Take a walk on the wild side...

Stay on course as you explore a heritage trail, or take to the forests and revel in nature that is aeons old.

Umhlanga, Zulu for "Place of the reeds" for the profusion of reeds on the banks of the Ohlange River that flows just north of Umhlanga, was once part of a coastal dune forest system.  It provided sanctuary to a myriad small wildlife in and around the area today.

Click here for more pictures of the Lagoon Nature Reserve
 


Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve

The O'Connor Promenade, which hugs the shoreline, ends where the Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Trail begins.  This is a delightful hour-and-a-half trail on a well marked path.  Wander through stunning coastal forest on boardwalks that cross the Ohlange River on its way to the lagoon, buttressed by dunes.  It is home to vervet monkeys, small buck and a profusion of butterflies and birds.  Benches and picnic spots are discreetly provided.  Follow the trail to reach both the beach and the lagoon, popular as a naturist "hideaway", as well as among parasailing enthusiasts and boardsailors.  The remains of a Stone Age seashell midden can also be found near the lagoon. 

TO BOOK GUIDED WALKS ON TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS CALL : 073-629 5457


Picture by G.Erskine

Hawaan Forest

Notable among these is the Hawaan Forest.  This unique indigenous woodland has remained in its natural state for centuries.  It is a beautiful forest characterized by important species of trees with tropical attributes, and many small animals.

Entry is restricted and you need to book a place on a guided walk held on Saturdays at 8am.  Ask too about the Umhlanga Ponds, one of the best birding sites on the coast.

CONTACT NUMBER HAWAAN FOREST  : 031-566 4018

 

 

Beachwood Mangrove Nature Reserve

South of Umhlanga, this is a well-organized reserve on the banks of the Umgeni River.  A series of environmental education courses are held here and guided canoeing trips through the mangroves can be arranged.

CONTACT 031-563 3187

 

 

Greenacres Nursery

This top-class nursery, nestled alongside the Hawaan Forest, is home to exotic and indigenous plants.  It is home to the KwaZulu Natal branch of the South African National Bird of Prey Centre.  You can see crowned eagles and other raptors up close and in flight on Sundays (11h00 for 11h30).

CONTACT 031-561 3003