The Steenbras Nature Reserve forms part of the greater Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, one of the Western Cape’s most magnificent natural gems, and includes the popular Steenbras River Gorge and Crystal Pools hiking trail. Besides being a must-visit destination for avid hikers, thrill seekers and keen adventurers, the Steenbras Nature Reserve is well known for its unique biodiversity – with the area often being referred to as ‘the heart of the fynbos.’ Home to more than 1600 plant species, it boasts the greatest floral diversity per unit area than anywhere else in the world. The area supports five different vegetation types and is regarded as one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. A visit to the Steenbras Nature Reserve undoubtedly deserves to be on every nature enthusiast’s bucket-list.
**Interesting fact: The area, now known as the Steenbras Nature Reserve, was originally proclaimed as a protected area in 1979 and was registered with UNESCO (United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization) in 1998 and declared an area of international importance.
