South Africans to enjoy free access to National Parks for 20th Anniversary Week

South Africans will once again have the opportunity to experience the country’s rich natural and cultural heritage at no cost, as South African National Parks (SANParks) opens its gates for the 20th annual National Parks Week. The initiative runs from 22 to 28 September 2025, with selected parks starting earlier, and aims to give more communities the chance to connect with nature and conservation.

The milestone anniversary offers free entry to Golden Gate Highlands National Park, Marakele National Park, and the Mapungubwe National Park and World Heritage Site, inviting families, schools, faith-based groups, senior citizens, clubs, and nature enthusiasts to take part in this nationwide celebration.

“Through initiatives such as National Parks Week, we reaffirm our commitment to making our parks more accessible while fostering community-led conservation,” SANParks said in a statement. “We want South Africans to see their parks as spaces that belong to them and to deepen their understanding of the environment in an engaging and accessible way.”

Highlights of the 2025 programme

Golden Gate Highlands National Park (21–28 September):

• Visitors can book tours at the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretive Centre, hike trails such as Mushroom and Brandwag Buttress, and take self-drives to scenic lookout points.
• Other activities include horse riding and abseiling (both paid and pre-booked).
• The vulture feeding site and guided walks will also be available to explore.

Marakele National Park (22–28 September):

• Guests will enjoy a 50% discount on game drives, with a special Heritage Day competition on 24 September offering families a chance to win a free drive.
• The park will host its annual soccer tournament on 27 September, while selected groups will take part in guided drives and environmental education sessions.
• Self-drives will give visitors access to both park sections, including the breathtaking Lenong viewpoint, which sits 2,088m above sea level.

Mapungubwe National Park and World Heritage Site (20–28 September):

• Visitors can explore the park’s cultural and archaeological treasures, including Mapungubwe Hill, a symbol of one of Africa’s earliest kingdoms (900–1300 AD).
• Highlights include viewing the confluence of the Limpopo and Shashe Rivers, discovering rock art, and experiencing the dramatic sandstone formations and iconic baobab trees.
• Tours to Mapungubwe Hill require pre-booking and carry a separate cost.

Important details

Free access is available only to South African day visitors who present a valid SA ID. Children under 16 may enter without proof of identity. The offer does not extend to accommodation or paid commercial activities.

Since its inception, SANParks Week has aimed to break down barriers of entry by giving communities from all walks of life the opportunity to experience the country’s natural wonders. As the event celebrates its 20th year, SANParks hopes more South Africans than ever will take advantage of the chance to step into their parks, discover their heritage, and join the movement for conservation.

For more details and specific park dates, visit: www.sanparks.org/events/sa-national-parks-week-2025