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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Hartbeespoort Dam: NSRI issues urgent safety warning as water hyacinth chokes!

The South African National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has issued a strong alert to the public regarding hazardous conditions at Hartbeespoort Dam, where rapidly spreading water hyacinth is creating dangerous and unpredictable circumstances for anyone considering launching boats or watercraft.

Hartbeespoort Dam, located in South Africa’s North West Province near the town of Hartbeespoort and roughly an hour from both Johannesburg and Pretoria, is one of the country’s most popular recreational water bodies. Nestled between the Magaliesberg mountain range, it attracts thousands of visitors for boating, fishing, and water sports. However, recurring water hyacinth infestations have become a major environmental and safety challenge.

(c) NSRI

Vast sections of the dam are now blanketed by thick mats of floating hyacinth, which are expected to expand significantly in the coming summer weeks. Seasonal growth, combined with frequent and sudden wind shifts, is causing these dense clusters to drift quickly across the water - transforming previously navigable channels into blocked or impassable routes within minutes.

Key dangers linked to current hyacinth conditions at Hartbeespoort Dam:

• Watercraft becoming trapped in dense vegetation and unable to return to shore.
• Engines overheating or failing due to tangled plant material and hidden debris.
• Concealed hazards such as illegal fishing nets or submerged objects caught within the hyacinth.
• Sudden wind changes pushing large hyacinth mats across the dam, cutting off escape routes.

While NSRI crews remain on standby for critical emergencies, the organisation stresses that conditions are severely compromised and should not be underestimated.

If you still choose to launch a boat, NSRI advises you to:

• Check the latest weather and wind forecasts before departure.
• Closely monitor hyacinth movement before and during your trip.
• Share your planned route and return time with someone on land.
• Carry sufficient supplies and protective gear in case you become stranded.
• Keep a charged mobile phone in a waterproof pouch, wear a lifejacket at all times, and log your journey using the NSRI SafeTRX app.

The NSRI urges all visitors to exercise extreme caution as Hartbeespoort Dam faces one of its most challenging hyacinth surges in recent years.

 

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Bloemhof crowned South Africa’s “Town of the Year 2025”!

For travellers looking for off-the-beaten-path destinations in South Africa, Bloemhof is a must-see. This tranquil town on the banks of the Vaal River in the North West Province has just been crowned “Town of the Year 2025” in the popular Kwêla “Dorp van die Jaar” competition on kykNET (DStv). Recognised for its charm, community spirit, and scenic riverside setting, Bloemhof is now firmly on the map for visitors seeking authentic small-town experiences.

About the “Dorp van die Jaar” competition
Hosted annually by Kwêla, a popular South African Afrikaans-language lifestyle and magazine TV show broadcast on kykNET (DStv channel 144), in partnership with Lottoland, the competition invites towns across South Africa and Namibia to compete for the title. Public votes determine regional finalists, with one winner from each province going head-to-head in the national final. The winning town receives a R1 million marketing package and cash support for community development — a major boost for local tourism and investment.

Why Bloemhof won
Founded in 1864, Bloemhof (meaning “flower garden”) lies on fertile farmland beside the Vaal River and Bloemhof Dam, a hotspot for fishing, boating, and relaxed outdoor living.
Residents united under the slogan “Rippelspan” (“Ripple Team”) - working together on clean-ups, beautification, and local initiatives that transformed their town’s image. Their dedication impressed both voters and judges, making Bloemhof a symbol of small-town renewal and community pride.

Visit Bloemhof
Bloemhof is about 120 km northwest of Johannesburg, offering visitors peaceful river views, affordable stays, and genuine South African hospitality. The Bloemhof Dam Nature Reserve is a must-visit for birdwatching, angling, and tranquil weekend breaks.

A Win With Big Potential
The “Town of the Year” title brings more than recognition - it’s a catalyst for growth. The exposure could attract travellers, new residents, and investors to this hidden gem on the Vaal River. For visitors seeking an authentic dorp experience, Bloemhof now stands proudly among South Africa's best-loved small towns.

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

South Africa: Number of malaria cases on the rise!

The South African National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) has announced that the malaria-endemic regions in South Africa are beginning to see increases in the number of malaria cases. The start of summer generally marks the start of the malaria season, due to higher temperatures and increased rainfall in the malaria transmission areas.
Malaria transmission occurs in the north-eastern part of South Africa, mainly in the low altitude (below 1 000m above sea-level) areas of Limpopo, Mpumalanga and northern part of  KwaZulu-Natal. Limited local transmission may occasionally occur in the North West Province and in the Northern Cape along the Molopo and Orange rivers. Kruger National Park and Mapungubwe National Park are the only two National Parks in South Africa that are situated in malaria risk areas. The risk of malaria in both of these parks is usually low, even in the summer months.

