Explore the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Centre in Golden Gate Highlands National Park: free entry until September 30
The Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre is a unique interactive facility in the Golden Gate National Park in the Free State.
Image: Department of Tourism / Instagram
In a boost for tourism and science education, South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced free entry to the new Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre at Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the Free State from June 22 until September 30, 2025.
The announcement was made on Sunday during the official launch of the centre, which was attended by Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Dr Dion George, along with representatives from SANParks, the Department of Tourism, the Free State Province, and traditional leaders.
The centre, which is located inside the national park in the Thabo Mofutsanyane District, is designed to offer visitors an “innovative, creative, and quality demonstration of world-class scientific knowledge in the paleontological, archaeological, and geological disciplines,” SANParks said.
“This facility is a wonderful addition to our diverse tourism offerings and it will ensure repeat visits, keep visitors longer, and more importantly help visitors spend more money in our captivating destinations,” Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille said.
Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille recently conducted a ministerial walk in the centre.
Image: Department of Tourism / Instagram
As part of its public access programme, SANParks said the free entry initiative will benefit schools, tertiary students, local communities adjacent to the park, and residents of the district. Visitors are required to present a valid identification document to gain free entry.
George officially opened the centre, describing it as “a living window into our prehistoric past, and a powerful tool for education, inclusion, and inspiration.”
He added: “This project reflects the Department’s deep commitment to environmental education and community-rooted conservation. It will serve as a source of pride for surrounding communities, a space of learning for schools and researchers, and a place of wonder for future generations.”
The new centre offers an immersive celebration of Africa's ancient story, spotlighting the oldest known dinosaur embryos ever discovered.
Image: Department of Tourism / Instagram
George paid tribute to the contributions of SANParks and the Department of Tourism, saying their support “was instrumental in bringing this vision to life.”
He explained how the centre was inspired by a key fossil discovery made in the park and combines science with culture, culminating in the legend of the Basotho monster Kgodumodumo, which is believed to have left giant footprints in the region.
“It’s a beautiful reminder that science and folklore both hold space in our shared understanding of the world,” George said. “Let us continue to tell our stories boldly. Let us protect our natural heritage fiercely. And let us build a future where people and planet thrive together.”