Golden Gate Highlands National Park – The Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre, a place where science, culture, and conservation come together to tell a story millions of years in the making, has been launched in the Free State.
Speaking at the launch on Sunday, 22 June 2025, Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment Minister Dr. Dion George hailed the Centre as a powerful tool for environmental education and community pride, where visitors can explore Earth’s ancient history while being inspired to protect its future.
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille was also in attendance with officials from her department and representatives of SANParks, the Free State provincial government, and traditional leaders.
Minister George extended his “heartfelt thanks to SANParks, whose stewardship of this land makes days like today possible”.
He added: “I also want to recognise our partners at the Department of Tourism, led by Minister Patricia de Lille, whose support was instrumental in bringing this vision to life”.
During the launch on Sunday, 22 June 2025, guests were taken on a tour of the impressive Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre.
This world-class facility merges science, culture, and conservation to celebrate South Africa’s rich prehistoric heritage.
Further into his speech, Minister George said: “This Centre is not just a building.
“It’s a living window into our prehistoric past, and a powerful tool for education, inclusion and inspiration.
“For decades, the sandstone rock formations of this region have attracted paleontologists from around the world.
“But one discovery, right here in this park, changed everything.
“From that moment, the vision began to grow.”
Minister George added: “And today, that vision stands before us in the form of a world-class facility that will open a window to the past while speaking powerfully to the present”.
Inside the centre, visitors will journey through time, exploring South Africa’s rich fossil record, learning about Earth’s evolutionary history, and understanding the fragile balance of biodiversity we must now protect.
In a uniquely local touch, the exhibition ends with the legend of Kgodumodumo, the Basotho monster believed by cattle herders to have left giant footprints across the land.
“It’s a beautiful reminder that science and folklore both hold space in our shared understanding of the world,” Minister George.
“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.
“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.”
In recognition of this significant development, SANParks announced that starting today, 22 June 2025, until 30 September 2025, there will be free entry to the centre for all visitors.
As a result of this announcement, schools, tertiary students, communities adjacent to Golden Gate Highlands National Park, and Thabo Mafutsenyane District Municipality residents will be among the South Africans who stand to benefit from this offering.
To qualify for entry, visitors are required to present a valid identification document.
