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National Parks provide unparalleled intangible benefits to its visitors, according to a recent research study conducted by South African National Parks (SANParks) junior scientist, Nelsiwe Mpapane.
The study was for Mpapane's Master of Science (MSc) degree in Nature Conservation at the Nelson Mandela University (NMU).

Although the research study area was in Mountain Zebra National Park (MZNP) in the Eastern Cape, the Garden Route (GRNP) also had similar findings. SANParks scientists in 2020 concluded visitors frequent National Parks for meaningful human-nature experiences. Parks are popular for their rich historical and cultural landscapes, recreational benefits, aesthetic pleasures and biological diversity.

A similar research study in 2020 attempted to understand how the management of protected areas enable the delivery of cultural ecosystem services in National Parks.

“National Parks are striking for a healthy balance between human-nature experiences and biological integrity, which are both significant factors for the sustainability of healthy ecosystems and societies worldwide,” says Mpapane.

An observation from the study is that visitors flock to destinations that contribute to their overall experience during a trip. As a whole, picnic sites, panoramic views, viewpoints and sometimes the presence of historical artefacts have a positive influence on the visitor experience. “In addition, scenic areas are most likely places that people will use as recreational sites, and find inspiration for paintings, photography, writing and overall emotional and motivational contentment,” she says.

Recipients who participated in the study also reported findings of spiritual rejuvenation just by being in the landscape of MZNP. This is all good, according to General Manager for Scientific Services in the Garden Route, Stef Freitag, who says “if people feel attached to Parks, they are able to advocate for them and further efforts to conserve and protect them.”

Mpapane was able to complete her studies under Professor Dirk Roux's supervision, NMU- based SANParks aquatic specialist. Mpapane is one of several junior scientists groomed to complete their post-graduate studies in nature conservation.

Media Enquiries

Nandi Mgwadlamba
Regional Communications Manager, SANParks
Tel: 044 302 9663; Cell: 078 702 9663
Email: [email protected]