Bontbok National Park is preparing to welcome visitors again after nearly two months of restoration work following devastating floods.
The South African National Parks (SANParks) corporation has confirmed that the reserve in the Western Cape will begin a phased reopening on August 1, 2026. This will allow guests to return to certain areas while infrastructure damaged during the Brid River floods continues to be restored.
The park was forced to close in early June due to severe flooding, which caused significant damage to roads, hiking trails, viewpoints, and visitor facilities. After the Brid River overflowed its banks and washed away infrastructure, some parts of the reserve became unsafe and inaccessible.
Visitors will be able to visit parts of the park again, but not all amenities will be available immediately. SANParks indicates that the opening will proceed gradually to ensure guest safety during repair work. Some roads, trails, and recreation areas remain closed due to ongoing rehabilitation, so it is recommended to check the latest updates before traveling.
Accommodation facilities will also reopen gradually as rooms are inspected and restored. Areas that remain unsafe will stay closed until all necessary repairs are completed. Guests planning a trip are advised to check in advance regarding lodging availability, event accessibility, and routes, as conditions may change as restoration work progresses.
South African police reported that calm has returned to Jeffreys Bay and the wider Kuqa region a day after violent anti-immigrant demonstrations, which led to the arrest of dozens of people and looting at Spar stores.
Calm has returned to Jeffreys Bay following protests that occurred on Thursday in the Oceanview area. These demonstrations escalated into mass theft and public violence. At least 23 Spar stores owned by foreigners were affected. The police arrested 69 individuals aged between 18 and 52 on charges of public violence; all are currently in custody and must appear in the Humansdorp Magistrate's Court on July 20.
Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Vuyisile Nkata, instructed officers to intensify search and seizure operations aimed at returning property stolen during the unrest. Investigators are also examining the role of march leaders, while the police warned that further arrests may follow depending on the investigation's results.
Several foreign nationals affected by the attacks have been placed in temporary accommodation for their safety. Three individuals injured during the unrest were sent for medical treatment.
Authorities have also taken steps to refute reports linking a fire in the area to the protests. SAPS stated that the building was damaged due to an electrical fault, and the fire was unrelated to the protest activities.
Spar stores owned by foreigners remain closed as a precautionary measure while the police continue to monitor the area. Police presence has been increased throughout the Kuqa region, with additional officers remaining on duty. Nkata noted that the return to calm is encouraging but warned that the police will maintain a strong presence.
He appealed to community leaders to continue engaging with residents and cooperating with the police in recovering stolen goods. Nkata emphasized that anarchy will not be tolerated, and lawbreakers will face the full force of justice. The unrest in Jeffreys Bay is part of a broader wave of anti-immigrant protests that have emerged in various parts of South Africa in recent weeks. The police have not yet specified when the affected Spar stores will be allowed to resume operations, as the security assessment is ongoing.
The popular Half-Collared Kingfisher Trail in the Wilderness National Park section of the Garden Route has officially resumed operations. It was previously closed temporarily due to heavy rains and damage, according to the George Herald publication.
The route closure occurred due to rising water levels, which made certain sections of the path to the waterfall unsafe. After conducting necessary inspections and repairs, South African National Parks confirmed that hikers can once again enjoy one of the most picturesque forest trails in the Garden Route.
The trail starts near the Ebb and Flow Rest Camp. It includes a unique manually operated pontoon crossing over the Tuwv River, after which the trail connects to the Giant Kingfisher Trail. Visitors then follow a shaded path through the local forest along the river, eventually reaching a scenic waterfall and natural rock pools.
The return journey is approximately 7 to 8 kilometers, depending on the chosen segment, and takes three to three and a half hours at a leisurely pace. The trail is suitable for most fitness levels and is particularly popular among families, birdwatchers, and nature enthusiasts. Sturdy hiking boots are recommended, especially after recent rainfall, as some sections may remain muddy or slippery.
As the name suggests, the trail offers the opportunity to see the elusive Royal Kingfisher, as well as Giant Kingfishers, Knysna Turacos, African Fish Eagles, Black Orioles, and many other forest birds. During the walk under the yellowwood trees, visitors may also encounter a bushbuck. Despite the reopening, SANParks advises visitors to exercise caution after wet weather, stick to marked trails, and check conditions before starting the hike. The opening of this trail marks the return of one of the most enjoyable day routes in the region for those planning an adventure in the Garden Route.
