Estcourt is a small industrial town on the Bushman River in an intensively cultivated farming area. Although the town itself has no outstanding features of interest, it is a good center for visiting the Drakensberg. Estcourt is one of the oldest towns in Natal, a voortrekker settlement having been established in this area in 1838.
Mooi River (pop. 13,000), 30km/20mi south of Estcourt on the river of that name, is another good center for trips into the Drakensberg. A favorite recreation area with the people of Mooi River is the Craigburn Nature Reserve (area 330ha/815 ac), on the road to Graytown, within which is a small artificial lake (fishing, boating; picnic spots).
30km/19mi northeast of Estcourt is Weenen Nature Reserve (area 5,000ha/12,500ac). A number of hiking trails run through the reserve, which is home to rhinos, buffaloes, giraffes and various species of antelope.
Read Less
Read More
Mooi River, South Africa
