Rietvlei Nature Reserve, Milnerton

Rietvlei Nature Reserve is a large wetland situated between Milnerton and Table View.

This 560-hectare reserve comprises mainly of permanent and seasonal wetlands, surrounded by Cape Flats Dune Strandveld vegetation where more than 220 plant species having been recorded.

The vlei drains into Table Bay via the Milnerton Lagoon and a strip of coastal dunes separates it from Table Bay.

This reserve has a variety of habitats, including a permanent freshwater lake, shallow marshes that flood in winter, reed beds, a river, and an estuarine lagoon with salt marshes, which is open to the sea.

This is a birders’ paradise, especially in spring and summer when migrant birds arrive from the northern hemisphere.
More than 180 bird species, which include Pelicans, Flamingos, Ducks, Coots,Herons, Plovers,Weavers and Swallows, are listed.

There are two bird hides to sit and enjoy what the reserve has to offer.

The lagoon acts as a nursery to several coastal fish, such as harder and mullet which occur in safety alongside freshwater fish.

Many small mammals, reptiles, insects and several species of frog can be seen. (One day when we were there we saw more than enough gnats!)

From the coastal dunes, dolphins and whales are visible in season.

SANCCOB – the coastal bird rehabilitation centre, where oiled penguins and gannets are cleaned – is adjacent to the reserve.

Useful Information:

Activities:

boating, picnic and braai areas, fishing, hiking and bird watching

Hours:

10:00 - 17:00 weekdays
10:00 - 17:00 weekends

Telephone:

021 557 5509

Location:

Grey Avenue, Table View, Cape Town

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