According to SANParks head of communications, Janine Raftopoulos the objective of the week is to cultivate a culture of pride in all South Africans in their relationship with the country’s natural landscapes as well as the rich cultural and historical heritage that parks have to offer. “When people visit our national parks, they inevitably come away with a renewed sense of pride and greater understanding of the importance of conservation and sense of ownership”.
This year, in the lead-up to Parks Week, SANParks conducted a road trip to five national parks in collaboration with Total South Africa, DSTV and Cars.co.za.
"Total is proud of this association and we look forward to another 60 years of working together in conservation" says Reina Cullinan, corporate communication and marketing manager.
Simphiwe Madikizela, provincial head for Gauteng: FNB Public Sector Banking says: “South Africans must seize the opportunity to experience the vast and diverse natural environment of the country by visiting any the parks that form part of this campaign. Through this initiative, we are not only raising awareness about our parks but we also celebrate South Africa’s natural environment, which remains the envy of many across the world.
It should be noted that the free access to the parks will not include accommodation and any commercial activities in the park such as guided safaris in vehicles or guided walks, etc. The Boulders Penguin Colony in Table Mountain National Park and Namaqua National Park are free to the public. Some of the parks will be extending the week to include the weekend.
