The reserve falls within a horseshoe of a picturesque section of the Ivungu River. It boasts a variety of different ecosystems within a small area. Abundant birdlife, antelope and small mammals can be seen on the reserve.

The River Valley Nature Reserve hugs a section of the iVungu River which meanders down through a valley of hills into the Indian Ocean at the well known Uvongo Beach, where one finds the iVungu falls (the onomatipoeic Zulu word for the reverberating roar of the falls).  It is a small reminder of the once untouched natural coastline with it’s varied ecosystems consisting of grassland, riverine and coastal forest.

The Nature Reserve boasts a herd of impala and a herd of nyala. The shy bushbuck as well as the elusive blue duiker and the more common grey duiker are also present on the reserve. Smaller mammals such as porcupine, the large grey, banded and water mongooses as well as the cape clawless otter are evidenced by the presence of their tracks. They are sometimes spotted if you are at the right place at the right time. The lesser known tree hyrax and the more common rock hyrax can be seen too.

As many as 145 species of birds have been sighted in the iVungu area

One of the other attractions, if one enjoys the greener things of life, is the dense stretch of coastal-riverine forest that extends along the river. The easily recognizable spreading flatcrown

We are also home to many reptiles including the rock and water monitor lizards, which are frequently seen sunning themselves on the banks of the river or dams. Along with the legged reptiles are the non-legged “less desired” slithering snakes which can be seen if one really wants to!