Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve is the crown jewel of the south coast of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. It stretches across approximately 2,189 hectares of beautiful landscapes, and is a popular destination for holiday goers. It is situated near the quaint town of Scottburgh, so tourists who want to explore the natural environment of the area can do so at this splendid nature retreat.
The environment is an amalgamation of grasslands, coastal forests, wetlands, mountains and rivers. The reserve has abundant wildlife of about 56 species, including eland, bushbuck, zebra, blue wildebeest, impala, rock rabbits and jackal. Avid birders will be happy to know that there are over 300 bird species to see, such as martial eagles, pygmy kingfishers, ground hornbills and grassland birds including grey crowned cranes. Remember to bring along your binoculars and find a suitable spot to see various endemic birds up close. There is also a plethora of beetles and butterflies in the reserve, making it a true haven for nature lovers.
Throughout the reserve, there are picnic and braai sites with ablution facilities for those who want to relax in the scenic tranquility.
Explore Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve
The reserve has a great mountain bike trail that leads through indigenous forest – a 10 km circuit that describes a scenic route from reception to KwaMzukwa gate, following the contour for a few hundred metres before steeply plummeting down the hill and across the stream below.
The nature trails offer superb hiking experiences, from 1 km to 4 km long. Nature enthusiasts who want to discover the hidden gems of the area, such as the giant earthworm (the largest earthworm in the world), will enjoy a walk through the reserve.
There is also an opportunity to embark on a 4x4 adventure within the reserve, with a network of gravel roads that will allow visitors to see the gorgeous environment from a height.