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. 

The new permit fee will be R55 per adult and R35 per child aged 4 to 17, while children under 4 will enjoy free entry. Holders of valid Wild Cards will be granted free access.

Visitors can conveniently purchase permits online at booking.capenature.co.za (under the Garden Route region) or at the main gate upon arrival from 15 December.

Outeniqua is well-loved by hikers and families alike and the introduction of a permit fee ensures that our visitors can continue to enjoy the experience while promoting responsible tourism that benefits the broader community.

The Cradock Pass Trail is open to the public while the Kouma, George and Cradock Peak trails will open in a phased approach following maintenance and signage improvements. There are permit limits per trail and the online system will show visitors once a specific trail is fully booked for the day. Limited numbers per trail helps to ensure a positive visitor experience for everyone.

Outeniqua features one picnic site, that can comfortably accommodate 20 visitors with three picnic benches available and plenty of grass space to throw a picnic blanket, located next to the reserve office with another one in the process of being completed while there is also a restroom available for visitors. All trails except the Kouma Trail are situated on the Witfontein section of Outeniqua Nature Reserve with the Kouma Trail starting on the Ruiterbos side.

The reserve is open daily from 07:30 to 16:00. During summer months, hikers can access the reserve from 06:00 to start walking the Cradock and George Peak trails well before gate times open, to complete the trails in time. Security guards can check permits issued online during these earlier start times. For assistance, contact 087 087 8250 (Monday to Friday, and 08:00–12:00 on Saturdays) or email reservation.alert@capenature.co.za.