While some of us may spend the day celebrating South Africa’s many cultures, and others will be lighting the braai fires (perhaps you’ll be doing both, even at the same time), there’s good news for Capetonians hoping to spot some spring blooms and soak up a little fresh air.
On Heritage Day (Wednesday 24 September, 2025) the City of Cape Town is dropping entrance fees at selected nature reserves, inviting residents to hike, picnic and braai for mahala all across the Metro.
“We want to showcase our natural heritage in Cape Town,” says Deputy Mayor Eddie Andrews. “We are so privileged to be surrounded with the pristine natural beauty that exists in our city. This Heritage Day, we encourage residents to get outdoors and make the most of the public holiday by exploring their local nature reserve or better yet, take a drive to the other side of town to visit a reserve you have not visited before.”
What’s free
Gate fees are waived at reserves that usually charge for entry: Blaauwberg, Table Bay, Tygerberg and Helderberg. Remember that fees for specific permitted activities may still apply, but entry is gratis.
Where to roam (Time Out’s top picks)
- Tygerberg: for big-sky views and spring flowers.
- Helderberg: family-friendly trails and fabulous fynbos above Somerset West.
- Table Bay (Rietvlei): birding galore near Table View.
- Blaauwberg: beach walks, Eerste Steen braai and postcard Table Mountain vistas.
- False Bay (Rondevlei & Zeekoevlei): lakeside paths and picnic lawns.
More options across the city include Bothasig Fynbos, Botterblom, Bracken, Durbanville, Edith Stephens, Harmony Flats, Steenbras, Uitkamp Wetland, Witzands Aquifer (Atlantis Dunes), Wolfgat (plus its Education Centre), and Zandvlei.
Pack a blanket, grab the tongs, lace up your walking shoes, and take a day to discover Cape Town’s natural heritage.
Feeling energetic? Here's our pick of the Best day hikes in Cape Town!
Sign up to Time Out Cape Town's free newsletter for expert recommendations on new things to do, see, eat and drink in the Mother City. You can also follow Time Out Cape Town on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok!
TIME OUT RECOMMENDS:
😋 The best restaurants in Cape Town
🏨 The best hotels in Cape Town
🍳 The best breakfast and brunch spots in Cape Town
🍷 The best wine farms in and around Cape Town
🍕 The best pizza in Cape Town
📍 The best things to do in Cape Town