SA's most popular national parks for SANParks Free Week + New rates for 2025/26

South Africans are spoiled for choice when it comes to getting outdoors and we took full advantage of the free access during National Parks Week. More than 105,000 visitors explored South Africa’s natural treasures during the free week between 22 and 28 September 2025, according to South African National Parks (SANParks).

The annual initiative offers free day passes to any participating park, encouraging a deeper connection for locals with the country’s wild spaces during Heritage Month. 

Visitor numbers surged at several reserves, including Mapungubwe which saw the biggest increase (up 52.3%), Mountain Zebra (52%), Addo (47.3%), Kruger (39%), and Kgalagadi (26.7%).

Since its launch in 2006, National Parks Week has welcomed close to a million day visitors, offering an affordable taster for South Africans to experience the country’s rich natural, cultural and historical heritage.

2025/2026 Tariffs and what you need to know if you visit:

With Summer fast approaching, SANParks has released the new conservation fee day rates valid from November 1, 2025, to October 31, 2026. This is what you can expect to pay at the most popular parks that saw the most visitor interest during National Parks Week. Adult rates apply to persons 12 years and older, and child rates apply to persons aged 2–11 years. The international rate is referred to as the Standard Conservation Fee (SCF).  

Kruger National Park

South Africa’s most famous safari destination, Kruger is where you’ll find the legendary Big Five experience - giving you the chance to spot lions on the prowl and elephants at the waterholes.

Day-visitor Fees:

• Resident (South African Citizens and Residents): Adult R134, Child R67
• SADC Nationals: Adult R275, Child R137
• International (Standard Conservation Fee): Adult R602, Child R300

Addo Elephant National Park

Home to more than 600 elephants, Addo is the ultimate spot to watch these gentle giants up close in their natural habitat.  

Day-visitor Fees:

• Resident (South African Citizens and Residents): Adult R110, Child R54
• SADC Nationals: Adult R225, Child R112
• International (Standard Conservation Fee): Adult R492, Child R246

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

Straddling the border with Botswana, Kgalagadi is a wilderness of striking red dunes and endless skies. It’s renowned for its black-maned Kalahari lions and extraordinary stargazing after dark.

Day-visitor Fees:

• Resident (South African Citizens and Residents): Adult R129, Child R64
• SADC Nationals: Adult R263, Child R132
• International (Standard Conservation Fee): Adult R576, Child R288 

Mapungubwe National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mapungubwe is as rich in history as it is in wildlife, once home to a thriving Iron Age kingdom. Visitors can explore ancient hilltop ruins, scenic sandstone formations and riverside forests where elephants still wander.

• Resident (South African Citizens and Residents): Adult R73, Child R37
• SADC Nationals: Adult R149, Child R74
• International (Standard Conservation Fee): Adult R325, Child R163

Mountain Zebra National Park

Set in the rugged Karoo, this park is dedicated to protecting the rare Cape mountain zebra, which you’re almost guaranteed to spot. Rolling hills, wide-open plains and dramatic mountain views make it a dream for hikers and photographers alike.

• Resident (South African Citizens and Residents): Adult R73, Child R37
• SADC Nationals: Adult R149, Child R74
• International (Standard Conservation Fee): Adult R325, Child R163

Ready to escape to the wild? These are the best safari escapes close to Johannesburg.