Visitors can enjoy free entry to national parks

ONCE again South Africans can enjoy any of the country's parks under the South African National Parks (SANParks) banner for free. But just for a week.

This is to show South Africans that the parks are not just for international tourists.

This was the message from Deputy Minister of Arts and Culture Rejoice Mabudafhasi yesterday at the launch of the ninth annual SANParks Week in Tsitsikamma.

"The week provides a platform for us to welcome all South Africans to experience their heritage and natural beauty."

Mabudafhasi said contrary to popular belief national parks were not targeting international visitors but also South Africans.

"These parks are for the people of South Africa. We want people living close to parks to be incorporated in decision-making through taking advantage of their indigenous knowledge."

The launch was attend by about 70 guests, with the Storms River mouth providing a unique backdrop.

Mabudafhasi said by making locals feel a part of the parks it would ensure they shared a sense of pride and ownership which would translate into assisting in the preservation of national parks. Acting SANParks chief executive Abe Sibiya said 45000 people visited the parks during the week-long campaign last year.

"We encourage people to use the parks and make it a culture. These assets remain their heritage," Sibiya said.

The launch coincides with the Tsitsikamma section's 50th birthday celebrations and the relaunch of the Otter Trail in the park.

The park is the oldest marine-protected area in Africa, and is home to more than 200 protected species of fish and sharks.

The park covers an 80km-long stretch of coastline and offers a variety of activities.

Among them is the world-renowned 46-year-old hiking trail, known as the Otter Trail. The five-day hike is 42km long, but day visitors to the park are treated to a 6.4km hiking trail.

The park is also famous for being home to one of the oldest trees in the country.

The Outeniqua yellowwood, or Afrocarpus falcatus, famously known as the Big Tree, is 1000 years old and 36.6m tall .

Eastern Cape SANParks reserves include the Garden Route (Tsitsikamma, Knysna, Wilderness) National Park, Mountain Zebra National Park, Addo Elephant National Park and Camdeboo National Park. - Tremaine van Aardt and Bongekile Macupe

• Free access to parks does not in include free access to accommodation facilities and other tourist activities. Some of the parks will be extending the week to include the weekend, as indicated on the SanParks website: