You can spot some 200 species of birds from the waterside trail, viewing towers and hides at this small, picturesque nature reserve. There are also two hippos, but you won't see them as they are in captivity for protection because their numbers have shrunk. Hippos hadn’t lived in these marshes for 300 years until they were reintroduced in 1981.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Muizenberg Synagogue

3.49 MILES

This red-and-white painted synagogue dates from the 1920s and ‘30s, when Muizenberg had a large Jewish population. It still opens for services on Friday…

2. Muizenberg Beach

3.5 MILES

Popular with families, this surf beach is famous for its row of colourfully painted Victorian bathing chalets. Surfboards can be hired and lessons booked…

3. Posthuys

3.72 MILES

This one-time lookout post for ships entering False Bay dates from the 1670s, making it one of Cape Town’s oldest European-style buildings.

4. Casa Labia Cultural Centre

3.78 MILES

This magnificent seaside villa built in 1930 was once the palatial home of Italian ambassador Count Natale Labia and his South African wife. It now hosts…

5. Open Mosque

3.91 MILES

This mosque organises interfaith events, which bring together Muslims, Christians and Jews.

6. Bailey's Cottage

3.92 MILES

This beach cottage between the sea and the railway line dates from 1909 and was built for mining magnate and legislator Abe Bailey, whose grave is on the…

7. Rhodes Cottage Museum

4 MILES

Staffed by volunteer guides from the Muizenberg Historical Conservation Society, this thatched cottage houses a museum dedicated to Cecil Rhodes. The much…

8. Norval Foundation

4.01 MILES

This large, purpose-built gallery has caused some disquiet among locals for its austere, imposing facade. Inside, airy spaces host rotating exhibitions of…