Garden Route National Park: Island Lake reopens for recreation after blue-green algae closure!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced the reopening of Island Lake in the Wilderness Section of the Garden Route National Park in South Africa's Western Cape, effective today, 30 May 2025. The lake had been temporarily closed since 07 March 2025 due to the presence of blue-green algal bloom bacteria.
Recent water quality tests, supported by satellite imagery, have confirmed the absence of toxin-producing algae in the lake. This clearance deems the lake safe for all recreational activities, including swimming, boating, and fishing.
The blue-green algal bloom that led to the closure was likely the result of several environmental factors, including warm temperatures, decreased water inflows, and nutrient runoff from the broader catchment area. These factors are often beyond the control of SANParks.
SANParks has committed to continuous monitoring of Island Lake to detect any early signs of algal bloom resurgence or changes in water quality. As climate change and increased pressures on the landscape can contribute to future blooms, visitors are encouraged to stay updated through official SANParks channels.