September is Heritage Month for South Africans. It is a time to reflect on our cultures and celebrate our differences.
Also, September is local tourism month, blending our diverse traditions and our country’s natural beauty. With this unique combination, the South African National Parks (SANParks) opens the doors for free to 21 national parks.
In its 19th year, SA National Parks Week will be held from 9 to 13 September 2024, and for a select few, it will be extended until 15 September 2024.
Here are our top 5 tourist destinations you can visit during SA National Parks Week and beyond:
West Coast National Park (9 to 13 September 2024)
Just a little over an hour outside of Cape Town, the West Coast National Park is a natural gem in the region. The park is a haven for nature lovers with its white sand dunes, granite outcrops, crystal blue lagoon waters, green wetlands, and rare fynbos.
Visitors can hike along the well-kept pathways, ride their bicycles on designated trails, and swim in the lagoon. Bird watchers can also relax in the park’s many bird hides, watching for the park’s 250 bird species.
There are also accommodation options the public can book. However, you will need to reserve your campsite well in advance.
In September, the park becomes a kaleidoscope of color, with the wildflowers blooming in their masses. This event is a must-see for anyone who loves plants.
South Africans can access this park for free for one week during the flowering period!
Kruger National Park (9 to 13 September 2024)
Yes, one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations opens its gates for free to locals. Whether it is your first time visiting or you’re returning for the umpteenth time, accessing this national park for free is a privilege. Everyone who can visit the Kruger National Park should do so during this period.
Just remember to pack accordingly! September is Kruger National Park’s last dry month, which means warm, dry days and cold nights.
And with the dry season ending, water sources around the park will be crowded with animals.
Visitors who want to make the most of their visit should visit the following regions:
- Lower Sabie, which you can access via the Crocodile Bridge Gate
- Satara, via the Orpen Gate
- Skukuza (the main camp in the park) via Paul Kruger Gate
- Olifants, which will be easy to access via the Phalaborwa Gate
Mapungubwe National Park (9 to 15 September 2024)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mapungubwe National Park is home to the ancient Kingdom of Mapungubwe. Its origins date back to the 11th century, making it one of Africa’s earliest known civilizations.
The capital of this kingdom is situated on the top of Mapungubwe Hill. For 140 years, the kingdom ruled on the hilltop, trading gold with others along the East African coastlines.
Like many large settlements such as Paris, France, the Kingdom of Mapungubwe was built at a confluence of two rivers, the Limpopo and Shashe.
At the height of this kingdom, the capital was home to 5,000 people. For context, the population of Paris in the 11th century is estimated to have been around 3,000 people.
Today, visitors can view the kingdom’s famous golden rhino and enjoy the unique sandstone formations, baobab trees, and diverse wildlife that call the park home.
Augrabies Falls National Park (9 to 13 September 2024)
Situated 120 km west of Uppington in the Northern Cape, the park’s name is deeply connected with the local Khoi inhabitants. The Augrabies Falls National Park name originates from the inhabitants who called the waterfalls “Aukoerebis,” or the “place of great noise.”
With a 56-meter free fall, it’s unsurprising that this majestic national treasure is known for its noise.
The region is also known for its arid climate, which has caused fauna and flora, such as klipspringer and quiver trees, to evolve and adapt.
However, September is a month when the area is green due to the winter rain. And depending on the amount of rainfall, the waterfall could be enlarged.
If you can make it out during September, Augrabies will be less crowded, allowing visitors to explore the park in complete peace.
Golden Gate Highlands National Park (9 to 15 September 2024)
With September signaling the end of the region’s dry and cold winter spell, visitors should take advantage of the golden glow from the park’s famous sandstone rock formations (this is where the park gets its name).
Explore this park’s grasslands, ravine forests, and rock faces for a truly unforgettable experience. The weather conditions in September also make it ideal for exploring the park on foot.
Golden Gate Highlands is less crowded in September, providing a serene experience amidst nature’s beauty.
Whether you’re interested in hiking, photography, or simply soaking in the breathtaking scenery, this park offers a memorable escape into the heart of South Africa’s highlands.
During Heritage Month, take the opportunity to explore the rich natural and cultural heritage this park has to offer. As always, before taking advantage of South Africa’s National Park Week, make sure to get your vehicle’s battery checked.
