The Matjiesrivier Nature Reserve was proclaimed in 1997. It is situated on the drier eastern boundary of the Cederberg mountains.
This 12 800ha reserve, formerly a productive farm, is situated in the ecotone between the Fynbos and Succulent Karoo biomes, increasing the fauna and flora diversity of the reserve along with its historic and archaeological heritage. The primary objectives of the reserve are to maintain the ecological systems & processes, specifically the eco tone process & patterns and to conserve genetic diversity and heritage of the area.
Activities at the reserve include rock climbing at the famous Truitjieskraal,rock art visits at the Stadsaal cave area and Truitjieskraal where you can follow a circular interpretive day hiking of 1.5 kilometres among the spectacular rock formations.
You can get easy day access to these sites by purchasing a permit at any of the tourism offices in the Cederberg Conservancy.
Due to the cold winters the flower season at Matjiesrivier Nature Reserve and neighbouring farms last much later, usually till end October with breathtaking displays of purple vygies and yellow daisies. The diversity of the area also offers good opportunities for bird watching. Matjiesrivier Nature Reserve is home to an active breading pair of Black eagles (Aquila verreauxii) which are often seen soaring on the thermals above the reserve.
No accommodation is available at Matjiesrivier Nature Reserve.
Matjiesrivier Nature Reserve houses the Cape Leopard Trust along with the Environmental Education camp of the Cape Leopard Trust and CapeNature. The offices of the Cederberg Conservancy and the Red Cederberg Karoo Park are also based here.
