We stayed two nights at a cabin in Nature’s Valley, where we explored the main trail that passed from bottom forest to ridge-top fynbos. There were some succulents as well as impressive tall trees in the forested areas.
Descending towards Nature’s Valley.
Large Podocarpus falcatus.
Podocarpus falcatus
Arriving at the camp.
Our cabin
Interior of our cabin
Interior of the cabin
Our cabin
Vervet monkey outside our cabin.
Closer view of the Vervet monkey.
Steep trail in the park.
Views from the top after steep hike up the mountain.
A flatter part of the trail at the top. Here the soil moisture is much less than in the valley bottom and the vegetation is shrubby and short.
Protea flowering.
A toad near the top of the trail in the sandy area. We were surprised to see it during the daytime.
Great views from the top.
Views of the estuary and the town of Nature’s Valley.
The camp is very close to the ocean.
The Welcome sign to this section of the Garden Route National Park
The forest along one of the trails. Taller trees are only found in the valley bottoms and on south-facing slopes.
The trees are very tall near the camp – this lies on the river floodplain – or at least where the trees can tap into near permanent water.
Forest and river near the campground.
Very windy afternoon at the beach. Salt spray evident.
Seagull – probably waiting for a handout.
THE NATURALIST'S TRAVEL PAGE 