Having Cape Point Nature Reserve, literally just around the corner from home is something to be incredibly grateful for.

What you see at Cape Point Nature Reserve?

For me, this is one of the most beautiful spots in the Cape.  Often, we go spend time in the reserve and swim.  However, there is so much more than just beach. There are many awesome hikes, drives and so many animals to see!

Chacma Baboons

Undoubtedly, my most favourite animal to see, is the Chacma baboon. Unfortunately, due to uneducated people and over population, our Chacma baboons are misunderstood, and their numbers are dwindling.  When we come across a troop, we love to pull over and just watch them interact, they are so affectionate and very sweet. I love watching them groom each other. They are very agile and full of energy! Obviously, you need to respect these darling animals. Do not feed them. Let them be.  Keep your car doors locked as they are clever.

Just remember they are wild, so don’t antagonize them.

Eland

Another favourite of mine is the Eland, this magical antelope is big and on one occasion, we saw 22 walking up the mountain in the reserve.  We were super lucky! They are very peaceful animals, beautiful and majestic.  I think they are so happy in the reserve as they don’t have any predators.

Bontebok

The beautiful Bontebok, these are rare and endangered antelope species native to South Africa. Cape Point Nature Reserve is one of the few places where you can spot them in the wild. They too have unique markings on their faces and are strikingly pretty.  We have always seen so many babies in September and they also are booming remarkably.

Ostriches

Ostriches, these large flightless birds can be seen wandering around the reserve, often in grassy areas. You can see the difference between male and female.  And if you are lucky which is often you will see the mating dance.  Gorgeous!

Cape Mountain Zebra

Cape Mountain Zebra. I have visited Cape point a billion times and have never spotted a zebra!  However, everyone that has been have seen them many times.  Sadly, I haven’t. It’s a bucket list for me!! These zebras are endangered subspecies. They have distinctive vertical stripes and are smaller than their cousin, the plains zebra.

Sugarbirds, Sunbirds and Birds of Prey

Birds, galore! My personal favourites, Rock Kestrel, black shouldered kite, many oyster catchers and all the sunbirds.  The sugarbirds fly around from pin cushions to protea with their pretty tails.  Cape Point Nature Reserve is a great spot for bird watching, and you can expect to see a diverse array of bird species.  Another tip is if you go to Black Rocks. You will be able to see massive albatrosses picking muscles off the rocks. And then dropping from quite a height, so it can shatter.  Then the clever bird, swoops down and eats the juicy flesh!

It’s important to note, that wildlife sightings can be unpredictable, and the presence of these animals can vary depending on the time of year and other factors.

Having this glorious reserve down the road from us, its truly a blessing!

Cape Point Nature Reserve is the best day out!