CapeNature has reopened the iconic Whale Trail hike in the De Hoop Nature Reserve. The trail is considered to be one of the most meaningful ways to experience whale watching in the Western Cape.
Anton Bredell, the minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs says the trail was closed to construct safety upgrades and add new developments along the popular hiking route.
“CapeNature has now upgraded and improved the trail following a decision to close it in 2018.”
Bredell says some of the added features includes Solar powered electricity in accommodation units, which are now unaffected by load shedding, as well as restored and improved hiking routes with stainless steel structures and stairs for optimal weather resistance and safety.
“CapeNature is a public institution mandated to promote and ensure biodiversity conservation within the Western Cape. It manages and protects our natural heritage while providing access to all who wish to spend time in our beautiful natural areas. Continuous upgrades and investment into public entities like those managed by CapeNature means more visitors to our reserves which translates to greater sustainability. What we find in CapeNature reserves and surrounding areas is that the tourism generates jobs – often in most rural areas - and that is invaluable in South Africa. I want to congratulate CapeNature on a job well done and encourage people to visit our incredible reserves.”
Dr Razeena Omar, CEO of CapeNature, says while the fully equipped huts along the trail can sleep up to 12 people at a time, occupancy is currently restricted to 50% in line with COVID-19 regulations.
ENDS.
De Hoop Nature Reserve Whale Trail
The Whale Trail is only three hours from Cape Town and promises to be the ultimate hiking experience. The trail meanders through the breathtaking De Hoop Nature Reserve where the fragrance of fynbos intermingles with salty sea air. Our nature reserve is more than just a retreat, it’s a whole surrender! You will marvel at the abundance of endemic plant species and enjoy the company of a variety of rare and endangered animals. This World Heritage Site, spanning 34 000 hectares – the largest natural area managed by CapeNature – offers a safe haven where these species, hunted to the brink of extinction, are making a remarkable recovery thanks to tireless conservation efforts.
ABOUT CapeNature
CapeNature is a public institution mandated to promote and ensure biodiversity conservation within the Western Cape. The entity manages most of the mountain catchments and reserves that supply ecosystem services to the citizens of the Western Cape. This requires good scientific data, a sound understanding of fynbos ecology and commitment to the principles of integrated biodiversity management and planning. Much of these efforts are in remote areas out of the public eye but have a direct bearing on the quality of life of millions of people in the province.