Access to natural areas is diminishing in urban areas around the world and the effect of people spending less time in nature is becoming obvious as research has shown a direct connection between people’s well-being and their exposure to nature.

‘The City, therefore, prioritises the management of its 21 nature reserves and conservation areas and has succeeded in maintaining Cape Town’s unique biodiversity through the careful management of its diverse conserved habitat and the widely spread net of conservation areas,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Spatial Planning and Environment, Alderman Marian Nieuwoudt.

Over the years the City has adopted a people-centered approach to biodiversity management whereby the Biodiversity Management teams implement a People and Conservation Programme. This programme provides an opportunity to all Capetonians to access natural areas within the city and to benefit from its environmental education offering, among which a volunteerism plan, tourism, as well as events and visitor programmes.

‘Our nature reserves also benefit the school learners in Cape Town greatly as they have the opportunity to access these pristine reserves during school time and to enjoy experiential activity-based learning regulated within their curriculum. They can also access our holiday programmes; environmental clubs; guided hikes; environmental talks and exhibitions offered at the reserves,’ said Alderman Nieuwoudt.

For further information, or to make an environmental education booking, contact Biodiversity@capetown.gov.za or visit /family-and-home/see-all-city-facilities/our-recreational-facilities/nature-reserves to find the nature reserve closest to you.

Please note that all activities and bookings are subject to COVID-19 Level 3 regulations.

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