The Ncandu State Forest Nature Reserve is situated on the Northern Drakensberg escarpment, and although it is relatively unknown, it is the second largest indigenous forest in KwaZulu Natal. Located roughly 32km form Newcastle, the reserve is a typical high-altitude forest, and comprises mainly of steep yellowwood gorges and grassland plateau habitats.

The nature reserve is dominated by three species of yellowwood and the white stinkwood, which grows to an impressive height of 30m. A number of small streams meet in the area and form the Ncandu River forming an ideal habitat for trout. There are a number of scenic walking and horse trails in the reserve, which lead from the grassy plateaus past majestic sandstone cliffs, to a number of beautiful waterfalls on the Ncandu River, and one trail leading to a hut that may be hired. Due to reasonably difficult access, not much study of the birdlife at Ncandu Forest has been conducted, however a number of species are known to inhabit the forest including Olive Woodpecker, Heuglin’s Robin, Bush Blackcap, African Wood Owl and Bush Blackcap, as well as occasional sightings of the elusive Cape Parrot.

In recent years the forest has been under threat from numerous veld fires and uncontrolled cattle grazing, which has been addressed by the Ncandu River Dam consortium, which plans to build a dam on the river at the farm Eikenhof. It is hoped that the dam will serve as a barrier against veld fires, and will prevent cattle and domestic animals from reaching the forest.

Access to the forest will only be possible by boat, and a number of boardwalks, which will be constructed through the forest and above the forest canopy, providing visitors with excellent viewing points.