25 Nature Reserves Near Cape Town

Are you the one waiting for a quick escape from the hustles of city life? Waiting to have a sleep on the lap of nature? Then pack your bags; it’s time to reconnect with mother nature. Cape town, the mother city, welcomes you to explore the best nature reserves. Cape town, situated on the southwestern most tip of the continent, is renowned for its scenic surroundings, the contrast between its mountains and beaches, its artistic community, and many ethnic groups. You can catch up on all the reserves listed below within hours. Your perfect vacation entails rock-hopping beside a bubbling river, getting lost in the holy calm of an old forest, or staring out into a desert landscape. Cape town has all of them.  Nature Reserve is an extraordinary place to find yourself.  Nature Reserves offers unique opportunity of bush exploring and animal life. Given below are the best 25 nature reserves near cape town. Come and discover South Africa’s nature reserves’ spectacular scenery and fascinating wildlife.

Nature Reserve is not only a slice of paradise, its your holy land!

25 Nature Reserves Near Cape Town

De Hoop Nature Reserve

Distance from Cape town – 232 km or 3 hours 

While on a relaxing and peaceful holiday away from bustle of city life, explore the De Hoop Nature Reserve to learn about the diversity of marine, Bird, animal, and rare plant species. De Hoop Nature Reserve on the Garden Route offers a comprehensive outdoor experience with the sea, dunes, Fynbos, and mountains around you.  You will also observe other wandering creatures, such as the eland and the Cape mountain zebra, to name a few. To reach De Hoop nature reserve, Cape Town is the nearest international airport. The closest towns to the reserve are Arniston and Witsand. One of the largest marine protected areas on the continent, this 34,000 hectares coastal reserve is located in the Overberg and runs 5 km out to sea. Tidal rock pools, a vlei, unique Fynbos, the Potberg Mountains, and various wildlife, including rare Cape vultures, mountain zebra, ostriches, and whales, are all within its borders. The Whale Trail is one of South Africa’s top hiking routes, and it is located in De Hoop. This path offers breathtaking coastal and mountain hiking with plenty of opportunity to see whales. The best time to visit the nature reserve is between the months of June and November. De Hoop is home to 86 different species of mammals, including the endangered bontebok and Cape mountain zebra, eland, gray rhebok, baboons, yellow mongooses, caracals, and seldom leopards. More than 260 bird species can be seen in the nature reserve, many of which may be near the De Hoop vlei. There are many things you can do in the Dee Hoop nature reserve, such as Bird watching, day hikes, mountain biking, swimming, Whale watching, and wildlife watching. The cost from 09 December 2022 to 30 September 2023 starts from R2,350 per person sharing in Opstal Stable Suite – Half Board.

Read more about Game Reserves near Cape Town Here.

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

Distance from Cape town – 156 km or two hours 

The Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, Gansbaai, in the Western Cape of South Africa, is a shining example of ethical and opulent ecotourism. This serene area has views of Walker Bay and is surrounded by native Fynbos (shrubs) and forested hills. This location is lovely for a weekend escape or as an addition to a Garden Route trip. Cape town is the closest international airport to Grootbos Private nature reserve. Although, from Cape Town, there is no direct route to Gansbaai’s Grootbos Private Nature Reserve. You can take the bus to Caledon and then a taxi to reach the location. This scenic location is a haven for foodies and nature lovers, with views to Walker Bay, the center of Whale watching worldwide. The best time to visit the nature reserve is when there are beautiful wild spring flowers at Grootbos peak, from August to November. A trip to the Grootbos Reserve is an experience of a lifetime. The largest Milkwood Woods in the world and delicate, rare Fynbos are accessible to tourists. Big White Sharks, Southern Right Whales, and the critically endangered African Penguin frequent the waters that lap the beaches. You can do many things in Grootbos private nature reserve Bird watching, botanical 4×4 tour, horse riding, cage diving with white sharks, and Whale watching. The cost is from 01 January 2023 to 30 April 2023 is starting from R10,500 per person sharing. The largest Milkwood Woods in the world and delicate, rare Fynbos are accessible to tourists. The Marine Big Five—great white sharks, southern right whales, bottlenose dolphins, African penguins, and Cape fur seals—can all be seen in the reserve, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet.

