WESTERN CAPE — Rehabilitation efforts for Bontebok National Park flood damage repairs are advancing steadily, with the comprehensive recovery project projected to cost R12.3 million, according to the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, David Maynier.
The Western Cape reserve experienced significant infrastructure destruction, including damage to the primary access road leading to the lodging facilities, select picnic areas, and multiple chalets, due to severe Breede River flooding in May 2026. Minister Maynier conducted an on-site inspection this past Saturday to review the restoration progress alongside officials from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.
Commending the park staff’s swift actions during the crisis, Maynier highlighted the effectiveness of their 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.
The rehabilitation initiative has already yielded substantial operational results. The main access route was reconstructed and structurally reinforced in record time to enhance future resilience, and all flood debris has been entirely removed from the visitor accommodation zones.
Currently, six chalets, the primary campsite, and three specific hiking routes—Acacia, Aloe Hill, and Termite—are fully operational and open to the public. Concurrently, restoration crews are actively repairing the remaining chalets, the designated picnic site, and two additional trails known as Bushbuck and Ou Tuin.
Emphasizing that the reserve remains accessible despite ongoing construction, the Minister urged the public to continue supporting the area.
“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 affirmed. “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 reflects a targeted commitment to restoring the ecological and recreational integrity of the park while upgrading its infrastructure to better withstand future extreme weather events.
