SANParks announces national parks to open from June

Following an official statement shared by Tourism Minister Kubayi-Ngubane indicating that hiking would be permitted under level three lockdown, many locals awaited clarity on which hiking trails they would be able to explore. 

SANParks has clarified which of its national parks will be accessible from the start of this month. 

Are all parks open?

“SANParks would like to announce that only its open-access national parks namely Golden Gate Highlands, parts of Garden Route, and Table Mountain National Park with the exception of Boulders Beach and Cape Point will allow access to visitors from Monday, 1 June 2020.” 

All national parks which do not have a gated entrance and entry fee will be open from the start of level three. Capetonians will be able to head to Newlands Forest, Lion’s Head, Tokai forest and more. 

Boulders Beach and Cape Point to remain closed under level three lockdown

Locals who were eagerly wanting to head to either Boulders Beach to watch the penguins or explore the mountainous area of Cape Point will have to wait a bit longer until the lockdown restrictions are lifted. 

An official statement regarding the opening of the other national parks will be provided by the Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries at a later stage. 

With the nation being on lockdown since 27 March 2020, level three will allow for more movement of individuals with the inclusion of exercise being permitted from 6am to 6pm. 

This may provide much-needed relief for avid hikers and nature-lovers as they will now be able to visit a number of trails. 

Locals are advised to adhere to the existing guidelines and not to hike in groups. In addition, overnight accommodation at these national parks will not be permitted as per the guidelines stipulated by the Minister of Tourism. 

According to government regulations, all individuals who are hiking must adhere to the regulations of wearing a face mask at all times while in a public space. 
Implementing the opening of hiking for members of the public is a move towards opening up and kick-starting the tourism industry in South Africa. 

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