Showing posts with label cashless payment. Show all posts
Showing posts with label cashless payment. Show all posts

12 December 2025

North West Parks & Tourism Board (NWPTB): Cashless access now in effect at Pilanesberg and Kgaswane, with more reserves to follow!

The North West Parks & Tourism Board (NWPTB) has issued an update on the rollout of its new tariff structure and modernised access systems across provincial nature reserves. Pilanesberg National Park and Kgaswane Mountain & Nature Reserve are now in their second week of full implementation, with both the revised tariffs and the electronic controlled-access system fully operational.

Other NWPTB-managed nature reserves in the North West Province have already adopted the new tariffs and will shift to cashless gate operations from this weekend, with controlled access to be introduced next as part of NWPTB’s broader modernisation programme.

NWPTB
also confirmed that a phased upgrade of visitor infrastructure at Pilanesberg National Park will begin shortly. Initial improvements will focus on hides, picnic sites and ablution facilities, followed by long-term enhancements to the park’s road network. These developments form part of the organisation’s strategy to improve visitor experience, strengthen sustainability and raise overall tourism standards across the province’s protected areas.

 

Subscribe for updates:

Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates, border info, road alerts, and travel inspiration for Southern Africa. 

10 December 2025

North West Parks and Tourism Board (NWPTB) launches cashless entry system and prepares new online booking platform!

The North West Parks & Tourism Board (NWPTB) introduced new card-only, cashless gate-takings systems at Pilanesberg National Park and Kgaswane Mountain & Nature Reserve on 01 December 2025. This upgrade forms part of the NWPTB’s broader Turnaround Strategy, aimed at strengthening and modernising the organisation’s revenue collection processes.

The NWPTB confirmed that all remaining NWPTB-managed nature reserves in the North West Province will soon migrate to the same cashless system. The transition is expected to standardise operations across the network, reduce financial risks, and improve overall financial controls.

According to a press release issued on 09 December 2025, the newly implemented system has operated smoothly since activation, with no disruptions reported.

The NWPTB also announced that it is finalising a new online booking and payment platform, set to launch in the near future. The digital system will allow visitors to plan trips, secure bookings, and complete payments online, enhancing visitor convenience while supporting increased investment in conservation across all provincial reserves.

 

Subscribe for updates:

Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates, border info, road alerts, and travel inspiration for Southern Africa. 

17 November 2025

Eswatini Air to go cashless from 20 November 2025!

Eswatini’s national carrier, Eswatini Air, has announced a major update to its payment policy. Starting 20 November 2025, the airline will no longer accept hard cash for any of its services at all reservation offices, including airport ticket counters.

The move forms part of Eswatini Air’s broader strategy to improve safety, streamline operations, and offer a more efficient customer experience. By shifting to digital transactions, the airline aims to reduce cash-handling risks and speed up service across its network.

Travellers are encouraged to use the airline’s wide range of secure digital payment options, such as EFTs, debit and credit cards, and popular mobile money platforms, when booking flights or purchasing ancillary services.

Eswatini Air’s
transition to cashless payments reflects a growing trend across the aviation industry and supports the airline’s mission to deliver a modern, seamless, and customer-friendly travel experience.

online flight booking on TravelComments.com >> 

 

Subscribe for updates:

Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates, border info, road alerts, and travel inspiration for Southern Africa.

 

04 November 2025

Kruger National Park: SANParks confirms cashless payments only at Afsaal Picnic Site!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed in a recent social media alert that the Afsaal Picnic Site in Kruger National Park has officially moved to a cashless payment system, effective 01 November 2025. In the statement, SANParks reminded visitors “as per previous communication regarding the Afsaal operation,” that no cash payments will be accepted at the site for any transactions. Guests are therefore encouraged to make use of cards or approved digital payment methods during their visit.

Situated in the heart of Kruger National Park's Marula Region, between the Crocodile and Sabie RiversAfsaal Picnic Site is conveniently located along the H3 tar road connecting Skukuza Rest Camp and Malelane Gate. This iconic stop is one of the park’s most popular picnic sites, known for its excellent facilities and lively atmosphere.

Afsaal Picnic Site offers visitors a shop, café/kiosk, braai (BBQ) stands, gas skottel (mobile frying pan) hire, and restrooms. Thanks to its diverse surrounding habitat, it is also a birding hotspot and a great place to spot wildlife, including regular sightings of large game in the nearby bush.

While Afsaal Picnic Site tends to be busier than more remote picnic spots, its accessibility, facilities, and prime location make it a perfect mid-drive break for travellers exploring the southern section of Kruger National Park.

Kruger National Park tours >>
online car hire
>>
 

 

Subscribe for updates:

Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates, border info, road alerts, and travel inspiration for Southern Africa.

 

30 October 2025

Western Cape: CapeNature goes fully cashless at five nature reserves from February 2026!

CapeNature, the public agency responsible for biodiversity conservation in South Africa's Western Cape, has announced that five of its flagship nature reserves will transition to a fully cashless payment system starting 02 February 2026. The move aims to streamline visitor operations, reduce queue times, and improve the overall nature experience, while minimizing the risks and inconveniences associated with cash handling.

The reserves adopting the new cashless system are:

Accepted cashless payment methods:

  • Debit/credit cards (Visa, Mastercard)
  • Mobile payments (Scan to Pay)
  • Pre-bookings via www.capenature.co.za
  • Telephonic bookings through the CapeNature Contact Centre: 087 087 8250

Visitor tips:
Travellers are encouraged to pre-book permits online to guarantee entry and avoid delays at the gate. For those arriving without a booking, speed point devices and QR code mobile-friendly payment options will be available on-site, ensuring a smooth and seamless entry.

This shift to cashless access reflects CapeNature’s commitment to modernizing visitor services and enhancing experiences at some of the Western Cape's most iconic natural destinations.

 

Subscribe for updates:

Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates, border info, road alerts, and travel inspiration for Southern Africa.