SANParks x250 Tourism Monitors Programme For 2026. If you are a young South African passionate about nature, community development, and the tourism sector, the SANParks x250 Tourism Monitors Programme for 2026 offers a rare and valuable chance to step into the industry. In partnership with the Department of Tourism, South African National Parks (SANParks) is recruiting 250 tourism monitors under a structured and rewarding 7-month employment and training programme.
This initiative falls under the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and is geared towards improving tourism safety, creating jobs, and offering skill-building opportunities in some of the most iconic national parks across South Africa.
Overview of the SANParks x250 Tourism Monitors Programme 2026
The SANParks x250 Tourism Monitors Programme for 2026 is designed to provide young, unemployed South Africans with the tools, training, and experience needed to thrive in the tourism sector. The programme combines theoretical classroom-based training with practical fieldwork in designated SANParks sites, enhancing the participants’ professional and personal development.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | SANParks x250 Tourism Monitors Programme 2026 |
| Organisers | SANParks & Department of Tourism |
| Number of Candidates | 250 |
| Duration | 7 Months |
| Stipend | R8,000 per month (R200 per day) |
| Application Deadline | 30 July 2025 |
| Deployment Locations | Various National Parks in South Africa |
Who Can Apply?
To be considered for the SANParks x250 Tourism Monitors Programme 2026, applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be between the ages of 18 and 35
- Be currently unemployed
- Hold a Grade 12/Matric certificate or equivalent
- Be proficient in English (reading, writing, speaking)
- Live within 40km–100km radius of the park for which they are applying (proof of residence required)
- Be physically fit and willing to take part in physical assessments
- Have a passion for tourism, community development, and nature conservation
- Be able to work weekends and public holidays
- Have reliable transport to reach the park site
- Only one learner per household will be accepted
- No affidavits will be accepted as valid proof of address
Advantageous but Not Mandatory: Tertiary qualification in Tourism or Environmental Studies
Key Responsibilities of a SANParks Tourism Monitor
Selected candidates under the SANParks x250 Tourism Monitors Programme 2026 will carry out a range of duties, including:
- Supporting visitor safety and emergency response within park boundaries
- Reporting suspicious or illegal activities to park management
- Providing basic tourism information and assistance to park guests
- Enhancing the overall visitor experience through hospitality and customer care
- Assisting in fieldwork operations and park maintenance
- Promoting eco-tourism and community involvement
- Attending regular training workshops and hands-on learning sessions
- Maintaining professionalism while representing SANParks
Deployment Locations – Where You Can Be Placed
Successful candidates will be deployed to SANParks sites near their place of residence, and applicants are expected to indicate their preferred location upon applying.
- Addo Elephant National Park
- Golden Gate Highlands National Park
- Karoo National Park
- Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
- Kruger National Park
- Mapungubwe National Park
- Mokala National Park
- Mountain Zebra National Park
- Table Mountain National Park
- |Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park
This selection of parks spans diverse regions and ecosystems, offering unique learning experiences in wildlife conservation, eco-tourism, and park operations.
Stipend and Benefits
One of the biggest attractions of the SANParks x250 Tourism Monitors Programme 2026 is the monthly stipend of R8,000, calculated at R200 per day. This amount is provided directly through SANParks under the guidance of the Department of Tourism.
In addition to the stipend, participants gain:
- Hands-on experience in South Africa’s leading national parks
- Professional training and potential career pathways in tourism and conservation
- Networking opportunities with park professionals and the tourism industry
- Work-readiness skills in areas such as communication, teamwork, and visitor service
Important Skills and Attributes for Candidates
Applicants who wish to succeed in the SANParks x250 Tourism Monitors Programme 2026 should demonstrate the following qualities:
- Good interpersonal skills
- Effective communication skills in English and local languages
- Ability to work under pressure
- Readiness to work outdoors
- Respectful, courteous, and professional conduct
- Self-motivation and discipline
- Team spirit and the ability to take initiative
- Commitment to complete the full programme duration
Application Process – How to Apply
Interested candidates must prepare a complete application pack and submit it to the nearest SANParks office corresponding to their park of choice.
Required Documents
- A detailed CV
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Certified copies of all academic qualifications
- Proof of residence (not older than 3 months) accepted forms include:
- Municipal bill
- Letter from ward councillor
- Letter from tribal authority
- Clearly indicate the reference number and park you are applying for
Submission Method:
All applications must be hand-delivered to the nearest local SANParks office before the closing date: 30 July 2025.
Selection Process: What to Expect If Shortlisted
Applicants who meet the eligibility criteria and pass the initial screening will undergo a comprehensive selection process, including:
- Physical Fitness Assessment:
- 2.4 km run
- 25 push-ups
- 25 sit-ups
- Interview
- Medical Check-Up
- Criminal Background Verification
Important Notes for Applicants
- Applicants with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
- If you do not receive feedback within three months after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
- The Department of Tourism and SANParks reserve the right to cancel or withdraw the deployment at any stage.
Why You Should Apply for the SANParks x250 Tourism Monitors Programme 2026
This programme is more than just a job it is an entry point into the tourism and conservation sector, a space where you can grow, gain real-world experience, and make a difference in your community.
Whether you dream of becoming a tour guide, conservationist, or tourism entrepreneur, the SANParks x250 Tourism Monitors Programme for 2026 lays the foundation for that journey.
Key Benefits Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Stipend | R8,000 |
| Duration | 7 Months |
| Training | Yes (theoretical and practical) |
| Locations | 10+ SANParks sites |
| Transport | Self-provided |
| Eligibility Age | 18–35 |
| Qualification | Minimum Matric |
FAQs About SANParks x250 Tourism Monitors Programme 2026
Can I apply if I live more than 100km from the nearest national park?
No. One of the key requirements is that applicants must reside within a 40km–100km radius of the park they are applying for. This ensures practical access and community representation in the parks.
Will I be permanently employed after the 7 months?
The programme is for 7 months only under a fixed-term contract. However, participants may gain enough skills and experience to pursue permanent roles in the tourism and conservation sectors.
Can more than one person per household apply?
Unfortunately, only one learner per household will be considered for the programme, in an effort to maximize the spread of opportunities across different families and communities.
Conclusion
The SANParks x250 Tourism Monitors Programme 2026 is a transformative opportunity for South Africa’s youth to build careers in the growing tourism and conservation sectors. With structured support, real-world exposure, and an attractive stipend, it stands out as one of the most accessible and empowering government-backed programmes available.
