This paper deals mainly with the past and present status of nature conservation in the Republic of South Africa. It is pointed out that the nature conservation history of the Republic of South Africa commenced as early as 1656. In 1897 the first areas for the conservation of wild animals were set aside. These were the Hluhluwe and Umfolozi Game Reserves. Shortly after- wards, in 1898, the Sabi Game Reserve was established mainly through the efforts of President Paul Kruger. Col James Stevenson-Hamilton was appointed the first Warden of the Sabi Game Reserve and through his continued endeavours and perse-verance this game reserve, with certain additions, was eventually proclaimed as the first national park in the RSA in 1926. The first National Parks Board of Trustees, instituted according to the National Parks Act of 1926 commenced with its duties on the 16th September, 1926. The National Parks Act made provision for the establishment of other National Parks. Since 1931 eight National Parks were estab- lished. A short description of the history and most important features of each of these is given.