Mpofu Nature Reserve

Covering +/-15 000ha, the reserve is situated 25km northwest of Fort Beaufort, on the escarpment and
lower valleys of the Amathole catchment, with magnificent views of the Katberg and Amathole Mountains.
Comprising Mpofu, Fort Fordyce and Bosnek, the reserve is of great cultural and historical significance,
with incredible San rock-art and sites of the 8th Frontier War. The remnants of two forts built during the
Frontier Wars can be seen on the high ground of Horseshoe Valley. Both became known as Fort Fordyce,
after Lieutenant Colonel John Fordyce who was shot and killed by Xhosa warriors during the attack in 1851
on Chief Maqoma - the most renowned Xhosa chief of the Frontier Wars. Fullers Hoek is a kloof with huge
caves used by Maqoma and his followers as a hide out.
The indigenous forest hosts amongst the most diverse and richest species in southern Africa and the
reserve serves as an excellent birding destination. Bass fishing is a popular activity as is rock climbing -
Fort Fordyce features ten bolted routes with names like the Fever Ward, the Labour Ward and the More
Mojo Sector.