Record number of visitors to Kruger National Park on Heritage Day

Thousands of nature lovers sought to enjoy the park’s iconic wildlife and landscapes, with many taking advantage of free entry for the week.

However, capacity constraints and safety protocols meant that not everyone could be accommodated. 

Some visitors were turned away at the gates after quotas were reached, a measure SANParks says is necessary to ensure both safety and visitor enjoyment.

SANParks spokesperson JP Louw explained that the quota system helps manage the park’s large influx of guests.

"At Kruger, being the iconic park that it is, we had a very large number of people eager to visit. But we use a quota system at the gates to manage the influx, for both safety and enjoyment, because overcrowding would take away from the experience."

Louw added that free entry does not override safety measures, and visitors must plan ahead to secure their spot.

"We urge visitors to use the online booking system or contact park offices directly. Planning ahead ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone."

He also highlighted that SANParks intends to review the week’s activities and visitor trends before making decisions for next year.

"In the coming days, we will tally visitor numbers and assess what we’ve experienced this year. This helps us plan and elevate the visitor experience for the future."

While the free entry period runs until Friday, SANParks confirmed that no free entries will be allowed over the weekend of 27–28 September.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of SA National Parks Week, a celebration aimed at encouraging South Africans to explore their natural heritage and support domestic tourism.

Louw said the popularity of the initiative reflects growing interest in outdoor experiences.

"The public’s enthusiasm shows how much people value our national parks. It’s a reminder that these spaces are important for both recreation and connecting with nature."

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