Hippopotamus in Cape Town and it’s not an April Fool’s joke. We found this Big Boy happy in his safe little pond away from the crowds and the noisy City Life. Hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibious). Its name comes from the ancient Greek for “river horse”
This awe-inspiring scenery is characteristic of the Drakensberg, and in many places, it is still in the state an ingenious creator might have spawned it in. Poets have not yet discovered the Berg and its praises have yet to be sung. Still, more and more disciples recognise the therapeutic value of its solitary silence, only rarely interrupted by rolling thunder or spoilt by development.
According to the African Raptor Centre, there are estimated to be 100 breeding pairs and 320 birds remaining in the wild in the southern hemisphere. This makes it one of the most threatened vultures in South Africa. The decline in numbers has been caused by less food availability due to the expansion of human settlements, electrocution by overhead power lines, collisions with wind turbines, and farmers poisoning bait to kill Jackals. Bearded vulture body parts are also used for ceremonial and traditional medicine purposes.
With its breathtaking spring flowers, enchanting Pixie Village, and rare wildlife, Jacobsbaai promises a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, artistic inspiration, or simply a peaceful retreat, Jacobsbaai has something to offer every visitor. This hidden gem on the West Coast invites you to immerse yourself in its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity, making it a must-visit destination in South Africa.
The False Bay Nature Reserve comprises six parts: the Rondevlei Section, the Zeekoevlei Section, the Strandfontein Birding Section, the Pelican Park Section, the Slangetjiebos Section, and the Zandw. The reserve is also part of the greater False Bay Ecology Park.
Namaqualand, Northern Cape:
Escape to this land of contrasts, where the rigorous climate has created
myriad life forms superbly adapted to their specific habitat.
Fields of flowers, star-studded nights, quiver trees, enormous granite outcrops and the icy Atlantic are but a few wonders that await the visitor to what is genuinely the Creators’ playground.
Knysna Forest: walks & trails for every fitness level. Giant, ancient yellow wood trees; tree ferns and forest nooks where frogs and fairies dwell… Have a short stroll on an easy forest trail, or take an hour-long circular Knysna Forest Trail route through different biomes, explore the Knysna forest TREES, Knysna forest WILDLIFE or Knysna forest BIRDS or get serious on a 9km trail; many trails near Forest Edge to choose from (see trail map below).
Nestled within the enchanting Knysna Forest in South Africa, Diepwalle Forest offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. This ancient forest, part of the greater Garden Route National Park, holds a special place in the hearts of locals and adventurers. Its rich biodiversity and tranquil atmosphere make it a haven for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape.
Armed with a checklist of avian treasures and a full agenda of nature pursuits, we eagerly immersed ourselves in the verdant foliage. Our time at Diepwalle was punctuated with moments of triumph, including a memorable sighting of the elusive African Emerald Cuckoo and fleeting encounters with Trogons, their iridescence shimmering amidst the forest’s dappled light.
Embark on an exhilarating journey through the world’s most tempestuous and challenging seas. Our destination? The awe-inspiring Southern Ocean, particularly Prince Edward and Marion Island—an uncharted territory for cruise liners. The legendary Peter Harrison vividly dubbed these waters the “roaring forties,” the “furious fifties,” and the “screaming sixties.” His description perfectly captures the relentless power and untamed beauty that awaits.
The main attraction of Namaqualand National Park is undoubtedly its world-famous wildflower displays. Each year, during the spring season (August to October), the semi-arid desert of Namaqualand erupts in a riot of colours as countless wildflowers bloom. This phenomenon is considered one of the most extraordinary floral displays on Earth. Visitors can witness fields of orange, yellow, purple, and white flowers covering the landscape, creating a breathtaking and otherworldly sight.