Norscot Koppies and Kingfisher Nature Reserve
A community-run nature reserve in Fourways, offering a peaceful escape with wildlife, rocky koppies, and historical quarry remnants.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Reserve is open
Norscot Koppies and Kingfisher Nature Reserve
Best Time
Reserve is open
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A community-run nature reserve in Fourways, offering a peaceful escape with wildlife, rocky koppies, and historical quarry remnants.
"A tiny little spot slap bang in the middle of suburbia is an absolute gem."
📅 Check Opening Days
Open only every 2nd & last Sunday. Confirm hours before visiting!
💰 Donations Welcome
Community-run, so donations are vital for upkeep. Bring cash!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rocky Koppies
Various viewpoints
Climb these granite outcrops for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding suburban landscape.
Wildlife Encounters
Throughout the reserve
Spot dassies, duiker, and diverse birdlife in this surprisingly wild urban sanctuary.
Kingfisher Dam & Bird Hide
Near the dam
Observe colorful birds building nests and find tranquility at the well-maintained dam.
Historical Granite Quarry
Trailside
Discover remnants of the area's past as a granite quarry, with fascinating rubble piles and chips.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Community-Run Gem
Unplug and Explore
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📅 Check Opening Days
Open only every 2nd & last Sunday. Confirm hours before visiting!
💰 Donations Welcome
Community-run, so donations are vital for upkeep. Bring cash!
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Essential for exploring rocky koppies and trails.
🐕 Dog-Friendly (Leashed)
Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome.
Tips
from all over the internet
📅 Check Opening Days
Open only every 2nd & last Sunday. Confirm hours before visiting!
💰 Donations Welcome
Community-run, so donations are vital for upkeep. Bring cash!
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Essential for exploring rocky koppies and trails.
🐕 Dog-Friendly (Leashed)
Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome.
📸 Great Photo Ops
Capture stunning views and wildlife.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Norscot Koppies and Kingfisher Nature Reserve as a hidden gem offering a peaceful 'bushveld' feel within Fourways. The community-run nature, friendly volunteers, and opportunities to see wildlife like dassies and duiker are frequently praised. While trails are generally easy, some rocky climbs offer rewarding views. It's a cherished spot for a quiet escape.
"Nice park to feel “out in the bush” but in the middle of Fourways…some buck and dassies here and there, nice places for kids to explore and climb rocks etc. Good trails with 16km track. Also nice thst it only opens every 2 weeks only on a Sunday"
Thomas Coetzee
"The norscot koppies is open every second and last Sunday of the month until 5pm. There is no entrance fee but donations are appreciated as it is run solely by the community and a handful of volunteers.
It’s a great place to go for leisurely walk. The “hiking” bit of it is really not challenging at all and is suitable for all walks of life.
It’s incredibly quite - the perfect place to unplug and unwind after a long or even stressful week.
The volunteers are very helpful and friendly and even called be back to watch the duiker feed.
I’ll definitely be going every Sunday it’s open 🌱"
Jade Alberts
"I hiked at Norscot today with a group and we thoroughly enjoyed it. We were greeted by the local residents who look after the reserve and were briefed about the history of the reserve. We were shown some artefacts, fossils from days gone by and we were fortunate to sight a baby tortoise just before commencing on the trails. The paths were neat and clear. There's some huge rocks that you can climb to check out the stunning views. You could pause at the lookout and quietly watch and listen to the colourful birds flying and building their nests. It's a peaceful reserve in the heart of Fourways worth checking out."
Aysha Latib
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The reserve is located in Fourways, Johannesburg. It's best accessed by car, as public transport options are limited. Parking is available on-site during opening days.
While it's in the heart of suburbia, the reserve is well-signposted on its open days. Using GPS is recommended for first-time visitors.
Norscot Koppies is typically open every second and last Sunday of the month until 5 PM. Always check their community updates for the most current schedule.
No, the reserve is generally only open to the public on specific Sundays. It's a community-run initiative, so weekday access is not available.
Yes, there is parking available on-site for visitors during the designated open days.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no official entrance fee. However, the reserve is run by volunteers and relies on donations to maintain the area. Contributions are greatly appreciated.
Donations can be made in cash on-site during your visit. Your contributions directly support the upkeep and conservation efforts of the reserve.
As there is no entrance fee, advance booking is not required. Simply visit on one of the designated open Sundays.
Volunteers sometimes offer insights into the reserve's history and wildlife. Keep an eye out for them on open days; they are very helpful!
The area was formerly a granite quarry, and remnants of this history can be seen throughout the reserve, including rubble piles and granite chips on the trails.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The reserve offers various trails, including a 16km track. While some are easy walks, others involve climbing rocky koppies, making it suitable for different fitness levels.
Absolutely! Kids can enjoy exploring the rocks, and the generally easy trails make it a fun outing for the whole family.
You might spot duiker, springbok, and numerous dassies. The reserve also boasts incredible birdlife and a small dam with a bird hide.
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome. Many visitors share photos of their dogs enjoying the reserve.
Information on specific facilities like restrooms is limited, but it's advisable to come prepared for a natural environment.
📸 📸 Photography
The rocky koppies offer panoramic views, perfect for landscape shots. The dam and bird hide are ideal for capturing birdlife, and the diverse flora and fauna provide endless opportunities.
Yes, with patience, you can photograph various small animals like dassies and duiker, as well as a wide array of bird species.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide softer light, ideal for photography. The beautiful skies are also a highlight.
No specific restrictions are mentioned, but always be respectful of the environment and other visitors.
There is no information available regarding drone usage. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise, to avoid disturbing wildlife and visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack snacks and water, as facilities are minimal. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for everyone, especially if the kids are keen to scramble on the rocks. The reserve's opening on specific Sundays makes it a perfect weekend outing that feels like a genuine escape without traveling far from the city.
🐶 Dog Owners
Ensure your dog is well-behaved and kept on a leash at all times to respect other visitors and the wildlife. The varied terrain means your dog will get a good workout, and you can enjoy the scenic beauty together. It's a community-run space, so responsible pet ownership is key to ensuring this privilege continues.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
The opportunity to see wildlife like duiker and dassies, along with the diverse birdlife, makes it a compelling destination for those seeking a connection with nature. The historical context of the former granite quarry adds an interesting dimension to the landscape. It's an ideal spot for a quiet, reflective walk to unplug from the daily grind.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Community-Run Oasis
This community-run model means that every visit contributes directly to the preservation of this unique space. Visitors are encouraged to make donations, which are crucial for maintaining the trails, managing wildlife, and supporting the volunteer efforts. The reserve's history as a former granite quarry adds another layer of intrigue, with remnants of its industrial past visible throughout the landscape. It's a place where nature has reclaimed its territory, creating a surprisingly wild environment right in the heart of the city.
Exploring the Trails and Wildlife
Wildlife is a significant draw for visitors. The reserve is home to small game like duiker and springbok, as well as a large population of dassies, which are often a highlight for visitors. Birdwatchers will also find plenty to admire, with a diverse array of bird species present. The Kingfisher Dam, complete with a bird hide, offers a tranquil spot for observing avian life. Many visitors express delight at the unexpected abundance of wildlife in such an urban setting.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit