Kruger National Park Gradually Reopens Amid Ongoing Recovery from Severe Weather

Following recent severe weather events that disrupted operations across Kruger National Park, SANParks has announced important updates on gate access, rest camps, and road conditions as recovery efforts continue. While significant progress has been made, several areas remain affected, with some restrictions still in place to ensure visitor safety and facilitate repairs.

Among the key developments, the Phalaborwa Gate is set to reopen for day visitors starting Saturday, 31 January 2026. However, visitors entering here will be limited to traveling only as far as Satara Rest Camp. Meanwhile, the Pafuri Gate remains open, but its border post is still closed, and the Orpen Gate remains closed until further notice.

Access to rest camps varies across the park. Both Letaba and Olifants Rest Camps remain closed as repairs continue. Mopani Rest Camp is open but only accessible via the Punda Maria Gate, with entry from Phalaborwa Gate currently not permitted. Visitors to Mopani are advised to bring their own supplies, as the camp’s restaurant remains closed. At Shingwedzi Rest Camp, only the shop and restaurant are operational, with the rest of the camp closed for the time being.

In the northern bush camp sector, Bateleur Bush Camp is the sole camp currently open, while Sirheni, Shimuwini, Tsendze, and Boulders Bush Camps remain closed due to ongoing damage and safety concerns.

Road and bridge access in the southern section of the park has improved, with the Sabie River and Sand River Bridges now accessible. Visitors can travel from Skukuza to Satara and Lower Sabie via the H1-2, H12, and H4-1 routes, or from Skukuza to Lower Sabie via the Tshokwane Picnic Site and H10. Both Tshokwane and Nkhuhlu Picnic Sites are open, although with limited menu options.

These updates come as SANParks continues to monitor weather conditions and infrastructure status closely, prioritizing safety while working to restore full access. The northern parts of the park remain largely inaccessible due to flood damage, with several roads and bridges still closed until deemed safe for reopening.

Visitors planning trips to Kruger National Park are encouraged to stay informed through official SANParks channels, as the situation remains fluid and further changes to access and services may occur. The phased reopening reflects a careful balance between welcoming guests back and ensuring the park’s infrastructure and environment are fully restored for a safe and enjoyable experience.