A Wetland of International Importance

Picture the scene.  A spectacular Highveld sunset complete with storm clouds in early summer and the sky black with swallows flying in to roost among the reeds.  Not just for a few minutes but continuously for about an hour!  That equates to several hundreds of thousands if not a million plus birds! 

Tranquil and peaceful come to mind as the best description of the Marievale Bird Sanctuary located in the Nigel area about an hour's drive south east of Johannesburg.  Many people particularly overseas, go to extraordinary lengths to seek out solitude which just happens to be one of the attributes of this pretty reserve.

Set amongst farmland and the mine dumps of the former Marievale Gold Mine, this important Bird Sanctuary is on a flood plain of the Blesbokspruit River which eventually empties into the Vaal River system.  Covering approximately 1 000 hectares, Marievale has been designated as a "Ramsar" wetland which means that it is of international significance and importance.  In 1971 in the Iranian city of Ramsar, an intergovernmental convention was agreed outlining a framework to protect wetlands and their resources around the world. 

Several bird hides overlooking the four pans provide endless opportunities for photographers and birding enthusiasts while those who enjoy walking or strolling, will find the flat terrain not at all arduous.  A delightful and well maintained picnic site boasts neatly trimmed lawns, toilets, braais and thatched shelters.  Overnight accommodation is available on the property in the form of two comfortable cottages.    

Although Marievale is a Bird Sanctuary and obviously is an important birding destination, it can be enjoyed by anyone who likes to be out of the hustle and bustle of town.  For the birder, some rare and unusual birds can be observed but Cape Clawless Otters and Suricates have made this home as well.  Entry is free of charge.
   
 http://www.birdingroutes.co.za/gauteng/sites/gbrbs1.12_marievale_sanctuary.html

http://www.gauteng.net/attractions/entry/marievale_bird_sanctuary/

Borokalalo - "The Place Where People Relax"

Borakalalo Nature Reserve in the North West Province is a fisherman's paradise, encircling as it does the large Klipvoor Dam.  This 13 000 hectare reserve was proclaimed in 1984 and the terrain consists of Kalahari woodland and bushveld while  Riverine forest borders the Moratele River.

Besides fishing (permits are available at the entry gate), Borakalalo is a superb birdwatching destination with a list in excess of 350 identified species.  A hide has been erected at a small dam providing a relaxing spot to idle away the time while watching the movements of a variety of birds.  Some highly desirable 'ticks' that have been seen on the river include the elusive Finfoot and the White Backed Night Heron. 

Walking is permitted in a number of areas either self guided or with a Park's guide.  And then there is an extensive list of animals to be seen from white rhino to buffalo and the rare roan antelope plus other plains game.  A pretty picnic site with braais and ablutions is located on the shores of the dam while the gravel roads are well maintained and easily negotiated with a normal sedan car.

Located among the trees on the banks of the river, is an attractive and well laid out camp site.  Other accommodation options are available in permanent tents at two sites.  Not as large nor as crowded as bigger sister Pilanesberg which is not far away, Borakalalo does get busy during school and public holidays.  Only 60 kms north of Brits, this peaceful reserve is easily accessible from both Pretoria and Johannesburg.

http://www.parksnorthwest.co.za/borakalalo/
http://www.borakalalo.co.za