WWF SA and SANParks Encourage You to Help Safeguard National Parks

Hey there! As things start to loosen up a bit, we, South Africans, have a chance to get back in touch with the breathtaking wonders of nature found in our beloved national parks.

Guess what? A cool campaign has been launched by the World Wide Fund for Nature South Africa (WWF SA) and South African National Parks (SANParks) to honor and rally support for these incredible natural treasures!

When I look at the photo of twin elephants playing at Ngulube Waterhole in Addo Elephant National Park, I can’t help but marvel at the beauty of South Africa’s natural spaces. They are truly something special, and I realize just how important it is to protect them.

Why We Need to Protect South Africa’s National Parks

South Africa’s national parks are treasures that we simply cannot afford to lose. They are not just pieces of land, but rather crucial havens for the incredible natural and cultural heritage that our country possesses.

When you step into one of these national parks, you are stepping into a world of wonder. There are endless kilometers of pristine beaches where the waves crash from two different oceans, majestic mountains that seem to touch the sky, and vast plains and grasslands teeming with life, both animal and plant.

But these national parks are about more than just breathtaking scenery. They are also custodians of our cultural heritage, preserving indigenous knowledge and oral history that would otherwise be lost. In this way, they help us to connect with our roots and understand where we come from.

And it’s not just about heritage and beauty. These national parks also have a direct impact on our own well-being. As humans, we rely on nature for our survival and our health. By protecting these natural spaces, we are protecting ourselves.

The campaign “You are Nature – Support it!” is urging South Africans to help protect our national parks, which are important natural treasures. There are several ways you can get involved:

– You can maintain a hectare of national park land by donating R300. This money will go towards the upkeep of the more than 4 million hectares of protected areas managed by SANParks. And with each donation, you have a chance to win amazing prizes!

– The first prize is an extraordinary opportunity to join the SANParks game capture team for a day as they do game capture operations in a national park. Imagine being up close and personal with South Africa’s wildlife!

– The second prize is just as exciting. A group of four people will have the opportunity to experience a Wilderness Trail in the Kruger National Park. It’s a chance to explore the wonders of nature in one of the most famous parks in Africa.

By participating in this campaign, you are not only supporting the maintenance of our parks but also giving yourself a chance to have unforgettable experiences in these incredible natural environments. Your contribution makes a difference, so join the “You are Nature – Support it!” campaign today!

Are you ready for an exciting adventure in South Africa? Then you’ll love what I have to share with you! Let’s talk about the amazing opportunities waiting for you in the nation’s sprawling national parks.

When someone mentions national parks, what comes to mind? For me, it’s the opportunity to explore and marvel at the rich natural and cultural treasures our planet has to offer. South Africa is home to a remarkable collection of 19 diverse national parks spread across seven provinces.

One of the key attractions is the wildflower phenomenon. Picture this: you’re strolling through a lush landscape, surrounded by vibrant, fragrant blooms as far as the eye can see. It’s a sight that draws thousands of visitors every year, and now, thanks to changing weather patterns, the wildflower season extends well into late October. Make your way to the West Coast National Park, specifically the Postberg section, which is open from 09h00 until 16h00. Just be sure to arrive before 15h00 for the last entry.

But the wildflowers are just the beginning. There’s so much more to discover and appreciate within these breathtaking sanctuaries. From diverse wildlife and awe-inspiring landscapes to fascinating cultural heritage, the parks offer something for everyone.

By following this link, you’ll find a list of each park and its special features. From the unique ecosystems of the Kruger National Park to the marine wonders of Table Mountain National Park, there’s an adventure waiting for you. Whether you choose to explore the vast plains, navigate rivers, or hike through ancient forests, you’ll undoubtedly create unforgettable memories.

So, why wait? Bring your sense of wonder, pack your camera, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the beauty and splendor of South Africa’s national parks. Are you ready to start creating memories that will last a lifetime?

• First prize: One winner will receive an unforgettable trip for two people, including airfare, accommodations, and a guided tour.
• Second prize: Five winners will each receive a one-year national park pass for two people.
• Third prize: Three winners will each receive two nights’ accommodations for two people.
• Archaeological sites – You can explore the incredible history of Mapungubwe on a guided heritage tour. Kruger National Park has fascinating sites like Thulamela and Masorini, and many other parks have Stone Age and Iron Age sites to discover.
• Rock art – The ancient rock art left behind by the San and Khoekhoen is truly remarkable. You can see these incredible paintings at parks like Golden Gate Highlands National Park, Mapungubwe National Park and World Heritage Site, Tsitsikamma Area of the Garden Route National Park, Mountain Zebra National Park, and Kruger National Park.

The ‘You are nature – Support it!’ campaign aims to raise between R3 – R5 million and will run until the end of October 2020.

Hey there! I want to tell you about SANParks. They’re a super important conservation authority, kind of like the Earth’s guardians. They’re connected to the Department of Environment, Forestry & Fisheries. They are known for being the best in the world at managing and protecting special places, like national parks. Amazingly, they have over 4000 locals working with them!

Recently, Justin Smith, the head of business development with WWF South Africa, had something interesting to say. He talked about how the lockdown made us realize how much we need nature. When we couldn’t go outside, we missed it like crazy! Now that things are starting to get better, it’s crucial that we support our national parks. They’re the heart and soul of our protected areas. Our wildlife and wild spaces depend on them, as well as the many people who make a living from tourism.