Ezemvelo Nature Reserve Activities

Go Birding

With more than 250 bird species listed, the Ezemvelo Reserve should be a favourite among twitchers. 

©Nigel Dennis
Purple Gallinule (Swamphen).

The watercourses support warblers and moorhens, hamerkop, African black duck, purple gallinule and even the secretive African finfoot, while larks, pipits, quails, kestrels, korhaans and even bustards prefer the grasslands.

Go Ride

©Shem Compion
Kudu in Ezemvelo Nature Reserve, South Africa.
Experience the rare privilege of exploring the reserve on horseback, riding among the herds of game, including zebra, giraffe, wildebeest and even leopard. There are no horses on the property but you are welcome to bring your own.

Go Crank

©Jacques Marais
Mountain bikers are welcome to explore the many dirt roads on the Ezemvelo Reserve, allowing all levels of bikers to enjoy themselves, while giving the eager cranker up to 80 km of riding options. Many tracks meander through the veld, taking you through a few mud holes and drifts and crossing some low-water bridges over the Wilge River, which cuts through rust-coloured sandstone to form spectacular rock faces and beautiful gorges. Deep sand sometimes makes the going a bit tough!

Go Bouldering

©Shem Compion
Ezemvelo is a true boulderer’s playground, with over 50 bouldering spots all within easy walking distance with varying degrees of shade throughout the day. There are approximately 160 boulder problems ranging in grade from 5A to 8A. The height of the boulders varies from 1 m to 9 m, so remember to bring a bouldering mat. Bouldering is only allowed on the southern side of the Wilge River and you need to sign a disclaimer at reception before setting out.

Go Hike or Run

©Jacques Marais
Three self-guided hiking trails (4–21 km) allow you to explore the Ezemvelo Reserve on foot and appreciate the wildlife and scenic landscape. The trails vary from the easy 4 km Ochna Trail and 14.6 km Protea Trail to the tough 21 km Burkea Trail.By Jacques Marais