Pre-Conference Field Trips – September 6–7
Field trip organizers and partners have curated a diverse program of excursions showcasing South Africa’s exceptional natural history, biodiversity, and cultural heritage. These experiences provide delegates with unique access to scientific collections, iconic landscapes, and conservation initiatives across the Cape region.
Final logistics and participation will be confirmed closer to the conference, and certain activities remain subject to availability, weather conditions, and operational requirements.
Climate: Early spring in Cape Town is generally mild (15–22 °C), though conditions may change rapidly, particularly in coastal and mountainous areas. Wind and light rain are possible.
Disclaimer: Itineraries, timings, and capacities are indicative and may be refined closer to the event.
Field Trip Registration is now open
If you have not yet registered for the main conference, please register today to take advantage of early registration rates. You can add Field Trips to your registration.
If you have already completed your SPNHC 2026 conference registration, you can add field Trips or other ticketed events through Oxford Abstracts using the same email address you originally used. From your profile menu, select My Registrations, open your SPNHC 2026 registration, and choose Modify Registration to reopen your form. Select any additional ticketed items, proceed through checkout to pay only for the new items, and you will receive an updated confirmation once the changes are complete.
Sunday, September 6
West Coast Fossil Park & !Khwa ttu San Heritage Centre
This full-day field excursion offers an immersive journey into South Africa’s fossil heritage and indigenous knowledge systems along the West Coast. Delegates will explore the globally renowned West Coast Fossil Park, a Miocene–Pliocene locality celebrated for its exceptionally preserved fossil assemblages and insights into past ecosystems.
The experience continues to the !Khwa ttu San Heritage Centre, where participants engage with living cultural heritage through guided interpretation and curated experiences that highlight the connection between indigenous knowledge, landscape, and biodiversity.
The excursion concludes with a shared indigenous meal and reflections before returning to Cape Town.
FT001 West Coast Fossil Park & !Khwa ttu San Heritage Centre
Date: Sunday, 6 September 2026
Duration: Full Day (07:00 – 16:00)
Departure/Return: Iziko South African Museum
Inclusions: Transport, guided tours, refreshments, and indigenous lunch
Price: USD 85 per person
Maximum Participants: 50 pax
Monday, September 7
Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden & Table Mountain National Park
This field trip explores South Africa’s botanical heritage within the globally significant Cape Floristic Region. Delegates will experience Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden through a guided tour and visit to the SANBI herbarium, providing insight into plant collections, taxonomy, and conservation science.
Following a brunch, the excursion continues to Table Mountain National Park, where participants will engage with one of the world’s most iconic biodiversity landscapes. Weather permitting, access to upper elevations via the cableway provides panoramic views and ecological context.
This experience highlights the integration of science, collections, and public engagement in biodiversity conservation.
Date: Monday, 7 September 2026
Duration: Half Day (07:00 – 14:30)
Departure/Return: Iziko South African Museum
Inclusions: Transport (luxury coach), guided tours, brunch, and refreshments
Price: USD 85 per person
Maximum Participants: 50 pax
Two Oceans Aquarium Marine Science & Behind-the-Scenes Experience
Experience 1 – Behind-the-Scenes Guided Tour
A curator-led experience providing insight into aquarium operations and marine conservation:
- Session times: 09:30 or 12:45
- Maximum 8 participants per session
Price: USD 65 per person
This exclusive marine experience offers privileged access to the Two Oceans Aquarium, providing a unique perspective on South Africa’s marine biodiversity, conservation efforts, and scientific operations.
Participants will engage in a curator-led guided tour, including behind-the-scenes access to aquarium systems, animal care facilities, and conservation programs. The experience explores key marine ecosystems, including kelp forests, rocky shores, pelagic environments, and deep-sea habitats, alongside discussions on ocean health and climate change.
Participants will have full access to public exhibits and guided interpretation, with opportunities to engage with marine scientists and to take photographs.Additional Notes:
Additional Notes:
- Meet at the Aquarium – Transport by Uber for your own account.
- Café and restaurant facilities available on site (for own expense)
Experience 2 – Aquarium Dive Experience
A specialized opportunity for qualified participants to enter selected exhibit tanks under professional supervision and experience marine life from within:
- Kelp Forest Exhibit (max 3 participants per session)
- Open Ocean Exhibit (max 3 participants per session)
- Shark Exhibit (max 3 participants per session)
- Session times: 08:00 or 12:00
- Note – one dive session per person, unless space is available after August 31.
Price: USD 110 per person (per dive experience) – note: minimum Open Water 1 required; USD 110 price is if you have dived in the last 6 months; If the diver is out of date, the price will be higher to cover the cost of a refresher. Aquarium gear will be used
Additional Notes:
- Meet at the Aquarium – Transport by Uber for your own account.
- Café and restaurant facilities available on site (for own expense)
- Dive participation is subject to certification, medical clearance, and availability
General Notes:
Non-Aquarium excursions depart from and return to the Iziko South African Museum, serving as the central hub for conference activities.
Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes, bring sun protection, and carry appropriate clothing for variable weather conditions.
Special Thanks to our Diamond Sponsor – Delta Designs LTD
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