THE PASSAGE of time can, in some cases, reshape nature itself. This holds true at Umbogavango Nature Reserve which, believe it or not, was once part of the stormwater trap dams that served the African Explosives and Chemical Industries Limited (AECI) industrial plant at Umbogintwini.

Also read: Take a walk with the SUN: Visiting Amanzimtoti SPCA

An eager and environmentally-savvy pair of Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) volunteers, Siziwe Thandazile Fortunate Gumbi and Busisiwe Mandy Mngadi, took South Coast Sun journalist, Nikhil Gopichand on a long and thorough tour through the 36-hectare reserve.

Along the way, I learnt about different indigenous and alien plants and trees, and got the chance to spot a few majestic birds through the reserve’s bird hide.

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Exploring Umbogavango Nature Reserve in Umbogintwini. naturetrails naturewalk naturereserve

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The pair explained that as part of WESSA’s celebration of Arbor Month, indigenous trees were planted around the reserve, marked by a ribbon.

Thick overhead canopies, tangles of creepers, wooden bridges and watering holes make up Umbogavango Nature Reserve, making for a particularly tranquil walk.

One of WESSA’s main projects, environmental education, sees the non-profit organisation hosting schools frequently, taking disadvantaged learners on educational walks.

If you would like to visit the reserve, be it for birding, a family picnic or just a delightful day out in the wild, it is necessary to arrange your visit by contacting AECI security on 031 949 2111, where an indemnity will have to be signed.