Locals queue for free week at Kruger National Park
Once quotas are reached at the gates, no day visitors will be allowed into the park.
The annual SANParks Free Entry Week is a highly anticipated period that allows South Africans to experience the country’s magnificent national parks without paying the standard conservation fee.
This year, many visitors to Kruger National Park have faced a frustrating reality: being turned away at the gates.
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According to KNP spokesperson Rey Thakuli, the park has had to deny entry to a large number of hopeful visitors after reaching its daily quota for both people and vehicles. These quotas have been put in place for a crucial reason.
“We need to control the number of people who are in the park so that there is no congestion or overcrowding in day-visit areas,” Thakuli said.
“We allow people into the park based on the capacity of the gates and the infrastructure we have. We want to make sure that all the visitors are safe.”
He added that even a confirmed day-visit booking does not guarantee entry if the park has already reached capacity by the time you arrive.
— Kruger National Park (@SANParksKNP) September 7, 2025
“The park’s top priority is ensuring a safe and pleasant experience for everyone, which requires careful management of visitor numbers.”
To avoid being turned away, visitors are strongly encouraged to arrive early.
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The quotas are a non-negotiable safety measure. While the allure of free entry is strong, the park must operate within its operational standards.
“By planning your trip and making an early start, you can significantly increase your chances of securing entry and enjoying the full Kruger experience,” Thakuli said.
The free week runs until Friday, September 26, and Thakuli emphasised that the quotas will remain in place for the safety of all visitors and the preservation of the park’s environment.