Fynbos Reserve

Distance from Cape town – 17 km or 18 min 

Farm 215 Nature Retreat & Fynbos Reserve is the ideal vacation for botanists and anyone who enjoys serene, expansive landscapes. In the stunning Uilkraal Valley, halfway between Stanford and Cape Agulhas. The expansive views, engulfing Fynbos, and the quiet of the countryside create an overwhelming sensation of tranquility and seclusion, while the outstanding rooms whisper delectable comfort. The nearest airport is Cape Town. From there, you have to take a bus or cab to get to the location. The best time to visit the reserve depends on what you wish to see and do; the whale season lasts from August through December, while peak flowering occurs between April and November. When the winter rains start, February through April are ideal for horse trails. The reserve is entirely covered in natural native plants from the Cape Floristic Region. The 800 hectares of the fynbos reserve rise to the highest mountain crest before descending into narrow canyons. Various animals and bird species are drawn to Fynbos, mountain swamps, lowland wetlands, riverine scrub, scree-covered slopes, and old indigenous forest remnants, just a few plant types. There are many options for you to explore in farm 215 nature retreat, such as hiking, mountain biking, horse riding, Whale watching, cage diving, etc. The price of the reserve varies per season and the activities you choose. Unaltered native vegetation from the Cape Floristic Area covers the reserve. The 800 hectares of the fynbos reserve roll down into steep gorges and up to the highest mountain summit in the region.

Mosaic Private Sanctuary

Distance from Cape Town – 151 km or 2 hrs 

Over 933 hectares of land, Mosaic Private Sanctuary is situated between the stunning Hermanus Lagoon beachfront and Walker Bay, a tranquil beach and animal refuge. This ecological gem, tucked between the ocean and mighty mountains, is a magnificent wilderness home to unusual animals and plants. The nearest airport is Cape Town; from there, take the N2 past the airport to Somerset West. The perfect time to visit Mosaic private sanctuary is during the summer, from December to march. The significant attractions of the reserve are About two hours drive from the center of Cape Town are the all-inclusive Mosaic Cottages and Hermanus Lagoon Lodge, Gorgeous views of the beach, mountains, and lagoon, and Visit the Stanford Spookhuis, built in 1892, to eat and drink. You can participate in various activity options in reserve. Some popular activities are Bird watching, Whale watching, Kayaking, Hiking, Fly-fishing, Nature-based quad bike tours, Sundowner excursions in an open-air vehicle, Outdoor massage therapy by arrangement, Fynbos gardens, and Picnic lunches. A significant aspect of South African history, the Stanford Spookhuis, a renovated 1892 limestone structure now known as Mosaic Manor, is a notable local monument. It has been stylishly refurbished to hold weddings, conferences, and other important occasions. This is a memorable nature reserve near cape town.

7 Koppies

Distance from Cape town – 69 km or an hour. 

The five-bedroom 7 Koppies farmhouse in the Franschhoek Valley offers beautiful, unobstructed views of vineyards, the Simonsberg mountains, and a hike-worthy fynbos reserve. It is situated on a small hill and is only accessible by a winding dirt road. While sipping wine at the 25-meter pool’s edge, sunset is the best time to soak in these views. The nearest airport to 7 koppies is Cape Town. 7 Koppies, built with the sunset in mind, is one of the best viewpoints in the Cape. You can see seven koppies throughout the year. The important attractions of 7 koppies include Wines by Anthony Rupert, La Petite Ferme, Maison Estate, Mont Rochelle Vineyards, La Motte Hiking Path, See all of Franschhoek’s attractions. The activities to do inside the 7 koppies are hiking, fish flying, wine tasting, dining on the farm, swimming, and Fynbos Walks. The cost of 7 koppies starts at R4 000 per night per room (depending on the season). 

