Garden Route National Park Operations Amid Ongoing Severe Weather
The Garden Route region continues to experience heavy rainfall, although wind conditions have subsided compared to yesterday, 11 May 2026. Damage asse...
Malachite Bird Hide Fire in the Wilderness Section
A fire destroyed the Malachite bird hide on the evening of 26 March 2026, in the Wilderness Section of the Garden Route National Park. The cause of the fire is unknown. The fire was contained by SANParks rangers and the Wilderness Fire Brigade.
No injuries have been reported, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
The loss of Malachite Bird Hide is a setback to the birding community as it offered a unique opportunity to observe a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
The Malachite bird hide will be closed for birding until further notice. SANParks encourages visitors to use alternative bird hides in the area, including Gallinule Bird Hide and Rondevlei Bird Hide.