UPDATE: Kruger National Park Begins Phased Reopening as Weather Conditions Stabilise

Following a period of heavy rainfall and flooding, South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced the phased reopening of several key gates and facilities within the Kruger National Park. However, several areas remain off-limits due to flood damage or safety concerns.

The move comes after improved weather conditions in the Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces, which allowed SANParks teams to conduct critical safety assessments on road infrastructure and guest facilities.

Access for Guests

Lion cub yawning while lying in the grass in Kruger National Park — *Lion cub in Kruger | Photo: Unsplash*

Effective 26 January 2026, overnight visitors are permitted to enter the park through the Phalaborwa Gate. Access through the Phabeni Gate followed shortly after on 27 January. Guests entering through these points are advised to use the S3 and S4 routes to reach the Pretoriuskop and Skukuza areas.

While the Orpen Gate is open, the main road between Orpen and Satara has suffered a major breach. Only light vehicles are being allowed through at the moment.

In the north, Bateleur Bush Camp and the Punda Maria shop have officially resumed operations. Mopani Rest Camp and its shop are set to follow by the end of January, though Mopani’s restaurant and swimming pool will remain closed for ongoing repairs.

Critical Infrastructure Damage

Elephant in the Kruger National Park, South Africa | Photo credit: Brooke Beyond — *While most tarred roads have reopened, the majority of gravel roads remain closed for safety | Photo credit: Brooke Beyond*

Despite the progress, the sale of the flood damage remains evident, with Shingwedzi, Shimuwini, Sirheni, Talamati, and Tamboti remaining closed to the public due to flood damage and breached fences.

High-traffic areas like Pafuri Picnic Spot and Crooks Corner have sustained major structural damage and remain inaccessible. Additionally, the H1-1 (Skukuza to Pretoriuskop) has a significant breach near Transport Dam, necessitating a temporary detour. While most tarred roads have reopened, the majority of gravel roads – including the S3, S21, and S52 – remain closed for safety.

Water Restrictions

Two zebras and a nyala in Kruger National Park. — *Zebras and a Nyala in Kruger National Park | Photo: Unsplash*

SANParks has issued a special notification urging all guests to use water sparingly, as the floods have washed away several primary pump infrastructures in several locations, including Olifants. This has forced the camp to rely on emergency boreholes with limited capacity.

Safety Warnings and Road Closures

*Tourists are encouraged to monitor official SANParks communication channels for real-time updates | Photo: SANParks*

Officials issued a stern warning to visitors not to remove barricades or attempt to drive on closed routes, noting that these restrictions are vital for both visitor safety and the ongoing assessment of infrastructure. SANParks has also reminded visitors that driving on a closed road is prohibited and can result in heavy fines.

“The situation across the park continues to be monitored, and access restrictions will be reviewed as conditions improve and repairs progress,” SANParks said in a statement.

Tourists are encouraged to monitor official SANParks communication channels for real-time updates as the park continues its recovery operations.