New Germany Nature Reserve
Description
This 110 hectare reserve overlooks New Germany and Pinetown. It contains coastal grassland, patches of forest and proteas. There are blue duiker, common duiker, impala and mongoose living in this reserve. Many species of bird can be seen, some of them are the Natal robin, purple-crested turaco, green coucal, Shelley’s Francolin, plain-backed pipit and the Cape grassbird. There is a walk-in aviary. The walk-in aviary provides the most incredible experience – birds so close that you feel you can touch them (don’t scare them though, they will fly away before you get too close).
Directions
Whilst travelling along the N3 towards Pinetown, take exit 71 – M13/Pinetown/Pietermaritzburg. Shortly after taking this exit, take exit 16 – M5/ Stapleton Road/ New Germany. Keep right around the bend, turning right into Eden Road. At the robot, turn right into Stapleton Road. Continue driving through the next two robots, you are now in Otto Volek Road. Turn right into Mountain Ridge Road and then left into Gilbert Drive.
Routes
The 1,564 meter Imbali trail is suitable for all ages and is particularly beautiful in spring and early summer.
Rating
Moderate
Permit
No entrance fee; open 7:30am to 5pm, aviary closes at 4:30pm.
Features
Over 120 species of birds; walk-in aviary; picnic and braai area – booking essential; coastal grassland; proteas.
Take With
You will need the following:
• Walking shoes;
• Camera;
• Binoculars;
• Refreshments and water.
Click here to view photos of a hike through New Germany Nature Reserve with Amblers Hiking Club.
Click here to view more photos.