LISTEN: SANParks reports record visitor numbers for National Parks Week
National parks received over 105 000 day visitors during the annual campaign
This year, SANParks welcomed 105 051 day visitors to national parks across South Africa during the annual National Parks Week, held from September 22 to 28.
— Kruger National Park (@SANParksKNP) September 7, 2025
According to SANParks spokesperson JP Louw, the campaign allowed South Africans free access to a national park of their choice.
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Visitor numbers surged across participating parks, with Mapungubwe leading at a 52.3% increase. Mountain Zebra recorded a 52% rise, Addo 47.3%, Kruger 39% and Kgalagadi 26.7%.
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“The week cultivates a sense of pride in all South Africans by encouraging a deeper connection with the country’s natural, cultural, and historical heritage. It gives everyone a chance to experience the beauty and majesty of our breath-taking national parks,” Louw said.
Since its inception in 2006, National Parks Week has attracted nearly a million day visitors across participating parks.
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“SANParks thanks all South Africans who took part in the week, especially educators and school groups,” Louw concluded.
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