Atlantis Dunefields & Silwerstroom Conservation Areas

Overview

Atlantis and Silwerstroomstrand are priority nature sites; about 45km from central Cape Town, they form part of the City’s Biodiversity Network. The conservation area protects not only the Atlantis Aquifer, the main water supply for Atlantis, Mamre and Pella, but also 163 plant species and a rich natural and cultural heritage.

Cape Flats Dune Strandveld and Atlantis Sand Fynbos cover about 3 000 hectares, half of which is owned by the City of Cape Town and the other half by the National Housing Board. Mobile dunes and limestone outcrops are some of the outstanding and unusual features. Water birds breed and feed in the many natural and artificial wetlands. Lizards, amphibians and mammals such as Steenbok, Cape Grysbok, the Small Grey Mongoose, Mole Rats and Caracal have all been recorded in the area.

OPENING HOURS for Atlantis Dunes: 7h00–19h00 for activities in the dunefields (with pre-arranged permits)
SIZE: 3 000 ha
ENTRY FEE: For 4x4s, quad-bikes, motorbikes and per person
ACTIVITIES: sand-boarding, beach walking, rock pools, filming, 4x4 driving, camping (caravan, chalets & tents), picnic sites, braai areas, hiking trails, bird watching, whale watching and fishing (permit required)
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION: formal programmes by appointment
FILMING: Small companies (stills shoots), maximum 10 vehicles & 25 people, pay one rate, while commercials pay a greater fee
CONTACT: Tel 021 577 5000/2/3/4; Fax 021 577 5001;
EMAIL: tumeka.mdlazi@capetown.gov.za

Cape Town Green Map
updated 03/2012 by City of Cape Town