Wilderness nature reserve

In the heart of the garden route is The Wilderness nature reserve between George and Knysna. The reserve is set against a backdrop of forests and in spring the ground is covered with flowers. There are 3 zones of indigenous forest and 4 types of fynbos. There are also a number of lakes and waterways. Twitchers and other bird watchers can see five types of Kingfisher, the Grey Heron and Little Egret and the brightly coloured Knysna Loerie. There are bird hides at Langvlei and Rondevlei lakes There is a Rest camp, nearby guest houses, and self-catering options.

Activities include: Hiking the nature trails which wind through densely wooded forest, there are 5 trails within the park of varying degrees of difficulty. There are opportunities for canoeing, mountain biking, abseiling, fishing, birding, and paragliding. Dotted around the area are also several historic sites of archaeological significance.

The malachite bird hide is set within the stunning Wilderness National Park on the shores of Langvlei. It is definitely worth a visit for twitchers and nature lovers. You can spend some time watching waterfowl, kingfishers, and species including the Common Greenshank, Reed and Breasted Cormorants, African Purple Swamphen, African Sacred Ibis, African Fish Eagle, Yellow-billed Duck, Egyptian Goose, and Purple and Grey Herons.

Parking is available nearby

Please note that there is no shop, ATM, or restaurant within the park

22° 32′ 45.6″, -33° 59′ 24″