CapeNature reserves adjust to Level 3 lockdown restrictions
In line with the updated Alert Level 3 announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa on 01 February 2021, the following rules will apply to all CapeNature reserves with immediate effect and until further notice:
Permitted activities:
- Reserve accommodation remains OPEN and unchanged (this includes the Whale Trail and Whiskey Creek);
- Conference venues remain OPEN at 50 % capacity;
- All recreational swimming pools within nature reserves will remain OPEN to visitors (adhering to strict protocols). Signage and capacities are in place and checks are implemented);
- Hiking and mountain biking
Opening and closing times
- In accordance with the adjusted Level 3 Disaster Management Government Gazette, all CapeNature reserve gate times may now open earlier to the public.
- Opening time between 07h00 - 08h00, as per individual gate times prior to 29 December 2020.
- Closing times between 16h00 – 19h00, as per individual gate times prior to 29 December 2020.
Protocol reminder
CapeNature would like to remind visitors of our 4-step process for day-visitors and 5-step process for overnight visitors. With the safety of visitors and staff remaining a top priority, all visitors entering a controlled CapeNature reserve entrance gate will be subjected to a screening process upon arrival. This will include the mandatory completion of a 4-step check-in process requiring 1) the compulsory sanitising of hands, 2) wearing of masks, 3) temperature checks, 4) completion of a quick “Visitor Access Register” and 5) compulsory completion of a “Visitor Screening Questionnaire” for all overnight visitors.
Related News
Walker Bay Nature Reserve honoured with Green Coast Award
CapeNature’s Walker Bay Nature Reserve has once again been recognised for its outstanding commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable coastal management, receiving a Green Coast Award from the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) for the 2025/26 season.
Final Action Plan for baboons includes a sanctuary, fencing, waste strategy
The Cape Peninsula Baboon Management Joint Task Team (CPBMJTT) consisting of representatives from SANParks, CapeNature, and the City of Cape Town, has finalised and adopted the Action Plan which details the practical implementation of the Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Plan
Outeniqua Nature Reserve introduces permit fee from December 2025
CapeNature will introduce a permit fee at Outeniqua World Heritage Site and Nature Reserve from 15 December 2025. All revenue generated through the fee will go directly towards conservation initiatives to keep the reserve clean, safe, and enjoyable for all visitors.
New record-breaking Helihack pine clearing at Boosmansbos
A successful Helihack operation has cleared a further 16 276 invasive pine trees, which covered 2 500 hectares from the slopes of the Boosmansbos Wilderness Area. From 7–9 November 2025, 21 volunteers were airlifted into the rugged mountain peaks to tackle areas otherwise impossible to reach.
New Lettas Kraal Nature Reserve declared in Succulent Karoo
CapeNature welcomes another addition to the Western Cape’s growing Protected Area Estate with the formal declaration of Lettas Kraal Nature Reserve. Lettas Kraal is situated 30 km south-east of Touwsriver and encompasses 7 050 hectares of natural rangeland in the Little Karoo, within the Succulent Karoo biome.
Western Cape expands protected areas with Mount David Reserve
The Western Cape has welcomed its newest Provincial Nature Reserve, the Mount David Nature Reserve, an over 800-hectare stronghold of threatened ecosystems and endangered species. After purchasing the property, then known as Diepgat, in 2008, Antony van Hoogstraten has spent the past 17 years rehabilitating the property.