Rondvlei bird Sanctuary
Rondvlei is a small 250-ha site, that was established in 1952. It forms part of the larger False Bay Nature Reserve. The reserve includes a large seasonally fluctuating vlei (brackish lagoon) but the area is mostly permanent wetland and therefore an important breeding area for water birds There are five hides and two observation towers along the footpath and also a small museum which makes it especially suited for a beginner birder
The vlei is home to a rarely seen small family of Hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius). They were brought here in 1981 to control an alien grass species from South America, which had covered the shoreline and was threatening to engulf the vlei The vlei supports Cape lowland wetland vegetation and Indigenous coastal fynbos vegetation with unique plants found nowhere else in the world
The 1.4-km out-and-back trail hike in Rondvlei is generally considered a moderately challenging route, that takes an average of 17 min to complete. It is a popular trail for birding and walking, however, dogs aren’t allowed on this trail. A small fee is payable for entry into the reserve
corner of Fisherman’s Walk and Perth Roads.
