Free Park Entry in North West: Park Mahala Week 2026 dates announced

South African citizens will be able to visit 13 provincial parks and nature reserves in South Africa's North West Province free of charge during the Park Mahala Week 2026, which runs from 20 September to 27 September 2026.

The North West Parks and Tourism Board (NWPTB) has confirmed that free entry will be available at participating NWPTB-managed protected areas to visitors presenting a valid South African ID or passport.

The participating reserves are:

1. Pilanesberg Nature Reserve
2. Borakalalo Nature Reserve
3. Kgaswane Mountain Reserve
4. Botsalano Nature Reserve
5. Mafikeng Nature Reserve
6. Molopo Nature Reserve
7. Molemane Eye Nature Reserve
8. Wolwespruit Nature Reserve
9. Vaalkop Dam Nature Reserve
10. Boskop Nature Reserve
11. Bloemhof Dam Nature Reserve
12. Barberspan Bird Sanctuary
13. S.A. Lombard Nature Reserve

Madikwe Game Reserve is not included in the 2026 Park Mahala Week initiative.

While entry is free for qualifying South African citizens, travellers should note that accommodation, activities and other services may still carry their normal charges. It is also advisable to check individual reserve opening times and facilities before travelling.

Park Mahala Week offers a good opportunity to explore some of the North West's best-known wildlife destinations, including Pilanesberg, as well as lesser-known reserves across the province without paying an entrance fee.

International travellers: Expect busier parks during Park Mahala Week

International visitors do not qualify for free entry under Park Mahala Week, but should be aware that participating reserves may be busier than usual during the promotion, particularly on 20 September 2026, 24 September 2026 and 26–27 September 2026.

Pilanesberg Nature Reserve is likely to be one of the most popular destinations. Its Big Five wildlife, rather good road network and relatively easy access from Johannesburg and Pretoria already make it a popular choice for day visitors, and free entry for South African citizens could lead to increased visitor numbers during Park Mahala Week.

International travellers planning to visit Pilanesberg or another participating reserve may therefore want to arrive early, especially on weekends, and allow extra time at entrance gates. Travellers hoping for a quieter experience could also consider visiting on a weekday or exploring some of the North West's lesser-known reserves included in the initiative.

 

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Madikwe Game Reserve introduces new entry procedures amid South Africa’s Foot and Mouth Disease outbreak

Travellers heading to Madikwe Game Reserve should prepare for new entry formalities. The North West Parks and Tourism Board (NWPTB) has introduced mandatory biosecurity procedures at the reserve in response to South Africa’s ongoing Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak - one of the most serious in recent years.

New Madikwe entry requirements (effective February 2026)

All visitors entering Madikwe Game Reserve - whether by road transfer, self-drive or charter flight - must now complete additional verification and sanitation steps at the gate.

Visitors must expect:

• Registration and identity verification
• Mandatory registration with NWPTB officials on arrival
• Presentation of a passport or South African ID
• Vehicle and personal biosecurity
• Disinfection of vehicle tyres at entry gates
• Walking through disinfectant footbaths before entering the reserve

These procedures apply to all guests, staff and service providers entering the reserve.

Why these measures are being introduced

South Africa is currently battling a widespread Foot and Mouth Disease outbreak affecting multiple provinces and the livestock sector. While the disease does not pose a risk to humans, it spreads easily between cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, antelope and buffalo.

This is particularly relevant for wildlife destinations. African buffalo - present in Madikwe Game Reserve - are natural carriers of the virus, making strict biosecurity essential to protect wildlife populations and the reserve’s ecological integrity.

Game reserves across southern Africa routinely implement similar precautions during animal disease outbreaks, and Madikwe Game Reserve's new procedures are part of a broader national effort to limit further spread.

What this means for travellers

The changes are precautionary and do not affect the safari experience inside the reserve. However, visitors should plan for slightly longer arrival formalities.

Practical tips for guests

• Allow extra time when arriving at the reserve gate
• Keep passports or ID easily accessible
• Follow staff instructions regarding vehicle and foot sanitation
• Expect the procedures to feel unfamiliar but routine

Importantly, FMD is not transmissible to humans, and there are no restrictions on tourism activities within the reserve.

The traveller takeaway

Madikwe Game Reserve remains fully open and safe to visit. The new entry procedures are preventative biosecurity measures designed to protect wildlife during South Africa's ongoing FMD outbreak.

For visitors, the impact is minimal: a short sanitation process on arrival in exchange for safeguarding one of South Africa's premier malaria-free safari destinations.

About Foot and Mouth Disease in South Africa

Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease affecting cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, buffalo and antelope, and it can spread via vehicles, footwear, equipment and animal movement. South Africa is currently experiencing one of its most significant outbreaks in years, with active cases reported across multiple provinces and major vaccination campaigns underway. Authorities are working to vaccinate large portions of the national cattle herd and strengthen biosecurity as the outbreak has already affected livestock production and exports. 

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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South Africa: North West Parks announces major 2025/26 tariff hikes – What local and international travellers need to know!

The North West Parks and Tourism Board (NWPTB) has announced substantial 2025/26 tariff increases across major provincial reserves, including Pilanesberg National Park, Madikwe Game Reserve, and Vaalkop Dam. Some fees will rise by over 500%, with the board arguing that the increases are essential to fund conservation work, infrastructure upgrades, and long-delayed maintenance.

