Rietvlei’s Picnic Areas & Old Friend’s Bird Hide Open Again!

Photo Credit: Supplied

After intense flooding in July left beloved areas in the Table Bay Nature Reserve’s Rietvlei closed (from trails to picnic areas and Old Friend’s Bird Hide), good news shines as these spots open once more:

Table Bay Nature Reserve, South Africa (22 August 2024) — July came with harsh rains for many areas in South Africa, where flooding often and unfortunately ensued. For the Table Bay Nature Reserve’s Rietvlei, the hectic weather forced several areas to be closed due to damage to everything from roads to beloved areas in the Reserve. But thanks to teamwork (and better weather,) trail and picnic areas, as well as the Old Friend’s Bird Hide, are open once again to lovers of nature!

The Table Bay Reserve management team made sure to monitor the water levels and conducted daily patrols and investigations of the recreational areas, as the City of Cape Town’s Alderman Eddie Andrews shares.

“I am happy to say that the situation has improved over the past weeks and that this section is now open to the public again,” Alderman Andrews adds.

While some areas are still closed due to damage and precautionary measures (including the Sunset Bird Hide and its boardwalk), the natural space is largely open for enjoyment.

But, the rain did bring about some good news—the frogs in the area have been busy! As such, Friends of Rietvlei are inviting fellow frog lovers in the area to join their Frogs after Dark walk for free in the Milnerton Racecourse section of the reserve. Those interested in strapping on their gumboots can join by RSVPing to [email protected].

Meanwhile, if hiking, jogging, birdwatching, braaing, enjoying picnics or canoeing are your idea of time well spent, the Table Bay Nature Reserve is one of South Africa’s best spots to adventure to!

However, if you’re in another part of our country, don’t forget that SA National Parks Week is just around the corner, taking place from 9 September. You can find more details here.