Tourism month programme of public events launched

A FLAMINGO trail walk, travel quest and tour of the northern areas are some of the activities planned for Nelson Mandela Bay this month.

The activities form part of Tourism Month, launched by Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism (NMBT) yesterday.

South African National Parks (SANParks) is also offering free entry to all parks for one week.

NMBT board member Mike Callaghan said the organisation had put together a wonderful programme, including this Saturday's flamingo trail walk; the travel quest on September 21; a tour of Route 67 on September 25, and the tour of the northern areas on September 27.

"Make a point to visit these places – you will be amazed," Callaghan said.

NMBT marketing manager Titus Chuene said: "These are all great family-friendly events and we look forward to them [members of the public] contacting us for more information."

SANParks spokeswoman Fayroush Ludick said South Africans carrying valid identity documents would be allowed into all national parks at no cost from next Monday to Friday.

"Since its inception eight years ago, National Parks Week has seen an influx of more than 90000 day visitors in all participating parks.

"Free access does not include accommodation [or] commercial activities such as guided safaris or walks," Ludick said.