South Africans are invited to visit participating national parks across the country for free during the upcoming SA National Parks Week. The initiative, aimed at promoting conservation and access to natural heritage, will run from September 7 to 10, 2026. This annual event, now in its 21st year, offers a unique opportunity for citizens to engage with the nation's rich biodiversity and natural landscapes.
Extended Access and Exclusions
Free access will be extended at Kruger National Park, West Coast National Park, and Augrabies Falls National Park, running from Monday, September 7, to Friday, September 11, 2026. This extended period will specifically exclude the weekend at these three locations, ensuring managed visitor flow during peak times. Not all parks are part of the free access initiative. Namaqua National Park is not included in the free access week. Additionally, certain sections within participating parks will also be excluded. The Boulders Penguin Colony Section of Table Mountain National Park will not be accessible for free during the campaign, due to its specific management requirements and conservation efforts. Similarly, the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is not included in the free access week, as it operates as a separate commercial entity.
How to Qualify and What's Included
To qualify for free access during Parks Week, South African citizens must present their identity documents at park gates. This requirement helps ensure that the initiative benefits its intended audience. Children are also required to present valid identification for entry, according to a statement from SANParks, emphasizing the importance of proper identification for all visitors. The organization clarified that free access does not cover additional services such as accommodation, guided activities, game drives, or other tourist activities, which will incur their standard fees. These supplementary experiences are key for park revenue and the sustainability of conservation efforts. Individual parks may also implement varying entry conditions and visitor limits during the free access period, reflecting the unique capacities and ecological sensitivities of each location. This ensures that while general entry is complimentary, specific experiences and services within the parks remain chargeable, helping to manage resources and maintain the quality of visitor experiences.
Parks Week's Impact and History
SA National Parks Week has served as a flagship public awareness initiative for SANParks since its inception in 2006. This campaign aims to broaden access to South Africa's protected areas, fostering a deeper connection between citizens and their natural environment. SANParks stated, "This highly anticipated South African National Parks (SANParks) campaign opens the gates of participating national parks to South African day visitors at no charge, creating an opportunity for families, communities, schools, nature lovers and first-time visitors to experience some of the country’s most spectacular protected areas." The initiative has proven highly successful in encouraging domestic tourism and environmental education. In 2025, more than 105,000 visitors took advantage of the free-access initiative, noting its significant reach and popularity among South Africans. SANParks also clarified entry requirements, noting, "To qualify for free access, South Africans must present their identity documents. Children must also present valid identification at the gate. Free access does not include accommodation, guided activities, game drives or other tourist activities, as these carry their normal fees." This clear communication helps manage visitor expectations and ensures smooth operations during the busy period.
Official Statement
The initiative marks the 21st annual SA National Parks Week, an ongoing effort to connect South Africans with their natural heritage and promote a culture of conservation. SANParks reiterated that while general entry is free, the offer does not extend to additional services. Free access does not include accommodation, guided activities, game drives, or other tourist activities, according to SANParks. These supplementary experiences will continue to incur their standard fees, allowing the organization to manage resources and maintain park operations, which are vital for the long-term protection of these invaluable natural assets. The campaign shows SANParks' commitment to making national parks accessible while also ensuring their sustainability for future generations.
