The South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that 21 national parks will grant free access to visitors in September for a period of a week.
SANParks uses this time to cultivate a sense of pride in South Africa’s natural, cultural and historical heritage, as protected and preserved by the national parks system.
Free access to the national parks at this time does not include free access to accommodation facilities and other tourist activities.
Influx of daily visitors
On 21 September 2025, SANParks will host a celebratory event at Kruger National Park to kickstart the 20th annual SA National Parks Week, which will be held from 22 to 26 September and extended to 27 and 28 September at selected national parks.
During this period, free access is granted to most of the 21 national parks under the management of SANParks.
National Parks Week has seen an influx of day visitors in all participating parks since its inception in 2006.
“SA National Parks Week has proved to be a successful campaign that provides education and awareness about South Africa’s inclusive approach to conservation.
“Whilst offering an opportunity to experience South Africa’s rich natural and cultural heritage, attention is also drawn to the sustainable development practices made possible through partnerships with key role players like communities living adjacent to national parks, business, scientists and tourists,” SANParks said.
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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