Cape Town nature reserves to go cashless from February 2025
The City of Cape Town issued a notice informing residents that several of its prominent nature reserves would transition to cashless payment systems starting on 1 February 2025.
The nature reserves affected by this change included the Witzands Aquifer Nature Reserve, Tygerberg Nature Reserve, Table Bay Nature Reserve, Helderberg Nature Reserve, and Blaauwberg Nature Reserve.
From that date, visitors would no longer be able to pay entrance fees in cash at the gates. Instead, all payments would need to be made via digital methods, ensuring a safer and more secure experience for both visitors and staff.
The entrance fees at these reserves were set to range from R15 to R28, making it an affordable way to explore some of Cape Town’s most cherished natural spaces.
Residents of Cape Town would still enjoy free access to the rest of the City-managed nature reserves, encouraging more people to explore the various areas of natural beauty the city has to offer.
To accommodate this transition, all digital cards (credit and debit cards) would be accepted at the reserve gates.
Visitors could also take advantage of the contactless payment option by using the tap-to-pay feature on their cards, making the payment process quick and convenient.
The decision to adopt cashless payments was made with the safety and security of staff and visitors in mind.
"We have made the decision in the interest of the safety and security of staff and visitors, who will no longer need to handle cash on the Nature Reserve premises," said Eddie Andrews, the City’s Deputy Mayor and Mayoral Committee Member for Spatial Planning and Environment.
This shift also aligned Cape Town with other global tourism destinations, where cashless systems had already been implemented in popular sites such as Cape Point.
Andrews further highlighted that the change was not only about security but also about increasing accessibility to the city’s nature reserves.
"I encourage all our residents to visit the many City nature reserves and conservation areas in Cape Town, some of which I am sure many are still not aware of. These spaces offer a refreshing break from the hustle of our city lives and are right on your doorstep."
Residents were reminded that the Witzands Aquifer Nature Reserve would remain free for pedestrian access, allowing visitors to walk, hike, or picnic in the dunes without incurring any costs.
The City’s website was updated with detailed information on opening hours, locations, and activities at the various reserves, making it easier for visitors to plan their trips.
This move to cashless payments was part of a wider effort to enhance sustainability, security, and convenience within Cape Town’s public spaces, aiming to provide a more modern and streamlined experience for those who enjoyed exploring the city’s natural heritage.