Traveller Alert: SANParks closures and dlood damage across the Cape region

Travellers planning a visit to South Africa’s Cape region should take note of ongoing weather-related disruptions affecting several national parks managed by South African National Parks (SANParks). 
The damage has impacted key tourism destinations including Table Mountain National Park, Bontebok National Park, West Coast National Park, Agulhas National Park and Tankwa Karoo National Park.

In Table Mountain National Park, infrastructure and visitor facilities have also been affected. Strong winds damaged ablution facilities and water tanks at Silvermine, resulting in only partial access through Gate 1. Falling trees and branches have additionally forced the closure of the popular Elephants Eye Trail from Silvermine Dam as well as the Tokai Arboretum. SANParks teams continue with clean-up and safety assessments across affected sections of the park. 

At Bontebok National Park, flood damage has forced the temporary closure of the park after the Breede River burst its banks. Chalets at Lang Elsie’s Kraal Rest Camp were flooded, while several hiking trails remain inaccessible due to water damage.

Accommodation infrastructure at West Coast National Park sustained significant wind damage, particularly at the Abrahamskraal and Van Breda facilities. Despite the damage, the park itself remains open to visitors.

Further south, ongoing electricity outages continue to disrupt operations and communications at Agulhas National Park and in surrounding parts of the Cape Agulhas municipal area. Rising water levels have also impacted travel conditions along the R319 between Bredasdorp and Struisbaai, a key route for visitors heading toward Cape Agulhas.

Meanwhile, Tankwa Karoo National Park remains accessible, although saturated road conditions and persistent mud may affect driving conditions throughout the park.

SANParks has urged travellers and hikers to remain cautious, avoid closed or damaged areas and check the latest park updates before travelling. Visitors planning trips to the Cape parks over the coming days should remain flexible, as repairs, assessments and clean-up operations continue across multiple destinations.

 

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