September holds free entry week into Mpumalanga nature reserves in store
Take note: This week, the Mpumalanga Parks Week, is not to be confused with the annual SANParks free access week that was recently postponed.
The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) announced that the annual Parks Week, which gives members of the public free access to selected nature reserves in the province, will be from September 13 to 17.
The Parks Week initiative forms part of the province’s Tourism Month programme, celebrated annually in September with the aim of encouraging locals to travel more and explore the various tourism attractions on offer.
Johannes Nobunga, the CEO of the MTPA, said, “The current Covid-19 lockdown level permits people to travel in a safe manner and further comply with the regulations in place.
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“We are excited that the free entry will allow members of the public to come and explore the natural wonders of this province.
“The pandemic has had a rippling effect on the tourism sector, and with this initiative, we look forward to welcoming visitors to our nature reserves to rejuvenate.”
A total of 11 provincial nature reserves will be open to the public during Parks Week. This is strictly for day visitors only.
Accommodation is priced at regular costs if people want to sleep over. The free access is also applicable to groups of not more than 20 people.
The following nature reserves will take part in the Mpumalanga Parks Week initiative:
• Manyeleti
• Loskop Dam
• Andover
• Sterkspruit
• Songimvelo
• Ohrigstad Dam
• SS Skosana
• Kromdraai Camp
• Mahushe Shongwe
• Nooitgedacht
• Blyde River Canyon (Free entry only applicable on September 17. School groups only on September 18).
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In order to be allowed free access, visitors will be required to present their South African IDs or a valid South African driver’s license. The set terms and conditions for this duration will apply.
For more information on the Mpumalanga Parks Week, contact Londiwe Ngwenya on 082 092 3913. For bookings, contact the central reservations office on reservations@mtpa.co.za.
