How to enjoy access to South Africa’s National Parks - for free

South Africans will once again have an opportunity to explore some of the country's most spectacular protected areas when the 21st annual SA National Parks Week takes place from 7 to 13 September 2026.

Hosted by South African National Parks (SANParks), the popular initiative grants South African day visitors free access to participating national parks, encouraging families, communities, schools, nature lovers and first-time visitors to experience the country's rich natural heritage.

Step 1: Check if your preferred park is participating

Most participating national parks will offer free access throughout SA National Parks Week. However, Kruger National Park, West Coast National Park and Augrabies Falls National Park will only provide free access from Monday, 7 September to Friday, 11 September 2026, excluding the weekend.

Visitors should note that Namaqua National Park, the Boulders Penguin Colony section of Table Mountain National Park and the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway are not included in the free-access programme.

Step 2: Bring your identification

To qualify for free entry, South African citizens must present a valid identity document at the park gate. Children under the age of 18 are not required to provide identification.

Step 3: Understand what is free and what is not

The free-access initiative covers entry into participating national parks for day visitors only.

Accommodation, guided activities, game drives and other tourism experiences are not included and will be charged at the normal rates.

Step 4: Check park-specific conditions

Some parks may have visitor limits, special entry requirements or specific dates on which they observe SA National Parks Week.

Visitors are encouraged to confirm details before travelling by visiting SANParks' dedicated SA National Parks Week page at https://www.sanparks.org/events/sa-national-parks-week-2026 

Step 5: Enjoy South Africa’s natural heritage

Since its launch in 2006, SA National Parks Week has become one of SANParks' flagship public awareness campaigns, helping to foster appreciation for conservation and the role national parks play in protecting South Africa's biodiversity.

The initiative continues to attract significant public interest. In 2025 alone, more than 105 000 visitors took advantage of the free-access opportunity.

Whether you are planning a family outing, a school excursion or your first visit to a national park, SA National Parks Week offers a cost-free opportunity to experience some of South Africa's most treasured natural landscapes. 

This information was supplied by www.sanparks.org

Visit SA National Parks Week page at: www.sanparks.org/events/sa-nationalparks-week-2026