Bontebok National Park announces phased reopening

Bontebok National Park will welcome visitors again from Saturday, 1 August 2026, as South African National Parks (SANParks) begins a phased reopening following extensive flood damage sustained in May.

Significant rehabilitation work has been completed over the past two months, allowing parts of the popular Swellendam reserve to safely reopen while repairs continue in other sections of the park.

First phase of reopening

The initial reopening will include:

• Six self-catering chalets
• The park’s camping site
• Aloe Hill Hiking Trail
• Acacia Hiking Trail
• Termite Hiking Trail

Visitors will once again be able to enjoy overnight stays and selected outdoor activities as SANParks gradually restores normal operations.

Some facilities remain closed

Not all areas of the park are ready to reopen.

The following facilities remain unavailable while rehabilitation work continues:

• Eight riverside chalets damaged during the floods
• Die Stroom Picnic Site
• Bushbuck Trail

SANParks said these facilities will reopen once restoration work has been completed and it is safe to welcome visitors back.

More facilities to reopen in phases

The conservation authority said it will continue with a phased reopening, with additional accommodation and visitor experiences becoming available as rehabilitation progresses.

Future updates on the reopening of the remaining facilities will be communicated as work is completed.

SANParks thanks visitors

SANParks thanked visitors, tourism partners and stakeholders for their patience and ongoing support during the recovery process.

The organisation said it looks forward to welcoming guests back to Bontebok National Park while remaining committed to restoring the park’s facilities safely and responsibly.

Visitors seeking accommodation bookings or the latest visitor information can do so through the official SANParks website.

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