Garden Route National Park Celebrates 21st National Parks Week

Celebrating Our Natural Heritage

From 7 to 13 September 2026, the Garden Route National Park joined the rest of the country in celebrating the 21st annual South African National Parks Week. This initiative, championed by SANParks, aims to foster a culture of conservation by allowing citizens to reconnect with the country's protected landscapes.

Exploring the Garden Route

During the week-long event, South African residents were granted free day access to the Wilderness, Knysna, and Tsitsikamma sections of the park. Highlights for visitors included:

• Tsitsikamma Suspension Bridge: Guests had the opportunity to walk the newly refurbished Storms River Mouth Suspension Bridge.
• Forest Walks: Visitors explored the indigenous forests surrounding the famous 'Big Tree'.
• Coastal Beauty: The event provided a perfect window for locals to experience the unique biodiversity of the Knysna Estuary and the rugged coastline.

Conservation and Access

While conservation fees were waived for day visitors, SANParks reminded the public that accommodation and specific activity fees remained in place. The event serves as a vital reminder of the importance of protecting these ecosystems, especially as the park continues to manage debris clearing and infrastructure maintenance following earlier weather-related challenges in the region.