Every year, the South African National Parks hosts the SA National Parks Week, where all the national parks around the country are free to enter for around 7 days. It’s a must-see if you love being outdoors, want to explore and enjoy our country’s incredible biodiversity. 

‍

Mid-August to September is the ideal time to plan your park visits, as Spring rolls around and turns our country into a colourful paradise. South Africa is known for being one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, ranking third overall. So, it makes the most sense to enjoy the warmer months and take a trip out to some of the natural wonders we have. 

We’ve rounded up three parks you can visit during the annual SANParks week and all year round.

‍

Table Mountain National Park 

One of the gems of the Western Cape, the Table Mountain National Park comprises three different areas so there’s plenty of nature to explore. You can decide to go up to Table Mountain via the cableway, take a trip to Silvermine Nature Reserve or head over to Cape Point for one-of-a-kind views. The park is home to protected fynbos species, and a host of bird species. It's the ideal place to explore local fauna and flora.

Want to stay closer to Table Mountain while you visit? Check out Quarry House and Karabo House, right in the heart of Higgovale with mountainside views. If you prefer being closer to Cape Point side of things - St James Beach House is a gem right on the Southern Peninsula.  

‍

West Coast National Park 

Just over an hour away from Cape Town, the West Coast National Park shows another side of the Western Cape’s natural beauty and coastline. Plan for a full day out as the park is near the Langebaan Lagoon, perfect for water enthusiasts. Bird watchers are spoiled for choice with thousands of migrating birds who visit the area. If you love flowers, then be sure to add a stop to Postberg Reserve on your list. 

‍

Karoo National Park

Home to some magnificent rugged scenery, the Karoo National Park has evolved from being a popular one-night stopover stay to a place filled with outdoor activities and home to exceptional mountain and rock formations. Just an hour away from Prince Albert and located in Beaufort West - the park is ideal for game drives as the sparse vegetation makes it easy to spot animals roaming about. 

Make the most of your journey to the Karoo and stay over at Karoo Heritage Manor or take a trip to Danielskraal Farm Homestead 

‍