Lower Drakensberg Foothills – Ntsikeni Nature Reserve
About the Birding
Ntsikeni Vlei is central to a large 9000 hectare nature reserve, declared in 1997 around the 1200 hectare wetland. The wetland itself is surrounded by mountain terrain and extensive pristine grasslands. Flora and fauna within the reserve are of outstanding significance with many notable species of wildflower coming to bloom in the spring months, and an impressive list of birds and mammals including several of South Africa’s most sought-after species.
About the Birding Site
The Lower Drakensberg Foothills Birding Route lies inland and to the south-west of the Southern KwaZulu-Natal Birding Route and is easily accessible from both Durban and Pietermaritzburg, the two nearest points of entry. The source of this route is found in the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg World Heritage Site at the majestic Sani Pass where birders get the unique opportunity to view birds in a rugged and stunningly beautiful environment, consisting of five different habitats and ranging in height from 1600m to 3200m.
Other Related Information
Directions:
Ntsikeni Vlei is accessible by day visitors although it is highly recommended that visitors stay overnight in order to experience all that this special site offers.
Notable points of interest include the:
Main entrance: -30.1969, 29.4965
Ntsikeni Camp: -30.1417, 29.4787
The nearest towns are:
Creighton: 42km
Kokstad: 67km
Key species:
Wattled Crane, Striped Flufftail, African Grass Owl, and chances for Eurasian Bittern and White-winged Flufftail