SANParks
Big Tree Project
KNP BIG TREE LEADERBOARD
KNP INTERACTIVE MAP
SANPARKS PROJECT
The Search for the Giants of our National Parks
Registered with SANParks as official research project SS822, this initiative is a systematic and scientific survey across all 19 National Parks in South Africa. From the iconic, lush landscapes of the Kruger National Park to the rugged, arid expanses of the Richtersveld, we are identifying and documenting the largest specimen of every indigenous species within park boundaries.
The primary mission is to shift the tourist’s gaze: while a Marula tree might not “compete” with a leopard for immediate attention, we aim to make the “Big 5 of Trees” as much of a legendary attraction as the animals themselves.
Why the National Parks?
National Parks serve as the ultimate botanical sanctuaries. They provide a unique opportunity for guaranteed sightings; unlike wildlife that moves through the bush, a 300-year-old Nyala tree remains a permanent, reliable landmark. By developing a dedicated SANParks Big Tree Register, we are providing nature lovers, photographers, and “tree-huggers” with a specialized “Tree Map” to explore the living heritage of these protected areas using fixed coordinates.
Namaqua fig at Augrabies National Park. Photo by Waldie le Grange
Project Objectives and Impact
Comprehensive Mapping
We are compiling a unique register that allows us to compare species across different climates—such as finding the biggest Baobab in Kruger versus the largest in Mapungubwe National Park.
Digital Integration
We are creating a digital database and mobile-friendly application. This will allow tourists to access GPS coordinates and “Size Index” data for giants while on self-drive safaris.
Conservation & Safety
By identifying these exceptional trees, we can implement specific environmental practices to protect them from both human impact and animal damage.
community stewardship
By bringing exceptional specimens that are identified to the attention of their communities, we hope to offer them care and protection through local awareness and appreciation.
Current Progress & Surprising Results
The project is moving through three phases, with fieldwork scheduled through 2027.
As of May 2026, surveys were completed in Kruger, Augrabies Falls, Kgalagadi, Mokala, Marakele, Mapungubwe, and Bontebok.
The results have been staggering:
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Recent surveys in the Kruger National Park yielded 16 measured trees; 12 of these are now the largest of their species ever recorded in South Africa.
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Champions identified to date include record-breaking specimens of the Weeping Boer-bean (Huilboerboon), Jackalberry (Jakkalsbessie), the massive Baobabs (Kremetarte) of Mapungubwe and the massive Camelthorns (Kameeldoring) of Kgalagadi.
Appleleaf at Mopanie restcamp, Kruger National Park. Photo by Waldie le Grange.
BIG TREES OF KRUGER national park
Leaderboard
| Rank | English Name | Stem circumference | Averarge Crown Width | Height | Size Index | Location Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Baobab | 17.5 | 28.4 | 30.3 | 381.03 | Makuleke area, north of Luvuvhu river (NwaXinavani Baobab) |
| 2 | Nyalatree | 12 | 31.25 | 25.4 | 278.39 | S56 road next to Mphongolo river |
| 3 | Sycamore fig | 9.6 | 34.4 | 24.2 | 248.06 | S30 Salitji road, 1km east of picnic spot |
| 4 | Cape-ash | 8.2 | 30.55 | 26.3 | 234.80 | S30 Salitji road, next to Sabieriver |
| 5 | Anatree | 4.35 | 33.2 | 28.1 | 190.48 | Crooks Corner, south of river |
| 6 | Jackalberry | 6.67 | 29.45 | 23.9 | 188.94 | S30 Salitji road, next to Sabieriver |
| 7 | Fevertree | 4.27 | 33.16 | 27.4 | 183.99 | Skukuza church |
| 8 | Leadwood | 4.39 | 28.5 | 27.6 | 174.14 | H4-1, just east of H12 bridge, next to Sabie river |
| 9 | Weeping boerbean | 5.6 | 24.76 | 20.1 | 133.56 | H1-2 Sandriver bank |
| 10 | Large-leaved false-thorn | 3.71 | 25.55 | 22.3 | 122.52 | Ranger's house, close to the pool |