Visitors’ Perceptions of Urban Conservation: Experiences, Values and Intended Actions

Background: Research increasingly recognises meaningful human–nature experiences as key drivers of environmental conservation and stewardship. Despite growing interest in the social dimensions of conservation, limited attention has been given to how visitors understand and perceive urban nature conservation and how such perceptions relate to their willingness to participate in conservation actions. This study addresses this gap by examining visitors’ perceptions of urban nature conservation within the City of Cape Town urban reserves, where research on the human dimensions of urban conservation remains limited. Understanding such insights has long-term implications for urban conservation strategies. Method: This study used a combination of in-depth interviews, online qualitative surveys (SurveyMars), focus group discussions, and the Photovoice method over a 10-month period. Adult participants (n = 101) were recruited through convenience and purposive sampling from visitors to the urban nature reserves in the City of Cape Town. Results: Visitors viewed urban conservation not only in terms of biodiversity protection but also through learning opportunities, conservation values, pro-nature behaviours, and social and cultural experiences associated with meaningful interactions with nature. However, these understandings were often constrained by broader challenges related to access and inclusion. Conclusion: Urban conservation requires moving beyond biodiversity protection alone towards more socially inclusive, people-centred approaches that recognise and support the everyday relationships people develop with nature.