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Weza-Ngele Forest
skznbs 14.2 & 14.3
Categories: accommodation; roadside attraction; trails
Weza-Ngele Forest is one of the largest and most accessible tracts of Afromontane mistbelt forest in KwaZulu-Natal . A good system of trails allows access to large parts of the forest. It is 80km inland from the coast and the altitude of the forest spans about 1250 - 1550 m above sea level. This forest is a prime site for the much sought after Cape Parrot . There are several short trails in the lower reaches of the forest. The more energetic may like to take on the half-day circular hike that loops through the upper forest.
Specials to look out for are Orange Ground-Thrush , Cape Parrot , and Bush Blackcap.
Other birds that can be seen include African Olive-Pigeon , Lemon Dove , Knysna Turaco , African Emerald Cuckoo , Narina Trogon , Trumpeter Hornbill and Crowned Hornbill , Olive Woodpecker , Terrestrial Brownbul , Sombre Greenbul , Grey Cuckooshrike , Chorister Robin-Chat and White-starred Robin , Yellow-throated Woodland-Warbler , Barratt's Warbler (particularly common), Bar-throated Apalis and Yellow-breasted Apalis , Green-backed Camaroptera , Cape Batis , African Dusky Flycatcher , Blue-mantled Crested Flycatcher , Olive Bush-Shrike , Southern Double-collared Sunbird , Collared Sunbird , Dark-backed Weaver , the delightful Swee Waxbill and Green Twinspot.
Directions
The forest is situated between the towns of Harding and Kokstad, and North of the small forestry town of Weza . From Durban follow the N2 freeway down the coast to Port Shepstone and then inland to Harding. About 28km after Harding, the Ingeli Forest Lodge is visible on the left-hand side of the road. Immediately after this, the N2 goes directly through a large part of the forest. It is best to park at the Ingeli Forest Lodge parking area to gain access to the forest.
Additional Info
Weza-Ngele Forest is under state control. A day-permit, for which there is a nominal charge, can be obtained from the Ingeli Forest Lodge reception.
A network of trails and forestry roads pass through the forest and it is best to ask for directions to these from the reception desk at the Ingeli Forest Lodge, from where a map may be obtained. A nominally priced permit is required to use the trails. Refreshments, toilet facilities and a comprehensive bird list covering the Weza-Ngele area are also available at the lodge.
Habitats: natural forest, upland grassland, dams, streams and wetlands.
Contact
- Tel: +27 (0)39 553 0600