Reflections Eco Reserve

Distance from Cape Town – 454 km or 5 hrs 

The lush Rondevlei wetlands of Reflections Eco Reserve, located between Wilderness and Sedgefield and surrounded by the Garden Route National Park, offer the ideal setting for off-the-grid living with a touch of luxury. The Reflections Eco-Reserve, about four and a half hours from Cape Town and between Wilderness and Sedgefield, is suitable for those seeking a wildlife vacation. The Reserve is a beautiful natural retreat because it is brimming with native animals and greenery and is just 15 minutes from lovely swimming beaches. The nearest international airport is Cape town. The self-catering resort is on a 29-acre recovered pine wood and contains four wooden cabins for maximum isolation and exclusivity. The main attractions of Swartvlei Beach and Gericke’s point Garden Route beaches, Karatara pass, Map of Africa viewpoint, and Outeniqua choo tjoe. The activities you can do on Touw River / Half-Collared Kingfisher Trail, Mountain biking, The Garden Route Trail, Whale watching, Paragliding, and Canoeing. Depending on the season, you will get luxury Tents from R1 000 for the night. 

Rocherpan Nature Reserve Eco Cabins

Distance from cape town – 180 km or 2 hrs

The Rocherpan Nature Reserve, which covers 930 hectares, was established in 1966, and the nearby Atlantic Ocean zone was designated as a marine reserve in 1988. The size of the ReserveReserve is 150 hectares. The nearest international airport to Rocherpan nature reserve is cape town. Reserve is located on the beach road; Rocherpan is 25 kilometers north of Velddrif. The best time to visit this beauty is usually the dry season, which is between March and June. By the coast, you will be able to see the rare and endangered black oystercatcher, kelp gulls, and Cape shovellers. There are many activities you can do in Rocherpan, including mountain hiking, biking, picnicking, birdwatching, whale watching, etc. The nearby Atlantic Ocean, which extends 500 meters seaward along the length of the Rocherpan nature reserve, adds to the area’s beauty and attraction. They generate 183 distinct bird species overall, including 70 aquatic species. Cape shovellers can be seen in the Rocherpan Nature Reserve, one of the species’ most crucial breeding and molting areas. Pelicans and lesser flamingos, listed in the Red Data book for endangered bird species, and the African black oystercatcher, the second-rarest coastal bird in the nation, are also familiar sights. The entry fee to the nature reserve is R50 per adult and R30 per child.

Die Aap Farm Lodge & Private Nature Reserve

Distance from Cape town – 445 km or 5 hrs

For those searching for a Karoo vacation, this 2200-hectare farm and nature reserve, hidden at the far end of the gorgeous Meiringspoort Pass among the Swartberg Mountain range’s slopes, is a fantastic choice. On the peaceful Karoo farm lies a private self-catering lodge built in 1825. Its serene, historic appeal blends seamlessly with the contemporary interior design, allowing the peaceful Klein Karoo landscape to take center stage. The nearest airport De Aap Farm Lodge & Private Nature Reserve, is George airport, with a 73.4 kilometers distance. You can visit the ReserveReserve throughout the year. The nearby attractions to Die Aap Farm Lodge & Private Nature Reserve are Meiringspoort, The Hell, Prince Albert, and Oudtshoorn. The cost of living at De Aap Farm Lodge & Private Nature Reserve varies according to the season, exchange rate, number of tourists, etc. In the Reserve, you can do activities like fishing, biking, swimming, hiking, and cycling. This beautifully restored sanctuary is a wildlife lover’s paradise because it is home to a tiny number of native antelope, birds, and reptiles.

Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve

Distance from Cape town – 241 km or 3 hr 19 min hrs

The Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve, located close to Ceres in the Western Cape, is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and dramatic rock formations typical of the Cederberg. Kagga Kamma is equally unique in that it offers guests experiences and conveniences they won’t find anywhere else. The nearest international airport is Cape town. This Western Cape natural reserve is well-known for its stunning scenery and rich cultural history. The hundreds of Khoisan rock carvings or rock art found in South Africa’s Kagga Kamma Natural Reserve make it a unique natural location dating back 6,000 years. September through October would be the best travel season to see and explore the Kagga Kamma’s untamed flowers. Kagga Kamma is home to a wide variety of wildlife. The most noticeable antelope species include Burchell’s zebra and others, such as Eland, Gemsbok, Kudu, Blue Wildebeest, Bontebok, and the smaller Springbok, Grey Rheebok, and Klipspringer. The ReserveReserve offers various activities, like Guided nature drives, hiking, mountain biking, offroading trails, quad bike adventures, etc. For the adventurous, Kagga Kamma recommends a Quad Bike Safari that passes into typically inaccessible locations. The Kagga Kamma nature reserve rate is from 01 Dec 2022 to 30 Apr 2023 from R4,508 per person sharing. Visitors can relax while enjoying the granite formations the resort was constructed around in the swimming pool. 

Gamkaberg Nature Reserve

Distance from Cape town – 7 km or 20 minutes 

The name of Gamkaberg Nature Reserve, which contains the peaceful Little Karoo environment, originates from the Khoi word gami, which means lion. Aardvarks, Cape Mountain zebras, and several types of game are found in the area. The shadowy Gamkaberg and the enigmatic Rooiberg appear to have been placed close to one another above the lowlands of the Little Karoo. The word “Gamka,” which means “lion” in Khoisan, alludes to the region where the Cape Lion, which is now extinct, formerly successfully roamed. The distance between the nearest airport and the Gamkaberg Natural Reserve in Oudtshoorn is 64.6 kilometers. George Airport is the nearest airport. The best time to visit the Gamkaberg nature reserve is the dry season. The activities you can do inside the gamkaberg are hiking, walking trails, 4×4 trail, and picnics. The price of staying in the Reserve starts from R950 per night and varies according to the season. 

Robberg Nature Reserve

It is one of the most famous and traveled peninsulas in the entire globe. The Robberg Nature Reserve is a must-see if you’re ever in the Plettenberg Bay area because of its legendary beauty. Because of its extensive history, prehistoric rocks, and Stone Age artifacts, Robberg is a National Monument and a World Heritage Site that attracts visitors worldwide. The lovely peninsula has a wealth of fynbos, flora, and marine life, all visually stunning. The largest navigational light at the Cape Seal Lighthouse, the rare blue duiker, the smallest antelope in the Western Cape, and one of the seven climbing-falling dunes on the Cape’s coastline can all be explored (146m above sea level). The best times for offshore whale viewing are May through November, although any time of year is a terrific opportunity to visit the Robberg Natural Reserve. You can do activities in Robberg nature reserve, including angling, bird watching, hiking, whale watching, and swimming. Several fish species in danger of extinction are protected by the Reserve’sReserve’s 1.8 km offshore waters. The entry fee to Robberg nature reserve per person is R60. 00 for adults and R40. 00 for children. Visitors can anticipate breathtaking scenery and thrilling dolphin and whale sightings during certain times of the year, as well as a variety of bird species and the occasional seal to accompany them on their walks or excursions.

Misty Mountain Reserve

Distance from Cape town – 594 km or 6 hrs and 45 minutes 

Misty Mountain Reserve is situated in a Marine Reserve along the well-known Garden Road. Located above the undeveloped Tsitsikamma beach, 230 meters above sea level, and borders the Tsitsikamma National Park. The nearest airport to the misty mountain reserve is Plettenberg Bay Airport. The area is like a hidden gem, full of ancient trees like the secretive Knysna lourie, yellowwood, hard pear, stinkwood, ironwood, and protected indigenous forests home to these species. There are attractive animals and birds all around the fynbos-covered landscape. The best time to visit the nature reserve is the warmer months of September to April. The activities you can do in the misty mountain reserve are Quad Biking, The David & Valerie Lane Hiking Trail, Mashie Chip, Wedge & Foot Golf, Fresh Water Fishing, and Mountain Bike Routes. With 360-degree views of the beach, native woodland, and Tsitsikamma Mountains, Misty Mountain Reserve makes for the perfect vacation. Misty Mountain Reserve offers the ideal hideaway whether you’re seeking a family vacation, a romantic getaway, an adventurous weekend, or a need to get away from it all in nature. 

