South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed that 21 national parks across the country will offer free entry to day visitors during the 20th annual SA National Parks Week, which runs from 22 to 26 September, with an extended weekend option at selected parks on 27 and 28 September.
A launch event is scheduled for 21 September at the Kruger National Park, officially kicking off the week-long celebration.
The initiative, launched in 2006, is designed to promote national pride, highlight South Africa’s natural and cultural heritage, and encourage greater public awareness around conservation efforts.
“SA National Parks Week has proved to be a successful campaign that provides education and awareness about South Africa’s inclusive approach to conservation,” SANParks said in a statement.
Featured Frontier Region Parks
Four of the country’s most popular protected areas in the Frontier Region will be participating:
- Addo Elephant National Park
- Karoo National Park
- Camdeboo National Park
- Mountain Zebra National Park
While entry is free, the offer does not cover accommodation, guided tours, or other paid tourist activities inside the parks.
Growing Public Engagement
Since its inception, National Parks Week has attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors, many of whom would otherwise be unable to afford entry fees. SANParks hopes that this milestone 20th year will see record public participation across all provinces.
Visitors are advised to arrive early, as parks may experience high foot traffic during the free-access period.
For more information and updates, visit the official SANParks website or check with individual parks for operating hours and entry conditions.
Dates and parks
For respective dates on when different parks will be observing SA National Parks Week and allowing free access, click HERE.
Cape Region
- Agulhas National Park: 22 – 28 September 2025
- Bontebok National Park: 22 – 28 September 2025
- Table Mountain National Park: 22 – 25 September 2025 [Extension TBC] (excluding Boulders Penguin Colony section of Table Mountain National Park and the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway)
- Tankwa Karoo National Park: 22 – 28 September 2025
- West Coast National Park: 22 – 26 September 2025 (not extending to the weekend, as it is active Flower Season)
Frontier Region
- Addo Elephant National Park: 22 – 27 September 2025
- Karoo National Park: 22 – 28 September 2025
- Camdeboo National Park: 22 – 28 September 2025
- Mountain Zebra National Park: 22 – 28 September 2025
Garden Route Region
- 22 – 28 September
Northern Region
- Mapungubwe National Park: 20 – 28 September 2025
- Golden Gate Highlands National Park: 22 – 28 September 2025
- Marakele National Park: 22 – 28 September 2025
Arid Region
- Augrabies Falls National Park: 22 – 26 September 2025
- Mokala National Park: 22 – 28 September 2025
- Kgalagadi National Park: 22 – 28 September 2025
- |Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park: 22 – 26 September 2025
Kruger
- Launch date 21 September 2025, Mopani rest Camp, Limpopo.
- Free access 22-26 September 2025
Have you taken advantage of the free access in previous years?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
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