Your guide to people, places, and happenings in NMB

041Parenting columnist Luchae Williams leans into the Heritage/Tourism Month celebrations by sharing some free family activities you can participate in this month.

I get it, we are tired. And for the most part, we are cash-strapped. But we have kids and they probably shouldn’t sit in front of a screen for 5 hours a day. So, here’s the game plan: round up your squad, grab your comfiest sneakers, and pack a picnic that would make Gordon Ramsay jealous. The Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency (ECPTA) is turning up the excitement dial by offering gate access to selected nature reserves from September 30 to October 9th, 2023. That’s right, it’s time to pack up the family, leave the screens behind, and dive headfirst into the great outdoors. The best part? You don’t need to break the bank to do it. It is absolutely FREE. 

This is a golden opportunity to visit some of the Eastern Cape’s beautiful parks. (Also, how great for our IG content?)  These nature reserves are more than just places on a map; they are our heritage, our pride, and our joy. The fun doesn’t stop when the weekdays end. Some of these parks are extending the free access week to include both weekends, ensuring that your family has ample time to soak in the beauty of the Eastern Cape’s natural wonders.

Clip note: While park access is free, accommodations and other tourist activities aren’t included. So, if you’re planning to stay a little longer or explore a specific activity, make sure to check the details beforehand.

Check out this link to see which parks are participating and when: https://www.sanparks.org/about/events/parks_week/default.php

But wait, there’s more! Your free entrance pass also unlocks the doors to some iconic landmarks in the Eastern Cape. Think of The Donkin Reserve Lighthouse, The Campanile, and the Cape Recife Lighthouse. These are the kinds of experiences that make for great family memories, all while immersing your family in the beauty of Eastern Cape’s natural heritage. 

Mark those calendars, lace up those sneakers, and prepare for a week of exploration, bonding, and unforgettable memories—all for FREE! Your next big family adventure starts now!