Gansbaai is a small fishing village in the Western Cape, famous for its huge population of Great White Sharks. For this reason, it has become South Africaโs premier Great White Shark cage diving destination.
It is also frequented by Southern Right and Humpback whales during the months of July to December of every year. This means that Gansbaai is a fabulous destination for those that appreciate nature and the outdoors. For these visitors, the nature reserves around Gansbaai are an absolute must.
These are five of the finest nature reserves of the area …
Farm 215 Nature Retreat & Fynbos Reserve
This reserve spans 800 hectares and is blanketed with authentic South African fynbos. The landscape of Farm 215 boasts valleys and waterfalls as well as dense forests. The views are incredible and the guided tours into the mountain catchment area just exquisite.
Flower Valley
This nature reserve is also a fynbos estate that has been established with the express purpose of conserving these beautiful indigenous flowers. The local community benefits through job creation by this reserve and fynbos is harvested in a sustainable, environmentally responsible way.
Grootbos Nature Reserve
Grootbos is situated on the hills that overlook Walker Bay, promising stunning views of the beach and ocean. Forests, fynbos, flora and a variety of marine species make for a very satisfying experience of South African nature. There are a number of walking and hiking trails as well as 4 x 4 trails and horseback rides.
Salmonsdam Nature Reserve
Nestled at the foot of the Perdeberg Mountain Range, Salmonsdam stretches for more than 800 hectares. It is home to an array of bird species, which delight avid bird watchers that visit the reserve. There is also a huge variety of fynbos, with stunning waterfalls to create the ideal backdrop. Some of the wildlife includes grey duikers, grey rhebucks, baboons and more.
Walker Bay Nature Reserve
At more than 1ย 000 hectares, this reserve covers a huge portion of the south-western coast of the country. Die Plaat is the beach of the reserve and is characterised by unspoiled white beaches and glorious limestone outcrops. This beach and reserve are ideal for fishing, hiking, swimming, exploring and picnicking. The fauna that has made Walkerbay their home include the Cape Clawless Otter, Steenbok, Grysbok and many more.
Outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers visiting the Western Cape of South Africa are assured of a very rewarding experience when they visit the glorious nature reserves of Gansbaai.
Gansbaai Info:
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- Gansbaai Self Catering
- Western Cape Accommodation
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