Visitors planning a trip to one of South Africa’s most famous coastal attractions will need to adjust their itineraries this July.

SANParks has announced that access to the iconic Suspension Bridge in the Tsitsikamma Section of the Garden Route National Park will be temporarily closed from 20 July until 31 July 2026 to allow contractors to complete the final phase of refurbishment work.

The closure won’t just affect the main Suspension Bridge. During the construction period, all three suspension bridges in the park will be inaccessible to visitors.

According to SANParks, the full closure is necessary to ensure the safety of both visitors and construction teams while the remaining work is completed.

Good news for Tsitsikamma visitors

While the temporary closure may disappoint travellers hoping to cross the famous bridge this month, there is some good news.

SANParks says the refurbishment project has progressed ahead of schedule, allowing the overall completion date to be brought forward.

The upgraded bridges are now expected to be finished by 31 July 2026, with full public access resuming from 1 August 2026.

The refurbishment is aimed at improving the long-term safety, durability and overall visitor experience at one of the Garden Route National Park’s best-known attractions.

One of South Africa’s most photographed walks

The Tsitsikamma Suspension Bridge is one of the highlights of the Garden Route and attracts thousands of local and international visitors each year.

Suspended above the mouth of the Storms River, the walkway offers dramatic views of rugged cliffs, indigenous forests and the Indian Ocean. The short hike to the bridge is considered one of the park’s signature experiences and is a favourite stop for road-trippers exploring the Garden Route.

Although visitors won’t be able to access the bridges during the closure period, many other attractions and hiking trails within the Tsitsikamma Section of the Garden Route National Park will remain open, subject to normal park operations.

The Tsitsikamma Suspension Bridge. Image: canva

The Tsitsikamma Suspension Bridge. Image: canva

The Tsitsikamma Suspension Bridge. Image: canva