CapeNature has taken the difficult decision to close its much loved and popular Algeria campsite in the Cederberg Complex for an extended period following careful deliberation. This decision was informed by a thorough assessment of the damage suffered by the campsite following devastating flood events in 2023 and 2024. The rest of the Cederberg Complex remains open, including accommodation and hiking trails.
It has become clear that the damaging effect of prolonged adverse weather events at Algeria campsite cannot be fixed with short-term solutions. CapeNature is committed to offering its visitors world-class tourism products. In light of the impact that extreme weather patterns have had, the Entity aims to provide products that are future-fit.
Rainfall at Algeria has increased over the past two years by approximately 30% compared to the average rainfall of the preceding 10 years. There have been no less than five localised flooding events, where rainfall was in excess of 50 mm within a 24-hour cycle. Over the past two years flooding led to saturated soil conditions, increased erosion and significant topsoil loss. Debris, such as dead wood, branches and trees, contribute to blockages in water management systems, further exacerbating soil displacement and erosion. The cumulative impact includes the formation of erosion gullies and substantial soil movement, impeding water management and causing considerable environmental damage. Major damage to existing gabion structures, roads, jeep tracks, water catch pits, stone walls, embankments and riverbanks have left Algeria worse for wear.
In order to safeguard the Algeria campsite against future catastrophic weather events, it is critical not to repair what was, but to redesign and rebuild. Sustainability is key when reimagining the Algeria campsite, and with the input of the highly experienced CapeNature Tourism Development team, engineers and architects, the new vision for the Algeria campsite will prove to be both exciting and innovative. Apart from futureproofing the area, the latest trends in camping comforts and requirements from our visitors will be taken into consideration. It is anticipated that the campsite will be closed for a two-year period to allow for the extensive work that needs to be done.
Dr Ashley Naidoo, CEO of CapeNature says, “The Entity sincerely apologises to our long standing loyal and new visitors who were looking forward to camping in the beautiful Algeria Cederberg Wilderness during the upcoming festive season. However, we are also looking forward to welcoming visitors to the new campsite that will stand the test of weather events. The rebuilt tourism product will have the same serenity and tranquillity but with a new flair. We thank our visitors for their patience, and it will be rewarded with THE campsite to book in the West Coast region once the rebuilding has been completed.”
In the meantime, we encourage enthusiastic campers to explore our other campsites by visiting www.capenature.co.za/accommodation/camping
