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.