Greyton Nature Reserve

Greyton Nature Reserve

Xplorio Headquarters

Greyton Nature Reserve is 2 200 hectares in size, which makes it the third largest Nature Reserve in the Cape, and lies on the sheer slopes of the Riviersonderend Mountains. It forms part of the Cape Folded Belt with an unwavering focus on conservation.

The Reserve was established by Professor Brian Rycroft in 1977, who was also the Director of Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens at the time. Since inception, the Nature Reserve has been carefully maintained by a conservation body that safeguards the ecology, biodiversity and heritage. The eradication of invasive alien vegetation is a main focus as they attempt to protect the indigenous plants.


The vegetation is largely made up of fynbos, the small shrub-like plant species that is endemic to the Cape and well-known amongst botanist’s for its acute diversity. It grows in places with poor sandy soil regions with little nutrients which receives heavy winter rainfalls. The summer fires bring upon a veritable botanist’s paradise as the intense heat is essential for germination. Although different plants flower throughout the year March and April boast the most colourful display.

The Reserve is made up of jagged peaks, ravines and soils derived from weathering sandstones and quartzites. The Gobos River snakes its way through the reserve and flows further South through the village. These pristine conditions are perfect for activities like hiking, mountain biking and birding. A visit to the tourism office will be necessary prior to visiting the nature reserve as permits are required and there is a daily limit on the amount of visitors that can enter the park.

The Landmark Foundation is an NGO that focuses on the landscape ecology and monitoring the movements of leopards within the Eastern and Western Cape. There are now cameras set up across the Greyton Reserve to keep track of the mountain leopards that are roaming about. Besides the investment in keeping these magnificent predators in the wild, there are many investments into alien invasion control and there is even a Youth Programme that educates children and teenagers the importance of nature and conservation.

Don't hesitate to explore this natural wonder, right on the doorstep of Greyton.

Greyton Nature Reserve

Justine Stewart

Xplorio is a marketing company that has created a digital platform to help local communities in the Overberg accurately represent themselves online. The user-friendly Xplorio platform allows towns and businesses to create an online presence that is accurate and true to life. This representation help...

View Profile

Recent Posts

Enter the Overberg Crossword Challenge for a Chance to Win R500!

Enter the Overberg Crossword Challenge for a ...

Explore the wonders of Overberg while having fun with Xplorio’s crossword puzzle, and stand a chance to win R500!

Things to Do This Winter in the Overberg

Things to Do This Winter in the Overberg

The Overberg offers a perfect getaway for those wanting adventure and relaxation in winter.

'Kelders van Geheime': Local Actor in New ETV Sitcom!

'Kelders van Geheime': Local Actor in New ETV...

Gansbaai is abuzz with excitement! One of its own, Geon Nel stars in Kelders van Geheime, eTV's first Afrikaans sitcom. 

Have You Heard? Overberg Community News!

Have You Heard? Overberg Community News!

Every day, awesome people who call the Overberg home, share their uplifting stories, business news, municipal announcements and stunning town-friendly photos.

Great Money-Saving Specials in the Overberg!

Great Money-Saving Specials in the Overberg!

By making the most of Xplorio’s special pages you save money and support local businesses in the Overberg!

Herberg Children’s Home: 120 Jerseys and Beanies Donated!

Herberg Children’s Home: 120 Jerseys and Be...

Gansbaai locals, Francette Cilliers-Malan and Tessa Jordaan are two friends who got together to knit, and crochet, 120 jerseys and beanies.