Rocherpan Nature Reserve
On the Cape west coast lies a pan that changes with the seasons. Sometimes dry and open. In the wet months partly filled with water, with flamingos among the birds and the Atlantic Ocean close by.
Discover everything about this location.
Where the pan changes with the seasons.
Rocherpan Nature Reserve lies on the Cape west coast and is managed by Cape Nature. The reserve consists largely of a pan, surrounded by wild flowers and a landscape where many birds live.
Between March and June the pan is usually dry. In the wet months it partly fills with water. You may then see flamingos, among others. In the green season there is also a good chance of coming across tortoises.
Rocherpan was established as a nature reserve in 1966 and covers 930 hectares. The adjoining part of the Atlantic Ocean was given marine reserve status in 1988 and covers 150 hectares.
From bird hide to Atlantic coast.
Rocherpan does not call for long days behind the wheel. From the camp you walk to various bird hides, where you can watch the birds around the pan in peace.
Anyone who wants to walk further can take a route of around seven kilometres around the pan. Or head towards the coast instead for a longer beach walk. Along the way there is a chance of seeing seals and dolphins.
Behind the scenes too, the reserve is set up with little waste. Rainwater is collected for the showers and kitchens. The toilets use no water and solar panels provide the energy supply.
Here a day is about walking and watching.
- Watch the birds around the pan from various bird hides.
- Walk around seven kilometres around Rocherpan.
- Take a longer walk along the Atlantic coast.
- Look out for flamingos in the wet months.
- In the green season you may come across tortoises.
- Along the coast there is a chance of seeing seals and dolphins.
- Wild flowers give the landscape extra colour.
Self-drive trips in the region
South Africa, eSwatini and Mozambique Beach & Safari
West Cape and Namaqualand hiking & 4x4
