Harold Johnson Nature Reserve

About Harold Johnson Nature Reserve

The Harold Johnson Nature Reserve is a 100-hectare coastal conservation area managed by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife on the south bank of the Tugela River along the KwaZulu-Natal north coast. This biodiversity hotspot protects a rich habitat of climax coastal lowland forest and valley bushveld that supports over 200 bird species, 114 butterfly species, and native mammals such as zebra, bushbuck, impala, and duikers.

Visitors can explore the landscape through established pathways, including the 7-kilometre Muthi Walk and the 4.5-kilometre Bushbuck Trail. In addition to its natural features, the reserve preserves two prominent South African national monuments linked to the 1879 Anglo-Zulu War: Fort Pearson, an earthen military fortification overlooking the river, and the Ultimatum Tree, the site where British officials issued the historic ultimatum to Zulu King Cetshwayo's delegates.