Highover Wildlife Sanctuary, located in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, is a natural heritage site that offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty of the African wilderness. Situated east of Underberg en route to Richmond, the sanctuary is located on the banks of the Mkomazi River and includes a variety of habitats including savannah, mist-belt forests, mist-belt grasslands and valley thicket.
One of the highlights of a visit to Highover Wildlife Sanctuary is the chance to see a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. The sanctuary’s anti-poaching efforts have resulted in fairly relaxed animals, including warthog, wildebeest, zebra, blesbok, impala, kudu, nyala, bushbuck, eland, springbok, and mountain reedbuck. Visitors may also have the opportunity to see more elusive animals such as genet and aardwolf.
But it is the endangered species that live on the sanctuary’s land that hold the most fascination for visitors. Highover Wildlife Sanctuary is home to threatened species such as the blue swallow, blue duiker, oribi, African rock python and samango monkey.
Bird watching and tree spotting are also popular activities at Highover Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of bird species including the broad-tailed warbler, narina trogon, African emerald cuckoo, blue crane, Verreaux’s eagle, cuckoos, African pytmy-kingfisher and the African fish-eagle. In 2002, the sanctuary was a National Sappi Tree Trail joint winner, with over 140 species of trees, including rare and unusual species like white vitex, mountain nettle, marula and shepherd’s tree.
Historic Tours At Highover Wildlife sanctuary
For those interested in the natural history of the area, the sanctuary also offers guided tours, where visitors can learn more about the different habitats and wildlife found in the sanctuary, as well as the conservation efforts being undertaken to protect them.
In addition, Highover Wildlife Sanctuary also offers organized activities such as hiking, bird watching, and wildlife safari, that are led by experienced guides who can provide more in-depth information about the sanctuary’s wildlife and habitats.
The sanctuary offers visitors a network of tree trails around the bushcamp, with tree lists and maps available at reception. Visitors can also bring their own picnic basket or braai equipment and relax in the bushcamp, but it is recommended to book ahead.
Popular destinations and activities near Highover Wildlife Sanctuary
Highover Wildlife Sanctuary is located in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, and there are several popular tourist destinations and attractions in the surrounding area.
One popular destination is the Underberg, a small town located just east of the sanctuary. Underberg is known for its picturesque setting, surrounded by the Southern Drakensberg Mountains, and for its outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and horseback riding. Visitors can also explore the local art and craft scene, and sample traditional South African cuisine.
Another popular destination is the nearby town of Richmond, which has a rich history dating back to the 1820s. Visitors can explore the town’s Victorian architecture and visit the Richmond Museum, which tells the story of the town’s past. There are also several hiking trails in the surrounding area, offering visitors the chance to explore the scenic beauty of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.
For those interested in cultural attractions, visitors can visit the Isandlwana Heritage Route, which includes the site of the Battle of Isandlwana and the nearby Rorke’s Drift, where a famous battle of the Anglo-Zulu War took place in 1879. Visitors can also explore the Zulu cultural village of Babanango, which offers a unique insight into the customs and traditions of the Zulu people.
For adventure seekers, visitors can also visit the Umkomaas River and the nearby Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve, which offers activities such as abseiling, white-water rafting, and zip-lining.
There are many popular tourist destinations and attractions in the surrounding area of Highover Wildlife Sanctuary, making it a perfect base from which to explore the diverse natural, cultural and historical offerings of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
Highover Wildlife Sanctuary welcomes day visitors, who can spend the day at the river, walking the tree-spotting trails, viewing game or just relaxing outdoors within the beauty of the reserve. It is a perfect destination for nature lovers and those who want to immerse themselves in the beauty and tranquility of the African wilderness.
