7 Wetlands You Must Visit In Cape Town

Cape Town Tourism
February 6, 2025
Nature Activities, Sustainable Cape Town
4 min Read

Did you know that wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems on earth, and Cape Town is home to many of these spaces?

Each year, on February 2, the world comes together to celebrate World Wetlands Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of wetlands and their role in sustaining biodiversity and the health of our planet.

Why Do Wetlands Matter?

Wetlands, such as marshes, swamps and estuaries, serve as nature’s sponges, filtering and purifying water, regulating the flow of rivers and groundwater, and protecting coastal areas from floods. It also provides critical habitats for species of birds, amphibians, fish and plants, many of which depend on these ecosystems for breeding, feeding, and shelter.

Wetlands are sometimes called the “kidneys of the Earth” due to their ability to filter out pollutants and maintain water quality. Wetlands are known for being a natural carbon sink (helping to combat climate change) and a critical refuge for species affected by environmental shifts

Wetlands in Cape Town and Surrounding Areas

Let’s take a closer look at the wetlands in and around Cape Town:

Intaka Island, Century City

Intaka is a perfect example of nature conservation and urban development co-existing in harmony. This award-winning 16-hectare wetland in Century City is home to 212 species of indigenous fynbos plants and 120 bird species. Here, you can spot red-knobbed coot, red-eyed dove, red-winged starling, African sacred ibis, Cape weaver, Cape sparrow, and white-breasted cormorant. We recommend taking a guided walk to learn more about the wetlands and see some of the island’s popular birdlife from one of the bird hides. Finish your visit with a scenic boat trip around the canal.

Location: 2 Park Ln, Century City, Cape Town
Price: Entrance fees: Adults: R35; Children under 12: R22; Pensioner: R22
Contact details: Visit www.intaka.co.za

GrandWest

You might be surprised to learn that GrandWest’s 56-hectare property has sheltered wetland habitat for birds. Tucked away from the action, seven man-made wetlands quietly support a growing bird population. These wetlands weren’t always part of the plan. When GrandWest opened in 2000, waterlogged areas would flood into the already struggling Elsies River, worsening water quality. The solution? Engineers transformed these problem spots into wetlands, creating a natural drainage system that fills up in winter and dries out in summer.

Every year, staff roll up their sleeves to help clear out invasive plants that clog the waterways, ensuring the wetlands stay healthy. From the Cape Sparrows and Weavers to Egyptian Geese and Purple Herons, a variety of species now call this sanctuary home. Sadly, it’s off-limits to visitors to protect the habitat, but next time you’re at GrandWest, just know there’s a little slice of nature thriving behind the scenes.

Location: 1 Jakes Gerwel Dr, Goodwood,

Website: https://bit.ly/3INxzkw

Rietvlei Nature Reserve

This wetland is a seasonal wonder as it brings a rush of water in winter and partially dries out in summer. According to Birdlife South Africa, it’s “one of the last functioning coastal lakes characteristic of, and restricted to, the Western Cape.” You can explore the wetland’s two bird hides to spot the different bird species, or keep your eyes peeled for over 30 species of mammals, from the playful Cape clawless otter to the nimble Cape grysbok and even the elusive caracal.

Location: 8 Sandpiper Cres, Flamingo Vlei, Cape Town
Price: Entry fees start from R15 for children and senior citizens and R20 for adults. Children under 3: free|
Contact details: www.friendsofrietvlei.co.za/

False Bay Nature Reserve (Rondevlei Section)

Rondevlei is a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers alike. With over 230 bird species and shy hippopotamuses quietly roaming its waters, it’s one of the last remaining freshwater wetland areas in the city. This birder’s paradise is especially famous for its thriving colonies of waterbirds, including the endangered Cape Gannet. Explore the boardwalks and carefully placed bird hides. Whether you’re out for a leisurely stroll, snapping photos, or soaking in the serenity- Rondevlei brings a sense of calm. There are designated picnic spots if you want to make a day of it.

Location: Pelikan Park, Cape Town
Price: Free
Contact details: bit.ly/4117JDX

Khayelitsha Wetlands

The Khayelitsha Wetlands Park’s growing ecosystem supports a diverse array of plant and animal species, and it serves as a crucial nesting site for migratory birds.

Spanning across 45 hectares, the park features jogging and cycling trails and is pet-friendly, making it ideal for dog walkers. The park has become a hub for ecotourism and environmental education, where kids can enjoy the playground and skate park. Other amenities include footpaths and trails and a garden.

Location: Hlanga Road, Khayelitsha
Price: Free
Contact details: bit.ly/40CS10f

Zandvlei Estuary Nature Reserve

Zandvlei Estuary Nature Reserve’s rich habitat makes it ideal for birdlife and aquatic species, including the critically endangered Cape Flats Yellowfish. Nature enthusiasts will feel right at home here, with walking and cycling paths weaving through its scenic landscape. Birdwatchers will appreciate the stunning views of the wetland as they search for the birdlife in the area. If you’re lucky, you may see some migrating birds during your visit. Dabble in some adventure with catch and release fishing and kayaking at the jetty.

The reserve is actively involved in conservation programs aimed at preserving the wetland’s fragile ecosystem and improving water quality.

Location: Marina Da Gama, Cape Town
Price: Free
Contact details:bit.ly/4jrsHTo

Lower Silvermine Wetlands Conservation Area

A dedicated team of nature conservationists has worked tirelessly to restore the Lower Silvermine Wetlands Conservation Area, transforming it into a thriving sanctuary. Here, you can explore the remains of century-old dykes nestled alongside the wetlands and just a stone’s throw from Clovelly Beach. This area is a vital breeding ground for several endangered species, including the elusive Western leopard toad, the arum lily frog, the Cape River frog, and over 50 bird species. Whether you’re hiking, walking, or navigating specially designed Trails for the Blind, the area offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature.

Location: Main Road, between Clovelly and Fish Hoek
Price: Free
Contact details: Visit bit.ly/3EagNNN