The breathtaking 45-hectare Bluff Nature Reserve, which is thought to be Durban’s oldest bird refuge, is situated near the Engen oil refinery in Tara Road on the Bluff, not far from Brighton Beach. The freshwater pan, wetlands, and small area of coastal lowland woodland in the Bluff Nature Reserve make it well worth a visit. A wide variety of plant life and several water birds, including the common purple gallinule and uncommon lesser jacana, may be found in the reserve.
Despite the fact that everyone is familiar with the Bluff and the nearby beaches, especially Brighton Beach and Anstey’s, it is one of the most overlooked parts of the city. On the remnants of a massive coastal dune system that developed on this seashore around five million years ago, the majority of the headland (bluff) is located.
People who were raised on the Bluff were once thought of as being “raw and tough.” If you were a resident in another area of Durban, you seldom ever came here unless you were visiting the beaches. The natural reserve has so remained unknown to the majority.
The suburb is currently a bit of a mishmash. There are beautiful neighbourhoods with magnificent homes, and then there are unsightly places like the oil refinery. Despite the fact that Egyptian and spur-winged geese, swamp hens, and coots typically predominate, the Bluff Nature Reserve makes up for this by offering reed beds for waterfowl, herons, and egrets to roost in and breed in. To reach the elevated hides that look out over the vlei, follow the trail that passes through reed beds and remains of the coastal bush.
Best Accommodation Options Near Bluff Nature Reserve
JoThams Guest House
The peaceful area of Bluff, in the South of Durban, is where JoTham’s Place is located. The ideal choice for those seeking cosy lodging in Durban that is accessible to a range of attractions. JoTham’s Place is the appropriate location since it is tranquil, soothing, and removed from the bustle of the city.
Private self-catering guest units that sleep 2 to 4 people each are an option we provide. A colour TV with DStv is included in every air-conditioned open-concept self-catering unit, making it perfect for nights in or watching a movie in bed. A tiny stove with an oven, a microwave, a kettle, a bar fridge, cutlery, and crockery are all included in each fully furnished kitchen.
All Seasons Guesthouse
In Durban, the All Seasons Guesthouse offers lodging with breathtaking sea views just two minutes from the beach. You can easily access restaurants, stores, and a variety of activities from this location. There is a dining space, a TV lounge, and a separate reading lounge. Visitors may sip drinks on the main deck, which views out over the garden and the sea, or they may lounge in the sun on the pool deck. There are braai amenities available.
Want to take a walk on the beach? All you need to do to reach their private beach is pick up the key from their reception. The gate leading to it is shut.