Source: NICD; click on map to enlarge

The NICD is urging individuals travelling to malaria-endemic areas in South Africa to take the appropriate precautions. Travellers should consider taking antimalarial prophylaxis, particularly if travelling to high-risk areas. Both doxycycline and atovaquone-proguanil can be procured without a prescription from pharmacies and public sector travel clinics in South Africa. The following precautions will substantially reduce the chance of acquiring malaria but the risk is never completely removed:

• reduce contact with mosquitoes by limiting outdoor activity after dark
• cover up bare skin (including feet and ankles)
• use mosquito repellents containing at least 10% DEET
• ensure mosquito screens on windows are closed
• use bed nets, fans or air-conditioning, if available

All travellers returning from malaria transmission areas, including very low-risk ones, should immediately report “flu-like illness” (headache, fever, chills, fatigue, muscle and joint pain) that occurs up to three weeks after first potential exposure, to the nearest healthcare facility for a malaria test. Particular care should be taken with children, as symptoms are very nonspecific (fever, loss of appetite and vomiting). Malaria can rapidly progresses to severe illness, often with severe consequences, early diagnosis and treatment are strongly recommended.

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

North West Province: Wolwespruit Nature Reserve temporarily closed! [update #2]

update (16 March 2023): The Wolwespruit Nature Reserve in South Africa's North West Province has reopened to the public after it was temporarily closed due to heavy waters on the shoreline. The shoreline and other parts of the reserve have dried out and cleared to welcome anglers and visitors. 

update (13 March 2023): The Wolwespruit Nature Reserve is still closed!

The North West Parks Board (NWPB), the governmental organisation responsible for the management of protected areas and public nature reserves in South Africa's North West Province, has announced that the Wolwespruit Nature Reserve has been temporarily closed due to flooding. We'll keep you posted!
The Wolwespruit Nature Reserve lies on the Vaal River about 130 kilometres upstream from the Bloemhof Dam and 22 km south of Leeudoringstad. It is a popular angling and hiking destination, along the tranquil river frontage environment. There are rustic camping sites all along the river bank on the reserve and a self-catering stone cottage sleeping 6 people.

North West Province: Wolwespruit Nature Reserve and Boskop Dam Nature Reserve are temporarily closed!

The North West Parks Board (NWPB), the governmental organisation responsible for the management of protected areas and public nature reserves in South Africa's North West Province, has announced that the Wolwespruit Nature Reserve and Boskop Dam Nature Reserve are temporarily closed due to recent heavy rains. 

The Wolwespruit Nature Reserve lies on the Vaal River about 130 kilometres upstream from the Bloemhof Dam and 22 km south of Leeudoringstad. Boskop Dam Nature Reserve is located in the Mooi River valley 20 km north of Potchefstroom.

South Africa: North West Parks Board (NWPB) reopens its Nature Reserves for intra-provincial overnight visitors! [update]

update (17 August 2020): NWPB's Nature Reserves in the North West Province will be open for interprovincial travel from 18 August 2020!

Following the announcement made by the Minister of Tourism, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane on the easing of regulations for alert level 3 lockdown, the North West Parks Board (NWPB), the governmental organisation responsible for the management of protected areas and public nature reserves in South Africa's North West Province, has announced the reopening of its Nature Reserves for intra-provincial overnight visitors. Camping is still not allowed in NWPB's Nature Reserves except the bush camp facilities in Botsalano Nature Reserve where single groups/families will be allowed at these facilities.

• Guided open game drives will only be allowed if the number of guests in a game drive vehicle do not exceed 70%, and adequate social distancing is apply.
• Visitors will be allowed to use picnic areas for recreational use, i.e. seating, food preparation, relaxing, etc.
• To minimize the risk for infection, only single groups will be allowed at one stand/braai area, and groups must be from the same family.
• Visitors to such facilities must know other visitors are also using these facilities, and surfaces and seating places must be cleaned / sanitizes before such picnic areas are occupied.
• Visitors must bring along their own sanitizing bottles as prescribe in the regulations (at least 70% alcohol).
• Where communal ablutions will be used, like with ablutions elsewhere in the reserves, visitors must apply social distance, sanitize before and after using such ablutions, and ensure masks are worn at all times.
• Selfdrive excursion will only be allowed for private vehicles that comply with the directions issued by South Africa's Minister of Transport in respect of private vehicles.
  

