Pledge Nature Reserve – Knysna

Welcome to Pledge Nature Reserve!

Established as a Local Nature Reserve by a Provincial Government Gazette Notice in October 1991, Pledge Nature Reserve spans approximately 10 hectares and is overseen by the Pledge Nature Reserve Trust. It’s hard to imagine that less than a century ago, this vibrant heart of Knysna was nothing more than a brickfield, later transformed into a dumping ground, tarnishing the once pristine streams. Driven by concerned citizens, the Reserve was proclaimed, securing a long-term lease with the Knysna Municipality. What ensued was a determined effort to eradicate invasive vegetation and restore the area to its natural glory.

Dams were constructed to trap silt and purify water, benefiting the lagoon downstream. Serene pools, bordered by indigenous trees, adorn the lower section of the Reserve, easily accessible from the main road just 200 meters away. For those seeking a leisurely experience, benches provide a tranquil spot to soak in the peace and tranquility of Pledge Nature Reserve.

Venturing along the winding trails to the Reserve’s zenith rewards visitors with breathtaking vistas overlooking the town and the distant Knysna Heads—a highlight of the experience, especially during our popular full-moon walks.

Nestled within the Cape Floral Kingdom, boasting 8600 plant species, Pledge Nature Reserve prioritizes the active management of its Fynbos-covered upper sections to safeguard this unique habitat. The lower reaches feature Riverine Thicket and wetland vegetation, hosting over 300 indigenous species—a captivating destination for enthusiasts of all ages to explore the Southern Cape’s rich flora.

Before reclamation efforts, birdlife was scarce, with only 47 species recorded in the early 1990s. Today, the Reserve teems with life, with sightings of over 90 bird species, reflecting its restored vitality.

Beyond avifauna, Pledge Nature Reserve offers a haven for small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians, including small buck, porcupine, mongoose, spotted genet, and a breeding colony of francolin, enriching this urban sanctuary with diverse wildlife encounters.