them from the existing trees in the garden and replanting when older trees are removed. The property is still maintained by the Geekie family with the 6th generation now enjoying their time at Benvie.

This garden is a delight for anyone who appreciates botanical beauty and is definitely something to put on your list of places to visit! ~ G.S.

Contact: John and Jenny Robinson 082 443 3805

Facebook: @BenvieOpenGarden

Directions from the N3 at Howick:

Take either the Midmar Dam or Tweedie turnoff. Both these roads lead to Howick. Travel along Main Street through Howick until you reach the Rietvlei/Karkloof Road. Continue on tar until road becomes gravel. Your next landmark will be the Mbona gate on your right. Carry straight on as you wind up the hill. Look for the 32 km stone. Then turn right onto the New Hanover/York Road which is signposted. Travel downhill for 3 kilometres. Turn left onto District Road 583. Benvie is signposted at this point and the home is 200m away.

Kruger National Park (Southern) Overview

King of the Beasts - always a highlight to see a Lion in the Kruger Park

Hundreds, if not thousands, of books, guides and references have been written about this incredible place and so I was wondering if I should even write a blog about it? I realised that I like to write and share about places (gardens, landscapes, parks, nature experiences) that inspire me whether these are well known or not. So even though you may know the Kruger Park very well perhaps this post will inspire you to visit it again in the near future.

Quick Historical Fact

The park was first proclaimed in 1898 as the Sabie Game Reserve by the then president of the Transvaal Republic, Paul Kruger. He first proposed the need to protect the animals of the Lowveld in 1884, but his revolutionary vision took another 12 years to be realised when the area between the Sabie and Crocodile Rivers was set aside for restricted hunting. On 31 May 1926 the National Parks Act was proclaimed and with it the merging of the Sabie and Shingwedzi Game Reserves into the Kruger National Park.
The first motorists entered the park in 1927 for a fee of one pound. (https://www.sanparks.org/parks/kruger/tourism/history.php)

The Place to Go for Nature Lovers

Visiting the Kruger Park is a memorable experience and especially so for nature lovers - the sounds, smells, birds, trees and wildlife are what many South Africans love about the Bush . The Kruger is a special place to visit as each time can be completely different depending on what time of year you visit as well as which parts you go to. It is a very large reserve and with the slow speed limit it can take hours of travelling between camps. Talk to people who have visited before get good tips and plan accordingly. Don’t forget your Mosquito repellent, Binocs, Birdbook, Camera and the essential Snake-Bite Kit (Cooler box of drinks and snacks).

Southern Kruger, Map where sightings can be shared at most stops in the Park

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Restcamps

We have stayed at three of the camps in the Southern part of the Kruger Park over the past while and here is a bit more detail about each of them. In most of the camps the accommodation is basic but clean and there are different options to choose from. You can walk around the camps to see birds and small animals and most of the trees have nametags. In all the camps the area for Overnight Guests is normally separated from the area where Day Visitors can access. The pools are reserved for people staying over but the restaurant and shops are open for all.

 Berg en Dal Restcamp

Berg en Dal is the most Southern camp and located very close to the Malelane Gate entrance. A highlight is always stopping on the bridge when entering at Malelane Gate to look down onto the Crocodile River and spot all the birds, crocs and hippos in the waters below. Berg en Dal camp has many beautiful trees and a small museum dedicated to Rhinos. The restaurant overlooks a small dam and there is a walk a short way along the river with braille signage boards. The Rhino walk through the camp is a lovely trail that has information boards and a great way to experience nature while walking safely.

Berg en Dal (Afrikaans for Hill and Valley) is named after the undulating hills in the area

Lower Sabie Restcamp

One of the best camps in Kruger in my opinion. This part of the Park is always filled with abundant game as the animals are drawn to the Lower Sabie River that runs adjacent to the camp. There are also magnificent trees to be found along the road that follows the river as well as in the camp. The restaurant at the camp where the shop is located is built out onto a large deck that overlooks the river and it is lovely to sit here and have a drink or ice-cream while game watching the riverbed below. Sunset Dam, just outside the restcamp, is a wonderful dam for seeing game including hippos and crocodiles (and herons surfing on crocodiles!) and there are nice game drive options from the camp.

Pretoriouskop Restcamp

Pretoriuskop is located on the South Western side of the park and is nearest to Numbi Gate. One of the highlights of this camp is the beautiful swimming pool. The pool is built into the rocks and is a great way to cool down from the heat of the Lowveld. There are several routes to take as an afternoon drive from the camp and walking through the camp to see the beautiful trees and birds is also recommended.

Like so many others, I love the experience of visiting the Kruger Park - the animals, the birds, the trees and the closeness to nature. I also want my children to grow up experiencing the beauty of the Bushveld and hope they will appreciate the complexity of plant and animal communities functioning together where every creature is part of a greater system. We don’t go only to see the big 5, we go to see the animals less seen and often the sightings of snakes, tortoises, chameleons and birds have been our most exciting.

