The Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretive Centre, a significant new addition to South Africa’s heritage attractions, has officially unveiled its entry fee structure. Located amidst the striking sandstone cliffs of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the Free State, this advanced facility opened its doors to the public on June 22, 2025. Following an initial period of complimentary access that concluded on September 30, 2025, the new fee schedule became effective on October 1, 2025, reflecting SANParks’ commitment to both accessibility and the sustainable development and maintenance of this world-class centre.

The pricing strategy is tiered to accommodate various visitor groups. South African adults will be charged R110, while discounted rates of R70 apply to children and pensioners. School groups from South Africa can enter for R25 per learner, with a maximum of 60 learners per group. For SADC nationals, adult entry is R150 and children pay R75. International visitors face a fee of R250 for adults and R125 for children. Additionally, special group rates are available for school visits from both the SADC region and international locations, promoting educational tourism.

More than just a traditional museum, the Kgodumodumo Centre offers an immersive journey through South Africa’s rich paleontological, archaeological, geological, and cultural narratives. Visitors are invited to step back in time through interactive exhibitions and hands-on displays, exploring the era when dinosaurs roamed the prehistoric landscapes of what is now the Maloti-Drakensberg region. The centre's design and curation are intended to spark curiosity and cultivate a deeper appreciation for the area’s ancient past, making it an ideal destination for school excursions, family holidays, and specialized heritage tours.

Its strategic location within the 340 km² expanse of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park significantly enhances its appeal. The park itself is celebrated for its golden-hued cliffs, sculpted over millennia by natural forces, and provides visitors with opportunities to discover not only geological wonders but also diverse wildlife. Guests might observe black wildebeest, eland, and the elusive, endangered bearded vulture soaring above the rugged mountain slopes. The park’s extensive network of hiking trails and breathtaking mountain vistas create a perfect synergy, allowing educational excursions to seamlessly blend with outdoor adventure.

For African travel professionals, the establishment of the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretive Centre provides a substantial boost to the region’s expanding tourism portfolio. It solidifies South Africa’s standing as a destination where natural wonders and cultural heritage coexist. The centre’s focus on the Maloti Mountains’ ancient ecosystems and their multi-million-year evolution presents a captivating narrative that resonates with both local and international audiences, underscoring the region’s importance in the broader paleontological and geological history of the African continent.

The availability of special rates for group and educational visits is anticipated to drive increased demand from school tours and learning-based travel, a growing trend within Sub-Saharan Africa. By integrating cutting-edge exhibit technology with compelling storytelling, the centre serves as a model for how heritage attractions can effectively engage younger generations. It also generates new avenues for tour operators and destination management companies to curate multi-day itineraries that combine the interpretive centre experience with the park’s hiking, wildlife, and scenic offerings.

Beyond its educational mission, the Kgodumodumo Centre is poised to stimulate local economic development. The expected increase in visitor numbers is projected to boost demand for accommodation, guiding services, and community-led tourism initiatives within the surrounding Free State region. This positive ripple effect is particularly vital for rural economies, where tourism revenue can create jobs and foster skills development. For those developing new products for the African travel market, the centre’s opening highlights the increasing attractiveness of destinations that bridge the past and present, offering experiences that differentiate Southern Africa globally.

Looking ahead, this new attraction underscores the critical importance of ongoing investment in heritage and nature-based sites across Africa. As the demand for educational and experiential travel continues to grow, facilities like the Kgodumodumo Centre will play a pivotal role in shaping the continent’s tourism identity. Industry professionals have a clear opportunity to leverage this momentum by forging partnerships, expanding marketing efforts, and integrating such unique sites into broader regional travel circuits. With its official fee schedule now implemented, the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretive Centre is ready to welcome visitors from across the region and worldwide. Its unique combination of interactive learning, spectacular natural scenery, and a profound celebration of South Africa’s deep-time heritage is set to inspire awe and curiosity for many years, cementing its status as a must-visit highlight within the Maloti-Drakensberg tourism corridor.