Welbedacht Game & Nature Reserve

Distance from Cape town – 130 km or one and a half hours 

Welbedacht Nature Area is a lovely rural hideaway over an hour’s drive from Cape Town. The Reserve, located just below the stunning Winterhoek Mountains, offers a serene setting, nature trails, a wide variety of wildlife and plants, and breathtaking views of the valley. You can visit the Welbedacht nature reserve throughout the year. Use this chance to observe wildlife, hike on nature trails, watch birds, swim in a dam, explore a labyrinth, or cool off in your splash pool. The activities you can do in the ReserveReserve are nature trails, mountain biking, the labyrinth, swimming, wildlife, birding, and watching flowers. The visitors will forever remember the place because of its spectacular valley views, majestic surrounding mountains, wild and beautiful landscapes to explore, and quiet locations for wandering or resting. The cost of Welbedacht Game and Nature Reserve varies according to the date, season, and accommodation options you choose. The gorgeous Reserve is bordered by fynbos, snow-covered mountains, valley vistas, and pine trees (during the winter months). Together with horses that live there, there are other smaller wildlife species and roaming springbok, zebra, and bontebok.

Gecko Rock Private Nature Reserve

Distance from Cape town – 213 km or two and half hours 

Just 25 kilometers from Touwsrivier, in the Nougaspoort Valley, is the Gecko Rock Private Nature Reserve, a popular eco-adventure spot.  Gecko Rock aims to provide visitors with an unrivaled outdoor experience in the South African Karoo, one of the planet’s most extraordinary natural landscapes. Guests can access unspoiled landscapes, unrivaled stargazing, endless hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, photography, and 4×4 routes, or they can unwind in the shade with their preferred book or beverage. In Gecko Rock Private Nature Reserve, you will get various options for accommodation. Springbok visits this peaceful sanctuary, zebra, gemsbok, gray roebuck, steenbokkie, duiker and klipspringer, and the elusive leopard, aardvark, African wild cat, caracal, and honey badger, as well as a variety of birds. The nature reserve will confuse you with its endless activities to do. 4*4 trail drive, rock climbing, hiking, mountain biking, shooting, star gazing, flower tours, Bird watching, and veld schools are some of them. The rugged terrain of the Gecko Rock Private Nature Reserve, surrounded by ancient rock formations and the lunar-like Karoo environment, is home to various small animals and native plant species. The cost for staying in wooden cabins starts from R350 per person per night for 6 people depending upon the season.

Mount Bain Nature Reserve

Distance from cape town – 100 km or one and a half hours 

Just off the well-known Bainskloof Pass, at the Mount Bain Private Nature Reserve, and on the banks of the Witte River, known for its healing waters. Visitors engage in hiking, motorcycling, and canoeing. Mount Bain reserve offers an entirely off-the-grid glamping experience with simple elegance.  The nearest international airport to the mountain bain nature reserve is Cape Town. It is a beautiful location for solitary retreat and re-connection with nature since it is a compact, cozy space with sliding doors that enable indoor/outdoor activity. You could be excused for believing you had traveled across the nation if you were in this area, which is surrounded by vineyards and tall mountains, serene bird cries, and the quietly flowing Witte River. The cost of accommodation inside the mountain bain nature reserve starts from R3500 per night on weeknights; this will depend upon the season you are traveling. 

Buffelsfontein Game & Nature Reserve

Distance from Cape town – 85 km or 45 minutes 

Buffelsfontein Game & Nature Reserve is located on the West Coast, about an hour from Cape Town. Its serene surroundings make it the ideal place to go on vacation to unwind and refresh. It provides a wide range of services and is surrounded by stunning West Coast natural beauty. Buffelsfontein game and nature reserve offers various activities like bike drive games, saddle game drives, horse safaris, bush walking, Catch & Release fishing, and Clay pigeon shooting. The reserve is home to cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, Eland, Oryx, Blue Wildebeest, Mountain Reedbuck, Red Hartebeest, and wildebeest. The other attractions of the reserve are Khwa ttu san culture and education center, West coast national park, and the Swartland wine route. The best time to visit Buffelsfontein is from May to September. A three-hour game drive costs R 500 or R5000 for a complete vehicle private drive. Consider going on a mountain bike safari for a unique safari experience. The Buffelsfontein Game & Nature Reserve is a working farm surrounded by wild, undeveloped terrain and drenched in the West Coast’s wonderful rusticity. It provides a unique retreat experience while still being easily accessible.

