A week of free access to some of the Western Cape’s most spectacular natural spaces is on offer this September, as CapeNature opens the gates to families to explore selected nature reserves for its 12th annual Access Week.
Taking place from 19–25 September 2026 under the theme ‘Nature is for Everyone’, Access Week invites individuals, families and communities to explore participating reserves without paying a conservation entry fee.
Nature Is for Everyone
Whether it’s a morning hike, whale watching, mountain biking, a family picnic, birdwatching, a swim or simply some time outdoors, Access Week is an invitation to experience the Western Cape’s diverse landscapes and reconnect with nature.
For the past 12 years, Access Week has helped open doors to people who may not otherwise get the chance to visit a nature reserve. For many participants, the initiative has been their first experience of a CapeNature reserve, while for communities living near reserves, it provides an added opportunity to explore and connect with the natural spaces on their doorstep.
“Opening our nature reserves to more people during Access Week is one way in which we are building a sense of ownership and responsibility amongst residents and visitors to our Province,” says Anton Bredell.
“When people experience nature, they become custodians and protectors of the environment. The more people who know, value and love our natural heritage, the stronger our collective commitment will be to protecting it for generations to come,” adds Anton Bredell, Provincial Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning.
“Access Week is about far more than free entry. It creates opportunities for people to feel that they belong in nature and that they are welcome in these spaces,” says Dr Ashley Naidoo, CEO of CapeNature. “When people experience nature in meaningful ways, they can leave feeling grounded, inspired and more connected to themselves and the world around them. That is at the heart of this year’s theme.”
As part of its commitment to inclusion and transformation, CapeNature will also facilitate sponsored nature experiences for community groups during Access Week. The guided experiences are designed to introduce participants to their local natural environment while encouraging learning, reflection and a deeper connection with nature.
The following CapeNature reserves will participate in Access Week:
- West Coast: Groot Winterhoek, Bird Island, Rocherpan
- Central: Kogelberg, Hottentots Holland, Jonkershoek, Assegaaibosch, Limietberg, Stony Point
- South: Walker Bay, De Mond, De Hoop, Marloth, Grootvadersbosch, Geelkrans, Vrolijkheid
- Garden Route: Robberg, Keurbooms River, Goukamma, Outeniqua
- Karoo: Swartberg, Gamkaberg, Anysberg
Important Visitor Information
- Free day entry is available only to walk-in visitors during normal reserve operating hours.
- Visitors who make a booking through the CapeNature Contact Centre or online booking platform will be charged the applicable entry fee.
- No pre-booking is required for free Access Week entry, but entry remains subject to the maximum visitor capacity of each reserve.
- The fee waiver applies to general conservation entry fees for permitted day activities, including hiking and mountain biking.
- Free entry does not apply to the Whale Trail, select landowners, partners, concessions or commercial activities.
- Some areas within participating reserves may be temporarily closed. Visitors are encouraged to check operating hours and availability before travelling.
Explore Nature
Whether it’s a morning hike, a family picnic, a day on the trails or simply some time outdoors, Access Week is an invitation to get out, explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the Western Cape and experience why Nature is for Everyone.
Community groups interested in participating in a facilitated nature experience can send an email to the Learning & Awareness Team. For more information about Access Week 2026, participating reserves and visitor guidelines, explore the website link below.