The following Nature Reserves in the North West Province are ready and open to provide different accommodation and conference facilities:

1. Botsalano Nature Reserve
2. Mafikeng Nature Reserve
3. Molemane Eye Nature Reserve
4. Barberspan Bird Sanctuary
5. Vaalkop Dam Nature Reserve
6. Wolwespruit Nature Reserve
7. Bloemhofdam Nature Reserve
8. Molopo Nature Reserve
9. Kgaswane Mountain Reserve
10. Pilanesberg Nature Rreserve
11. Borakalalo Nature Reserve
12. Madikwe Game Reserve

South Africa: North West Parks Board to reopen Pilanesberg National Park!

The North West Parks Board, the governmental organisation responsible for the management of protected areas and public nature reserves in South Africa's North West Province, has announced the reopening of Pilanesberg National Park and several other selected Nature Reserves on 12/13 June 2020. In line with South Africa's alert level three regulations, only self-drive excursions for day visitors will be allowed.

The following protected areas and public nature reserves will reopen on 12 June 2020:

• Pilanesberg National Park (Bakubung Gate and Bosele Gate)
• Kgaswane Mountain Reserve

The following protected areas and public nature reserves will reopen on 13 June 2020:

• Mafikeng Game Reserve
• Botsalano Game Reserve

The following Level 3 lockdown rules are to be adhered to at all times when visiting the reserves:

Only self-drive visits will be allowed:

• This means sedan vehicles, LDV, SUV’s and minibuses will be allowed, but no busses or game drive vehicles.
• Visitors are also reminded that the general regulations for transport for alert level three also applies in the reserve and minibuses will only be allowed 70% of loading capacity.
• Visitors are also reminded that cross provincial border traveling is not allowed, that visitors with an address from another/other provinces will not be allowed in terms of the South Africa's alert level three regulations.

Visitors are requested to respect the rules to avoid unnecessary unpleasantness at the gates by:

• At the gates: Keep social distancing, wearing masks, and sanitizing your hands.
• Visitors are also advised to bring your own sanitizing fluid and cloths to sanitize surfaces before touching them.
• Gate times: The gates will open at 06:30 in the morning and closes at 18:00 in the evening;
• Screening: All visitors are required to undergo screening prior to entering the reserve.
• Staff at the gate will assist all occupants of the vehicle to complete a health status form and measure their body temperature.
• Only after this has been completed to the satisfaction of gate staff, and no abnormalities have been found, will visitors be allowed to enter.
• Visitors with a body temperature of more than 37.8 Celcuis will not be permitted to enter the reserve.

Ablutions:

• Ablutions have been cleaned and sanitized. However, for your own health, visitors are also advised to clean and sanitize any surfaces before touching it.

Hides:

• Hides will be opened but will be used at own risk.
• Visitors are urged to sanitize surfaces before touching them, to observe social distancing between groups, and to limit their stay in the hide to 15 minutes or less if other people are queuing outside.

Picnic sites:

• Picnic sites will remain closed during alert level three.
• No open fires are allowed.

Animals:

• Visitors are also alerted to the fact that animals have grown use to the absence of visitors and vehicles to the parks and have freely occupied open areas such as roads. Dung middens can be seen in all the roads.
• Visitors are urged to be alert to animals on the roads or next to roads and allow them their space.

Park rules:

• The normal parks rules still apply.
• Visitors are urged to respect the rules.
• Visitors are also urged to report transgressions of the regulations to park officials.

South Africa: Eight days of free entry into protected areas in the North West Province in September 2019!

The North West Parks Board, responsible for the management of protected areas and public nature reserves in South Africa's North West Province, announced on Facebook that between 08 - 15 September 2019 ("Mahala Week") all parks and game reserves, including Pilanesberg National Park and Madikwe Game Reserve, will be open to South Africans for free. In order to be allowed free access, visitors will be required to present their South African Identity documents. 


North West Parks Board is the custodion of the following 15 protected areas in the North West Province:

• Barberspan Bird Sanctuary
• Bloemhof Dam Nature Reserve
• Borakalalo Game Reserve
• Boskop Dam Nature Reserve
• Botsalano Game Reserve
• Highveld Nature Reserve
• Kgaswane Mountain Reserve
• Madikwe Game Reserve
• Mafikeng Game Reserve
• Molemane Eye Nature Reserve
• Molopo Game Reserve
• Pilanesberg National Park
• SA Lombard Nature Reserve
• Vaalkop Dam Nature Reserve
• Wolwespruit Nature Reserve

Malaria: South African Malaria Risk Map (December 2018)

South Africa's National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD) has published a new and updated South African Malaria Risk Map (December 2018). In South Africa, malaria transmission occurs in the north-eastern part of the country, mainly in the low altitude (below 1 000m above sea-level) areas of Limpopo, Mpumalanga and northern part of  KwaZulu-Natal. Limited local transmission may occasionally occur in the North West Province and in the Northern Cape along the Molopo and Orange rivers. Kruger National Park and Mapungubwe National Park are the only two National Parks in South Africa that are situated in malaria risk areas. The risk of malaria in both of these parks is usually low, even in the summer months. Malaria is distinctly seasonal in South Africa, with the highest risk being during the wet summer months (September to May).

