Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Centre: A Gateway to Responsible Tourism in South Africa
South Africa has officially opened the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretive Centre, a world-class cultural and scientific attraction located in Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the Free State Province. This state-of-the-art facility is more than just a museum: it’s a bold step toward responsible and inclusive tourism.
The centre offers an interactive journey through paleontology, archaeology, geology, and local Basotho heritage, celebrating both the region’s fossil legacy and its living culture. Designed under the theme “A Nation That Works for All – Unearthing Our Past, Building Our Future,” the centre is built to inspire learning, connection, and pride.
From June 22 to September 30, 2025, free entry is offered by SANParks to ensure accessibility for schools, students, and local communities. This gesture reflects South Africa’s commitment to equity and education through tourism.
A Model for Responsible Tourism
The Kgodumodumo Centre was developed through a partnership between the Departments of Tourism and Environment, with R120 million in funding from the EU. It supports:
Heritage preservation through fossil and cultural exhibitions.
Local empowerment, via job creation, small business opportunities, and skill development.
Environmental awareness, highlighting Earth’s ancient past and its conservation for future generations.
This initiative aligns with South Africa’s Tourism Master Plan and SANParks Vision 2040, aiming to make tourism a driver of rural economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental stewardship.
More Than a Visit — A Positive Impact
The centre invites visitors to learn, reflect, and engage, while supporting a tourism model that gives back to communities and protects cultural and natural resources.
As South Africa blends science, history, and sustainability in one unforgettable experience, the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Centre stands as a shining example of responsible tourism done right.
