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Welcome to Harold Johnson

Harold Johnson Nature Reserve was proclaimed on 3 May 1967 and is 113 ha in extent. It is situated on the south bank of the Tugela river 6km from the river mouth on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast and is a delight for the amateur naturalist, with fascinating flora and fauna to be found. Wildlife species which occur in the reserve are zebra, bushbuck, impala, blue, red and grey duiker, vervet monkey, slender mongoose, white-tailed mongoose, banded mongoose, porcupine and bushpig. Birdlife is abundant with a total of almost 200 recorded species. The reserve has an interesting variety of indigenous flora which attracts a variety of butterflies, 114 species have been recorded.

  • About

  • Activities

    • Relaxing and walking are the main activities to enjoy at Harold Johnson with 7 km of nature trails in the reserve.
    • The picnic site has a commanding view of the Tugela river. An interesting cultural museum at the picnic site portrays the traditional dress and customs of the Zulu People.

    Fort Pearson

    • In the reserve there are the national monuments of Fort Pearson and the Ultimatum Tree. These historic sites featured in the Anglo-Zulu war of 1879. An interpretation board provided at the Fort Pearson site takes the visitor through this exciting period of history.

    Trails

    • The 0,8 km Muthi trail has been designed especially to answer some of the questions about the earlier inhabitants of this area and their particular lifestyle. The trail gives interesting insight into the medicinal uses of various traditional plants used by the Zulu people.
    • The Bushbuck Trail is 7 km in length and takes the visitor through various habitats of the reserve.
    • Medical assistance, police and all other amenities are available at Newcastle, about 26 km away.

  • Useful Info

    • Entrance gates are open between 06:00 and 18:00 daily. Office hours are between 07:00 and 16:00 daily.
    • The nearest town which has a full range of services is Stanger / Kwadukuza which is 18 km away.
    • Visitors are advised to bring insect repellents as ticks can be troublesome.
    • Beware of heat fatigue during the summer months; carry your own water on the trails.
    • Pets are not permitted in the reserve.

Phone

032 486 1574

Email

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