Travel Guides Southern Africa - Wildlife, Game Reserves, Safaris, Photographic Safaris, Birding Safaris, Hiking

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  INFORMATION:

NATURE RESERVES
Mount Currie
Province: Kwazulu Natal
Region:East Griqualand
Main Attractions: Birding
Accommodation: Camping


The only formally protected area in East Griqualand , Mount Currie consists of the mountain from which it gets its name , forest patches and grassy slopes dotted with Protea rupellia and Protea caffra. Crystal Lake which provides boating and angling opportunities is fed by the pure water of Crystal Spring , the main source of Kokstad’s water supply. 


The reserve boasts a bird list of over 220 recorded species with striped flufftails common in the wetter areas and the bearded vulture frequently seen when climbing Mt. Currie.

ADAM KOK LAAGER SITE
Encouraged by Governor Sir George Grey , Adam Kok 111 formed a commission early in 1859 to reconnoitre Nomansland. Adam Kok was accompanied by Sir Walter Currie , Commandant of the Frontier Armed and Mounted Police who was deputizing for the Governor. Having satisfied himself about the suitability of the new country , the trek was undertaken.
The Griquas consisting of some 2000 men , women and children and accompanied by 20 000 head of stock , emerged from the mountains to see endless green grazing , abundant water and game of every kind. They arrived at Mount Currie on 12 May 1863. Their laager site and their cemeteries are situated in the reserve. There is a National Monument at the laager site .

BOY SCOUT MONUMENT
There is also a monument in the reserve to ex Boy Scouts who fell in action in East Africa. Access to this monument is gained by driving 4.5 kilometres beyond the Adam Kok Memorial . Access by road is via the Adam Kok Memorial gate.

ACCOMMODATION
A campground with ten campsites has been developed. This is serviced by an ablution block with hot and cold water for all basins and showers . The ladies ablution block has a bath . Plug points for electric razors are available.
One site has an electrical plug point. Each site has a garbage bin and every second site has a tap. A central dishwashing and hand laundry facility is available.
Visitors are advised to bring torches and insect repellant. Firewood is sold at the main gate.
Applications for campsite reservations should be addressed to : 
Officer-In-Charge 
Mount Currie Nature Reserve 
P.O Box 378 
Kokstad
4700. 
Telephone : (037) 727 3844 during office hours.