Planning a hike or day out in the Western Cape’s nature reserves is about to become a little more convenient, with CapeNature extending its cashless payment system to five more reserves this month.
Picture: Supplied
The change will be introduced at Assegaaibosch, Jonkershoek, Grootvadersbosch, Kogelberg and Geelkrans nature reserves as part of CapeNature’s wider move towards safer and more efficient services for visitors.
The expansion follows the introduction of cashless payments earlier this year at Robberg, Keurbooms, Stony Point, Bird Island and Walker Bay nature reserves.
Five more reserves make the switch
From September 2026, visitors to the newly included reserves will be able to pay using debit and credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard and American Express.
Mobile payment options, including QR code scanning, will also be available.
Visitors can also make arrangements before arriving by booking through CapeNature’s website or contacting its Contact Centre.
The five reserves joining the cashless system are:
- Assegaaibosch Nature Reserve, near Stellenbosch
- Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, near Stellenbosch, with the gate managed by MTO
- Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve, near Swellendam
- Kogelberg Nature Reserve, near Kleinmond
- Geelkrans Nature Reserve, near Stilbaai
Booking ahead could save hikers a trip
For visitors heading out for a hike, planning ahead will be particularly important.
CapeNature encourages visitors to pre-book their permits online, as hiking trails have a limited number of permits available each day.
Those who arrive without a booking will still be able to use speed point devices and QR code payment options at the reserves where the cashless system has been introduced.
CapeNature says the first phase received a positive response from both visitors and staff, with the organisation pointing to improved security and efficiency at reserve gates.
More reserves are next
The rollout will not stop with the five reserves being added in September.
CapeNature has two further implementation phases planned. The next phase will include Hottentots Holland, Limietberg, Marloth, Cederberg Wilderness (Algeria and Kliphuis), Rocherpan, Groot Winterhoek and De Mond nature reserves.
A final phase is planned for 2027, covering Vrolijkheid, De Hoop, Gamkaberg, Goukamma and Outeniqua nature reserves.
For regular hikers and visitors, the gradual rollout means checking the payment arrangements at a reserve before setting off could become an important part of planning a day in nature.
CapeNature is responsible for biodiversity conservation in the Western Cape and manages nature reserves and mountain catchments that provide important ecosystem services to communities across the province.
How to book
Visitors can book through CapeNature’s online booking platform or contact the CapeNature Contact Centre on 087 087 8250. CapeNature can also be contacted by email at [email protected].
Article shared by Cape Etc.
Follow us on social media for more travel news, inspiration, and guides. You can also tag us to be featured.
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
ALSO READ:
Bontebok National Park partially reopens after devastating floods
