Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve Durban
1 / 10

Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve Durban

4.3
·2k reviews·Durban, South Africa

Discover coastal forests & grasslands teeming with wildlife, including zebras and over 200 bird species. Perfect for hiking and picnics.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better wildlife

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve Durban

Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve Durban

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better wildlife

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover coastal forests & grasslands teeming with wildlife, including zebras and over 200 bird species. Perfect for hiking and picnics.

4.3
(2k reviews)

"Affordable and close to Durban, a lovely walk with zebras, rooibok and little duikers."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Affordable Entry Fee

Entry is R60 per person, making it an affordable nature escape close to Durban .

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the various trails through forests and grasslands.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Zebra and Impala Encounters

Zebra and Impala Encounters

Throughout the reserve

Get up close with zebras and impalas in their natural habitat. A truly memorable wildlife experience!

Diverse Walking Trails

Diverse Walking Trails

Various marked paths

Explore well-marked trails through coastal forests and grasslands, suitable for all fitness levels.

Birdwatching Paradise

Birdwatching Paradise

Canopy and open grasslands

Spot over 200 species of birds in this rich avian habitat. Bring your binoculars!

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to Kenneth Stainbank

This nature reserve offers a peaceful escape with diverse wildlife and walking trails. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene experience. Entry fee is R60 per person.Instagram

Wildlife Spotting Tips

Keep an eye out for zebras, impalas, duikers, and bushbucks. The reserve is also home to over 200 bird species. Early mornings are often best for wildlife sightings.Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better wildlife
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Bat colony viewing
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Low key love this place and it has direct access to the beach 😍 📍Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve #durban #thingstodoindurban #travel #beach #umhlanga #traveltiktok #durbanfoodie #beachwoodmangroves #durbantiktok #durbancreators #freethingstodoindurban
@durbaniteincpt
10.1K likes • 362.8K views

🎯 Affordable Entry Fee

Entry is R60 per person, making it an affordable nature escape close to Durban.Instagram

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the various trails through forests and grasslands.

Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve #durban #southafrica
031photobooths
8 likes • 577 views
Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve 📍in Yellowwood Park. If your in the Durban area, definitely worth popping in for an early morning Hike. . #outdooradventures #hikingadventures #kennethstainbanknaturereserve
outdooradventureandphotography
2.4K likes • 118.4K views

📸 Camera Ready!

Bring your camera to capture the abundant wildlife and beautiful scenery.Instagram

🧺 Picnic Spots Available

Enjoy a meal amidst nature at the designated picnic sites with braai facilities.Reddit

🌿 Get ready to reconnect with nature at "Walk in the Wild"! 🦋 Join us on August 25th, 2024, at the breathtaking Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve in Durban. The first 500 adventurers to register will receive a FREE t-shirt and a goodie bag! 🎒✨ 📅 Date: August 25th, 2024 📍 Location: Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve, Durban 💻 Register now on our website or at the CROW reception (link in bio) 👧👦 Entry...
crowkzn
82 likes • 2.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Affordable Entry Fee

Entry is R60 per person, making it an affordable nature escape close to Durban.Instagram

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the various trails through forests and grasslands.

📸 Camera Ready!

Bring your camera to capture the abundant wildlife and beautiful scenery.Instagram

🧺 Picnic Spots Available

Enjoy a meal amidst nature at the designated picnic sites with braai facilities.Reddit

🦇 Bat Colony Viewing

Stay until dusk to witness the fascinating bat colony emerge.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve for its abundant wildlife, including zebras and impalas, and its well-maintained trails perfect for hiking and picnics. The affordable entry fee and proximity to Durban are significant draws, though some note that certain areas could benefit from renovation. It's a peaceful escape offering a genuine connection with nature.

"Great place for hiking cycling and just walking.... The Reserve is clean and well kept 👌❤️
It has safe and secure parking
Clear directions and map
Markings are visible throughout the whole area
Easy hike

They have different kinds of species
Saw a Zebra and impala 🦓🦌🌴"

sindisiwe mhlongo

"Beautiful hikes with clean toilets and picnic sites all over. Walk with thr Zebras, duiker and impala. Spot the bat colony as the day ends. Get your steps and be one with nature. Affordable and close to Durban."

Chantal Redding

"It was lovely to drive 30min from Durban and do a nature hike with a 4yr old and see zebra, rooibok and little duikers. The reserve needs some attention but everyone we met was friendly. Definitely worth a visit."

Jacodvn

What People Like

Abundant wildlife sightings
Well-maintained trails
Affordable entry fee

What People Dislike

Needs some renovations

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve is located in Yellowwood Park, Durban, approximately a 30-minute drive from the city center.InstagramReddit You can reach it by car via Coedmore Avenue. Public transport options might be limited, so driving is generally recommended.

Yes, the reserve offers safe and secure parking at the entrance, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.Reddit

The reserve is situated in Yellowwood Park. Look for clear signage directing you to the entrance. The address is often listed as Coedmore Avenue, Yellowwood Park, Durban.

While driving is the most convenient option, you might be able to arrange a taxi or ride-sharing service from Durban. It's advisable to check availability and fares beforehand.

While the reserve is a destination in itself, you can explore other Durban attractions before or after your visit, such as the beaches or city center.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is R60 per person. This affordable price makes it a great option for a day out.Instagram

While specific hours can vary, nature reserves are typically open during daylight hours. It's best to check for any seasonal changes or specific timings before your visit.

