Mamre Nature Gardens

Overview

This reserve is not only rich in biodiversity but has an interesting cultural history. The main vegetation type on the reserve is Atlantis Sand Fynbos, which is considered to be endangered.
The Mamre Nature Garden, which aims to protect this vegetation type, is about 230 ha, but the protected commonage adjacent to the reserve is about 600 ha.

More than 234 plant species have been recorded at the reserve, including 24 species that are threatened with extinction. These include the annual Cabaroe, the Weskus Spinnekopbos and the Vleiblom. Small mammals such as the Cape Grysbok and Steenbok can still be found roaming around as well as a host of birds, reptiles and amphibians.

Mamre was established in 1701 when Cape Governor Willem Adriaan van der Stel sent a group of soldiers to set up a military post. The area was then known as Groenekloof. In 1806 a Moravian mission was established and the first sermons were held at Louwskloof, which is at the base of the Dassenberg hills.

OPENING HOURS: by prior arrangement only
SIZE: 230 hectares
ENTRY FEE: none
PUBLIC TRANSPORT: taxi
ACTIVITIES: picnic site, short trail, 1.5 hour hiking trail to Louwskloof,
the national heritage site (by prior arrangement only)
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION: by prior arrangement only
CONTACT: Tel 021 576 0514;
EMAIL: charlene.liedeman@capetown.gov.za

Cape Town Green Map
updated 03/2012 by City of Cape Town