 The Cederberg Wilderness Area

Distance from Cape town – 219 km or two and half hours 

The Western Cape’s largest collection of San Rock paintings may be seen in the Cederberg Wilderness Area, which has the Cederberg Mountains in its center. The Cederberg Wilderness Area is located 124 miles (200 km) north of Cape Town on the N7 national highway. The nearest airport to the Cederberg wilderness area is Cape town. The Cederberg is an excellent destination for nature lovers, with breathtaking views, an astounding variety of plant species, mainly from Cape heathland (fynbos), and succulent varieties. You can travel a vast network of dirt top trails totaling roughly 254 kilometers (157.5 miles), which ascend into the highlands and lead to caves, rivers, and breathtaking waterfalls.  It’s a hiker’s paradise. Visitors can examine the region’s enormous collection of San rock drawings from several conveniently situated spots. The area is also widely recognized for its abundance of cave paintings. The animals you would find inside the Cederberg area are gray roebuck, Baboons, klipspringers, dassies, duiker, and gray books are pretty common. The activities you can do inside the reserve are mountain biking, donkey cart adventures, bouldering at Rocklands, hiking, and exploring rock art. The best time to visit the Cederberg nature reserve is autumn. The cost is different from the options you choose. For self-catering accommodation, the price starts from R730 and camping from R140.

Bontebok National Park

Distance from cape town – 235 km or 2 hr 50 minutes 

Bontebok national park is the smallest national park in South Africa. The Breede River, Swellendam, and the historic Route 62 are all close to Bontebok national park, which was established to protect an endangered antelope species. Breede River is surrounded by farming, agricultural development, and the 3,900-hectare Bontebok National Park to the east, west, and north. Things to do in Bontebok national park are Picnic and braai at Die Stroom, Camp on the banks of the Breede River, Game viewing self-drives, Biking, Canoeing/kayaking, Fishing, Wine Routes, and hot springs in the area, Swellendam restaurants and the Drostdy Museum and Bird watching. The best seasons for the colorful fynbos flowers are spring (September to October/November) and autumn (March to April/May). This region between the Breede River and the Langeberg Mountains is home to about 200 bird species, including the Stanley’s Bustard, Blue Crane, and Secretary Bird. Visitors can see Red Hartebeest, Grey Rhebok, and Cape Mountain Zebra, among other animals. Chalet self-catering costs from 17 Jan 2023 to 31 Oct 2023 are R1,560 per unit. Visitors to this South African nature reserve in the Western Cape can either drive a short distance into Swellendam or step outside and take in the breathtaking mountain views. This historic Overberg town provides all modern conveniences, a vast selection of food alternatives, and fun nearby attractions. 

Wolfkop Nature Reserve

Distance from cape town – 182 km or 2 hrs 

Wolfkop Nature Reserve is a 450-hectare private property with undulating terrain, rare fauna, and flora. It is located 5 km from Citrusdal at the foothills of the Cederberg mountain range. The nearest international airport is Cape Town. In addition to the stunning surroundings and blooming flower meadows just outside your door, the reserve provides diverse animal life, including duikers, porcupines, and tortoises. The activities you can do in Wolfkop nature reserve are Cederkloof Hiking, Wolfkop Nature Reserve Hiking, Horse Riding, Canoeing at Wolfkop Camping Villages, Olifants River Bodyboard Tours, and Gin & Wine Tastings. The Wolfkop Nature Reserve Cottages are close to a golf course in Cederberg. Visitors to the reserve can spot various species, such as duikers, porcupines, tortoises, and the stars, without being bothered by artificial light. Many flowers bloom throughout the year at multiple periods. The best time to visit the place is between August and September. Canoe rentals are available for swimming or fishing along a beautiful hiking trail. Bird watching is of the highest caliber because each Mountain Cottage is situated in the Fynbos’s geographic center. The reserve cost varies according to the season, starting from R800 per night per person sharing. 

