Bergplaas Nature Reserve
South Africa
Bergplaas Nature Reserve
Worldwide
member since July 2025
Based in South Africa, Bergplaas Nature Reserve is dedicated to restoring biodiversity and fostering a deep connection to nature. Founded by HRH Princess Irene of the Netherlands, Bergplaas offers immersive, low-impact experiences that honour the Rights of Nature and promote ecological healing and personal reflection.
At Bergplaas, the 4Cs framework—Conservation, Community, Culture, and Commerce—guides every aspect of its impact. As a Privately Protected Area, Bergplaas safeguards endangered species such as the Blue Crane and Black Wildebeest within the Nama Karoo Biome. The organisation empowers local communities through fully funded training programmes for conservation students and professionals. By preserving cultural heritage and embracing diverse voices, Bergplaas fosters a space of respect and learning. Its low-impact, walking-only tourism model promotes regeneration, supporting both the environment and the people connected to this land.
Bergplaas Nature Reserve 4C impact
CONSERVATION
Bergplaas plays a vital ecological role as a watershed for the Sundays and Orange Rivers and is formally designated as a Privately Protected Area under the Biodiversity Stewardship Programme.
Bergplaas supports a range of threatened and endemic species, including the Black Wildebeest, Blue Crane, and Plain Mountain Adder, and was designated a Quiet Conservation Area by Quiet Parks International in 2024.
COMMUNITY
Bergplaas operates on a low-impact, regenerative tourism model, with experiences designed exclusively on foot to minimise environmental disturbance.
It offers guests a choice of fully catered stays, immersive primitive trails, or self-catering retreats that inspire a slower pace, deeper connection with nature, and personal reflection.
CULTURE
Bergplaas fosters culture through conservation initiatives and active engagement with a diverse community of visitors, staff, and learners.
It creates a space where individual stories, values, and traditions are honoured, nurturing connection, reflection, and mutual understanding.
COMMERCE
Bergplaas provides fully funded, hands-on training for local community members and Nelson Mandela University students in Nature Conservation and Game Ranch Management.
It also offers tailored training for professionals from conservation organisations, strengthening practical expertise and cultivating a new generation of conservationists.