- SANParks is opening its doors to nature lovers who want to enjoy the West Coast region's flower season.
- Staff say the good rains should make for an excellent flower-viewing season this year.
- SANParks is advising all visitors to stick to strict Covid-19 protocols.
The West Coast will officially open its doors to members of the public in the second week of August, as it gears up for the flower season.
The South African National Parks (SANParks) announced that the Postberg section of the West Coast National Park will open to the public on 1 August and will close again on 30 September.
"The good rains, which the area has received this year, should make for an excellent flower-viewing season," said Pierre Nel, West Coast National Park Acting Park Manager.
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Every spring, the West Coast National Park undergoes a transformation, with masses of multi-coloured flowers drawing thousands of nature-lovers to bask in the understated beauty.
"Visitors should select week days to visit the park. If at all possible, it is advisable to plan your visit on a weekday. Weekend days are often very busy, with queues developing at the gate and congestion in the flower viewing areas," he added.
According to Nel, they are anticipating the flowers to be "good" from the second half of August up until mid-September.
The Postberg section of the West Coast National Park will open to the public on 1 August and will close again on 30 September.
According to the park, the Mooimaak Area will also be open for flower viewing.
Here’s what you need to know:
Gate times for Postberg are as follows: 09:00 to 17:00 with last entry at 16:30.
Gate times for the general park area in August: 07:00 to 18:00 with last entry at 17:30; In September: 07:00 to 19:00 with last entry at 18:30.
Conservations fees for August and September are as follows (child < 12 years old):
- SA adult (with ID): R94 per person;
- SA child: R47 per person;
- SADC National adult (with passport): R144 per person;
- SADC National child: R72 per person;
- Standard Conservation Fee/International VisitorsAdult: R210 per person;
- Child: R105 per person.
During a visit to the park in flower season, visitors can expect to see the following species on display: Suurvy, Elandsvy, Gouwsblom, Bokbaai vygie, White rain daisy, Sporrie, Magriet, and Suituintjie.
Strict Covid-19 protocols will be in effect upon entry and visitors are encouraged to wear a face mask, sanitise wash hands and maintain physical distance.
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