LIMPOPO – The Nyl River flood plain in the Limpopo wetlands is ideal for birdwatching, particularly in the Nylsvley Nature Reserve.
Now an internationally renowned Ramsar site, the 4 000 ha Nylsvley Conservancy is part of South Africa’s largest flood-plain that stretches 70 km from Modimolle to Mokopane.
According to Patrick Mello, a bird connoisseur at the Nylsvley Birding Lodge, the conservancy provides sanctuary for over 72 mammal species, including a breeding herd of the rare roan antelope. The reserve provides habitat to 37 Red-Data species, hence its significance as a Ramsar site. Five modern bird hides are located in the reserve. In years of high rainfall, as many as 80 000 migratory water birds converge on the flood-plains, where up to 420 species have been identified. Here one can easily spot as many as 365 species in the reserve itself which has five bird hides.
The prolific bird life of the area makes it a great attraction for bird lovers, researchers and tourists alike.
It is not only the large number and many species of birds found in the reserve that attract tourists, but also the 600 plant species.
There are a few dirt roads for game viewing, extensive walking, hiking, and mountain biking trails as well as campsites and picnic spots.
In addition, there are campsites that accommodate up to 30 people with picnic facilities readily available. An old farmhouse is used for research purposes and the reserve boasts a lecture hall, which is ideal for conferences and meetings.
The Nylsvley Birding Lodge offers chalets, a VIP suite with jacuzzi and open air shower, a six-sleeper guest house and group camp hosting up to 32 guests.
For those who prefer to dine out, an à la carte restaurant is open to guests at the reserve. Close to the group camp is a lapa, kitchen and two conference halls that are ideal for large groups. A camping site with basic facilities as well as a picnic site is available for guests who want ot enjoy a truly outdoor experience.
