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
Picking a wildflower? Everyday choices can amount to biodiversity crime in Protected Areas
Biodiversity crime is often associated with poaching or illegal wildlife trafficking, but some of the most common offences threatening the Western Cape's environment stem from the everyday actions of ordinary visitors to Protected Areas. Entering Protected Areas without a valid permit, fishing without the required licence, leaving designated hiking trails, picking wildflowers, removing rocks or shells as souvenirs, or disturbing wildlife may seem harmless, but
CapeNature Cubs Club celebrates Kai's second birthday with a day of fun, friendship and recognition
CapeNature's Cubs Club celebrated the second birthday of its beloved mascot, Kai the Leopard Cub, on Thursday, 16 July 2026, at Helderberg Nature Reserve, bringing together children, families, and partners for a day of fun and environmental celebration. The special occasion welcomed children from three orphanages – Goeie Hoop, Hope & Light, and Heartlands Baby Sanctuary – who were given the opportunity to join in the festivities and experience a day
World Seabird Day calls attention to public role in responding to ongoing avian influenza threat affecting birds
As the world marks World Seabird Day today, members of the public are urged to remain vigilant as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu, continues to affect birds across South Africa, including seabirds along the Western Cape coastline. HPAI is a serious disease affecting birds and can result in significant mortality, particularly among wild bird populations. Members of the public are
CapeNature’s marine conservation work showcased in new kykNET adventure series ‘Hey Skipper’
The beauty, biodiversity and conservation value of the Western Cape’s coastline will be shown to audiences across South Africa when CapeNature features in the new primetime Afrikaans series, Hey Skipper, premiering on DStv Channel 144 kykNET on Saturday, 4 July 2026 at 18:00. Produced and presented by adventurer, filmmaker and outdoor enthusiast Dewald Visser, Hey Skipper takes viewers on a journey across some of the world’s most
The perfect time for a family escape into nature
Winter in the Western Cape is often misunderstood. While many people think of it as a season best spent indoors, it is actually one of the most rewarding times to slow down, reconnect, and take a short break close to home. For domestic travellers, especially families planning around the school holidays, winter offers the ideal opportunity to step away from routine without the stress of long travel or high-season crowds. It is a chance to rediscover what is right on your doorstep.
Newly discovered species named after CapeNature Ecologist, Dr Martine Jordaan
A newly described Paradiplozoon species has been named after CapeNature Fauna Ecologist, Dr Martine Jordaan, in recognition of her knowledge and passion for the aquatic life of the Cape Fold Ecoregion, continuous enthusiasm to study the region's fishes and understanding their parasitofauna. The newly identified species – Paradiplozoon jordaanae – is named after Dr Jordaan.