National Park System, South Africa

The national park system of South Africa has experienced a unique history of development. In 1884, Kruger began to promote the idea of national parks in South Africa. In 1926, Kruger National Park was established as the first national park in South Africa. Currently, South African National Parks (SANParks) manages most of the national parks in South Africa. However, the KwaZulu-Natal National Park is managed by the Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife (a new governmental organisation formed by the Natal Parks Board and the KwaZulu Department of Nature Conservation). Many national parks have joined the Peace Parks Foundation and were then renamed. National botanical gardens and provincial parks also play significant roles in South Africa. Private parks have become increasingly important in the preservation of natural resources. There are currently 19 protected areas named national parks, which are the best destinations for tourists to closely observe wildlife.