September marks Tourism Month and CapeNature invites you to join in the celebrations. The entity will open its gates and provide free access to the public during its 7th annual Access Week, from 13 – 20 September 2021.

In celebration of Heritage Day and Tourism Month, CapeNature offers the public an opportunity to explore their natural heritage at selected reserve destinations. The week aptly takes place during Tourism Month tying in with the 2021 international theme of “Tourism for inclusive growth”, which is an opportunity for reflection to commemorate CapeNature milestones in sustainable development goals through inclusive economic growth, and a skilled and vibrant workforce.

Visitors to CapeNature reserves will enjoy free day entry (excluding overnight stays) ranging from the West Coast to the Winelands, Overberg, Garden Route and the Klein Karoo, as part of the annual promotion. A few exciting new additions have also been added to the list, which have been closed previously! 

PARTICIPATING NATURE RESERVES 

WEST COAST: Groot Winterhoek, Bird Island, Cederberg, Matjiesrivier, Rocherpan. 

WINELANDS: Limietberg, Hottentots Holland, Assegaaibosch (picnic only) Strictly no hiking will be allowed due to fire damage at this reserve. 

OVERBERG: Kogelberg, De Mond, De Hoop, Marloth, Grootvadersbosch, Walker Bay. 

GARDEN ROUTE: Robberg, Keurbooms River, Goukamma. 

KAROO: Swartberg, Gamkaberg, Anysberg. 

CapeNature CEO, Dr Razeena Omar added: “We are all looking forward to Access Week and I encourage all South African’s to spend a day in nature and explore their natural heritage, free of charge! As part of Tourism Month and Heritage Day celebrations, we’d like to emphasise the importance and value of environmental education, with a specific focus on our unique natural heritage. Access Week provides an opportunity for everyone to enjoy our natural spaces and learn about environmental conservation.  All health and safety protocols will be in place, also allowing for natural social distancing. Wearing of masks remains mandatory.” 

This wonderful once-in-a-year opportunity gives visitors a chance to participate in a number of activities ranging from experiencing historical cultural sights, hiking and walking to mountain biking and birdwatching.

The following terms and conditions apply: 

  • Access to Protected Areas during the CapeNature Access Week is during regular reserve hours and through entries at CapeNature reserve gates.
  • The conservation fee will be waived for visitors to any CapeNature reserve that is open to the public between 13 and 20 September 2021. 
  • Free access will not apply when booking through the call centre or when making an online booking. This offer excludes accommodation bookings (normal rates and access fees apply with any accommodation booking). 
  • Free access will pertain to general access (conservation fee) and hiking, mountain biking and other day activities allowed. The waiver will NOT apply to the Whale Trail select landowners, partners, or concessions (including canopy tours, bouldering, horse riding etc.)
  • Zero-rated permits will be given to everyone accessing the reserve during this time, as per usual standard procedure to ensure that all access numbers and activity numbers are recorded.

Fall in love with nature and your natural heritage this Tourism Month! Visit www.capenature.co.za to learn more and remember to tag us on social media during your visit using the hashtags #LoveNature #AccessWeek and #TourismMonth.

To view a full list of participating #AccessWeek CapeNature reserves, click here. 

Pictures: Supplied

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