Palmiet Nature Reserve, Westville, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal
Palmiet Nature Reserve is situated in Westville, part of the Durban Metro, KwaZulu-Natal. It was established in 1972 following action by the local residents to protect this beautiful area from being taken over by property development. The spectacular scenery combines cliffs, the Palmiet River, forest and grassland. The area was settled as far back as 1848 mostly by German immigrants. They had to make their way through this wild area to attend church or to visit their friends in nearby New Germany.
Although the reserve has suffered the devastation of poaching and habitat destruction, a lot of the damage has been reversed by good management since the area was proclaimed a nature reserve. You are likely to see vervet monkeys, genets, water mongoose, cape clawless otters and blue duikers. The reserve will also not disappoint keen birders.
There are numerous hiking trails in the reserve – 15 km in all – some of which are guided. There are also braai and picnic sites as well as a disabled trail. Biking and canoeing is not permitted. There is a guided tour on the 1st Sunday of every month. There are no entrance fees but donations are welcome. The reserve is open from 7h00 to 18h00
Getting there: From the N3 Freeway take the Pavilion/Westville off ramp into Westville. Drive straight up Attercliffe road then right at the T junction into Jan Hofmeyr. Left into Old New Germany Road at the Village Market Centre.
Tel: +27 (0)31 266 5240 or +27 (0)31 266 8015 Email Website
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