Burman Bush Nature Reserve
A serene urban nature reserve in Durban offering shaded hiking trails, wildlife spotting, and picnic spots with enhanced security.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Burman Bush Nature Reserve
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene urban nature reserve in Durban offering shaded hiking trails, wildlife spotting, and picnic spots with enhanced security.
"Stunning, peaceful nature reserve with incredible staff and knowledgeable guides. "
🗺️ Use a Navigation App
Trails can be confusing; Gaia GPS or similar apps are highly recommended to stay on track. :iphone:
🚶♀️ Hike in Groups
For safety and a better experience, it's best to explore the trails with friends or family. :bustsinsilhouette:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shaded Hiking Trails
Various trails throughout the reserve
Explore mostly shaded paths with some steep sections offering great city views. Benches are available along the way.
Wildlife Spotting
Throughout the reserve
Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that calls this urban oasis home.
Picnic Spots
Designated picnic areas
Enjoy a peaceful picnic surrounded by nature, with improved security for peace of mind.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Trails
Enhanced Security Measures
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Use a Navigation App
Trails can be confusing; Gaia GPS or similar apps are highly recommended to stay on track. :iphone:
🚶♀️ Hike in Groups
For safety and a better experience, it's best to explore the trails with friends or family. +1 :bustsinsilhouette:
🐾 Look for Wildlife
The reserve is home to various animals; keep your eyes peeled during your visit. :deer:
🌳 Enjoy the Shade
Most trails are well-shaded, making it comfortable for walks even on warmer days. :evergreen_tree:
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Use a Navigation App
Trails can be confusing; Gaia GPS or similar apps are highly recommended to stay on track. :iphone:
🚶♀️ Hike in Groups
For safety and a better experience, it's best to explore the trails with friends or family. +1 :bustsinsilhouette:
🐾 Look for Wildlife
The reserve is home to various animals; keep your eyes peeled during your visit. :deer:
🌳 Enjoy the Shade
Most trails are well-shaded, making it comfortable for walks even on warmer days. :evergreen_tree:
📅 Check Guided Walks
Friends of Burman Bush often host free guided walks; check their Facebook page for details. :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Burman Bush Nature Reserve for its beautiful, shaded trails and improved security, making it a peaceful urban escape. While some find the trails confusing, the free entry and dedicated staff are significant draws. Occasional issues with individual behavior have been noted, but overall, it's a well-maintained and enjoyable natural space.
"There’s a white woman in charge of the boot camp within the nature reserve, and her behavior was extremely disappointing. You’d swear she owns the land, when in fact it belongs to the municipality of KwaZulu-Natal. I had to give her a piece of my mind because the way she shouts at employees felt outdated, unprofessional, and completely unnecessary.
We don’t need this kind of behavior in our society. If you cannot serve people with respect and dignity, then perhaps it’s time to leave that job and seek a passion in another field. Everyone deserves to be treated with kindness, especially in a public space like this."
AfricaKnowsWhoIAm
"Most of the negative reviews about security at this park date back over six years, from a time when it was indeed a concern. However, at the time of this review, security has significantly improved and is now excellent. The upper entrance is securely locked, while the lower entrance is well monitored by security personnel—some even accompanied by dogs.
The park itself is beautiful and suitable for both picnics and hiking. Do note that the hiking trail can be a bit confusing, so it’s a good idea to use a navigation app like Gaia GPS to stay on track."
MIK MIK
"Burman Bush offers a decent trail within the city. It can be a bit confusing. The trail maps are not clear and the trails not fully marked. A section of the trail was washed away with no way past from the floods. I suggest not to go alone for security purposes although we found at least 6 security guards on site with dogs. We felt safe as a group of 3 guys."
Mitchell Payet
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Burman Bush Nature Reserve is located within Durban. While specific public transport details are scarce, it's generally accessible by car. The reserve has secure parking available, with monitored entrances. +1
Yes, there is secure parking available at the reserve, with security personnel and dogs often present. +1
The reserve is situated in Durban, and driving directions can be found using standard GPS navigation. The upper entrance is locked, while the lower entrance is monitored.
