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Nature reserve · Gqeberha, Cabo Oriental
Cape Recife Nature Reserve
Coastal reserve at the southern tip of Gqeberha, with an 1851 lighthouse, beaches, dunes, trails and the SANCCOB seabird rehabilitation centre.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Cape Recife Nature Reserve
The Cape Recife Nature Reserve occupies the southern tip of Algoa Bay, about 15 km from central Gqeberha. The name comes from Portuguese: navigators called the point Cabo do Recife, because of submerged rocks that caused many shipwrecks. The reserve covers about 366 hectares of dunes, beaches, rock and coastal vegetation.
At its heart stands the Cape Recife lighthouse, built in 1851, a black-and-white striped tower that guides ships into the bay. A circular trail leaves the car park, passes the lighthouse, the beach and the dunes, and marine birds such as the African black oystercatcher are commonly seen.
The SANCCOB centre in Gqeberha operates in the reserve, rescuing and rehabilitating injured or oil-affected seabirds, especially the African penguin, which is endangered. The centre receives visitors at set times and explains its rehabilitation work.
Some beaches in the reserve are good for walking; the sea has rocks and currents.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1 to 3 hours.
Best time
In the morning, when there is less wind. Penguin centre visits have specific days and times; confirm in advance.
How to get there
It is at the end of Marine Drive, beyond Summerstrand, about 15 km from Gqeberha centre by car.
Tip
Combine the lighthouse trail with a visit to the rehabilitation centre. Bring a jacket: it is very windy at the tip.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cape Recife Nature Reserve
What is in the Cape Recife reserve?
An 1851 lighthouse, beaches, dunes, trails and SANCCOB's seabird rehabilitation centre.
Can you see penguins at Cape Recife?
At the SANCCOB centre, yes, during scheduled visits. They are birds undergoing rehabilitation.
How long is it from Gqeberha to Cape Recife?
About 15 km along Marine Drive, roughly 20 minutes by car.