CapeNature engages George community on Outeniqua Nature Reserve fees

CapeNature will introduce a conservation permit fee at Outeniqua World Heritage Site and Nature Reserve from 15 December 2025, as previously announced. All revenue generated through the fee will contribute to maintaining and conserving the reserve, ensuring it remains safe, clean, and enjoyable for all visitors.

The new permit fee will remain R55 per adult and R35 per child aged 4 to 17, with children under 4 and holders of valid Wild Cards receiving free access. Visitors can purchase permits online at booking.capenature.co.za (under the Garden Route region) or at the main gate upon arrival from 15 December.

While the conservation fee will take effect on 15 December, CapeNature is looking at practical long-term solutions to ensure regular users feel supported and benefit directly from the conservation fee. The Entity is actively engaging with the George trail running and hiking community, including groups such as George Trails.

Proposed solutions will be communicated to the wider public once discussed and formalised by the Entity.

Outeniqua World Heritage Site and Nature Reserve features a picnic site accommodating 20 visitors with benches and grass space for blankets, located near the reserve office, with another site under development. All trails, except the Kouma Trail, are situated on the Witfontein section, while the Kouma Trail starts on the Mossel Bay, Ruiterbos side.

The reserve is open daily from 07:30 to 16:00, with earlier summer access from 06:00 for hikers wishing to complete longer trails before gate opening times. Security staff can check online-issued permits during early starts.

For assistance, contact 087 087 8250 (Monday to Friday, 08:00–16:00; Saturdays 08:00–12:00) or email reservation.alert@capenature.co.za.