Explore South Africa’s Best National Parks with Your Family—for Free

Parents, mark your calendars! From September 9 to 15, 2024, you and your little explorers can enjoy free entry to several national parks in Cape Town and its surroundings, thanks to SANParks’ annual National Parks Week. This initiative is a fantastic opportunity to introduce your kids to the beauty and diversity of South Africa’s natural heritage without spending a cent.

What’s On Offer?

SANParks has generously opened its gates for free entry to South Africans during this special week. In Cape Town and nearby areas, you can take advantage of this offer at these iconic parks:

Table Mountain National Park

While free access during National Parks Week excludes Boulders Beach and the Table Mountain Cableway, there are still plenty of areas within the park where families can enjoy a day out. You can explore the following for free:

Cape of Good Hope: Known for its breathtaking views and rich history, this area is perfect for a family hike. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a photo at the famous Cape of Good Hope sign, a must-see landmark that marks the southwesternmost point of the African continent. It’s a fun and memorable spot for family pictures! You can also explore the rugged cliffs, walk to Diaz Beach (no swimming allowed due to rip currents!), spot wildlife, and even visit the iconic lighthouse. Wildlife you might spot includes ostriches, baboons, dassies, and even the occasional antelope.

Newlands Picnic Area: A lovely spot for a family gathering, where you can enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature. The kids can run around and explore while you relax in this serene environment.

Oudekraal: Nestled along the Atlantic coast, Oudekraal is ideal for a relaxing day by the beach. It’s a great spot for a picnic, and kids can safely paddle in the calm, sheltered waters. You might also see dassies basking in the sun or – if you are lucky – southern right whales which sometimes can be spotted in the these waters during their migration season.

Silvermine: Silvermine’s reservoir is perfect for a family-friendly hike and a refreshing swim in the mountain water. The area also has plenty of picnic spots, making it a great place to spend the day.

Tokai Picnic & Braai Area: For families who love a good braai, the Tokai Picnic & Braai Area offers ample space to relax, cook up a feast, and let the kids run wild.

West Coast National Park

Just a 70 minute drive from Cape Town, this park is home to the stunning Langebaan Lagoon, a beautiful turquoise body of water perfect for kayaking, kitesurfing and bird watching. In September, the park is also famous for its spectacular wildflower displays. Wildlife to look out for includes eland, zebra, and a variety of bird species such as flamingos and ostriches.

Please note that free entry to the West Coast National Park is only available from September 9 to 13, 2024, and not on the weekend.

Agulhas National Park

Venture a bit further to visit the southernmost tip of Africa, where two oceans meet. It’s a great spot for a family day trip filled with history and nature. You may encounter bontebok, grey rhebok, and a variety of birdlife in this unique ecosystem.

Why Visit?

National Parks Week was introduced in 2006 and is an excellent chance to bond with your family while immersing yourselves in the natural beauty that surrounds Cape Town. These parks offer something for everyone—whether your kids love outdoor adventures, wildlife spotting, or simply running around in wide-open spaces.

Important Details

• The free entry is available to all South African citizens and residents with a valid ID.
• While most activities are free, some services like guided tours and access to specific areas within the parks might still incur a fee.
• National Parks Week excludes overnight stays, so plan your visit as a day trip.

This initiative by SANParks aims to encourage all South Africans to visit and enjoy the country’s beautiful natural landscapes. It’s a perfect opportunity for families to create lasting memories together, and to learn about wildlife and the importance of conservation.

Don’t miss out on this chance to explore Cape Town’s and the Western Cape’s natural wonders with your kids—make it a week to remember! If you are in other parts of South Africa, you can find a full list of all participating national parks here.