Keurboomstrand
Keurboomstrand is a natural resort town with spectacular coastal scenery and a dense forest containing myriad animal sanctuaries. It is part of the spectacular Garden Route and has fascinating rocks and cliffs overlooking Plettenberg Bay. Get a closer look at some of the world’s most extraordinary creatures, from big cats to monkeys, in this wildlife haven.
Stroll east along the coast to discover the natural treasure of Arch Rock. It looks like a cathedral with a large opening like a portal beneath a small hole resembling a rose window. Swim in the rock pool and visit the fascinating Matjes River Rock Shelter and learn about its archeological significance.
Bring the kids into the forest for the vast range of animal sanctuaries. Walk along the mazy paths of the Birds of Edento gaze up at the toucans, macaws and pink flamingos in the vast collection of 3,000 birds. Embark on a scavenger hunt with the children looking for different species.
Neighboring Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary is a fascinating park with about 500 primates. Take a guided trip through the Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary and see the majestic big cats that have been saved from poachers.
Make your way east to Nature’s Valley Beach, which has a campground and quaint cottages. Enjoy the views of mountains in the secluded and protected Tsitsikamma National Park. Swim in the warm water of the Indian Ocean.
Find Keurboomstrand, which gets its name from the eponymous tree that is indigenous to the region, between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth on the southern coast of central South Africa. It is on the Keurbooms River in a region of many private nature reserves. Drive northeast from Plettenberg Bay for about 10 minutes to reach this coastal town. Expect a warm climate, with the hottest and driest season from December through February.
Keurboomstrand offers many havens for animals along with an excellent beach and intriguing archeological sites.