If you’re unsure of which parks to visit, here are four of the country’s must-see parks.
Parks Week will be launched at Bontebok National Park in the Western Cape and according to SANParks, it is a place of simplistic beauty and peaceful charm. The majestic Langeberg Mountains provide a picturesque backdrop for this park of colourful riches.
Named after the bontebok that can be found in abundance at the park, Bontebok is a great place to unwind with your family for the day. Picnic at the Die Stroom, which is the name given to the banks of the Breede River.
Situated just 18 kilometres from Clarens in the eastern Free State, the Golden Gate Highlands National Park is one of South Africa’s greatest unsung tourist attractions. Incorporating the colossal Maluti Mountains, the park is great for hiking, horse-riding and exploring caves.
And there is no greater way for South Africans to get in touch with their heritage than through The Basotho Cultural Village. This 18th century-styled village will allow you to try out Sotho cuisine and the traditional sorghum beer umqombothi. You’ll also get a chance to meet the chief, his wives and the village’s traditional healer.
Camdeboo National Park, which surrounds the historic town of Graaff-Reinet in the Eastern Cape, is home to one of the world’s most unique landscapes. Formed hundreds of millions of years ago, this 14,500ha park lies up against the foothills of the Sneeuberg range.
Stand on one of the viewpoints at the Augrabies Falls and just savour the beautiful noise from the waters crashing into the 18-kilometre abyss of the Orange River Gorge. The Khoi people called it "Aukoerebis", place of Great Noise, and for good reason.
We may not know the decibels but the roar of the water is deafening. Mountain bikes are allowed inside the park provided cyclists remain on the official roads. If you have a 4x4, hit the Wilderness Road, a 94-kilometre stretch of endless beauty.
For a full list of parks participating in National Parks Week, visit www.sanparks.org
