The Koggelberg biosphere
The Kogelberg biosphere reserve of 3000ha comprises the Kogelberg Mountain Range. With about 1600 plant species, it contains a floral diversity per unit area that is greater than anywhere else in the world. It is recognized as perhaps the world’s greatest biodiversity hot spot. The reserve is home to the most complex biodiversity on our planet.
The Kogelberg biosphere starts on the mountains above Gordon’s Bay and includes land, sea, and towns along the coast to just above Hermanus. It stretches inland past the town of Botriver and encompasses the growing economic hub of Grabouw. The Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve covers around 100,000 hectares – an area larger than Singapore.
Biosphere reserves are ‘new concept’ reserves: no fences to keep ‘people’ out and ‘nature’ in. It is the commitment of local communities, farmers, conservation agencies, and local government that protects magnificent landscapes and unique biodiversity.