Table Mountain National Park

Distance from Cape town – 8 km or 20 minutes 

Being a visual, historical, cultural, and recreational treasure, Table Mountain National Park is regarded as one of the world’s most fantastic tourist destinations. Various rocky mountains, moonlit beaches, old woods, and other natural features border the city. The nearest international airport is Cape town. Table Mountain National Park is a part of the Cape Floristic Region World Heritage Site. Because of its unusual and endangered plants, this area has a high biodiversity. Table Mountain National Park is a part of the Cape Floristic Region, which has been named a World Heritage Site. The presence of rare and endangered plants in this area contributes to its high biodiversity. The best time to visit Table Mountain national park is the dry summers, from October to March. The region has a special level of biodiversity in addition to the gardens. The many valleys and streams make it a lovely getaway from Cape Town. The fynbos vegetation, which can only be found in this region of the world, is the national park’s most distinguishing feature. You can do many activities in table mountain national park, including Hiking, scenic drives, Fishing, Walking routes and scenic drives, Scuba diving, Mountain biking, Surfing, windsurfing, and  Rock climbing. The main attractions or areas to visit in table mountain national park are Cape of Good Hope, Boulder’s Beach, Table Mountain, Silvermine and Signal Hill, and Lions Head. There are three locations where conservation fees must be paid; they are Cape of Good Hope, Boulder’s Beach, and Silvermine. 

Bushmans Kloof Reserve

Distance from Cape town – 263 km or 3 hours 

Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve, a Relais & Chateaux hotel in Cederberg, is in a wilderness sanctuary of enduring beauty, holistic health, wellness, rich heritage, and conservation. Enjoy the stunning lodgings, abundant flora and fauna, and historic San rock art.Capetown is the nearest airport to Bushmans kloof reserve. The activities you can take part in Bushmans kloof reserve are Guided rock art excursions Sunset and evening nature drives, Fynbos excursions, Swimming in rock pools and near waterfalls,  Canoeing and fly-fishing, Archery, painting, and croquet, Full and half day Hiking and walking trails, Running and jogging and Mountain biking. The reserve, Bushmans Kloof, is a National Heritage Site and offers a home for the endangered Cape Mountain Zebra. It has also been crucial in reintroducing endangered Clanwilliam cedars to the region. Bushmans Kloof has a beautiful variety of natural and cultural assets. The cornerstone of everything we do at Bushmans Kloof is preserving this distinctive landscape and the heritage it safeguards. The best time to visit Bushmans kloof reserve is the peak breeding season in September. The cost of staying at Bushmans Kloof from 01 Apr 2023 to 31 Aug 2023 is R10,405 per unit.

Tygerberg National Reserve

Distance from Cape town – 28 km or half an hour 

The Tygerberg Nature Reserve is located in the northern suburbs of Cape Town. The Tygerberg Hills are protected by Tygerberg, a much smaller reserve in Cape Town’s northern suburbs. The hills cover a piece of the Swartland Shale Renosterveld, and bontebok has been rediscovered in reserve. The nearest international airport to the Tygerberg national reserve is Cape town. The games you can see inside Tygerberg national reserve are Cape foxes, mongooses, badgers,  porcupines, dassies, baboons, striped polecats, and antelope. There are 562 different plant species there. The activities you can do in Tygerberg national reserve are Private events and functions, educational programs, picnics, running and jogging, Hiking, and walking. The nature reserve, one of the only surviving sizable areas of the critically endangered Swartland Shale Renosterveld, is home to 562 different species of flowers. You will be rewarded with abundant blooms if you spend time there in the spring. Visitors can learn more about the area’s rich biodiversity at the Kristo Pienaar Environmental Education Centre, situated within the reserve. The entry fee to the reserve for an adult is  R20. The reserve is 388 hectares, which protects 560 plant species, and 23 of them are on the IUCN Red List.  

