Khayalitsha wetlands park
The Khayalitsha Wetlands Park is an area with a growing ecosystem. It is of important conservation value and there is a great diversity of birds, including herons and is a nesting site for many migrant birds.
The Western Cape is home to hundreds of bird species. For full identification and seasonal details, see this comprehensive Western Cape bird guide.
This urban wetland park includes the establishment of habitat diversity, environmental education, and ecotourism. Included is a playground for children with a skate park and a grassed area. There are public toilets, Benches, and tracks where Dogs on leashes are allowed to cross the park. There is parking available. Be sure to check out the African mosaic murals.
Unfortunately, the Khayelitsha wetlands receive a large influx of urban and agricultural runoff, waste, and direct discharge of raw sewage and treated industrial and urban effluent.
The waterways are currently polluted with the invasive Water Hyacinth. They are clogged and unusable. Locals are attempting to remove it by hand, converting the debris into biochar, which in turn can be used to improve soil. It is hoped that the water will be cleared soon. April 2026
