Every September, South Africans are given the perfect excuse to step into the wild – South African National Parks Week. This annual initiative by SANParks grants free entry to most of the country’s national parks for day visitors. It’s a celebration of our natural heritage and a chance to experience the beauty and diversity of South Africa’s protected areas.
The goal is simple: to encourage South Africans to explore their natural heritage and feel a sense of pride and ownership. For many, this week provides a first-time opportunity to visit a national park and discover the landscapes and wildlife that make our country unique.
But before you pack your bags, there are some important details to note. Also, our day visitors guide to the various parks may be interesting to read.
What’s free, and what’s not?
Free access applies to day visits only.
Accommodation, guided tours, and other paid activities within the parks are not included.
Some sections of specific parks remain excluded from the free entry offer.
Key dates for 2025
Kruger National Park
- Launch date: 21 September 2025, Mopani Rest Camp, Limpopo
- Free access: 22 – 26 September 2025
Cape Region
- Agulhas National Park: 22 – 28 September 2025
- Bontebok National Park: 22 – 28 September 2025
- Table Mountain National Park: 22 – 28 September 2025 (excluding Boulders Penguin Colony and the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway)
- Tankwa Karoo National Park: 22 – 28 September 2025
- West Coast National Park: 22 – 26 September 2025 (shorter period due to Flower Season)
Frontier Region
- Addo Elephant National Park: 22 – 27 September 2025
- Camdeboo National Park: 22 – 28 September 2025
- Karoo National Park: 22 – 28 September 2025
- Mountain Zebra National Park: 22 – 28 September 2025
Garden Route Region
- Garden Route National Park: 22 – 28 September 2025
Northern Region
- Golden Gate Highlands National Park: 22 – 28 September 2025
- Mapungubwe National Park: 20 – 28 September 2025
- Marakele National Park: 22 – 28 September 2025
Arid Region
- |Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park: 22 – 26 September 2025
- Augrabies Falls National Park: 22 – 26 September 2025
- Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: 22 – 28 September 2025
- Mokala National Park: 22 – 28 September 2025
Tips for visitors
Arrive early – some parks get busy, especially during weekends.
Bring ID – South African citizens must show proof of residency to qualify for free entry.
Pack snacks and water – day visits can be long and facilities vary.
Respect the parks – stick to designated areas, don’t litter, and keep wildlife safe.
SA National Parks Week 2025 is a reminder of how fortunate we are to have world-class wilderness areas right on our doorstep. Whether it’s spotting elephants in Addo, hiking at Golden Gate, or soaking up flower season at West Coast National Park, this is the perfect chance to reconnect with nature.
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