Simson-Simons Nature Reserve represents part of an organic farm: the Fynbos Estate which covers 320 hectares of the Paardeberg in the Western Cape of South Africa. 20 hectares of this farm are wine-grape vineyards and olive groves, 30 hectares are open farmland and 270 hectares are granite mountain.

In 2013 the reserve became a Contract Nature Reserve under the auspices of Cape Nature. The plants on the mountains include Strandveld (‘coastal plants’), Cape Mountain fynbos (‘fine bush’, which is found only in the Western Cape), and renosterveld (‘rhinoceros bush’, whose dark appearance gives the region its name, Swartland or ‘black land’). Nature lovers may be lucky enough to see buck, dassie, mongoose and suricate, or you may come upon large leopard tortoises, colourful lizards or prickly porcupines.

Conservation Highlights:

• Wild proteas
• Eagles and many other bird species
• Conservation projects: clearing of alien vegetation; bird and plant spotting for species lists

A long-term project is the returning of indigenous game to the mountain. The farm is also frequently used for research projects on insects and plants. People who wish to participate in any of the farm’s conservation projects are more than welcome and while doing so, can stay without charge in the small wooden hut. Students wanting to use the farm for appropriate projects are more than welcome.

Contact Details:

Johan & Diana (Owners)