Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning
Question by:
Hon Dave Bryant
Answered by:
Hon Anton Bredell
Question Number:
6
Question Body:
With reference to the closure of the Fountain Shack and Miaspoort trails by CapeNature due to drought conditions:
- What process is being undertaken to rehabilitate these areas and (b) when is it anticipated that the trails will be reopened to the public?
Answer Body:
(a) The Fountain Shack remains open and has not been closed. There is no specific rehabilitation process underway for the Fountain Shack, as it remains operational.
While the region is experiencing drought conditions, CapeNature has implemented several mitigation measures to manage visitor expectations and ensure a quality experience. These include:
- Providing each visitor with a 1.5L bottle of water on arrival.
- Advising guests to bring their own water.
- Pre-trip communication and education around water scarcity.
- Offering flexible booking options, including rebooking, alternative accommodation experience, or full refunds.
- The Miaspoort Trail is closed due to the closure of the Du Toits Kloof Pass, which is the only access point.
(b) The Fountain Shack is operational and has not been closed.
The Miaspoort Trail is expected to reopen on 1 November 2025, subject to the reopening of the Du Toits Kloof Pass by the Roads Department.
Date:
Thursday, October 2, 2025