West Coast National park

West Coast National park

Distance from cape town – 100 km or an hour 

The West Coast National Park is a natural nature reserve that runs from Yzerfontein to Langebaan. Saldanha and Langebaan are two nearby coastal villages just outside the West Coast National Park’s western boundary, which the Atlantic Ocean defines. The reserve is regarded as one of South Africa’s finest coastal wetland habitats and is filled with various birds, fynbos, and other plant species. Just off the R27 is where you’ll find the West Coast National Park. The nearest international airport to the west coast national park is Cape Town. The best time to visit the park is in the spring season, between March to May. Large antelope including eland, red hartebeest, duiker, steenbok, bontebok, kudu, gemsbok, mountain zebra, and ostriches in the Postberg region are among the park’s wildlife. The bat-eared fox, caracal, and Cape grey mongoose are among other smaller species. More than 250 bird, reptile, and mammal species reside in the West Coast National Park. The activities you can do in west coast national park are walking and Trails, Cycling, Mountain Biking, Bird Watching, picnics, Braai Sites, Whale Watching, and Flower watching. Visitors are greeted with beautiful vistas of turquoise waters, growing wetlands, pristine beaches, and lovely flatlands, with the Langebaan lagoon serving as the focal point of the reserve. In off-seasons, the conservation charge of the park for foreigners is R110 per person. 

Helderberg National Reserve

Distance from Cape town – 50 km or 40 minutes 

The Helderberg Natural Reserve is a pleasure for nature enthusiasts. The reserve, located on the Helderberg Mountains’ slopes and offers stunning views of False Bay, is home to an astounding variety of plant and bird species. The nearest International airport to Helderberg nature reserve is Cape Town. The Helderberg region features two great beaches, Gordon’s Bay and the Strand, where you may swim or surf. Also, the area offers a variety of adventurous activities, such as paragliding. The 402-hectare reserve now supports the preservation of the highly endangered Swartland shale renosterveld and Kogelberg sandstone fynbos, as well as the vulnerable Cape Winelands shale fynbos and pockets of the least threatened Southern afro-temperate woodland. The reserve has many walking trails, the majority of which are circular. Since they are so well-liked, regular walkers can enter the Helderberg Reserve before it opens, allowing them to avoid the heat and enjoy the reserve’s peace. The reserve can be visited throughout the year. There are approximately 170 different species of birds as well, including the Cape leopard, Cape grysbok, caracal, gray duiker, steenbok, angulate, mongoose, and padloper tortoises, to name a few. The activities you can engage in are visiting historic Vergelegen, Getting wet at Water World Strand, Traverse hiking routes, Saddle up and don’t horse around, Spier Summer Sundowners and Zip along mountains, and more. The entry fee to the Helderberg Natural Reserve for an adult is R30. 

Limietberg National Reserve

Limietberg National Reserve

Distance from Cape town – 63 km or 47 minutes 

Limietberg is a beautiful wildlife reserve in the Du Toitskloof Mountains, close to Paarl. The World Heritage Site reserve stretches north to Volvlei Dam from Franschhoek in the south, then east to Groot Drakenstein. It extends from Franschhoek in the south to the Klein Drakenstein mountains in the east and the Elandsberge in the north and is a part of the more comprehensive Boland mountain range. The nearest airport to Limietberg national reserve is Cape Town. The best time to visit the reserve is in the dry summer season. You can do activities in limietberg national reserve: fishing, hiking, walking, exploring rock arts, and swimming. There are baboons, little antelope, and occasionally sighted caracals and leopards. You might be fortunate to encounter unusual species like the Cape sugarbird, the protea canary, and the magnificent black eagle. The main attractions of the reserve are the Rugged terrain of the Limietberg mountains, with deep valleys and steep kloofs, Du Toits Peak (1,996m), as well as the Breede and Berg rivers, Tranquil spots for freshwater angling and Hiking past historical features such as a cross erected by Italian prisoners of war. The permit to enter the reserve is R50 per adult. 

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