The Eastern Cape Parks & Tourism Agency (ECPTA) has revealed the dates for its 2025 Free Access Week, offering both locals and tourists free daytime entry into some of the region’s most beloved nature and game reserves.
Zebra / Wolfgang Hasselmann / Unsplash
From 4 to 12 October 2025, visitors will be able to explore several of the Eastern Cape’s iconic natural reserves without paying gate entry fees.
This yearly programme aims to strengthen ties between people and the region’s rich ecological heritage, while also encouraging sustainable travel and nature-based tourism. By removing entrance fees for day visitors, ECPTA hopes to invite more people to enjoy the province’s dramatic scenery, remarkable wildlife, and diverse ecosystems.
Highlighted reserves included in the free-access initiative are:
- Great Fish River Nature Reserve
- Thomas Baines Nature Reserve
- Waters Meeting Nature Reserve
- Tsolwana Game Reserve / Commando Drift Nature Reserve
- Mpofu / Fort Fordyce Nature Reserve
- Oviston Nature Reserve
- East London Coast Nature Reserve
- Ongeluksnek Nature Reserve
- Dwesa Nature Reserve
- Silaka Nature Reserve
- Mkhambathi Nature Reserve
- Hluleka Nature Reserve
- Baviaanskloof Nature Reserve
Whether you’re into hiking, photographing wildlife, birdwatching, or simply relaxing in nature, this is a perfect moment to visit. The landscapes on offer range from rugged mountain terrain and dense forests to pristine coastlines and broad grasslands, all brimming with unique flora and fauna.
Please note: this free access promotion only applies to day‐visitors entering through the gates. If you plan to stay overnight, use park accommodation, or participate in paid activities, the regular fees will still apply. These remain important for maintaining the reserves and conservation efforts.
Free Access Week offers more than just free entry, it’s a chance for communities near the reserves to take pride in and engage with their natural heritage. By making these special places more accessible, ECPTA is promoting environmental stewardship and greater awareness.
As demand for authentic nature experiences continues to rise, this initiative positions the Eastern Cape as a leader in making responsible tourism accessible. For guides, local businesses, and tour operators, there’s an excellent opportunity here to develop special nature‐based offerings during the event.
If you’re keen to reconnect with nature, see new landscapes, or simply enjoy an outdoor day trip, mark 4–12 October 2025 in your calendar. Don’t miss this chance to experience the wild beauty of the Eastern Cape without paying for day entry.
Follow us on social media for more travel news, inspiration, and guides. You can also tag us to be featured.
TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
ALSO READ: Heritage meets astronomy: The best stargazing spots with a story
