Verloren Valei is a small but internationally recognised high-altitude wetland some 12 kilometres north-east of Dullstroom in Mpumalanga, South Africa. Four rivers rise in the reserve, and it is famous for its abundant flora, most notably its wild orchids. Two species of butterfly are endemic to the reserve. Because of its ecological importance, pristine state and fragility, the Reserve is managed as a Remote Conservation Zone. The reserve is closed and can only be visited by appointment.
Learn more about Verloren Valei Nature Reserve
The Friends of Verloren Valei is a group of volunteers whose primary aim is to support the reserve management in conserving it as a wetland and biodiversity reserve in pristine condition for future generations to enjoy. We undertake a range of projects aimed at supporting the management plan as agreed with the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency, which manages the Reserve.
By joining the Friends of Verloren Valei you will contribute to protecting this important national asset.
Learn more about the Friends of Verloren Valei
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LATEST POSTS
All about the Dullstroom Blue
Christopher Willis and David Edge outline the reproductive behaviour of Verloren Valei’s celebrated endemic butterfly. Mating pair of Dullstroom Blue (formerly Warren’s Blue) (Photograph: Christopher Willis) Discovered by RT Warren and his family in 1988-89, and named in their honour, … Read more
Escarpment Bird Club visits Santa Estate Nature Reserve
A glimpse of the rich birdlife of the recently proclaimed Santa Estate Nature Reserve, which abuts Verloren Valei’s southeastern boundary. Waterfall at Santa Estate (Photograph: Chrissie Curtis) After weeks of overcast and rainy weather, it was absolutely fantastic to be … Read more
The fate of the Brenton Blue sounds a warning
A recent article paints a bleak future for this butterfly—and, by implication, for its fellow rarity, the Dullstroom Blue. Dullstroom Blue (formerly Warren’s Blue)–endemic to Verloren Valei (Photograph: Justin Bode) A recent article in Metamorphosis, the journal of the Lepidopterists’ … Read more
