EXPERIENCING THE CAPE

Experiencing the Cape

South Africa, a nation filled with such diversity and natural beauty, among both its people and natural environment. Home to many of the world’s living organisms, amazing landscapes, beautiful oceans and breath-taking site seeing opportunities. However, though being a part of such a beautiful country, many of its inhabitants have yet to discover the true beauty this country has to offer, just as I dd.

The excursion to Cape Point Nature Reserve was an amazing opportunity, and was awesomely exiting, as it was my first time visiting the reserve. On arrival, most of what was observed was the abundant flora in the reserve, famous for its Fynbos. Although I am not really interested in studying plant life, it was fairly interesting to observe how the various plant species covered and completed the patterned landscape. I also realise that understanding the various plant types and to which organisms they are essentially important to, it is easy to understand and track the habits of certain species of animals.

 

The first physical activity we had to participate in was the long and strenuous climb up the mountain to the first light house constructed in the reserve at a peak which is located 283 metres above sea level. Being me, I enjoyed the physical strain of the climb, feeling the weight of gravity pulling me down with each step. During the climb, I observed and enjoyed the amazing scenery along the way, especially the baboons, who were not even phased by our presents (not natural). A true sense of fulfilment and accomplishment came when I reached the lighthouse at the mountain top. The thought of being so high above sea level was really amazing, and the view from above was truly breath-taking, literally, as the wind speeds were extremely intense. After enjoying the beautiful scenery at the top, it was again time for the down-hill trip, and if you think going downhill was easier, you’re wildly mistaken.

 

The next stop was “The Cape of Good Hope”, where we went down to the sea-shore and enjoyed the beautiful ocean currents as well as the rocky terrain. Once again I felt the urge to climb the mountain site and make my way to the top of the peak, knowing the great sense of accomplishment I would feel upon reaching the top. This uphill hike was definitely more vigorous than the first, dealing with not only the pull of gravity, or as Einstein would say, the push of gravity, but also with the gusting winds and the unpredictable footpaths, often throwing me off balance and straining my body. However, as expected, reaching the top with some good friends was truly amazing, feeling like a scene out of a movie. The view was exceptional and the clean, fresh air almost renewing my energy. If I had it my way, I’d probably stay up their all day, but eventually the constrictions of time and varsity rules kicked in and we had to track down.

 

 

This excursion was really awesome and exiting, and in some way, tested my appreciation and desire to observe the natural beauty this planet has to offer. Although difficult, the strain of the day was definitely worth it and made me realise how passionate and intrigued I am about studying the beauties of nature, as well as conserving the natural environment for future generations. Synthetic material and man-made landscapes do not come close to what nature has to offer. The experience of being out in an open environment and absorbing nature with all your senses is an almost renewing feeling and has the ability to breath new life and excitement into you.

Nature is beauty, and beauty should be conserved for all to see and appreciate.