Vision: To achieve an exemplary connection between people and nature, in a secured comfortable and sustainable living environment.
Preserve endemic species through practical approaches to conservation.
Unifying research, environmental education, development, latest technology and traditional knowledge
.“No research without action, no action without research”-Kurt Lewin
Hands on education to inform and inspire people of all ages.
"May you be fully aware of your fortunate lot to enjoy that paradise on earth"
Linnaeus –Swedish botanist, 1707 –1778
In October, the Cape Winelands Biosphere Reserve team wrapped up the five-month introductory course in field and culture guiding, co-funded by Stellenbosch Municipality. The programme was designed to equip emerging guides with foundational knowledge of the region’s natural and cultural heritage, helping to build local capacity within Stellenbosch’s growing eco-tourism and community-led tourism sectors.
Earlier in the year, the Cape Winelands Biosphere Reserve (CWBR) Education on the Move (STEAM-Y Mobile classroom), was one out of 120 nominations world-wide submitted for the 2025 UNESCO Japan Prize. In November…
From high mountains and lush mangroves to arid deserts and dense forests, this updated edition showcases all 784 UNESCO Biosphere Reserves across 142 countries—places where people and nature collaborate for a sustainable future.
Conservancies represent a vital model of collaborative conservation, where private landowners voluntarily unite to manage their properties in ways that sustain and protect biodiversity, ecosystems, and natural heritage...find out what is happening in two of the conservancies in the Stellenbosch area.
In July 2025, Iimbovane, in collaboration with the education team of the Cape Winelands Biosphere Reserve, hosted a youth camp for learners to develop important conservation and life skills. The camp provided learners with direct experience in…
On my third day of volunteering in the Cape Winelands Biosphere Reserve, I joined an early morning hike through the fynbos vegetation, endemic to South Africa. Surrounded by thick mist, the path was barely visible…
The Cape Winelands Biosphere Reserve (CWBR), a non-profit company, was registered in 2007 with UNESCO as South Africa’s 5th biosphere reserve and covers 322 032 ha in the Western Cape Winelands.
This region of immense beauty from 20 m to 1 860 m elevation above sea level. It has a unique wonderful biodiversity including Cape Fold Mountains, deep river valleys, exceptional fynbos, rolling hills, commercial forests, world-renowned wineries, small agricultural settlements and beautiful historical towns.
Learn first hand about the history of South Africa