Visiting Kruger with Kids

I have been careful to not take my kids while they were too young for fear of malaria. Now that they are old enough where I am comfortable to stay over in the Park I am so excited to share the experience of the Bush with them. Most kids hate the hours of driving but the novelty of going seatbelt-free is one that they love. We normally put a mattress in the boot of the car so they can climb back and forth and read their books when they get bored looking for animals. I keep activity books and loads of snacks ready to keep them entertained. One of the joys of sharing the Kruger with young kids is that every sighting is exciting. We try to limit the amount of time driving and spend more time exploring the restcamp and stopping wherever possible.

Do you know what my favourite part of visiting the Kruger Park is? The Sunsets.. and the Trees.

Sterculia murex (Lowveld Chestnut)

Rhigozum obovatum (Yellow Pomegranate)

What do you love about the Bush or what has been one of your favourite Kruger Park Experiences?

To Book: https://www.sanparks.org/

Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve

Situated about an hours drive to the South of Johannesburg lies a nature reserve that is well known to birders, hikers and cyclists. The reserve is named after the Transvaal Sugar-bush (Protea caffra), which occurs chiefly in the eastern and south-eastern parts. The basic objectives of the nature reserve are to “conserve the natural environment ensuring that plant and animal species diversity is maintained and provide open-air outside recreation, environmental education and research opportunities”.

There are several trails in the reserve and more information can be found on the website. The Cheetah Trail is 4km and takes approximately 1.5hours. The Bokmakierie Day Trail is 10 or 11.5km. There are overnight huts along the hiking trail if you would like to do an overnight hike (self-guided and plan your own route).

Cussonia paniculata towering above us on the Toktokkie Trail

The tar road through the reserve provides the ideal challenge for cyclists as a single loop is 60 km and if you are even fitter you can add the second loop. We drove (this time, hopefully more cycling in the future) and enjoyed the views, stopping to walk short distances to look out points. Once back at the Base Camp (Diepkloof Picnic Area) we walked the short 700m Toktokkie Trail that winds up a gentle hill and provides a lovely view over the reserve. The trail is wheelchair friendly and the paved pathway has several signage boards along the route. The boards provide insights into nature that can be seen along the trail such as cabbage trees, aloes and lichen covered rocks. We also spotted several birds and some zebra.

Toktokkie Trail with Information Boards

We visited the reserve in winter so you can see the grasses are all yellow and the veld often burnt. In summer this reserve is all shades of green and filled with birdsong.

The vegetation is grassland with two grassland types namely Moist Cool Grassland and Rocky Highveld Grassland. Clumps of trees, especially White stinkwood (Celtis africana), Highveld cabbage tree (Cussonia paniculata), Ouhout (Leucosidea sericea), Sweet Thorn (Acacia karroo), the Highveld Protea (Protea caffra), and the Common Guarri (Euclea undulata) can be found.

The reserve boasts small and large game such as zebra, wildebees and antelope as well as excellent birdlife. A variety of habitats (high altitude grassland, rocky outcrops, wooded valleys, protea woodland and wetlands) provide excellent opportunities to see the abundant birdlife and over 270 species have been recorded (See Birdlife South Africa Post). We even spotted a snake warming itself on the tar road and climbed out to get a closer look.

Large parking area for cyclists and hikers

After exploring we enjoyed a picnic at the children’s play area next to the parking area. There are jungle gyms, a trampoline and trees with benches below to sit on.

Visiting this reserve is certainly a memorable nature experience and you may even find yourself singing “Suikerbos Ek wil jou he” on your way home.

https://www.friendsofsuikerbosrand.co.za/

COHEN, C. SPOTTISWOODE, C. & ROSSOUW, J. 2006 Southern African Birdfinder. Cape Town: Struik Nature

Walter Sisulu Botanical Garden

Sculpture of Walter Sisulu at the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens

Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens (WSNBG), located in Roodepoort Johannesburg, is an incredibly beautiful garden filled with indigenous gardening inspiration. The nature reserve covers over 300 hectares and was established in 1982. While there are several hikes and trails through the reserve the 25 hectares that are cultivated as gardens gives one ample opportunity to explore this botanical beauty. A highlight of visiting this garden is the beautiful Witpoortjie Waterfall which cascades into a calm stream that meanders through the gardens.

History

In the later 1800s the nearest stop for people to visit the gardens was the railway station in Krugersdorp named Witpoortjie Railway Station, which is believed to be where the waterfall received its name. The gardens were first known as the Transvaal National Botanic Garden and could only be visited by special arrangement. In 1987 it was opened to the public daily as the Witwatersrand National Botanical Garden. In March 2004 it was renamed the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden in honour of the late ANC stalwart Mr Walter Sisulu (1912-2003). Walter Sisulu is best known for leading the struggle for a democratic South Africa together with former president Nelson Mandela. (SANBI)

Upon entering the WSNBG one is welcomed by circular stone clad walls surrounding a water feature and statue of Walter Sisulu. We visited in December when they had festive light displays and you could visit the garden in the evening to see the Christmas lights. They often have other events and festivals which are popular and well attended.

