Visit reserves on the Berea
The more people use these spaces, the safer they will become for all.
DESPITE its urban environment, Berea boasts three nature reserves that offer welcome green, open spaces for the community to enjoy.
While these reserves are generally safe to use, the reality is that they are open spaces that are not patrolled very often and visitors are urged to use common sense when visiting. As a general recommendation, try visit as part of a group, or with a friend or two, and stick to visiting during daylight hours when there is likely to be more activity. The more people use these spaces, the safer they will become for all.
Msinsi Nature Reserve in Manor Gardens
This reserve can be accessed from UKZN Gate 10 on Rick Turner Road.
This is a pristine seven hectare reserve that nestles at the foot of the western slopes of UKZN comprising of grassland and coastal forest. It is home to a wide variety of bird species and is used as educational resource for students of UKZN as well of the local schools. Well looked after trails provide a great place for some trail running and walking and there is often a buzz of sporting activity on and around the fields.
The reserve is open daily between 7am and 9am and 4pm and 7pm, however times are approximate and may vary from day-to-day.
Pigeon Valley Nature Reserve in Glenwood
Visit this reserve at the intersection of Princess Alice Road and Rhodes Avenue.
Declared a natural heritage park, Pigeon Valley is an 11 hectare reserve that provides a rare experience of what Durban looked like before humans took over. One of the only places you’ll find a Natal Elm, and home to over 150 bird species including rare species like the Narina Trogan, Buff Spotted Flufftail and the Spotted Ground Thrush. The reserve is also home to a variety of small mammals like the water mongoose and red and blue duiker.
Well-maintained, demarcated trails lead you through the valley along the southern and northern slopes and there is a paved main track leading through the middle of the valley. There are numerous benches and tables that provide a perfect opportunity to catch your breath and appreciate the surroundings. The reserve is open daily from 7am to 4pm.
Burman Bush Reserve in Morningside
The entrance to this reserve is off Goodwin Drive, Morningside.
Burman Bush is a 50 hectare reserve that protects a valuable remnant of coastal bush that used to cover most of the Berea. It is home to small mammals like red and blue duiker, slender mongoose and porcupine, as well as plentiful bird life including tambourine doves, green wood hoopoes and even spotted eagle owls. There are several marked trails throughout the reserve as well as a main tarred road that snakes its way from top to bottom. There is also a viewing deck at the outer walks northern extremity that offers sweeping views of the Umgeni River estuary.
The reserve hours are daily from 7.30pm to 4pm.
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