More than 120 volunteers travelled to Langkloof for a conservation weekend that sparked new friendships, meaningful connections and a shared dream for the future.
Western Cape, South Africa (27 May 2026) – More than 120 South Africans recently headed into the Cederberg for a conservation volunteer weekend, but many left feeling like they had become part of something far bigger than themselves.
The fourth annual Keeping it Wild in Cederberg weekend, hosted by Love Our Trails in partnership with Sustainable Ceder, brought together volunteers from across the country for a weekend focused on conservation, community upliftment and connection.
Over several days, volunteers worked alongside local residents in Langkloof to help improve hiking trails leading to ancient rock art sites and cedar forests, clear vegetation and support conservation efforts in the area. But somewhere between the hard work, shared meals and evenings around the fire, strangers quickly became friends.
One idea, in particular, quickly became the talking point of the weekend. The group planned to create a community-owned tented campsite in Langkloof.
The proposed campsite aims to create a welcoming base for future conservation volunteers, school groups, hikers and travellers wanting to explore the region, while also creating sustainable opportunities for local families through tourism, guiding, catering and small businesses.
According to organisers, the goal is not to create something flashy, but rather a meaningful space that allows the community to benefit directly from the tourism flowing through the Cederberg.
“This weekend reminded us that people genuinely want to do good,” said Blake Dyason. “In a world where there is so much negativity online, we watched over 120 people give up their time, drive long distances, sleep in tents, work hard all weekend, and ask for nothing in return.”
The initiative has now launched a crowdfunding page to help raise R180,000 towards building the campsite and expanding community-led tourism opportunities in the area.
For those wanting to support the project or learn more about the crowdfunding campaign, the link can be found Love Our Trails.
Related Stories
Hlombe Ndzube Crowned Miss Earth South Africa 2026
Cindy’s Book on "The Weight of Hope" is Set to Make Christmas Extra Special for Those in Need
by 
