Skilpad

The Skilpad Wild Flower Reserve was one of the highlights of trip, especially since it was visited in the quiet of the early morning. The hilly areas appeared to be on fire with the orange flowers. This was not the only floral delight; there were many other interesting flowers in the reserve,   and on the road leading to Skilpad.

The Wild Flower Reserve was established in 1988 by WWF SA (World Wide Fund for Nature) to conserve the indigenous flora and fauna of the area. The reserve is named after the many tortoises (skilpad) that are frequently seen in the summer months. In most years the floral display is excellent because the reserve is situated some 700m above sea level thus serving as a catchment area for rain, and for sea fog that often travels quite far inland.

In addition to the flowers, some of the following can also be seen: duiker, steenbok, bat-eared fox, dassie, baboon, mongoose, hare and many other smaller mammals. 89 species of bird have been confirmed in the area. The reserve is run for the Kamieskroon community, and information about visits can always be obtained in the town. Skilpad is reached from Kamieskroon on a delightful, picturesque road with many interesting flowers along the way.