Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve encompasses the coastal area from Gordon's Bay in the west, to the Bot River Vlei in the east. At the core of this biosphere is the Kogelberg Nature Reserve that surrounds the Palmiet River.

The reserve is located in the southern part of the Hottentots-Holland mountain range Vegetation consists primarily of mountain fynbos with small patches of indigenous forest that contain some of the last remaining yellowwood, stinkwood, and boekenhout trees in the Overberg.

The Kogelberg Nature Reserve has several hiking trails, ranging from gentle 6 km (3 hr)Leopard's Gorge Day Hike to the challenging 37 km (2-day) Highlands Trail.

Kayaking is available on the along the Palmiet River. The Kogelberg Kayak Trails, open from June to September offers 2 trails. The first trail is 15 km and takes approximately 8 hours. The second trail is 4 km and should take about 2 hours to complete. The white waters of the Palmiet River can be quite challenging and should only be attempted by experienced kayakers.

Cyclists are welcome to test their endurance on the rugged Palmiet River Valley Mountain Bike Trail. The trail 23 km in length and is rated as moderately difficult.

ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES AT KOGELBERG NATURE RESERVE:
- hiking
- mountain biking
- kayaking

SUMMARY OF WILDLIFE & FLORA:
Vegetation: mountain fynbos, indigenous forest
Mammals: Cape clawless otter, baboon, small herbivores
Birdlife: Peregrine falcons, black eagles, fish eagles

DIRECTIONS TO KOGELBERG NATURE RESERVE:
- take the R44 toward Kleinmond
- turn of the R44 1 km before the Palmiet River Dam.
- follow gravel road to Oudebosch