Top 5 places to visit during SANParks Week

SANParks Week runs from 12 until 16 September and will see the gates of nature reserves open to the public. Here's a selection of five places recommended for you.

The Golden Gate Highlands National Park

Nestled within the north eastern part of the Free State, the Golden Gate Highlands National Park is home to species, the Bearded Vulture and Black Wildebeest - which is only found in national parks. The Van Reenen Family graveyard dating back to the 1890s and the cathedral cave are some of the sites to see. 

Table Mountain National Park 

Stretching along the Cape Peninsula -Table Mountain National Park is predominantly located within an urban surrounding in comparison to other reserves. The fact that it's one of the Seven World Wonders of Nature is enough reason to add the park to your bucket list!

The Karoo National Park

The park is situated within the country's biggest ecosystem - the Great Karoo. According to SANParks - this is home to at least 20 breeding pairs of black eagle. Five species of tortoise are also found in the reserve. While activities include game drives, bird watching and hiking to mention a few. 

Marakele National Park

Marakele ( which means place of sanctuary in Tswana) forms part of the Waterberg Mountains in the Limpopo province. Home to four of the big five - the biggest colony of Cape Vultures globally can be found here. Game drives, trail walks and picnics are some of the family activities you can opt for. 

Mokala National Park

Geographically placed 70km outside of Kimberley, in the Northern Cape - its SANParks newest conservation park. A sum of 863 animals were moved from the Vaalbos National Park to Mokala. The Camel Thorn - with medicinal properties - is a massive feature of Mokala. There are a range of adventures waiting for you. 

(Opening times and costs concerning activities may vary)