The Nyl River rises in the hills near Modimolle (formally Nylstroom) and eventually spills into the Limpopo. For much of its journey, the river meanders back and forth, forming a marshy floodplain that is the largest and best conserved in South Africa. The floodplain reaches 6 km in width and extends for nearly 70 km between Middlefontein and Moordriftan. In its upper reaches close to Modimolle is Nylsvlei, a site which attracts 420 recorded species of bird, of which 102 are waterfowl. Of these 58 species are known to breed at Nylsvlei, more than any other wetland in South Africa, making this probably the most significant wetland in this country. 23 Species of these waterfowl are on the red data list, and for this reason Nylsvlei was declared a Ramsar wetland site of international importance.
In the wet season when the floodplain fills up, 80 000 birds congregate making Nylsvlei a spectacular destination for bird lovers. Reeds and grassland, including one of the only wild rice stands in South Africa, attracts a number of rare animals such as roan antelope, tsessebe, which retreat into the woodland surrounds. The wetland is also a haven for frogs and fish that gather in large numbers to breed in the wet season.
Reservations at Nylsvley: Limpopo Tourism and Parks Board
Tel : 015 293 3611/2/3 info@golimpopo.com
Information about Nylsvley Nature Reserve
Tel: 082 806 2204