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MPENJATI NATURE

RESERVE KWAZULU-

NATAL

The Mpenjati Nature Reserve is located between Margate and Port Edward. It covers about 60
hectares, which includes the vast Mpenjati estuary, river and floodplain wetlands, coastal forests,
coastal grasslands and open coastline. The coastline is adjacent to Trafalgar Beach on the north and
Palm Beach south of the Mpenjati River.

The Trafalgar Beach area and Marine Reserve also includes the small Mpenjati Beach, where the big
river flows into the Indian ocean, and that has gained notoriety for its use by nudists. In 2014, the
local municipality officially proclaimed the beach as a nudist beach, but the decision was revoked
by the Public Protector. Nevertheless, on our visit we aimed the camera very carefully to avoid
unnecessary problems, but there were only a few people (with clothes on) busy fishing.

Access to the reserve is restricted to day visitors and picnic facilities are available on both banks of
the Mpenjati River. There are neat braai and picnic facilities, as well as toilet facilities, and a well-
equipped playground for children.

Fishing in the nature reserve, in the river and lagoon, is a popular pastime. There is also a variety of
bird species in the reserve, as well as grey, blue and red duikers. Viewing platforms and benches are
available everywhere along the hiking trails, from where visitors can watch the birds and antelope.
The hiking trails are very well laid out and are accessible even to those of us who are no longer young
and fit. However, it is a good idea to make good use of mosquito repellent cream or sprays, as the
Natal mosquito population is well represented.

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