Iconic Campsite in the Cederberg Gets a Makeover
CapeNature has completed a number of upgrades at Algeria, Cederberg Wilderness to offer an even better holiday experience ahead of the festive season. Avid campers will be happy to know that the communal ablution facilities at the ever-popular camping site got a lovely face-lift with several upgrades and improvements implemented. As we enter the holiday season, travellers are looking for family-friendly and fun experiences where they can marvel in the beauty of nature, without compromising the comforts of home. New solar lit walkways light up previously dark areas at the campsites so that visitors can navigate more easily and cautiously, specifically at night.
One of the most prominent makeovers was the replacement of the iconic low-water bridge that served campers and hikers alike for more than four decades. This enhances the aesthetics of the campsite and improve visitor safety. The newly designed bridge is an engineering masterpiece in a protected area which is wider and provides safer thoroughfare. In keeping with the entity’s eco-tourism mandate of creating a safe and accessible natural space for all, the new low-water bridge has been designed and built to last for decades. In addition, it will also protect the crossing during possible future flood events.
The months of construction also provided a number of job and SMME opportunities in the local Cederberg community.
Currently Algeria has the capacity sufficient electricity to power the entire site, including 48 camp site, three ablution block, eight self-catering units, the Conservation Operation office complex and stores, and staff housing. Phase 2 of the PV solar lithium battery set-up will be concluded by end of March 2023, which will ensure that will allow for the reserve to store surplus electricity and enabling them to go completely off grid and not affected by future loadshedding at all.
Looking to the future, CapeNature will also be introducing wood-fired hot tubs at selected camp sites. This will make Algeria one of only a handful of campsites in the Western Cape that offers this unique experience.
CapeNature Executive Director: Eco-Tourism and Access, Mr. Sheraaz Ismail added, “With the Western Cape tourism season set to pick up in the coming weeks, we are happy to provide visitors with fresh and upgraded facilities, making their stay more comfortable and safer at our reserves. The various upgrades will breathe new life into the reserve but also into the tourism sector of the local community and beyond. CapeNature, together with its partners in the value continues to be economic hub for the West Coast and the Western Cape, contributing to job creation, SMME advancement and overall economic sustainability.”
Cederberg Wilderness Area remains one of the most undisturbed and secluded places in South Africa. A trip to this West Coast nature reserve means immersion in a landscape of stark grandeur, a place both dry and shining, desolate yet so rich. Renowned for its rugged landscapes, rock formations, and extraordinary examples of ancient San rock art, as well as the increasingly rare Clanwilliam cedar tree, visitors to the reserve are also spoiled for choice with an array of different outdoor holiday destination options.
Don’t miss out! Call 087 087 8250 today to make a booking, email us on reservation.alert@capenature.co.za or book now.
Wood-fired hot tub at Garskraal cottage at Algeria, Cederberg Wilderness
The new bridge will ensure a safer crossing, also in the event of floods.
Cars can comfortably cross the new low-water bridge.
Related News
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.
Escape the city, not your budget, this Black Friday
If you’ve been dreaming of a nature-filled getaway, now’s the perfect time to make it happen. CapeNature’s Black Friday deal is back with a twist! From 25 November to 1 December 2025, book 3 consecutive nights at select CapeNature reserves and only pay for 2!
Public urged to avoid Cape fur seals amid rabies risk
The public is urged to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines during the upcoming summer holiday season when encountering Cape fur seals. Recently, reports of aggression related to positive rabies cases have been noted in Cape fur seal populations.
How can I assist you today?
How can I assist you today?