The Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve in Durban North

About the Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve

This 76 ha reserve can be found on the northern bank of the Umgeni River mouth, in Durban North. From the beach you have magnificent views of the city and while walking through the reserve it’s hard to believe that you’re walking distance from skyscrapers and shopping centres. There are two walking trails in the reserve.

The Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve is home to White, Black and Red Mangroves. Mangroves need warm conditions to flourish and even though these trees are salt-resistant, they need fresh water too. Their aerial roots allow them to absorb oxygen. This estuary provides the perfect conditions for these mangrove trees.

It is estimated that the Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve is also home to over 1 million crabs; here you will get to see Red Mangrove Crabs, Fiddler Crabs, Marsh Crabs, Ghost Crabs and the large Tangoman Crab. The Red Mangrove Crabs enjoy the fallen mangrove leaves which contain salt and visitors can throw down these leaves and watch the crabs grab them.

In the Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve you will get to see Mudskippers, KZN Dwarf Chameleons, Water Mongoose and climbing Whelks (a type of see snail). The estuary is home to a number of bird species.

Visiting hours

To visit the reserve you can either make an appointment or visit the 3rd Saturday of every month from 8am to 1pm.

Contact details

You can contact Basil Pather on 082 559 2839 for more information or to make an appointment to visit the reserve. This is an ideal location for school groups to learn firsthand about the estuary eco-system and the many plants and animals found here.

The Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve is off Riverside Road in Durban North.