Tillietudlem Nature Reserve

Tillietudlem Nature Reserve is a 2000-hectare protected area located in the Upper Dargle region of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, situated in the most scenic part of the Midlands Meander. The reserve was established in 1997 when the current owner purchased the initial 731 hectares, gradually expanding through the acquisition of neighboring properties to its present size.

The reserve's primary purpose is to protect the threatened mountain mist-belt grasslands of Africa. In 2019, it was officially declared a Biodiversity Stewardship Reserve by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife under the National Environmental Management Protected Areas Act and Biodiversity Act. The property is home to 16 mammal species, including more than 10 antelope species and the vulnerable Oribi, plus over 150 bird species, including the critically endangered blue swallow and Cape parrot.

Accommodation is provided through two distinct lodges. Ogram's Country House, dating back to the late 19th century, is a beautifully restored property featuring Oregon pine floors, sash windows, and high ceilings. Set under a large oak tree with rolling lawns overlooking trout dams, it offers four double rooms. Hleka Manzi, a self-catering lodge, is perched above a 30-meter waterfall on the Elands River, featuring an expansive wooden deck overlooking indigenous forest with views of the Inhlosane Mountain.

The reserve also houses the Inhluzane Nguni stud, with a herd of over 300 cattle. Visitors can enjoy activities including fly fishing in five trophy trout dams, hiking, horse riding, and game viewing. The location is particularly noted for its bird watching opportunities, with regular sightings of blue crane, secretary bird, orange-breasted long-claw, and various other notable species.