South African National Parks Week kicks off

National Parks Week in full swing

South Africa’s 19th annual National Parks Week is currently in full swing, after it was launched by the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George this past Sunday, 8 September.

The official start of the free week commenced on Monday, 9 September and ends on Sunday, 15 September, although SANParks said that only selected parks will still provide free entry to South African day visitors from 13 to 15 September.

What is parks week?

Each year, SANParks hosts the free week as an initiative aimed at linking the SA national parks system to the global national movement and to showcase the best of South Africa’s national parks. The free week also provides all South Africans with the opportunity to explore their local National Park at absolutely no cost.

Free Week has seen an influx of day visitors in all participating parks since its inception in 2006. SANParks also 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.

It’s important to note, however, free access to the parks does not include accommodation or any commercial activities.

Here’s where and when:

The 18 parks that will be offering free access and their dates can be found below: