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About Red Desert Nature Conservation Area

Port Edward’s unusual claim to fame is the Red Desert, reputed to be the smallest desert in the world. At just 200 m in width, it stands in stark contrast to the surrounding lush, tropical vegetation.

Extra-terrestrial landings, excessive overgrazing and many other intriguing tales are attributed to its origins. The surrounding grasslands, forests and wetlands are home to a number of rare endemic plants. Archeological artifacts have also been unearthed.

Hit the trail on foot or mountain bike and check out the magnificent view over the Umtamvuna Estuaryfrom the cliff top. Clearwater Trails offer walking or mountain biking trips along the Umtamvuna Gorge starting at the viewing deck upriver, ending at the Umtamvuna Bridge.

Photo credit: Dave Watson

Directions to Red Desert Nature Conservation Area

Take the N2 South to Port Edward, turn right at traffic lights and follow Izingolweni Rd. Turn left into Old Pont Rd, the entrance is 50 m on the right – first gate.
Telephone:
Debbie Sharp
Things to do in Port Edward

Accommodation near Red Desert Nature Conservation Area

Die See Huis

Sleeps 6 in 3 rooms

Die See Huis which means ‘the sea house’ in Afrikaans is a self-catering holiday house, ideally located within five minutes’ walk of the...
R900
Avg per night

Montage Guesthouse & Cafe

1 Review
Sleeps 14 in 6 rooms

Situated in Port Edward on the lower South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, Montage Guesthouse & Cafe offers comfortable accommodation plus a fully...
R500
Avg per night for 2 guests

Peter Pan Place

10 Reviews
Sleeps 78 in 13 rooms

Peter Pan Place offers charming and homely duplex cottages located in a secure complex in Leisure Bay, Port Edward. The complex is 200 m...
R1540
Avg per night for 2 guests

Glenmore Sands Beach Resort

Sleeps 10 in 0 rooms

Set in Glenmore Beach Glenmore Sands Beach Resort has a garden and bar. Guests can make use of...
R808
Avg per night

Leisure Bay Beach House

Sleeps 6 in 3 rooms

Leisure Bay Beach House is a lovely self-catering accommodation, situated in Leisure Bay. The house offers three-bedrooms and accommodates...
R2500
Avg per night

Rus the Kus @ South Sands

Sleeps 6 in 3 rooms

Rus-te-Kus is a self catering unit in the secure South Sands complex located in the coastal town of Munster. It is a newly renovated...
R1075
Avg per night

Red Desert Nature Conservation Area Map

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Red Desert Nature Conservation Area is 3km from the centre of Port Edward , the nearest airport 28.5km (Margate Airport).
*Distances are shown as the crow flies and not necessarily the actual travelling

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