The Greater Simonsberg Conservancy (GSC) is inviting the public to take part in Walk for the Wild, a 10 km trail run and hike at Delheim Wine Estate on 9 May 2026, supporting leopard conservation and biodiversity protection in the Stellenbosch region.
Set on the slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain, the event combines outdoor adventure with meaningful conservation impact, with all proceeds contributing to the protection of leopards and their fragile mountain habitat.
The GSC works closely with the Cape Leopard Trust (CLT), a leading conservation organisation dedicated to research, education, and human-wildlife coexistence in the Western Cape and beyond. Together, the organisations are strengthening long-term conservation efforts across private and protected land on Simonsberg and its surrounds.
The GSC forms part of a broader landscape approach to conservation, where private landowners collaborate to protect critically important Renosterveld and Fynbos ecosystems and maintain ecological corridors that allow wildlife to move freely across the Simonsberg landscape.
Research by the CLT, including large-scale leopard monitoring across the Boland Mountain Complex, has confirmed the continued presence of leopards in the Simonsberg area. Camera trap data collected on GSC member properties such as Boschendal, Plaisir, and Delheim Wine Estate highlights the vital role private land plays in sustaining viable leopard populations.
Beyond research, the CLT runs environmental education programmes, and snare awareness initiatives, while also developing practical conservation solutions such as predator-proof livestock enclosures through its Mobi-kraal project.
Walk for the Wild will be hosted at Delheim Wine Estate, offering participants exclusive access to the estate’s Leopard Trail with sweeping views over the Stellenbosch valley. Every entry directly supports ongoing leopard research, education, and conservation action in the Greater Simonsberg Conservancy.
Participants are encouraged to join the fun by dressing in leopard-themed outfits for the Best Dressed Leopard competition, with prizes awarded for the most creative entries. Trail runners start at 08h00 sharp, while hikers can opt for a rolling start between 08h00-10h00.
Walk for the Wild is more than a trail event – it is a direct contribution to protecting one of South Africa’s most elusive predators and the landscapes they depend on.
Limited entries via Quicket (https://www.quicket.co.za/events/166878-walk-for-the-wild-delheim-wine-estate/#/) – so book now. Lace up, dress up, and walk for the wild!
