East London, South Africa

Dassie Trail Walk & Nahoon Point Nature Reserve

Hiking in Protected Nature Visit two unique landscapes in the East London Coast Nature Reserve, comprised of 12 smaller protected areas. Lace up your hiking boots and set off to explore the Nahoon Estuary Nature Reserve along its Dassie Trail. Named for the rock hyraxes, or dassies, found in the area, the path leads through forest, over a boardwalk made from recycled plastic and out onto vistas of mangrove-lined mud flats. Watch for birds such as abundant waders, or rarer ones like the spectacular Narina trogon, along with other wildlife. Afterward, stop for refreshments en route to one of the most scenic coastal reserves in the country, Nahoon Point Nature Reserve. Here you will visit the Mercedez-Benz Coastal Education and Visitor Center and stroll along a stunning coast to the area where the world’s oldest human fossil footprints were discovered. Afterward, return to your waiting ship. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.