CapeNature Refutes Petition on Trail Closures at Jonkershoek and Hottentots Holland Reserves
A petition making the rounds, claiming that CapeNature is systematically shutting down hiking trails in the Western Cape, particularly at Jonkershoek and Hottentots Holland nature reserves, holds no truth.
The petition generalises that trails are closed due to lack of maintenance by CapeNature. Trails well frequented by the public on these two reserves, are well kept and maintained on a regular basis.
CapeNature can confirm that the long connecting trails between Hottentots Holland and Jonkershoek have been closed for several years, primarily for safety reasons due to challenging terrain that limits accessibility in the event of an emergency, extreme weather conditions during winter and an increasing frequency of wildfire during the summer months. These trails have been used on occasion by special request only. CapeNature are in negotiation with stakeholders on proposals to effectively facilitate access and maintenance of these trails, with due consideration for hiker safety, access management and maintenance.
Dr Razeena Omar, CEO of CapeNature encourages collaboration and partnerships, saying: “Through the protected area advisory committee for this area, CapeNature is in discussion with members of the hiking fraternity to address the concerns related to these closed trails and find possible solutions.”
During the recent floods the circular road at Jonkershoek has been severely damaged and we are currently working closely with our partners to restore it. In addition, CapeNature assessed damaged trails on both these reserves and will soon have contractors in field to do repairs.
Related News
Water Week: Protecting Our Most Precious Resource
Water is fundamental to life and essential to our daily wellbeing. While this may seem widely understood, it remains important to continually remind ourselves of the value of this finite resource. Although approximately 70% of the Earth’s surface is covered by water, only about 2.5% of it is freshwater available to sustain ecosystems and human needs.
Western Cape adds over 81 000 hectares of new nature reserves in the past year
The Western Cape has added over 20 new nature reserves to its Protected Area network, securing more than 81 715 hectares of ecologically significant land for long-term conservation. Declared between April 2025 and March 2026, these new reserves strengthen the province’s efforts to protect important landscapes, species, and vegetation types.
Exploring the hidden world of fynbos frogs
A recent grant from the Herpetological Association of Africa enabled the investigation of the taxonomically confusing species of Ghost Frogs. Ghost Frogs (Family Heleophrynidae) are an endemic family of frogs that diverged from all other frogs 100 million years ago. These specialised frogs typically inhabit fast-flowing headwater habitats.
Where water flows, equality grows on World Water Day 2026
In recent months, communities across the Western Cape have been confronted with increasing water shortages and climate related disruptions. Communities reliant on smaller reservoirs and surface water systems, demonstrate the region’s vulnerability to low rainfall, the impact of alien invasive trees in removing water from natural systems, ageing water infrastructure and rising consumption.
Environmental education gets a boost through CapeNature’s museum training
CapeNature has partnered with the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS): Museum Services to expand environmental education across the Western Cape. During February 2026, CapeNature’s Learning and Awareness team trained 18 museum staff members from DCAS affiliated institutions to deliver activity-based programmes focused on water conservation
Western Cape marks World Wildlife Day as CapeNature highlights climate resilience and sustainable living
The Western Cape is marking World Wildlife Day on 3 March, a day proclaimed by the United Nations, by reaffirming its commitment to biodiversity protection, climate resilience and sustainable development, with CapeNature playing a central role in conserving the province’s natural heritage.