Why prices Are rising
According to the NWPTB, years of underfunding have resulted in deteriorating roads, broken fencing, outdated facilities, and limited anti-poaching resources. The new “user pays” model aims to create a more stable financial base for long-term sustainability.

Local (South African) Travellers
Day visitors and families will face substantial fee increases:

• Pilanesberg National Park: R80 > R168
• Vaalkop Dam: R50 > R105
• Madikwe Game Reserve: R180 > R777

For many families and day-visitors, these new rates will make spontaneous weekend trips more expensive.

International & Non-SADC Travellers
The sharpest increases apply to foreign visitors:

• Madikwe Game Reserve: R180 > R1,232
• Pilanesberg National Park: R110 > R748

This will likely influence safari planning, package pricing, and destination choices. Budget and mid-range travellers may shift to alternative parks or regions offering better value for money.

Concerns over accessibility & competitiveness
Tourism operators and conservation groups warn that such large increases may reduce both domestic and international visitor numbers. Smaller safari businesses may struggle to absorb the new fees, while critics question whether the expected improvements will appear quickly enough to justify the higher costs.

Final thought
The new tariffs could benefit conservation in the North West Province - but only if visitors see real upgrades in infrastructure, safety, and wildlife management. Until then, both local and international travellers will need to weigh the higher costs against the unique safari experiences these iconic reserves offer. 

 

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North West: Free entry to Pilanesberg & other reserves in Park Mahala Week 2025!

The North West Parks and Tourism Board (NWPTB) has officially announced the dates for the Park Mahala Week 2025, an annual celebration that opens the gates of South Africa's North West nature and game reserves to the public. From 28 September to 05 October 2025, South African citizens will enjoy free access to 13 provincial parks and reserves. The initiative excludes Madikwe Game Reserve, but all other NWPTB-managed protected areas will welcome visitors at no cost. To qualify for free entry, visitors must present a valid South African ID or passport at the entrance gates.

The following nature reserves and game reserves in the North West are included:

1. Barberspan Bird Sanctuary
2. Bloemhof Dam Nature Reserve
3. Borakalalo Nature Reserve
4. Boskop Dam Nature Reserve
5. Botsalano Nature Reserve
6. Kgaswane Mountain Nature Reserve
7. Mafikeng Game Reserve
8. Molemane Eye Nature Reserve
9. Molopo Nature Reserve
10. Pilanesberg Nature Reserve
11. SA Lombard Nature Reserve
12. Vaalkop Nature Reserve
13. Wolwespruit Nature Reserve

The Park Mahala Week is the perfect opportunity for South Africans to reconnect with nature, wildlife, and heritage in the North West. From birdwatching at Barberspan, to game viewing in Pilanesberg, or hiking the dramatic Kgaswane Mountain Reserve, visitors can explore the incredible diversity of the North West Province at no cost.
Whether you’re looking for a family outing, a weekend road trip, or a wildlife experience on a budget, the Park Mahala Week 2025 offers a unique chance to discover the province’s hidden gems.

 

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North West Parks and Tourism Board (NWPTB) has announced the dates for the "Park Mahala Week 2024"!

The North West Parks and Tourism Board, mandated to, among other things, manage the 14 protected areas (known as nature/game reserves) in South Africa's North West Province, has released the dates of the Park Mahala Week 2024. From 15 September 2024 until 22 September 2024 the NWPTB is offering free access for South Africans to all (!) its Parks and Reserves in the North West Province excluding Madikwe Game Reserve. In order to be allowed free access, visitors will be required to present a valid South African ID or passport. 

The following protected areas are taking part in the Park Mahala Week 2024:

1. Barberspan Bird Sanctuary
2. Bloemhof Dam Nature Reserve
3. Borakalalo Nature Reserve
4. Boskop Dam Nature Reserve
5. Botsalano Nature Reserve
6. Kgaswane Mountain Nature Reserve
7. Mafikeng Game Reserve
8. Molemane Eye Nature Reserve
9. Molopo Nature Reserve
10. Pilanesberg Nature Reserve
11. SA Lombard Nature Reserve
12. Vaalkop Nature Reserve
13. Wolwespruit Nature Reserve

North West Parks and Tourism Board (NWPTB) has announced the dates for the "Park Mahala Week 2023"!

The North West Parks and Tourism Board, mandated to, among other things, manage the 14 protected areas (known as nature/game reserves) in South Africa's North West Province, has released the dates of the Park Mahala Week 2023. From 10 September 2023 until 17 September 2023 the NWPTB is offering free access for South Africans to all (!) its Parks and Reserves in the North West Province excluding Madikwe Game Reserve. In order to be allowed free access, visitors will be required to present a valid South African ID or passport.

The following protected areas are taking part in the Park Mahala Week 2023:

1. Bakerspan Bird Sanctuary
2. Bloemhof Dam Nature Reserve
3. Borakalalo Nature Reserve
4. Boskop Dam Nature Reserve
5. Botsalano Nature Reserve
6. Kqaswane Mountain Nature Reserve
7. Mafikeng Game Reserve
8. Molemane Ey Nature Reserve
9. Molope Nature Reserve
10. Pilanesberg Nature Reserve
11. S.A. Lombard Nature Reserve
12. Vaalkop Dam Nature Reserve
13. Wolwespruit Nature Reserve