Severe weather forces closures across South African National Parks – June 2026 update

Updated: 05 June 2026

Travellers planning to visit South Africa's national parks this winter should be aware of widespread weather-related disruptions affecting several parks across the Western Cape and Eastern Cape.

Following an Orange Level 8 severe weather warning issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS), South African National Parks (SANParks) has again been forced to implement numerous precautionary closures to protect visitors, staff, and infrastructure. In addition, damage caused by recent flooding and persistent rainfall continues to impact park operations in several destinations.

Parks currently affected

Garden Route National Park

The most significant disruptions are currently being experienced across all sections of Garden Route National Park.

• Tsitsikamma Section
• All hikers on the famous Otter Trail have been safely evacuated.
• All hiking trails are closed.
• All water-based activities have been suspended.
• The Waterfall Trail is closed.
• All hiking trails within Storms River Mouth Rest Camp are closed due to unstable trees and saturated ground conditions.
• Nature's Valley
• No flooding has been reported inside the rest camp.
• The river mouth remains open.
• Power outages are currently affecting Nature's Valley and nearby Bloukrans.
• Wilderness Section
• The Swartvlei and Touw River mouths remain open, helping to reduce flooding risks.
• All hiking trails are closed.
• All water-based activities have been suspended.
• Knysna Section
• Diepwalle hiking trails, hut facilities and deck camps remain closed.
• All hiking and cycling trails in Harkerville have been temporarily closed.

Travellers visiting the Garden Route should expect ongoing operational changes as weather conditions evolve.

Addo Elephant National Park

The Zuurberg section of Addo Elephant National Park has also been affected by severe weather.

Current Closures

• Hiking Trails
• All Zuurberg hiking trails are closed.
• Road Closures
• Mpunzi Loop
• Mbabala Loop
• Rooidam to Hapoor Road

SANParks has warned that additional road closures may be implemented at short notice depending on weather conditions. Visitors should obey all warning signs, barriers and danger tape restrictions.

Karoo National Park

Heavy and persistent rainfall has forced the closure of all roads within Karoo National Park.

Travellers with upcoming reservations should contact the park directly before departure to confirm access conditions and possible reopening dates.

Bontebok National Park

Bontebok National Park continues to deal with the aftermath of severe flooding that occurred in May 2026 when the Breede River burst its banks.

The flooding caused extensive damage to visitor infrastructure, trails and recreational facilities.

Areas closed until further notice:

• All river-boarding trails
• Viewing decks along the river
• Multiple tracks and access routes affected by flood damage

SANParks reports that several structures were washed away entirely, making affected areas unsafe and inaccessible.

Accommodation impact:

• The Lang Elsies Kraal Rest Camp has been temporarily closed while repairs and safety assessments continue. SANParks says a phased reopening plan will be announced once conditions allow.

What travellers should do

If you are planning a trip to any of the affected parks during June 2026:

• Check the latest SANParks updates before departure.
• Expect sudden closures of roads, trails and activities.
• Avoid entering closed areas, even if weather conditions appear to improve.
• Allow additional travel time, particularly along the Garden Route.
• Monitor local weather forecasts closely.
• Contact your accommodation provider regarding power outages and access conditions.

Outlook

Weather forecasts indicate that parts of the Western Cape and Eastern Cape may continue to experience challenging conditions in the coming days. SANParks is monitoring conditions across all affected parks and will adjust closures and safety measures as required.

While most rest camps remain operational, outdoor activities, hiking trails and certain roads are likely to remain restricted until conditions improve and safety inspections have been completed.

Travellers are strongly encouraged to remain flexible with their itineraries and to verify access conditions before travelling to any national park in the affected regions.

 

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