Melville Koppies Nature Reserve and Heritage Site

The Melville Koppies Nature Reserve and Heritage Site is situated in the middle of Johannesburg, South Africa. The area is very interesting and has forest areas a wooded riverine area to mention only a few. The area has a great wealth of natural and historical knowledge and the site has relics of the Stone Age which have been discovered. The word Koppies means little hills in English. Melville Koppies was declared a nature reserve in 1959.

The reserve offers visitors a variety of organised tours and it is advised to book in advance for guided tours. There is a strict policy of no radios, mountain bikes or braais, no camping or corporate functions; the area is to be kept tranquil and environmentally friendly. Some of the walks a quite strenuous, be sure to find out when making the bookings as you may have to consider when bringing small children. Remember to always bring a hat and lots to drink along the way.

The Nature Reserve is popular amongst schools and is often visited by groups. These tours are very interesting and cover the life, social and natural sciences. Visits starts at the lecture hut with a presentation and depending on the age of the group. There is so much to see and do and many appropriate artefacts such as skulls which the children find very exciting and interesting. After the talk, the group will enjoy a walk through the Koppies and perhaps down to the spruit.

Some of the topics which will be covered are:
Human evolutions (senior pupils)
Stone Age man
Iron Age man
The Geldenhuys family
History of the Heritage Site and the Reserve
Geology of Melville Koppies
Conservation and alien vegetation control
Indigenous flora, trees, grasses and flowers

All walks will depend on the age of the children. The guided tours are approximately 2 - 3 hours long and it is important to make sure everyone wears good walking shoes, a hat, snacks and water. For more information and for bookings contact Wendy on 011-482-4797.