September 3, 20:03Getaway

CapeNature expands cashless payment system to five additional nature reserves

Visitors planning a hike or day trip in the West Cape's nature reserves will find it more convenient as CapeNature extends its cashless payment system to five new protected areas this month.

This change will be implemented in the Assegaaibosch, Jonkershoek, Grootvadersbosch, Kogelberg, and Geelkrans reserves as part of CapeNature's broader effort to provide visitors with safer and more efficient services.

This expansion follows the introduction of cashless payments earlier this year in the Robberg, Keurbooms, Stony Point, Bird Island, and Walker Bay reserves.

Starting in September 2026, visitors to the newly included reserves will be able to pay for services using debit and credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Mobile payment options, including QR code scanning, will also be available.

Visitors can also arrange bookings in advance through the CapeNature website or by contacting their Contact Centre.

For those going hiking, advance planning is particularly important. CapeNature strongly recommends that visitors pre-book permits online, as the number of permits for hiking trails is limited daily.

However, those arriving without a prior booking can still use speed point devices and QR code payment options in reserves where the cashless system has been implemented.

CapeNature notes that the first phase has received positive feedback from both visitors and staff, indicating increased safety and efficiency at reserve entrances.

The rollout of the system will not stop after the addition of five reserves in September. CapeNature has planned two further implementation phases. The next phase will cover the Hottentots Holland, Limietberg, Marloth, Cederberg Wilderness (Algeria and Kliphuis), Rocherpan, Groot Winterhoek, and De Mond reserves.

The final phase is scheduled for 2027 and will include the Vrolijkheid, De Hoop, Gamkaberg, Goukamma, and Outeniqua reserves.

For regular tourists and hiking enthusiasts, the gradual implementation means that checking payment options at a reserve before starting the day may become an important part of planning a nature getaway.

CapeNature is responsible for conserving biodiversity in the West Cape and manages the nature reserves and mountain catchments that provide essential ecosystem services to communities throughout the province.

Visitors can make reservations through the CapeNature online platform or contact the CapeNature Contact Centre at 087 087 8250. CapeNature can also be reached via email at customercare@capenature.co.za.

Similar stories

iol.co.zaSeptember 4, 13:00

CapeNature offers free access to 24 West Cape reserves in September

CapeNature announces free access to 24 West Cape reserves during the Access Week, which will take place from September 19 to 25, 2026. This initiative, the 12th annual Access Week, is held under the slogan 'Nature for All' and offers individual visitors, families, and communities free day entry to participating reserves.

The goal of this promotion is to encourage more people to explore the province's natural areas, especially those who usually cannot visit a reserve. During this week, visitors can engage in various activities such as hiking, mountain biking, bird watching, picnics, and swimming, depending on the specific reserve's rules.

Local Authorities' Stance

The Provincial Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell, noted that providing access to protected areas is more related to fostering a sense of responsibility towards the environment. He emphasized that opening reserves to more people during Access Week promotes a sense of belonging and responsibility among residents and guests of the Province.

Bredell added that when people interact with nature, they become custodians and protectors of the environment. The more people know, value, and love the natural heritage, the stronger the collective commitment to its preservation for future generations will be.

Significance of the Initiative for Ecology

CapeNature CEO, Dr. Ashley Naidu, explained that Access Week goes beyond simply waiving entrance fees. According to him, it creates opportunities for people to feel a sense of belonging to nature and to feel welcome in these spaces. Naidu noted that meaningful experiences interacting with nature allow people to leave inspired, more connected to themselves and the world around them, which aligns with this year's theme.

Over the past twelve years, Access Week has been used to introduce new visitors to CapeNature reserves and to encourage communities living near protected areas to explore nature right in their own backyard. Furthermore, CapeNature organizes sponsored nature events for selected community groups as part of its inclusion and transformation program. These excursions aim to familiarize participants with the local environment while promoting education, reflection, and deepening the connection with nature.

Participating Reserves by Region

A total of 24 West Cape reserves are participating in the program. On the West Coast, visitors can visit Groot Winterhoek, Bird Island, and Rocherpan. The Central region includes Kogelberg, Hottentots Holland, Jonkershoek, Assegaaibosch, Limietberg, and Stony Point.

In the Southern region, Walker Bay, De Mond, De Hoop, Marloth, Grootvadersbosch, Geelkrans, and Vrolijkheid participate. Garden Route guests can choose from Robberg, Keurbooms River, Goukamma, and Outeniqua, while the Karoo will feature Swartberg, Gamkaberg, and Anysberg.

However, there are certain conditions for the free access offer. Free entry is only provided to visitors arriving on the day without prior booking during reserve operating hours. Visitors who book visits through the CapeNature Contact Centre or the online booking system will still pay the standard entrance fee. Advance booking is not required for free entry, although attendance remains subject to the reserve's maximum capacity.

The waiver covers general conservation fees for permitted day activities, including hiking and mountain biking. It does not apply to the Whale Trail, certain landowners, partners, concessions, or commercial activities. CapeNature also warned that some areas in the participating reserves may be temporarily closed and strongly recommends that visitors check operating hours and availability before traveling.