Karkloof Nature Reserve

The Karkloof Nature Reserve is located in the Karkloof region of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.

The Karkloof Nature Reserve is located in the Karkloof region of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. It was created in 1983 when Timothy Hancock entered into a long-term lease with the Natal Parks Board (now Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife), where the 410ha Rockwood Farm was leased to the NPB for R1.00 per year, the intention being to offer some sort of protection to a highly threatened area.

The greater Karkloof area has been identified as having significant value due to its biodiversity and has been earmarked for conservation by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife. Currently, the reserve consists of about 60% mist-belt forest / 40% mist-belt grassland and ranges from 1000m to 1767 m above sea level. This results in a significant number of endemic and near-endemic species of fauna and flora, including the Karkloof Blue butterfly (Orachrysops ariadne), and a sub-species of crested guinea fowl.

Birdwatching on the forest fringes can offer some excellent rewards. Some of the more elusive species found are the Cape Parrot, Narina Trogon, Crested Guinea Fowl and the Crowned Eagle.

For the adventurous, there are a number of activities including mountain biking, fishing, swimming (in natural pools) or the famous Karkloof Canopy Tour which offers a thrilling way to learn more about our forests while hanging 40m above the ground.

Accommodation directory for the Karkloof

• Rockwood Forest Lodge - the only accommodation within the Karkloof Nature Reserve - exclusive self-catering
• Thistledown Country House is located just outside the Karkloof Nature Reserve
• Rainbow Retreat offer self catering accommodation within 20kms of the Karkloof Nature reserve
• Harrow Hill Guest House offers affordable B&B accommodation near the Karkloof.

Places of interest in and around the Karkloof

• Karkloof Canopy Tours
• Glassworks - view the largest selection of glassware on the meander, near to the Karkloof Nature Reserve
• Karkloof Falls