The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) has launched a new initiative aimed at encouraging domestic tourism while promoting conservation awareness across the country.
The “Passport to Nature: Your Year of Discovery” campaign offers South Africans 25% off Individual Annual Membership during September, providing unlimited access to all 11 National Botanical Gardens and two Zoological Gardens for an entire year.
SANBI gardens include Kirstenbosch, Harold Porter, Hantam National Botanical Garden, Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens, Free State Botanical Garden and Karoo Desert National Botanical Garden.
The initiative transforms traditional garden visits into an interactive experience. Members receive an illustrated passport that collects unique stamps and biodiversity facts from each site visited. Completed passport sections unlock rewards including SANBI merchandise and seed hampers, with fully completed passports eligible for behind-the-scenes experiences.
“Tourism Month is about discovering the hidden treasures of our country and how deeply nature is connected to our wellbeing,” said Nontsikelelo Mpulo, SANBI’s Director of Marketing Communication and Commercialisation. “With this Passport to Nature, South Africans can turn everyday outings into experiences that nurture both biodiversity and bonds.”
The campaign aligns with Tourism Month 2025’s focus on domestic travel as an economic driver. Economists and social development experts have highlighted tourism’s role in fostering both economic growth and social cohesion throughout South Africa.
SANBI’s network of gardens and conservation facilities serves a dual purpose: protecting the country’s natural heritage while providing accessible green spaces for communities. Recent research indicates that regular access to nature improves mental health and wellbeing while strengthening community connections.
The botanical gardens offer diverse activities from family picnics and birdwatching to sensory garden experiences and music events. Each visit with the SANBI passport becomes part of a year-long discovery journey across South Africa’s botanical diversity.
The discounted membership campaign runs throughout September, positioning domestic travel not just as leisure activity but as investment in South Africa’s natural heritage conservation efforts.
For more information about the Passport to Nature membership discount, visit SANBI’s official website or contact participating botanical gardens directly.
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