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Franklin Vlei
skznbs 8.2

IBA-SA081

Categories: roadside attraction

The Franklin Vlei is situated in the East Griqualand plains in the south-western corner of KwaZulu-Natal . The wetlands cover 5 244 ha in the upper reaches of the Mzintlava catchment. It is easily accessible via a network of district roads which cross the vlei at various points. The head of the vlei lies at an altitude of 1 585m and extends in a south-easterly direction towards its outlet at 1 498m. The vlei is surrounded by highland sourveld, and is dominated by reeds, robust sedges and bulrushes.

Specials to look out for are Eurasian Bittern, White-winged Flufftail, Red-chested Flufftail, Striped Flufftail ,Wattled Crane, African Rail, Black-crowned Night Heron, African Purple Swamphen and Lesser Swamp Warbler.

Directions

From Kokstad travel North on R617 for 43km, turn right onto the P602/1 to Franklin village (1km). The wetland adjoins the village where the tar road crosses the wetland. Park at the bridge on the western edge of the wetland.

Additional Info

Franklin Vlei is accessible via tar road at any time on a self drive basis. No entrance fees are charged. There are no toilets. Cars can be parked safely on the bridge at the western end of the wetland. It is recommended that you lock your car and keep valuables out of sight while birding.