Source: NICD; click on map to enlarge

Malaria: South African Malaria Risk Map November 2018

South Africa's National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD) has published a new and updated South African Malaria Risk Map (November 2018). In South Africa, malaria transmission occurs in the north-eastern part of the country, mainly in the low altitude (below 1 000m above sea-level) areas of Limpopo, Mpumalanga and northern part of  KwaZulu-Natal. Limited local transmission may occasionally occur in the North West Province and in the Northern Cape along the Molopo and Orange rivers. Kruger National Park and Mapungubwe National Park are the only two National Parks in South Africa that are situated in malaria risk areas. The risk of malaria in both of these parks is usually low, even in the summer months. Malaria is distinctly seasonal in South Africa, with the highest risk being during the wet summer months (September to May).

Source: NICD; click on map to enlarge

North West Province: Free entry to protected areas during the North West Parks Board Park Mahala Week 2018!

Fourteen of the fifteen protected ares managed by the North West Parks Board in South Africa's North West Province, will open their gates for free from 11 to 15 September 2018. Free entry refers to gate entry only and not accommodation and other tourist attractions. This is to allow all South African citizens especially people living nearest to the reserves to enjoy and share in the biodiversity heritage of the Province. The following protected areas are taking part in this year's North West Parks Board Park Mahala Week:

• Pilanesburg National Park
• Kgasoane Mountain Reserve
• Borakalalo National Park
• Mafikeng Game Reserve
• Barberspan Bird Santuary
• Boskop Dam Nature Reserve
• Wolwespruit Nature Reserve
• Vaalkop Dam Nature Reserve
• Molemane Eye Nature Reserve
• Botsalano Game Reserve
• Molopo Game Reserve
• SA Lombard Nature Reserve
• Highveld Nature Reserve

Madikwe Game Reserve is not taking part in North West Parks Board Park Mahala Week 2018.

North West Province: Marico is South Africa's 10th UNESCO Biosphere Reserve!

The Marico Biosphere Reserve, located in South Africa's North West Province, has been added to the World Network of Biosphere Reserves by the members of UNESCO's Man and Biosphere Programme (MAB) Council. The official announcement for the inclusion of the area was made at the 30th International Coordinating Council sessions of Man and Biosphere Programme in Indonesia (23 - 28 July 2018). South Africa's 10th UNESCO Biosphere Reserve covers an area of 447 268.48 ha and comprises a unique freshwater ecosystem which includes the Molemane, Molopo and Marico river systems. It is home to 73 species of mammal such as African elephants, black rhinoceros and lions. The main economic activities are subsistence agriculture, livestock, game ranching and tourism.
 

South Africa: The Aerial Cableway at Hartbeespoort Dam has been reopened

The Aerial Cableway at Hartbeespoort Dam in the North West Province of South Africa has officially been reopened. The Cableway got closed about 7 years ago due to a lack of maintenance, but in 2010 a private initiative aiming at establishing Hartbeespoort Dam as a key tourism hub in South Africa, bought the cable way and started to renovate it.
The Aerial Cableway, which is offering visitors panoramic views of the beautiful Magaliesberg, the Hartbeespoort Dam and the surrounding areas, now has 14 new cable cars, each able to carry six passengers.
The new facilities at the upper station of the cableway include a walkway around the mountain, a shop, a lookout bar, a KidZone and a Pizza Shack, with a restaurant and curio shop at the bottom. 

Ticket sales for the Aerial Cableway open at 08:30, the first ride up is at 09:00, and the last ride down is at 16:30. Tickets are R120 for adults and R60 for children (4-13 years). Webtickets cost only R100 per adult, and R50 per child. Entrance is free for children under the age of four. 
The Hartbeespoort Dam is just a 45-minute drive from Johannesburg and lies 35 km west of Pretoria. Nestled in the undulating foothills of the Magaliesberg Mountains, it’s a great escape from city living. There is an amazing choice of places to stay ranging from upmarket waterfront golf estates, boutique hotels, guest houses, B&B’s, self-catering homes to camping sites – almost all have stunning views of the dam.