SANParks has announced that its national parks will remain open as per the amended level three lockdown regulations laid out by the President on Monday, December 28. This comes after President Cyril Ramaphosa moved the country back to level three of the nationwide lockdown during an update on the country’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
SANParks Acting CEO Xola Mkefe said all day and overnight guests are still welcome, in line with the amended regulations, but reminded visitors to abide by the COVID-19 safety protocols and regulations when entering any of its national parks.
Mkefe also said park officials are obligated to ensure that all of its operations are managed under the strictest health protocols to safeguard both staff and guests. ‘As a result, we are continuing with limiting face to face contact between staff and guests by encouraging online and telephonic day visit bookings on 012 428 9111 or www.sanparks.org,‘ Mkefe added.
At this stage overnight reservations at Parks where there is controlled access remain unaffected. Opening and closing times of gates, as well as some early morning and evening activities, may be affected and guests are requested to seek clarity at the Parks or camps where these bookings may have been made.
MEDIA RELEASE: SANParks Remains Open As Per Strict Level Three Regulations pic.twitter.com/xr4R8EwM1v
— SANParks (@SANParks) December 29, 2020
Mkefe then went on to say, ‘SANParks is currently studying the amended regulations and seeking clarity in some areas and information will be shared in due course with the public’.
Further updates will be provided by SANParks once more information regarding the level three regulations are made available.
SANParks released a list that clarifies which permitted and non-permitted activities are allowed in its Table Mountain National Park.
All hiking and cycling trails, including Lions Head, will remain open to the public, as long as they have the relevant permits for activities such as dog walking and cycling.
Picnic and braai sites will be subject to stringent capacity restrictions and safety protocols.
The Newlands and Tokai picnic and braai sites will remain open, while the Oudekraal and Silvermine areas will be closed.
No swimming will be allowed in the Silvermine dam area.
Boulders Penguin Colony Beach is also closed, however, the boardwalk and information centre will remain open.
Picture Twitter/@SANParks
