There are claims that Joburg has one of the largest urban man-made forests in the world. As Joburg grew from a shanty mining town in the 1880s, many trees from across the seas were planted like oaks, gums and jacarandas.
Visit Melville Koppies to experience what indigenous forest looks like. 60 years ago, Melville Koppies was largely grassland. As the city grew, fewer fires tore through the Koppies, enabling more trees to grow and establish their roots. Now you will find many areas where stinkwood, acacias, wild peach and pear trees and bushwillows provide shade from the hot sun.
Enjoy indigenous forest right in the city. Open Sunday mornings between 8am and 11.30am. Join a guided tour at 8am to learn more about why Melville Koppies is both a nature reserve and heritage site or do the self-guided heritage trail. Or, if it’s just exercise you want, you can do the challenging 5km trail (twice if you’re up to it). Or just meander at your own pace along the many paths. Suitable for all ages.
Safe parking (opposite the Melville Koppies entrance) at Marks Park Sports Club in Judith Road, Emmarentia. Security on the Koppies is provided. R90pp, R50 for U18; season ticket for a year per adult – R500 (not
transferable). All income used for maintenance of the Koppies.
More details:
wendavid@mweb.co.za; 079 532 0083
www.mk.org.za
https://www.facebook.com/melvillekoppies