What climatic conditions can be expected?
Summers are moderate to warm. During the winter the nights are very cold. Rainfall average between 700 and 1000mm per annum.
The landscape, plants and animals
This nature reserve of approximately 4 800ha lies in the foothills of the Drakensberg Mountain, directly north of Memel. The wetland in the reserve covers 3000ha of the 12000ha floodplain. This wetland is one of the biggest and most important natural wetlands in South Africa and has been declared a RAMSAR site. A variety of plant species occur in the reserve.
Large flocks of birds visit this unique waterfowl habitat. Scarce and endangered species such as the Wattled, Crowned and Blue Cranes can be seen here.
Most of the small mammals in the reserve are nocturnal and the lucky visitor may see serval, aardwolf, otter and aardvark. Smaller game like steenbok and mountain reedbuck can also be seen here. Hippos were re-introduced in 1999. Larger game such as red hartebeest, black wildebeest, zebra, buffalo and roan were also reintroduced.
The wetland consists of a unique aquatic habitat with approximately 220 meanders which have formed over centuries in the Klipriver. This marshland is a very important sponge area for the Vaalriver catchment area.
What facilities are available?
- No overnight facilities are currently available.
- No camping facilities are available.
- A campsite is also under development.
- Only basic bird hides available, will also be upgraded.
- Chalets and other facilities are under development.
- Several overnight facilities are available in Memel.
- No shops are available and visitors must bring their own provisions.
Recreational activities
- Birdhides are available for bird-watching.
- Bird-watching, game viewing and the exceptional scenery are the main attractions.
- The best way to explore and experience this unique area is on foot in part of the reserve.
- Access and reserve roads are only suitable for vehicles with high ground clearances.
- All visitors should make arrangements in advance with Memel Getaways (058) 9240400 for accommodation in Memel.
Who do I contact?
Mr Morne Pretorius Reserve Manager Mr Elton Manganyi Resort Manager
Seekoeivlei Resort Seekoeivlei Nature Reserve
P.O. Box 236 P.O. Box 236
Memel Memel
2970 2970
Tel: (058) 924 0183 Tel: (058) 924 1411
Fax: (058 924 0159 Fax: (058) 924 0159
Cell: 060 968 3193 Cell: 060 968 3435
Email: mornepret37@gmail.com E-mail: rivoningoelton@webmail.co.za
What, where, when?
Entrance fees are payable at Office in Voortrekker Street, Memel during the following hours:
- Mondays – Saturdays: 08h00 to 10h00
- Sundays: 08h00 to 10
Seekoeivlei Nature Reserve is situated just north of Memel.