Advance booking is generally not required for this type of nature reserve. You can usually pay the entrance fee upon arrival.

Occasionally, events like 'Walk in the Wild' are organized. Keep an eye on local event listings or the reserve's official channels for announcements.Instagram

Parking is typically included with the entrance fee, and it is noted as safe and secure.Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can spot zebras, impalas, duikers, bushbucks, and a variety of other indigenous animals. The reserve is also a haven for over 200 bird species.InstagramReddit

Yes, the trails are generally considered easy and suitable for families. You can even see wildlife like zebras and duikers with young children.Reddit

The reserve offers clean toilets and picnic sites, some with braai facilities, making it a comfortable place for a day trip.Reddit

The reserve has security at the entrance and is generally considered safe for visitors. However, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and stick to marked trails.Instagram

Yes, cycling is one of the activities mentioned as popular at the reserve, alongside hiking and walking.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants or cafes within the reserve. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks for picnics.Reddit

Yes, the reserve has picnic sites that include braai facilities, perfect for a barbecue lunch.Reddit

Pack essentials like food, drinks, picnic blankets, utensils, and any other items you might need for a comfortable outdoor meal.

You'll likely need to purchase food and drinks before arriving at the reserve, as there are no shops within the park itself.

Food delivery services are generally not permitted or practical within nature reserves. It's best to bring your own provisions.

📸 📸 Photography

Anywhere you can spot wildlife! The trails offer scenic views, and areas where animals congregate are prime photography locations. Don't miss the chance to photograph the bat colony at dusk.Reddit

While you can get relatively close to some animals like zebras and impalas, always maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing them. Use a zoom lens for detailed shots.Instagram

Morning and late afternoon offer the best natural light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Midday sun can be harsh.

Drones are typically not permitted in nature reserves to avoid disturbing wildlife and for safety reasons. It's best to check the reserve's specific regulations.

A telephoto lens (e.g., 70-300mm or longer) is highly recommended for capturing wildlife details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscape shots.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve is a fantastic spot for families. The easy-to-navigate trails and the chance to see zebras, impalas, and duikers up close are huge hits with children.Reddit The reserve offers picnic sites with braai facilities, making it perfect for a family day out with a packed lunch or a barbecue.Reddit The R60 entry fee is also very budget-friendly for families.Instagram Ensure kids wear comfortable shoes and stay close to adults while exploring.

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve is an excellent choice. The entry fee of R60 per person is very affordable,Instagram offering a full day of nature exploration without breaking the bank. You can save further by packing your own food and utilizing the free picnic and braai facilities.Reddit It's a great way to experience Durban's natural beauty on a shoestring budget.

📸 Nature Photographers

Nature photographers will find plenty to capture at Kenneth Stainbank. The reserve is renowned for its wildlife sightings, including zebras and impalas, and its diverse birdlife.TikTokInstagram The early morning and late afternoon light are ideal for photography, offering soft, flattering illumination. Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the bat colony at dusk.Reddit A telephoto lens is recommended for wildlife shots.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trails of Kenneth Stainbank

Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve boasts a network of well-marked trails catering to various fitness levels. These paths wind through diverse landscapes, including coastal forests and grasslands, offering a rich sensory experience. Visitors can enjoy easy walks, longer hikes, and even cycling routes.Reddit The clear markings ensure you can navigate the reserve with confidence, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a more invigorating trek. Remember to wear comfortable footwear suitable for uneven terrain.

Some trails offer opportunities to cross charming bridges and pass through small clearings, adding to the sense of discovery. The reserve is known for its accessibility, with some reviewers mentioning it's suitable for a 4-year-old, indicating that many paths are not overly strenuous.Reddit Whether you're looking for a short nature walk or a more extended exploration, the trails at Kenneth Stainbank provide a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local flora and fauna.

Wildlife Encounters and Birdwatching

One of the biggest draws of Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve is its abundant wildlife. Visitors frequently report sightings of zebras, impalas, duikers, and bushbucks.InstagramReddit These encounters offer a unique opportunity to observe animals in their natural environment, often at close range. The reserve is also a haven for over 200 bird species, making it a prime location for birdwatchers.TikTok Early mornings are often cited as the best time for wildlife spotting, as animals are typically more active during the cooler parts of the day.

Beyond the larger mammals and birds, keep an eye out for smaller creatures and the diverse plant life that characterizes the reserve's indigenous flora. As dusk approaches, a unique spectacle awaits: the emergence of the bat colony.Reddit This natural phenomenon is a fascinating way to conclude your visit and adds another layer to the reserve's ecological richness. Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance to ensure their well-being and your safety.

Amenities and Visitor Experience

Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve aims to provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience for its visitors. The reserve is noted for having clean toilets and picnic sites scattered throughout, some equipped with braai facilities.Reddit This makes it an excellent destination for families and groups looking to spend a day outdoors with a meal. The presence of security at the entrance contributes to a feeling of safety for visitors.Instagram

While some reviews mention that the reserve 'could do with some renovations',Instagram the overall sentiment is positive, with many appreciating the efforts to maintain the grounds and the friendly staff. The clear directions and visible markings on the trails further enhance the visitor experience, ensuring that navigating the reserve is straightforward.Reddit The combination of natural beauty, accessible amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere makes Kenneth Stainbank a worthwhile destination for nature lovers.

You may also like