WESTERN CAPE — Flood damage repairs at Bontebok National Park are progressing steadily, with the comprehensive rehabilitation project expected to cost R12.3 million, according to the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, David Maynier. The park sustained severe damage to several chalets, picnic sites, and the main access road leading to the accommodation area […]
WESTERN CAPE — Flood damage repairs at Bontebok National Park are progressing steadily, with the comprehensive rehabilitation project expected to cost R12.3 million, according to the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, David Maynier.
The park sustained severe damage to several chalets, picnic sites, and the main access road leading to the accommodation area following significant flooding of the Breede River in May 2026. Minister Maynier visited the site on Saturday to receive a detailed briefing on the ongoing recovery operations.
Addressing the initial impact, Minister Maynier highlighted the efficiency of the park’s emergency protocols. “Given the rate at which the river rose, the team had to act quickly to safely evacuate guests and save some of the park’s furnishings. The rapid emergency response is a real credit to the entire management team,” Maynier stated on Tuesday.
As part of the accelerated rehabilitation project, the main access road has been repaired in record time and structurally strengthened to prevent future vulnerabilities. Additionally, floodwater debris has been completely cleared from the accommodation zones.
Park authorities have already reopened six chalets, the main campsite, and three hiking trails—namely Aloe Hill, Acacia, and Termite—to the public. Restoration work is currently underway to repair the remaining chalets, the picnic site, and two additional hiking trails: Bushbuck and Ou Tuin.
Despite the ongoing construction, the Minister actively encouraged the public to support the region by visiting the restored sections of the reserve.
“While there is still much work to be done, the park is open and is well worth a visit to this beautiful part of the Western Cape,” Maynier said. “We look forward to seeing Bontebok National Park go from strength to strength as repairs are completed and exciting new offerings become available for visitors.”
The R12.3 million investment underscores a committed effort to restore the ecological and recreational integrity of the park while enhancing its resilience against future extreme weather events.
