Durban Botanical Gardens
Durban Botanic Gardens:
Africa’s oldest surviving botanic garden – The gardens were established in 1849, making them the oldest surviving botanical gardens on the African continent.
Durban Botanic Gardens:
Africa’s oldest surviving botanic garden – The gardens were established in 1849, making them the oldest surviving botanical gardens on the African continent.
Madagascar is one of the most biologically unique places on Earth because millions of years of isolation allowed extraordinary endemic species to evolve nowhere else in the world. About 90% of its wildlife is found only on the island, including iconic Ring-tailed Lemurs, colourful chameleons, rare baobab trees, and unusual predators like the fossa. These animals and plants adapted to Madagascar’s diverse rainforests, deserts, and mountains, creating ecosystems unlike any other. This remarkable biodiversity makes Madagascar a global hotspot for conservation and scientific study.
On this unforgettable visit, three European Honey Buzzards (Pernis apivorus – Europese Wespedief) circled overhead, joined by the ever-impressive African Goshawk and Black Sparrowhawk. A spectacle of migration, power, and wild beauty — all framed by the charm of this magnificent estate.
Flock to Marion 2025 voyage and the much-anticipated Mouse-Free Marion Project — a bold and globally significant effort to eradicate invasive mice from Marion Island and secure the future of one of the world’s most important seabird populations.
“Where Endangered Species Roam”… Mokala is SANParks’ newest park. Nestled in the hills, Mokala’s landscape boasts a variety of koppieveld (hills) and large open plains.
Bearded Vulture
Throughout their range, Bearded Vultures, or Lammergeiers as they are sometimes known, are associated with high mountain ranges, among them the Himalayas (where they have been observed at altitudes of 7,900 metres above sea-level), the European Alps (from where the last birds disappeared in the 1880s but to which they are now being reintro-
duced) and the various African highlands – from those in Ethiopia, where they are common, to the Maluti Mountains and the Drakensberg in southern Africa, where they are much scarcer.
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).