The Fernkloof Nature Reserve is located on the Garden Route, approximately 5-10 minutes north of the coastal town of Hermanus and an hour and 45 minutes from Cape Town. Fernkloof Nature Reserve covers 1800 ha in the Kleinrivier Mountains above Hermanus and ranges in altitude from sea level to 824m.
The reserve offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. Here are some enjoyable things you can do at the Fernkloof Nature Reserve, whether you like bird watching, hiking, or just being in nature.
- Learn more about the reserve's flora and fauna
The Cape Floral Kingdom is made up of 0.002% of the Fernkloof Nature Reserve. The reserve harbours more than 1300 plant species. Fynbos may be seen in abundance in Fernkloof Nature Reserve. The term "fynbos" comes from the Dutch word "fijn bosch," which refers to a variety of evergreen shrub-like plants with tiny, rigid leaves that are frequently curled. It also includes woody plants with hard, leathery leaves that are typically wide.
Although spring is said to be the best time to see fynbos, other species bloom all year round. The Hermanus Botanical Society is extremely active in educating the general public about the need to protect the reserve and its flora and wildlife.
In addition to flowers, the reserve is home to several birds that are attracted by the area's fynbos. There are 100 different bird species documented, although this is not as many as in other parts of South Africa. The Cape Sugarbird, sunbirds, Rock Thrush, and Rock Jumper are the most frequently sighted birds. Numerous seed-eating species, including pigeons, canaries, flycatchers, and white-eyed vireos, are supported by small patches of woodland adjacent to streams.
Snakes are also present in the reserve, as well as other small reptiles like lizards and tortoises. You're most likely to spot baboons, klipspringers, and dassies among the bigger animals. Others, like the porcupine, genet, and hare, are nocturnal and rarely seen animals.
- Try out one of the hiking trails
With a 60-km trail network, the Fernkloof Nature Reserve spans practically the whole northern side of Hermanus. The reserve contains 15 trails which provide breathtaking and unmatched views over Maanskynbaai, Walker Bay, and the Hemel en Aarde Valley. The Hermanus Cycle Track is the longest trail. The estimated length of this walk is 15.6 kilometres, and the average hiking time is 3 hours and 54 minutes. People with different levels of fitness may get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors on these beginner-to-expert paths.
- Explore the cliff path
The Fernkloof Nature Reserve includes the Cliff Path, which stretches over 12 km along the Hermanus coastline from Grotto Beach to the New Harbour. It provides a level walking surface and allows visitors to see the sea, whales in season, and fynbos species that are not found at higher altitudes. Leashed dogs are allowed on the cliff route.
- Buy an indigenous plant at the nursery
There are many different species available for sale at reasonable prices if you love cultivating native plants. You can buy clivias, ground covers, and members of the protea, erica, and restio families.
Customers visit the nursery from far and wide to buy plants, talk about their gardens, and make purchases.
Important things to know when visiting the Fernkloof Nature Reserve:
- Entry to the reserve is free, however, contributions are appreciated.
- Opening times are as follows: Summer 06:00-19:00, Winter 07:00-19:00.
- Snakes and spider webs strung across the route should be avoided.
- In sunny conditions, you'll need a sunhat, sunscreen, and water.
- The trails are good for most people because it is very simple, well-signed, and require minimal climbing.
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