Pigeon Valley Park

Description

The Pigeon Valley Park, a 10 hectare forest in Berea Ridge, is worth a visit by walkers and bird-watchers. It protects many of the forest giants, particularly the Natal elm, Natal camwood, Natal fig and dragon tree. A wide variety of bird species can be found, most frequently the southern boubou, somber bulbul, buffspotted flufftail and golden-rumped tinker barbet. The park is kept in pristine condition; perfect for a Sunday afternoon stroll to get in touch with nature.

Directions

Travelling along the N3 towards Durban, take exit 3 – M13/Ridge Road/Berea. Turn right over the bridge towards Glenwood. After a while, you’ll find Mazisi Kunene Avenue on your left – turn into it. Turn right into Princess Alice Avenue and the Pigeon Valley Park will be on your right. There is no parking inside the park, so find a spot along the road.

Routes

The trail is 400 meters long, or you can walk along the waterway through the park and back – this is a 600 meter walk. Be careful walking along the paved walkway when there’s moss, as it gets quite slippery.

Rating

Easy

Permit

No booking is required; open 7:30am to 4pm.

Features

No parking; no picnic area; toilets; gate may look locked – use the pedestrian gate; park kept in pristine condition; ideal for bird-watchers.

Take With

You will need the following:

• Walking shoes;

• Camera;

• Binoculars;

• Insect repellant (the mosquitoes can be a nuisance in summer);

• Refreshments and water.

Please Note

Important points to remember about this hike:

• A map of the park is at the entrance.