Inaugural Manutsa Mountain Festival to celebrate conservation, community and creativity
On 24 and 25 April 2026, the Northern Drakensberg will witness a significant milestone in conservation-led tourism as Cape Vulture Nature Reserve hosts the inaugural Manutsa Mountain Festival.
This event is the first of its kind at the reserve and is designed to celebrate the area’s breathtaking natural beauty, unique wildlife and vibrant community spirit. It marks a major step forward for the reserve’s ecotourism and conservation efforts.
Beyond entertainment, the Manutsa Mountain Festival aims to educate visitors about vital vulture conservation efforts and demonstrate how nature-based tourism can profoundly benefit local communities.
With the dramatic backdrop of the Northern Drakensberg escarpment and the Manutsa Mountains, the reserve’s striking clifftop setting sets the stage for this unique celebration.
The festival is set to highlight the region’s diverse wildlife and spectacular landscapes through immersive experiences, community activities and local entertainment. Visitors can look forward to wellness activities, a local craft market, diverse local food vendors and captivating live performances. The confirmed line-up features acclaimed artists such as Jeremy Loops, Hannah Ray, Flying Bantu and Jahworx – promising an unforgettable overall experience.
“This festival truly reflects what we’re all about: deeply rooted conservation and strong community engagement,” says Ashley Lambert from Cape Vulture Nature Reserve. “We are creating something that not only showcases our extraordinary natural heritage – including South Africa’s fourth largest Cape vulture colony – but also actively brings sustainable tourism to the area and fosters meaningful involvement from local communities.”
Festival programme highlights
The festival begins on Friday, 24 April, with the opening of the Camping Village, followed by a candlelight acoustic concert and a silent disco under the stars.
On Saturday, 25 April, the programme continues with yoga sessions, a vibrant festival market and arts and crafts stalls, conservation talks, kids’ activities a variety of local food vendors, plus live performances on the main stage.
For visitors, the festival offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the area’s rich biodiversity and landscapes while directly supporting crucial conservation work and boosting the local economy. The event is expected to attract nature enthusiasts, families and those seeking an outdoor adventure fused with cultural and artistic expression.
The Manutsa Mountain Festival represents the reserve’s growing focus on combining impactful conservation education with innovative, community-based tourism initiatives – shaping a festival built on culture, community and the raw beauty of its surroundings.
For reservation enquiries, email reservations@capevulturelodge.co.za or telephone +27 (0) 76 362 0390. Book your ticket on Quicket.
