The Western Soutpansberg Nature Reserve (WSNR) has been officially declared a protected area covering 11 607 hectares of critical biodiversity in Limpopo. Published in the Limpopo Provincial Gazette on January 17, the declaration marks a major milestone for conservation in South Africa.
The Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) led the formation of the reserve, which consists of 14 properties owned by eight landowners. The WSNR covers a key biodiversity area, a centre of endemism, a strategic groundwater source area and critical biodiversity areas identified in the Limpopo Conservation Plan.
The local Soutpansberg Mountains are home to an exceptional 593 species of trees across five biomes including wetlands, forests, savanna, grasslands and thickets. The area also contains fynbos, sacred cultural sites, rock art and archaeological sites.
Recognising its ecological and cultural importance, the EWT became a landowner in 2018, initiating efforts to formally declare large parts of the Western Soutpansberg a protected area under the Biodiversity Stewardship Programme. Working in partnership with the Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism, Ndlovu de Villiers Attorneys, Conservation Outcomes and ZZ2, the process culminated in the 2025 reserve declaration.
The Western Soutpansberg Nature Reserve Association, a voluntary association of committed landowners, will manage the reserve. Each landowner will operate according to the WSNR Framework Management Plan with conservation activities including:
- Invasive species control
- Fire and bush encroachment management
- Community engagement and environmental education
- Women’s health workshops in local villages
Eco-tourism initiatives are also underway including the Old Salt Trail guided hiking route showcasing the reserve’s landscapes and biodiversity.
Plans are in place to expand the WSNR by 20 000 hectares in 2025, contributing to the long-term goal to protect 50 000 hectares by 2030. This aligns with South Africa’s commitment to the Convention on Biological Diversity’s 30x30 target, which aims to protect 30% of the planet’s land and ocean ecosystems by 2030.
The newly declared WSNR offers tourism opportunities ranging from five-star lodges to overlanding campsites and hiking trails. Visitors exploring this biodiversity-rich region support conservation while experiencing one of South Africa’s most unique landscapes.
