The Western Cape has added over 20 new nature reserves to its Protected Area network, securing more than 81,715 hectares of ecologically significant land for long-term conservation.

Declared between April 2025 and March 2026, these new reserves strengthen the province’s efforts to protect important landscapes, species, and vegetation types. 

The reserves span diverse regions, including the Cederberg, Agulhas Plain, Little Karoo, and Garden Route, and range from small properties to expansive mountain and lowland areas.

Through CapeNature’s Biodiversity Stewardship Programme, landowners can voluntarily commit to having their land formally declared as a Protected Area and nature reserve. 

Each declaration contributes to the province’s long-term environmental commitments and supports efforts aligned with the Global Biodiversity Framework 30×30 goals – an initiative aimed at formally protecting 30% of the planet’s land and oceans by 2030. 

“The Cape Floristic Region is one of 36 recognised global biodiversity hotspots,” said Anton Bredell, Western Cape Provincial MEC of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning. 

“These hotspots are regions that have high levels of biodiversity, but that are also the most threatened reservoirs of plant and animal life on earth. Healthy and resilient ecosystems are essential to sustain livelihoods and economic growth and must be actively protected, managed, and restored. Our ability to declare these additional reserves is made possible through partner organisations and landowners, working with CapeNature.” 

Dr Ashley Naidoo, CEO of CapeNature, said the declarations are made possible thanks to landowners who work alongside conservation agencies and the Western Cape Government. 

“Their commitment ensures that important natural areas receive formal protection, and together we are taking steps toward securing a healthier, more resilient environment for decades to come.” 

Most of these reserves are privately owned, while CapeNature manages Anysberg Nature Reserve and Knersvlakte Nature Reserve, which have been expanded.

Public access will be determined in line with land-use and conservation requirements. For information on visiting privately managed reserves, the public is advised to contact the respective reserve directly. 

CapeNature says landowners, who are interested in making a difference for conservation in the Western Cape, can reach out to CapeNature’s Stewardship Team at wcpaes2025@capenature.co.za to begin the process of formally protecting their property. 

1 of 4

Newly declared Nature Reserves