The Kruger National Park (KNP) has announced a temporary suspension of day visitor access as persistent, heavy rainfall continues to batter the Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces.
The decision comes as rising water levels create hazardous conditions across the park, stretching emergency resources to their limits.
According to SANParks spokesperson JP Louw, the restriction is a preventative measure designed to minimize avoidable incidents and allow management to focus on critical operations.
“The organisation would prefer to focus available resources on real emergencies and ensuring the safety of guests, staff, and surrounding communities, rather than avoidable incidents linked to non-essential travel within the park,” Louw said.
The suspension will be reviewed continuously as weather and road conditions evolve. Louw expressed appreciation for the public’s understanding, noting that the safety of visitors and staff remains the park’s highest priority.
The situation has become particularly critical in the northern regions. Letaba Rest Camp is currently undergoing an emergency evacuation of both staff and guests after the Letaba River burst its banks, sending floodwaters directly into the camp area.
As a result of the deteriorating conditions:
- Phalaborwa Gate has been closed for at least 24 hours.
- No access is currently permitted into the northern parts of the park.
- Park officials are monitoring the situation closely to determine when it will be safe to reopen.
If you had planned to visit the park, please take note of the following:
- Day Visitors: Access is currently denied until further notice.
- Overnight Guests: Stay in contact with your specific camp for safety updates or relocation instructions.
- Road Closures: Many low-lying bridges and gravel roads are likely submerged or washed away.
