The WildNet Africa on-line directory of destinations, safaris, products and services available in Africa.THESE DIRECTORY ENTRIES PROVIDE BASIC CONTACT DETAILS ONLY. VISIT THE WEBSITE IF AVAILABLE. THE WILDNET AFRICA HOME PAGE WILL LEAD YOU TO DESTINATIONS AND SERVICES WITH FULL ON-LINE INFORMATION.  GOUKAMMA NATURE RESERVEPostal address: P O BOX 331, KNYSNA, 6570, SOUTH AFRICA Tel (International): +27-445-830042 Tel (South Africa): 0445-830042 Fax (International): +27-445-830042 Fax (South Africa): 0445-830042 e-Mail: Web Home Page: The Goukamme Nature Reserve, established in 1961, covers 2 230 ha and includes the freshwater lake Groenvlei, the lower sections of the Goukamma River and its estuary, extensive sand-dunes and 14 km of rocky coastline and beaches. Adjacent is the Goukamma Marine Reserve, which includes Buffels Bay and Walker Point and extends 1 nautical mile seawards from the high-water mark. The marine reserve protects all organisms, although angling with rod and lies from the shore is permitted. No marine organism may e removed or disturbed; bait collecting is forbidden; and no angling from ski boats, spearfishing or use of cast nets is allowed within the marine reserve. Coastal fynbos (heath) covers much of the reserve, but there are also impressive stand of milkwood. Bontebok have been released here and bushbuck, common and blue duiker, Cape grysbok, small grey mongoose, Cape clawless otter, honey badger, bushpig, caracal and vervet monkey also occur. To date 211 bird species have been listed, including the most westerly record of the African finfoot. The visitors should also watch out for the olive bush shrike, bluemantled flycatcher, greenbacked bleating warbler and chorister robin. Location: Extreme south-east or province; west of Knysna. Access: From Knysna travel 16 km westward on the N2; turn left to Buffels Bay and continue for 6 km to the entrance to the reserve. Permits can be obtained at the gate or office. There are no internal public roads. A small entrance fee is charged during December, January and April. Accommodation: A bush camp (R200 per day) is located at Groenvlei. Other facilities: 35 km of trails; picnic sites with fireplaces at the estuary; canoes and rowing boats permitted; swimming in the river; boardsailing; fishing (permit necessary) Open: Throughout the year. Opening time: 08h00 to 18h00. Beware: Swimming in the sea is dangerous; be sure to watch out for snakes, particularly puff adders. |
