The 40,000 hectare (99,000 acre) Mkhuze Game Reserve (Mkhuze is also spelled Mkuze) is a mosaic of wetlands, forests and grasslands supports over 420 species of birds and an abundance of game. Excellent bird watching, phenomenal scenery and the independence of self-drive safaris are strong calls to families seeking adventure. Birding at the Nsumo Pan, considered by many to be the highlight of a trip to Mkhuze, guided walking safaris and bird walks through a forest of wild figs, ilala palms and umbrella thorns not to mention a 3-day guided bush trek are likely to get even the most discerning outdoor enthusiast's adrenaline rushing. But don't let the sanctity of this reserve nor its recent inclusion in the Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park deceive you, conservation efforts at Mkhuze have been less than clear-cut. Over the course of the reserve's 100-year history a variety of assailants including poachers and farmers have encroached on its land and challenged its preservation.