Image: Getty
A growing wave of concern is sweeping through Cape Town as citizens, hikers, and conservation groups raise alarm over the deteriorating condition of Table Mountain National Park (TMNP).
ALSO READ: Top 9 things to do in the World’s Best City
Critics are calling on South African National Parks (SANParks) to urgently intervene, describing the park’s current state as one of “alarming neglect.”
Table Mountain, celebrated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is said to be under serious threat due to budgetary constraints, failing infrastructure, escalating crime, and insufficient ecological upkeep.
A petition circulating on Change.org—initiated by Friends of Table Mountain and supported by several other civic organisations—demands significant changes in how TMNP is managed and funded.
Backing the call are groups like Take Back Our Mountains, Love Our Trails, Table Mountain Watch, and the Table Mountain Bikers and Hikers Network.
Together, they claim that SANParks has not upheld its duty to care for the park, despite TMNP bringing in R430 million in revenue during 2024.
According to campaigners, only R107 million of that total—about 24%—was reinvested in the park, with the rest reportedly diverted to other national parks or SANParks’ central operations.
Among the issues raised in the petition are:
-
Rising incidents of crime, including muggings, poaching, bark stripping, and unauthorised camping that has led to vegetation damage and fires
-
Trail and road degradation, with vital routes for emergency access now impassable
-
The decay of once-busy sites like the Hoerikwaggo Trail, Rhodes Memorial Tea Garden, Tokai Manor House, and Lister’s Tearoom
-
The spread of invasive alien plants threatening native fynbos species
-
Inadequate signage leading to a surge in rescue missions for lost hikers
In response, campaigners are calling for better on-the-ground safety and oversight. Suggested interventions include expanding the field ranger force, enlarging the K9 unit, drone surveillance, a round-the-clock control room, and the installation of CCTV at known high-risk areas.
“There’s a real sense that SANParks is profiting from Table Mountain while giving very little back,” reads a statement from the campaign. “This iconic mountain deserves better. So do the people who use and protect it.”
Advocates are also pushing for financial transparency and a reassessment of permit fees, arguing that current rates are not justified given the lack of reinvestment.
The Western Cape’s Department of Social Development has previously acknowledged the rise in safety concerns, particularly those tied to illegal overnight stays and the involvement of young people in mountain-related crime. But community voices insist that the province cannot tackle the issue alone—stronger leadership is required from SANParks.
Campaigners are asking SANParks’ CEO to commit to better funding, improved oversight, and the restoration of Table Mountain as a protected and cared-for natural landmark.
ALSO READ: Namaqualand’s wildflower season arrives ahead of schedule
Follow us on social media for more travel news, inspiration, and guides. You can also tag us to be featured.
TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
