Lotheni Nature Reserve
Lotheni Nature Reserve
The Lotheni Nature Reserve is situated within a remote section of the
Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park and is noted for its magnificent scenery and
beautiful camp. Visitors to the area are provided with many scenic walking
trails, which are suitable all ages. The Emadundwini Trail is a circular route
covering 11.8km, crossing a number of small streams and traveling up a steep
incline. This trail is highly recommended as it allows for spectacular views of
the Drakensberg.
Other trails in the Lotheni Nature Reserve include the Eagle, Falls,
Canyon, Jacobs Ladder and the historically interesting Gelib Tree Trail.
The Gelib tree stands in the reserve as a reminder of an incident which occurred
during the second world war, near the Ethiopian settlement of Gelib. An officer
of the 1st Royal Natal Carbineers named Captain Charles Eustice, who fought in
what was then Italian Somaliland, collected a few seeds of an Acacia tree. The
seed was planted by Eustice many years later on his farm which became part of
the Lotheni Nature Reserve. The seed was planted in memory of thirteen carbineers who were ambushed during the campaign to capture Gelib, which was
held by Italian forces at the time.
Wildlife to be seen in the park includes such species as common and mountain
reedbuck, grey rhebuck, eland, grey duiker and oribi. There is a diversity of
birds, which includes black storks, black eagles, bearded vultures, lanner
falcons, Cape vultures and giant kingfishers, to name but a few. Birdwatching in
the area is also a popular activity amongst visitors, with a bird list of 172
species. A Mountain biking trail is also featured in the reserve. Approximately
14km long and rated as moderate in difficulty, the trail travels past the
historical Gelib Tree site and returns along the tarred road. On a good warm day
it's essential to stop for a swim at the magnificent Cool Pools. Trout fishing
at Lotheni has also gained much popularity, with 16kms of the Lotheni river
stocked with brown trout, and available for fly fishermen to test their skill.
Although somewhat chilly, swimming in the Lotheni River is safe unless it is in
flood , and there is a very good swimming spot approximately 1km below the camp.
Accommodation Near Lotheni Nature Reserve
Mountain View Ranch
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Kamberg
20.9km from Lotheni Nature ReserveThis beautiful ranch is set on 24ha of property, with the picturesque Little Mooi River meandering through the fields.With horses, blesbok and Nguni cows grazing in the paddocks, it is a nature lovers dream. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Mkomazana Mountain Cottages
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Sani Pass
20.9km from Lotheni Nature ReserveThis former trading station from the 1890's era is perfectly situated for hiking, trout fishing, river swimming, mountain biking, bird watching, nature walks and of course a drive up the famous Sani Pass. This historic site has a charm and sense ... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Kamdun Lodge
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Kamberg
21.2km from Lotheni Nature ReserveKamdun Lodge is situated on 26 hectares of land at the base of Mount Lebanon in the beautiful farming community of the Kamberg Valley, 40Km from Nottingham Road, near the Giant's Castle area of the Central Drakensberg. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Kamberg Valley Hideaway
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Kamberg
21.3km from Lotheni Nature ReserveKamberg Valley Hideaway is a 27-hectare small holding located in an un-spoilt part of the Drakensberg Mountains. The property has a small pond which is surrounded by reeds and active bird life as well as a main dam that is stocked with rainbow trout and.. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
National Heritage Nature Park
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Kamberg
22.1km from Lotheni Nature ReserveNational Heritage Nature Park in the South African Drakensberg is the perfect holiday getaway for mountain walks and hikes, trout fishing and sheer relaxation …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Moorcroft Manor Country Hotel
Hotel / Boutique Hotel Accommodation in Himeville
27.8km from Lotheni Nature ReserveThe Accommodation comprises elegantly furnished rooms, all with bathrooms en-suite. Choose from standard double rooms, a junior suite and two executive suites. Our rooms and bathrooms have under-floor heating to keep away the winter chill. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
