From hiking local trails to exploring the ocean, Nyanga Hiking Club is growing a group of young environmental advocates and leaders.
Cape Town, South Africa (10 July 2025) – Discovering the freedom and joy that comes from exploring the great outdoors is what the Nyanga Hiking Club is trying to achieve. In the heart of Cape Town’s Nyanga township, a remarkable initiative is changing lives by connecting young people with the natural world.
Founded in 2020, the Nyanga Hiking Club began as a small group of children exploring different local trails but has since grown into a movement focused on inspiring a new generation of nature-loving leaders.
The club’s mission is simple but impactful: to provide a safe, uplifting outdoor experience for township youth and to foster a deep connection with nature. Dani Saporetti, the club’s coordinator, emphasised that this effort is about more than just hiking, but also about creating opportunities for children from all backgrounds to feel empowered.
“It’s not just a club. I want to create a movement,” Dani shared. “Every child deserves the space to feel free. Every child needs nature. Not just the ones whose parents appreciate nature. Not only those of a certain economic class or culture or set of abilities. Every child.”
Since its early days, the club’s activities have expanded from forest walks to more challenging mountain hikes that end with refreshing swims in tidal pools. It’s not just limited to walking; the kids also participate in beach clean-ups, with many developing a newfound respect and love for the ocean. Some decided to not only look at the waves but learn to ride them by learning to surf.
The club looks to nurture confidence, resilience and leadership skills in children who often face difficult environments at home. Spending time outdoors helps them build self-esteem and develop a sense of community.
Currently, the club is raising money to take the young nature explorers on a winter trip to the Two Oceans Aquarium. The excursion is a dream come true for many of the young nature-lovers who have spent most of their time cleaning shores and learning about marine life. This visit promises to deepen their connection to the ocean and provide an educational experience.
Donations will be used to cover entry fees and transportation. If you’d like to help make this dream a reality, you can support the aquarium trip by donating:
Nyanga Hiking Club NPC
FNB | Account: 63162520316
Branch Code: 204009
Reference: Aquarium
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Sources: Supplied
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