Gardens

Following the path past the concert lawn you will be enticed to explore several planted areas off the main path including the Geological Garden, People’s Plants Garden and the Succulent Rockery. The Geological Garden has some interesting and beautiful rocks on display. In the Succulent Rockery you will find many different types of succulents. with stone pathways meandering its way through. Throughout the garden there are information boards with explanations to learn from. The Waterwise Garden also has educational information on how to conserve water in your garden.

Restaurant

If you continue on the main path you will arrive at the restaurant on your left and children’s play area on your right and if you carry on further you will reach the waterfall area. The restaurant has a tea garden where you can sit and relax and this venue can also be hired for functions. This is a lovely place for a picnic below the large trees.

Restaurant

Children’s Playground

Waterfall

The Witpoortjie Waterfall is a natural waterfall fed by springs upstream and is 70m high. It is regarded as the source of the Crocodile River which flows into Hartebeespoort Dam. Picnicking on the lawn at the waterfall is not allowed because of the high foot traffic in this area. A remarkable Olinia emarginata (Mountain Hard Pear) is in the centre of the lawn and although struck by lightning several years ago it is still alive and being supported to prevent it from falling over.

Birdlife

Over 240 bird species have been recorded in the gardens and it is a renowned breeding spot for Verreaux's Eagles (formerly known as Black Eagles) and popular with birding enthusiasts. The bird list can be requested from sisulugarden@sanbi.org.za

Vegetation

The Garden consists of three main natural vegetation types: Northern Afrotemperate Forest, Egoli Granite Grassland and Gold Reef Mountain Bushveld. This variety of habitats includes over 600 naturally occurring plant species. There are incredible specimens of trees throughout the garden and some impressive examples of Celtis africana and Combretum erythrophyllum can be seen along the Forest Walk that follows the Crocodile River running through the reserve.

If you are interested in indigenous gardening (and I hope you are!) then you will not leave this garden without learning something new or seeing something inspiring. There is always something new to discover.

Visiting the Gardens

The garden is open every day from 08h00 to 17h00.

Remember that there are no bins and you need to take everything that you bring home with you again and No Cash Payments are accepted.

Read more about other Botanical Gardens:

• Lowveld Botanical Gardens

• Harold Porter Botanical Garden

• Emmarentia - Johannesburg Botanical Gardens

• Durban Botanic Gardens

• Pretoria Botanical Gardens

• Karoo National Botanical Gardens

• The Wilds

SANBI Website - Walter Sisulu - SANBI

Beautiful Buddleja saligna (False Olive) in flower

5 Outdoor Nature Activities to do with Kids in Cape Town

Spending time outdoors is healthy, fun and educational and in Cape Town you are spoilt for choice when it comes to outdoor nature activities. With kids there are some limitations to where you can go and how much you can do so it’s always good to know which activities are good options to choose from. We visited in April for a few days and decided on these things according to the time we had available and close proximity to our accommodation so that we could come home to re-energize between outings. Thanks to our local guide Juli for all the tips and insights!

1. Table Mountain

A visit to the top of this beautiful and iconic landmark by CableCar is exciting and memorable (or if your kids are older and fitter you could hike up to the top). It is advisable to check the weather forecast beforehand and remember that afternoon rates are lower than morning rates. If you present your South African ID to show it is your birthday month you get free entry. Once at the top you can buy a drink from the restaurant and enjoy the scenery or a walk along the various trails on offer. See Table Mountain’s official website.

There are lots of signage and information boards for you to learn from

2. Walk along the Promenade

This broad walkway runs along the coastline at Seapoint and is a popular outdoor space for people to exercise, do yoga, picnic, or walk their dogs. There is a lot to see and it makes for a lovely afternoon outing. There are several restaurants along the route and places to stop and enjoy the view. If you are not up for walking there is the fun option of renting bikes.

The Mouille Point Park, located along the Promenade next to the Mouille Point Lighthouse, is a great playground with a variety of play equipment and the most beautiful setting of the sea and Lion’s Head behind.

3. Green Point Park

We made sure to park in Park Road near an entrance to Green Point Park so that we could get ice-cream from the amazing Creamery Cafe in Mouille Point (we even went back the next day!). Green Point Park has several biodiversity and educational gardens as well as age appropriate playgrounds that are well maintained and well used by residents of the City of Cape Town. The park is beautifully laid out (it was designed by OvP Landscape Architects) and has a series of scenic waterways that are filled with birds and pathways that highlight the surrounding scenery of Stadium, Lion’s Head and Mouille Point Lighthouse.

4. The Beach

Yes, this one had to be on the list! Kids love the sand and sea (even if it is freezing cold) and there are several options to choose from. We went to Glen Beach, Camps Bay Beach and Camps Bay Tidal Pool. Llandadno is a bit more of a drive but more sheltered if weather isn’t the best.

5. Signal Hill

Watching the sunset from this vantage point is a beautiful way to end the day. You can drive relatively close to the picnic area so it not a far walk (depending on how busy and how many cars are parked along the road). Take a blanket with drinks and snacks and enjoy the amazing view over the ocean and Robben Island. Remind your children of the sacrifices people made to live in a free and democratic South Africa and how we continue to live with hope for a better future despite the challenges we face.

We weren’t able to visit Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, but this will definitely be on our list for the next time we visit!