In a historic sighting, a leopard has been photographed in the West Coast National Park – the first confirmed sighting in 170 years.
Captured by a remote camera trap, the image marks the species’ natural return to this part of the Cape’s coastal landscapes, after disappearing in the mid-1800s.Â
The discovery is the result of years of collaboration between the Landmark Leopard and Predator Project, South African National Parks (SANParks), the University of the Western Cape, Saldanha Bay Municipality, and multiple private landowners, aimed at monitoring and protecting the species. They are all working to restore wildlife corridors between Cape Town and the Berg River.
Conservationists are calling it a major win for coexistence and habitat restoration, and proof that nature is able to reclaim its ground.
Landmark Leopard and Predator Project
READ: Ride the kaleidoscope: Your quintessential West Coast guide
Address:  R27, Langebaan. The West Coast National Park lies just 1.5 hours from Cape Town, outside the town of Langebaan.
Opening hours:Â September to March (Summer):Â 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM |Â April to August (Winter):Â 7:00 AM to 6:00 PMÂ
The Postberg section of the reserve is open during flower season: August and September | 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Last entry at  4:30 PM)
Entrance fees: South African Citizens and Residents R78 adults, R39 children 2 – 11 years | SADC Nationals R123 adults, R61Â children 2 – 11 years |Â International (non-South African) Citizens R128 adults, R64Â children 2 – 11 years.
ICYMI: SANParks’ new 2025/26 tariffs: These are SA’s cheapest parks to visit
Landmark Leopard and Predator Project