Nature reserve with river frontage. Six walking trails through varied terrain. 260 bird species. Giraffe zebra and antelope. Splendid views. Affordable self- catering accommodation - chalets, cottages, dormitories and bush camps. Conference facilities. Braai and picnic sopts. One of Africa's leading environmental education centres. All groups welcome.
In the heart of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands lies a valley created by the Umgeni River, after cascading over the majestic Howick Falls.
The greater part of the nature reserve lies in the spectacular gorge below the Howick Falls, while the upper part is the fringe of a rolling plateau which has an average altitude of about 1 000m. The land falls away abruptly at the edge of the plateau for about 60m to form rock faces in places.
The valley sides below 860m altitude slope away gently towards the Umgeni River, 7km of which falls within the reserve. The lowest point is 737m above sea level. The reserve is home to giraffe, zebra and a variety of antelope. There is an indigenous tree trail surrounding the main Education Centre and self-guided walks mingling with the game animals in the beautiful Umgeni Valley Nature Reserve.
A bird watchers paradise, with over 270 bird species to view throughout the year - see if you can spot the elusive Nerina Trogon or the crowned eagle. Butterflies abound in the reserve.
