SANParks confirmed that national parks across the country will remain open under adjusted Level 3 lockdown.

The government gazetted new regulations which stipulated the closure of public parks but did not mention rules regarding national parks. This left many confused with regards to Cape Town’s mountains and hiking trails.

SANParks Acting CEO Xola Mkefe assured the public that day and overnight visitors will still be welcome to the national parks and strict COVID-19 regulations will be upheld.

SANParks Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) posted clarification regarding hiking and biking trails on Table Mountain. In a Facebook post, they explained that all hiking and biking trails are open, including Lion’s Head. 

Picnic areas in the TMNP require strict COVID-19 controls and social distancing.

– Oudekraal picnic and braai site – CLOSED
– Newlands picnic and braai site – OPEN
– Tokai picnic and braai site – OPEN
– Silvermine picnic area – CLOSED. No swimming is permitted within the dam area as per amended regulations.
Boulders Penguin Colony Beach area has been closed in line with beach closures in the province but the boardwalk and information centre are still open.
Picture:@taraturk1/Twitter

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