The Great Fish River

The Great Fish River Nature Reserve in the Eastern Cape covers just over 45 000 hectares of some of South Africa's most beautiful landscapes. Made up of three smaller wilderness areas, the Great Fish River Nature Reserve offers visitors a wide range of activities, scenic stops and breathtaking vistas to enjoy. By combining the Andries Vosloo Kudu Reserve, the Double Drift Nature Reserve and the Sam Knott Nature Reserve, the Eastern Cape is home to a largely untouched expanse of land that is well populated with wildlife and diverse plant life. The reserve is situated in the valley of the Great Fish River, between the towns of Grahamstown and Fort Beaufort, stretching out towards the Kieskamma River.

Game drives and bird watching expeditions are a popular pursuit in this reserve, as visitors can easily spot hippo, kudu, buffalo and more while enjoying a guided tour or meandering along a hiking trail.

Not just a nature reserve though, the Great Fish River region is also steeped in history and home to many historically important buildings, memorials and military sites. Because of this, the reserve also attracts history buffs and tourists keen on learning more about South Africa's past. The Maitland Military Camp, Broxholm Cottage and Soldiers' Cemetery are just some of the historic sites situated within the Great Fish River Nature Reserve.

But at the mouth of the Great Fish River, where the waters meet the Indian Ocean, a small reserve exists, that boasts one of the most incredible natural sights in South Africa. As the river meets the ocean, a tidal flat can be found. It is here that thousands of birds gather to feed every day and wade through the shallow waters to find a nutritious morsel or two.

Interestingly too, just a kilometre away from the Fish River mouth, keen divers can view the remains of two shipwrecked vessels, the Catherine and Justina, which ran aground in the 1840s.

As for where to stay as you explore the Great Fish River Nature Reserve, you'll find the very best Eastern Cape accommodation at the Fish River Sun. Located in the heart of the Sunshine Coast and just near to the Fish River mouth, the Fish River Sun is the perfect base from which to explore the Great Fish River Nature Reserve and uncover some of South Africa's greatest natural treasures.