Garden Route National Park Readies Wilderness and Coastal Trails

Free Access and Outdoor Adventures Across the Garden Route

Outdoor enthusiasts and hikers across the Western and Eastern Cape have a prime opportunity to hit the trails this coming week. As part of the 21st annual South African National Parks Week running from 7 to 13 September 2026, SANParks has announced waiver of day conservation fees across the Garden Route National Park for South African citizens.

Covering the Wilderness, Knysna, and Tsitsikamma sections, the initiative allows local outdoor travellers, hikers, and paddlers free entry upon presenting a valid South African ID (or birth certificate for minors under 18).

Tsitsikamma: Coastal Hikes and Gorge Adventures

In the rugged Tsitsikamma section, day hikers can take on the iconic Waterfall Trail—the initial stage of the renowned Otter Trail—or cross the refurbished Storms River Mouth Suspension Bridge suspended above the Indian Ocean.

Key outdoor operators have paired with the initiative to offer adventure discounts:

• Untouched Adventures: Offering a 10% discount on their famous Kayak and Lilo excursions exploring the deep Storms River gorge.
• Stormsriver Adventures: Providing a 20% discount on forest canopy zipline activities for visitors who show proof of park entry.

Wilderness and Knysna: Forest Walks and River Paddling

Further west along the coast, the Wilderness section is offering complimentary access to water trails. A fleet of six canoes per day will be made available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis for visitors wishing to paddle the Touw River towards Wilderness Beach.

Hikers can lace up boots for the tranquil Kingfisher Trail leading through indigenous forest to a forest waterfall, or head into the historic mining trails and river rock pools at Jubilee Creek.

For those visiting Knysna:

• Self-guided forest walks remain open through the lush canopy at the Garden of Eden.
• Knysna Ziplines, situated near the Kranshoek Picnic Site, is rolling out a 50% discount on zipline bookings during the week.
• Travellers can explore cultural forestry history at the Forest Legends Museum and Krisjan-se-Nek.

Practical Details for Day Visitors

While conservation and day-entry fees are waived from Monday, 7 September through Sunday, 13 September 2026, overnight camping, chalet accommodation, and private concession activities outside promotional partnerships remain subject to standard tariffs. Early arrival is recommended for popular trailheads, particularly over the coming weekend.