While cycling is a great way to explore Durban, specific cycling routes directly to the reserve aren't widely detailed. It's best to check local cycling maps or community forums for the most suitable paths.
Burman Bush Nature Reserve is located south of Umhlanga. Driving is the most convenient way to travel between the two, with the journey typically taking around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entrance to Burman Bush Nature Reserve is free. This makes it an accessible and budget-friendly option for exploring nature within Durban.
Specific opening hours are not consistently listed online. However, as a nature reserve, it's generally accessible during daylight hours. It's advisable to visit during the day for safety and to enjoy the trails.
No advance booking is required as the entrance is free. You can typically visit anytime during daylight hours.
Yes, free guided walks are often hosted by 'Friends of Burman Bush'. It's recommended to check their Facebook page for the schedule and details.
Yes, events like wellness walks have been hosted at the reserve. For specific event hosting inquiries, it's best to contact the reserve management or 'Friends of Burman Bush'. 
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking on shaded trails, spot wildlife, have picnics, and participate in guided walks. The reserve offers a peaceful escape within the city. +1
The trail maps are not always clear, and trails can be confusing and not fully marked. Using a navigation app like Gaia GPS is highly recommended.
While security has improved significantly, it's still recommended to hike in groups for added safety, especially on less-trafficked trails. +1
The reserve is home to various wildlife, though specific species are not always detailed. Keep an eye out for birds, small mammals, and other indigenous creatures.
Information on specific facilities like restrooms is limited. It's advisable to come prepared with your own water and any necessary supplies.
📸 📸 Photography
The shaded trails, diverse flora, and potential wildlife sightings offer great photographic opportunities. The natural greenery provides a beautiful backdrop.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the reserve management before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light for photography, enhancing the natural beauty of the reserve.
The hiking trails offer great viewing spots with city vistas. Look for clearings or elevated points along the paths for panoramic shots.
A versatile lens for landscapes and potential wildlife shots would be ideal. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for navigating the trails.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the trails can be a bit confusing, going as a family group makes it an adventure to navigate together. The improved security also means parents can feel more at ease while their children explore the natural surroundings. Consider checking for any family-friendly guided walks hosted by 'Friends of Burman Bush' for an educational experience.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
While security has improved, it's still prudent to be aware of your surroundings and consider hiking during busier times or sticking to more frequented paths. Informing someone of your plans before you go is always a good safety practice. The reserve's natural beauty and tranquility make it a rewarding destination for a solo exploration.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts
For those interested in conservation and local initiatives, following the 'Friends of Burman Bush' Facebook page is a must. They often share updates on guided walks and conservation efforts, allowing you to deepen your appreciation for the reserve's ecological importance. The reserve's commitment to security and maintenance ensures a pleasant and safe environment for all nature enthusiasts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Trails and Navigation
Many visitors suggest that hiking in groups is a safer and more enjoyable approach. This not only provides a sense of security but also allows for shared discovery of the reserve's natural beauty. While some sections of the trail may have been affected by past floods, the overall maintenance is generally fair, with benches provided along the way for rest.
Remember that while the reserve is beautiful, preparedness is key. Always inform someone of your hiking plans and estimated return time, especially if you are venturing out alone. The combination of clear trail markers (where available), navigation aids, and group hiking significantly enhances the overall experience at Burman Bush.
Security and Visitor Experience
This improved security, coupled with the free entry and the dedication of the staff and volunteers, makes Burman Bush a welcoming place. The 'Friends of Burman Bush' group plays a vital role in maintaining the reserve and organizing events like free guided walks, fostering a strong sense of community involvement.
While the reserve is beautiful and suitable for picnics and hiking, it's important to note that one reviewer mentioned an unpleasant encounter with a boot camp instructor. This incident highlights the importance of respectful behavior from all individuals using the public space. Overall, the current security and the passion of the reserve's caretakers contribute to a positive visitor experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit