South African National Parks
Kruger National Park
- Big Five: Home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros).
- Safari Experiences: Offers excellent game viewing opportunities and guided safaris.
- Biodiversity: One of the largest game reserves in Africa, it boasts an incredible diversity of wildlife and ecosystems.
Kruger National Park, South Africa’s premier national park, is a world-renowned wildlife sanctuary that promises an authentic safari experience. Covering nearly 20,000 square kilometers, Kruger is home to the iconic Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros. The park’s expansive landscapes, ranging from dense bushveld to open savannah, provide a habitat for an incredible variety of wildlife, including over 500 bird species and numerous mammals. Visitors can embark on guided safaris, self-drive tours, and bush walks, immersing themselves in the thrill of witnessing these magnificent creatures in their natural environment.
Kruger National Park’s dedication to conservation and sustainable tourism enhances the overall visitor experience. The park offers a range of accommodations, from luxury lodges to camping sites, catering to diverse preferences and budgets. Its well-maintained infrastructure ensures accessibility and visitor-friendly conditions, making it an ideal destination for both seasoned safari-goers and first-time wildlife enthusiasts. Each visit to Kruger contributes to the preservation of South Africa’s natural heritage, ensuring that future generations can also experience its unparalleled beauty.
Table Mountain National Park
- Iconic Landmark: Table Mountain is one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature.
- Hiking and Scenic Views: Offers stunning views of Cape Town and the surrounding ocean.
- Unique Flora: Part of the Cape Floral Region, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich biodiversity.
Table Mountain National Park, an iconic symbol of South Africa, stands as a beacon for wildlife tourism in Cape Town. Encompassing the famous Table Mountain, one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, the park offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. Wildlife enthusiasts can explore a variety of ecosystems within the park, from the fynbos-covered slopes to the diverse marine life along the coastline. Home to unique flora and fauna, including the rare Cape mountain zebra and a rich array of bird species, the park is a prime destination for nature lovers and photographers.
In addition to its natural beauty, Table Mountain National Park provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and paragliding. The park’s well-marked trails cater to all levels of fitness and adventure, ensuring an accessible and enjoyable experience for all visitors. With its combination of stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and recreational activities, Table Mountain National Park offers a comprehensive wildlife tourism experience that showcases the natural splendor of South Africa.
Addo Elephant National Park
- Elephant Population: Famous for its large elephant herds.
- Marine Life: Includes a marine reserve, offering a unique combination of terrestrial and marine ecosystems.
- Diverse Wildlife: Home to the Big Seven (elephant, rhino, lion, buffalo, leopard, southern right whale, and great white shark).
Addo Elephant National Park, located in the Eastern Cape, is a sanctuary for wildlife tourism, particularly for those eager to witness the majestic African elephant. This expansive park, which has grown to encompass a variety of biomes, offers visitors the chance to see not just elephants, but also the Big Seven: lion, leopard, rhinoceros, buffalo, southern right whale, and great white shark. The park’s diverse habitats, from dense thickets to coastal dunes, support a rich array of wildlife, making every safari a thrilling adventure.
Addo’s commitment to conservation and wildlife protection is evident in its well-managed tourism practices, ensuring that visitors can enjoy the natural beauty without impacting the environment. The park offers a range of accommodation options, guided tours, and self-drive routes, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace. The unique opportunity to experience both terrestrial and marine wildlife sets Addo apart as a premier destination for wildlife tourism, promising an enriching and memorable encounter with South Africa’s natural wonders.
Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park
- Conservation Efforts: Known for its successful white rhino conservation programs.
- Scenic Landscapes: Features rolling hills and rich river valleys.
- Rich History: One of the oldest proclaimed nature reserves in Africa.
Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, one of Africa’s oldest proclaimed nature reserves, is a cornerstone of wildlife tourism in South Africa. Located in KwaZulu-Natal, this park is celebrated for its successful white rhino conservation efforts and rich biodiversity. Visitors can embark on thrilling game drives through the park’s rolling hills and river valleys, where sightings of the Big Five and other iconic African wildlife are common. The park’s varied landscapes, from savannah to forested areas, provide a stunning backdrop for wildlife photography and observation.
In addition to its wildlife attractions, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park offers a range of visitor facilities, including guided walking safaris, comfortable lodges, and picnic spots. The park’s focus on conservation education and community involvement enhances the overall visitor experience, making it not just a place to see wildlife, but also to learn about the importance of preserving these natural habitats. For those seeking an authentic and immersive wildlife tourism experience, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is an ideal destination that combines natural beauty with rich conservation history.
Garden Route National Park
- Scenic Beauty: Encompasses lush forests, pristine beaches, and dramatic coastal cliffs.
- Adventure Activities: Offers hiking, bird-watching, and water sports.
- Tsitsikamma Section: Famous for its suspension bridge and diverse marine life.
Garden Route National Park, stretching along South Africa’s southern coastline, is a paradise for wildlife tourism, offering a blend of lush forests, pristine beaches, and dramatic cliffs. This diverse park is home to a wide array of flora and fauna, including the elusive Knysna seahorse and the vibrant birdlife of the Tsitsikamma Forest. Visitors can explore the park’s extensive network of trails, which cater to hikers of all levels, providing opportunities to witness the rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes firsthand.
Beyond its natural beauty, Garden Route National Park is a hub for adventure tourism, offering activities such as zip-lining, kayaking, and whale watching. The park’s well-developed infrastructure ensures a comfortable and engaging visit, with various accommodation options and visitor centers providing information and services. For wildlife enthusiasts, the park’s combination of scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and diverse ecosystems makes it a must-visit destination, showcasing the best of South Africa’s natural heritage.
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
- Unique Desert Ecosystem: Straddles the border between South Africa and Botswana.
- Predator Sightings: Known for its black-maned Kalahari lions and other predators.
- Stunning Landscapes: Features vast red sand dunes and sparse vegetation.
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, a unique desert ecosystem straddling the border between South Africa and Botswana, offers a distinct and captivating experience for wildlife tourists. Known for its vast red sand dunes and sparse vegetation, the park provides a dramatic backdrop for viewing wildlife, including the famous black-maned Kalahari lions, cheetahs, and numerous bird species. The park’s arid landscape and open terrain make it easier to spot animals, offering excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife observation.
The park’s remote location and pristine environment attract adventurous travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path safari experience. Kgalagadi’s commitment to conservation and low-impact tourism ensures that visitors can enjoy the natural beauty without disturbing the delicate ecosystem. With its unique desert scenery, rich wildlife, and opportunities for cultural encounters with local communities, Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park stands out as a premier destination for those looking to experience the wild and untamed side of South Africa.
iSimangaliso Wetland Park
- World Heritage Site: Recognized for its ecological diversity.
- Marine and Terrestrial Biodiversity: Includes coral reefs, wetlands, lakes, and savanna.
- Diverse Activities: Offers snorkeling, scuba diving, and bird-watching.
iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a jewel in South Africa’s wildlife tourism crown. Located on the east coast, this park is renowned for its exceptional ecological diversity, encompassing coral reefs, wetlands, coastal forests, and savanna. Wildlife enthusiasts can explore a wide range of habitats, each teeming with unique flora and fauna, including hippos, crocodiles, and an impressive variety of bird species. The park’s marine reserves also offer opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving, revealing vibrant underwater ecosystems.
The park’s commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism practices ensures that visitors can enjoy its natural wonders while contributing to their preservation. iSimangaliso offers a variety of activities, from guided boat tours and game drives to hiking and cultural experiences with local communities. With its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity, iSimangaliso Wetland Park provides an immersive and multifaceted wildlife tourism experience that highlights the natural beauty and ecological importance of South Africa’s coastal regions.
Drakensberg Mountains (uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park)
- World Heritage Site: Known for its exceptional natural beauty and ancient rock art.
- Hiking Trails: Offers some of the best hiking trails in South Africa.
- Rich Flora and Fauna: Home to numerous endemic species.
The Drakensberg Mountains, also known as uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, offer a majestic backdrop for wildlife tourism in South Africa. This World Heritage Site is celebrated for its dramatic mountain landscapes, ancient rock art, and rich biodiversity. Visitors can explore the park’s numerous hiking trails, which wind through lush valleys, over rugged peaks, and past cascading waterfalls. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elands, baboons, and a diverse array of bird species, making it a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Beyond its natural attractions, the Drakensberg Mountains are steeped in cultural significance, with well-preserved San rock art sites that offer a glimpse into the region’s ancient history. The park’s well-maintained facilities and diverse accommodation options ensure a comfortable visit, whether you’re camping under the stars or staying in a cozy mountain lodge. For those seeking a combination of breathtaking scenery, rich wildlife, and cultural heritage, the Drakensberg Mountains provide a unique and enriching wildlife tourism experience in South Africa.
Karoo National Park
- Semi-Desert Landscape: Offers a unique semi-arid environment.
- Fossil Discoveries: Known for its significant paleontological sites.
- Stargazing: Offers excellent stargazing opportunities due to low light pollution.
Karoo National Park, set in the semi-arid landscape of the Great Karoo, offers a unique wildlife tourism experience characterized by stark beauty and rich geological history. This park is known for its dramatic vistas, featuring vast plains, rugged mountains, and deep valleys. Wildlife enthusiasts can explore the park’s diverse habitats, which support a variety of species, including black rhinos, Cape mountain zebras, and numerous bird species. The park’s scenic drives and hiking trails provide ample opportunities to observe wildlife and appreciate the region’s natural splendor.
In addition to its wildlife attractions, Karoo National Park is a significant paleontological site, with well-preserved fossils that tell the story of the area’s ancient past. The park’s visitor center offers educational exhibits and guided tours, enhancing the overall experience for visitors. With its combination of stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and fascinating geological history, Karoo National Park offers a distinctive and engaging wildlife tourism experience that showcases the unique charm of South Africa’s semi-desert regions.
Pilanesberg National Park
- Volcanic Crater: Located in an ancient volcanic crater, providing a unique geological backdrop.
- Big Five: Offers Big Five game viewing.
- Accessibility: Close to Johannesburg and Pretoria, making it a popular destination for tourists.
Pilanesberg National Park, nestled in the crater of an ancient volcano, is a premier destination for wildlife tourism in South Africa. This unique geological setting provides a striking backdrop for viewing a diverse array of wildlife, including the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros. The park’s varied landscapes, from grassy plains to dense woodlands, support a rich biodiversity, making every game drive an exciting adventure. Pilanesberg’s close proximity to Johannesburg and Pretoria makes it an accessible choice for both local and international visitors.
The park’s well-developed infrastructure ensures a comfortable and enjoyable visit, with a range of accommodation options, guided tours, and self-drive routes available. Pilanesberg also offers additional activities such as hot air balloon rides and bush walks, providing unique perspectives on the park’s wildlife and natural beauty. With its stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and convenient location, Pilanesberg National Park is an ideal destination for those seeking an unforgettable wildlife tourism experience in South Africa.
South African National Parks
Addo Elephant National Park is a diverse wildlife conservation park situated close to Gqeberha in South Africa and is one of the country’s 20 national parks. It currently ranks third in size after Kruger National Park and the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.
Address: Addo, 6105, South Africa
Phone: +27 42 233 8600
Area: 1,640 km²
Established: 1931
Coordinates: 33°26′46″S 25°44′45″E / 33.44611°S 25.74583°E
Coordinates: 33°26′46″S 25°44′45″E / 33.44611°S 25.74583°E
The Agulhas National Park is a South African national park located in the Agulhas Plain in the southern Overberg region of the Western Cape, about 200 kilometres south-east of Cape Town.
Address: 214 Main Rd, Bredasdorp, L’Agulhas, 7287, South Africa
Phone: +27 28 435 6078
Area: 209.6 km²
Established: September 14, 1998
Augrabies Falls National Park is a national park located around the Augrabies Falls, about 120 km west of Upington in the Northern Cape Province, South Africa. It was established in 1966. The Augrabies Falls National Park covers an area of 820 km² and stretches along the Orange River. The area is very arid.
Address: Augrabies, 8874, South Africa
Phone: +27 54 452 9205
Area: 820 km²
Established: 1966
Bontebok National Park is a species-specific national park in South Africa. It was established in 1931 to ensure the preservation of the Bontebok.
Location: Western Cape, South Africa
Area: 27.86 km2 (10.76 sq mi)
Established: 1931
The Camdeboo National Park is located in the Karoo and almost completely surrounds the Eastern Cape town of Graaff-Reinet.
Camdeboo National Park was proclaimed as South Africa’s 22nd National Park under the management of South African National Parks on Sunday 30 October 2005. It covers an area of 194 square kilometres.
The Park is located in the foothills, or Snow Mountains, with an elevation of between 740 and 1480-metres above sea level.[3]
Location: Eastern Cape, South Africa
Established: : 22 July 1983; 39 years ago
Location: Eastern Cape, South Africa
Area: 194.05 km2
The Garden Route National Park is a national park in the Garden Route region of the Western Cape and Eastern Cape provinces in South Africa. It is a coastal reserve well known for its indigenous forests, dramatic coastline, and the Otter Trail
Address: South Africa
Phone: +27 44 877 0046
Area: 1,210 km²
Established: March 6, 2009
The Garden Route National Park is a national park in the Garden Route region of the Western Cape and Eastern Cape provinces in South Africa. It is a coastal reserve well known for its indigenous forests, dramatic coastline, and the Otter Trail.
Address: South Africa
Phone: +27 44 877 0046
Area: 1,210 km²
Established: March 6, 2009
The Karoo National Park, founded in 1979, is a wildlife reserve in the Great Karoo area of the Western Cape, South Africa near Beaufort West. This semi-desert area covers an area of 750 square kilometres. The Nuweveld portion of the Great Escarpment runs through the Park.
Address: .Off 6970, N1, Beaufort West, 6970, South Africa
Phone: +27 23 415 2828
Area: 767.9 km²
Established: 1979
Coordinates: 32°21′S 22°35′E / 32.350°S 22.583°E
Coordinates: 32°21′S 22°35′E / 32.350°S 22.583°E
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a vast wildlife preserve in the Kalahari Desert region of Botswana and South Africa, bordering Namibia to the west. It’s characterized by red dunes and dry rivers. Wildlife includes migrating herds of wildebeest and springbok, plus predators like raptors and black-maned Kalahari lions. Various lodges and wildnerness camps offer game-viewing drives and guided walks with park rangers
Address: R360, Upington, 8800, South Africa
Phone: +27 54 561 2000
Area: 38,000 km²
Coordinates: 25°46′S 20°23′E / 25.767°S 20.383°E
Coordinates: 25°46′S 20°23′E / 25.767°S 20.383°E
Established: July 31, 1931
Kruger National Park, in northeastern South Africa, is one of Africa’s largest game reserves. Its high density of wild animals includes the Big 5: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffalos. Hundreds of other mammals make their home here, as do diverse bird species such as vultures, eagles and storks. Mountains, bush plains and tropical forests are all part of the landscape.
Address: South Africa
Phone: +27 13 735 4000
Area: 19,485 km²
Established: May 31, 1926
Visitors: 1,659,793 (1,277,397 day visitors, 382,396 overnight) (in 2014-15 financial year)
Coordinates: 24°0′41″S 31°29′7″E / 24.01139°S 31.48528°E
Coordinates: 24°0′41″S 31°29′7″E / 24.01139°S 31.48528°E
Mapungubwe National Park is a national park in Limpopo Province, South Africa. It is located by the Kolope River, south of the confluence of the Limpopo and Shashe rivers and about 15 kilometres to the NE of the Venetia Diamond Mine. The National Park borders Mapesu Private Game Reserve to the south.
Address: Musina, South Africa
Phone: +27 15 534 7923
Area: 280 km²
Established: 1995
Marakele National Park is a National Park, part of the Waterberg Biosphere in Limpopo Province, South Africa.
Address: Waterberg mountain range, South Africa
Phone: +27 14 777 6929
Area: 670 km²
Established: 1994
Number of visitors: 25,974
Mokala National Park is a reserve established in the Plooysburg area south-west of Kimberley in the Northern Cape, South Africa on 19 June 2007. The size of the park is 26,485 hectares.
Address: Modderrivier, 8700, South Africa
Phone: +27 53 204 8000
Area: 196.1 km²
Established: June 19, 2007
Coordinates: 29°10′S 24°21′E / 29.167°S 24.350°E
Coordinates: 29°10′S 24°21′E / 29.167°S 24.350°E
Mountain Zebra National Park is a national park in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa; proclaimed in July 1937 for the purpose of providing a nature reserve for the endangered Cape mountain zebra. It is surrounded by 896,146.57 hectares of the Mountain Zebra-Camdeboo Protected Environment.
Address: South Africa
Phone: +27 48 801 5700
Area: 284 km²
Established: 1937
Visitors: 31 210 (in 2017)
Mountain Zebra National Park is a national park in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa; proclaimed in July 1937 for the purpose of providing a nature reserve for the endangered Cape mountain zebra. It is surrounded by 896,146.57 hectares of the Mountain Zebra-Camdeboo Protected Environment.
Address: South Africa
Phone: +27 48 801 5700
Area: 284 km²
Established: 1937
Visitors: 31 210 (in 2017)
Massive Table Mountain National Park stretches from north of Cape Town down the Cape Peninsula to Africa’s southwestern extremity, the Cape of Good Hope. Iconic, flat-topped Table Mountain is its centerpiece. The mountain’s 1,086m summit affords sweeping views of Cape Town and Table Bay, and is reachable by cableway, bicycle, automobile or on foot. The park is also among the world’s richest floral regions.
Address: Tafelberg Rd, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
Area: 221 km²
Established: May 19, 1998
Tankwa Karoo National Park is a national park in South Africa. The park lies about 70 km due west of Sutherland near the border of the Northern Cape and Western Cape, in one of the most arid regions of South Africa, with areas receiving less than 100 mm of average annual precipitation, moisture-bearing clouds from the Atlantic Ocean being largely stopped by the Cederberg mountains
Address: R355, Calvinia, 8190, South Africa
Phone: +27 27 341 1927
Area: 1,436 km²
Established: 1986
The West Coast National Park lies 88 km north of Cape Town in the Western Cape province of South Africa. The park is found inside of the Cape West Coast Biosphere Reserve, part of the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programm
Address: West Coast DC, South Africa
Phone: +27 22 772 2144
Area: 362.59 square kilometres (140.00 sq mi)
Coordinates: 33°7′15″S 18°4′0″E / 33.12083°S 18.06667°E
Coordinates: 33°7′15″S 18°4′0″E / 33.12083°S 18.06667°E
The ǀAi-ǀAis/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park is a peace park straddling the border between South Africa and Namibia. It was formed in 2003 by combining the Namibian ǀAi-ǀAis Hot Springs Game Park and the South African Richtersveld National Park.
Address: Alexander Bay, South Africa
Phone: +27 27 831 1506
Area: 6,045 km²
Established: 2003
How many SANParks are there in South Africa?
A national park is more than just a game or nature reserve. Its purpose is to conserve a representative portion of the natural and cultural biodiversity of the country. There are currently 21 parks in the national park stable plus a head office in Pretoria.
What is the 3 biggest national park in South Africa?
| Park | Area (Sq mi) |
|---|---|
| Kruger National Park | 7,523 |
| Kalahari Gemsbok National Park | 3,750 |
| Richtersveld National Park | 2,334 |
