South Africa’s two best steak restaurants on the World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants 2026 list

South Africa continues to earn global recognition for exceptional steak, with two restaurants featured on the prestigious World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants 2026 list by World Best Steaks.

For travellers planning a foodie trip through South Africa, both restaurants deserve a place on your itinerary: VUUR Restaurant in Stellenbosch and The Blockman in Johannesburg. The official 2026 list confirms both among the world’s top 101 steak destinations.

VUUR Restaurant – Stellenbosch

VUUR Restaurant is ranked No. 74 on the World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants 2026 list, making it the highest-ranked South African steak restaurant this year. Located on Remhoogte Wine Estate near Stellenbosch, it is one of South Africa's leading fire-cooking destinations.

Chef Shaun Scrooby’s restaurant is built around live-fire cooking, smoke, wood, and premium local ingredients. Set among vineyards and mountain views, it offers more than just steak—it is a full Cape Winelands dining experience and ideal for travellers looking for a memorable lunch or special occasion meal.

Why travellers love it:

• ranked No. 74 globally
• destination dining in the Stellenbosch wine region
• open-fire cooking and tasting-menu experience
• excellent wine pairing opportunities

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The Blockman – Johannesburg

The Blockman is ranked No. 97 on the World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants 2026 list. Located in Parkhurst, Johannesburg, it is known for premium cuts, expert dry-ageing, and a strong butcher-to-table philosophy.

It offers a modern urban steakhouse experience and is a favourite for visitors wanting a high-end dinner in the city before or after a safari or international flight.

Why travellers love it:

• ranked No. 97 globally
• central Johannesburg location
• premium dry-aged steaks
• ideal for business travellers and city breaks

Final thoughts

South Africa is famous for safari, wine, and scenic road trips—but it is also becoming a top destination for world-class steak.

With VUUR Restaurant at No. 74 and The Blockman at No. 97, travellers now have two excellent culinary reasons to extend their stay in South Africa .

 

 

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Kruger National Park Access Alert: R531 (Orpen Road) washed away near Shimungwe Gate

Travellers planning to access Kruger National Park via the Orpen Gate route should take note of a significant road closure affecting current travel plans.

South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed that a section of the R531 (Orpen Road) has been washed away between Shimungwe Gate and the Wits Rural Facility, located just outside the park boundary.

What this means for travellers

The affected section of the R531 is currently closed to all traffic, making the Orpen Gate access route temporarily unavailable via this road segment. This may impact travellers heading to popular central Kruger camps such as:

• Satara Rest Camp
• Olifants Rest Camp
• Timbavati area concessions

Alternative routes to consider

Visitors are strongly advised to use alternative access routes until repairs are completed and the road is declared safe. Depending on your itinerary, consider rerouting via:

• Phalaborwa Gate (for northern and central Kruger National Park access)
• Paul Kruger Gate (ideal for southern and central regions)
• Hoedspruit / R40 corridor connections

Allow for additional travel time, particularly during peak safari transit hours.

Travel Planning Tips

• Check latest updates from SANParks before departure, as conditions may change rapidly.
• Adjust arrival times at gates to avoid late entry penalties.
• Inform your accommodation if delays are expected.
• If self-driving, ensure your GPS or navigation app reflects current closures.

Ongoing Situation

Heavy rains and weather-related damage are common in the region during certain seasons, and infrastructure repairs may take time depending on conditions. As the affected section of the R531 falls outside the boundaries of Kruger National Park, SANParks is not responsible for the reconstruction or repair of this public road, and reopening timelines will depend on the relevant road and municipal authorities.

Bottom line

If your Kruger National Park itinerary includes Orpen Gate via the R531, you’ll need to reroute for now. Plan ahead to avoid disruptions and ensure a smooth safari experience.

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Safety Alert: Dangerous lagoon breakthrough at Noordhoek Beach (Table Mountain National Park)

South African National Parks (SANParks) has issued an urgent community advisory following a near-drowning incident at Noordhoek Beach, part of Cape Town's Table Mountain National Park.

According to local emergency services, including National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) and City rescue teams, a hazardous situation has developed after the Noordhoek lagoon breached through to the ocean at the northern end of the beach, near the main car park.

The lagoon channel is currently wide, deep, and fast-moving, creating extremely dangerous conditions as water surges toward the sea. With incoming tides, the risk increases significantly—especially along the northern stretch of the beach.

Visitors are strongly advised to:

• Avoid the northern section of Noordhoek Beach, particularly near the car park
• Keep children and pets well away from the water’s edge
• Never attempt to cross the lagoon channel
• Remain alert, as conditions can change rapidly during a lagoon breakout

Travellers planning a visit to Noordhoek Beach should exercise extreme caution and follow all safety guidance while this situation remains active.

 

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Kgalagadi Shops Closed for Stocktaking in April 2026: What travellers need to know

If you’re planning a visit to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park in April 2026, take note: South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed temporary shop closures across key rest camps due to monthly stocktaking.

While closures are short, they can impact your access to essential supplies—especially in this remote desert park where shops are limited.

Stocktaking closure dates & times

• Nossob Rest Camp Shop
• 21 April 2026
• Closed from 09:00 to 15:00
• Mata Mata Rest Camp Shop
• 23 April 2026
• Closed from 09:00 to 15:00
• Twee Rivieren Rest Camp Shop
• 28 April 2026
• Closed from 05:00 to 15:00

Adjusted opening hours on stocktaking days

• Nossob & Mata Mata Shops
• Open: 07:00–09:00 and 15:00–18:45
• Twee Rivieren Shop (28 April only)
• Open: 15:00–18:45

Travel planning tips for Kgalagadi visitors

Stocktaking days are routine, but in a park as remote as the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, forward planning is essential:

• Stock up early: Purchase groceries, water, and fuel substitutes before closure times.
• Plan your drives accordingly: Avoid relying on shops during midday closures.
• Carry essentials: Always keep backup snacks, drinking water, and basic supplies in your vehicle.

Bottom line

Shop closures in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park are temporary but can catch travellers off guard. With a bit of planning, your safari experience will remain smooth and uninterrupted.

Lion’s Head Jeep Track Closed Until June 2026: Hiking routes explained

update 16 April 2026

SANParks has published a Lion's Head Jeep Track maintenance map 

 

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Visitors planning to hike Lion’s Head in Table Mountain National Park in Cape Town should take note of a temporary trail closure that may affect access routes over the coming weeks.

South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed that the popular Jeep Track will be closed from 20 April 2026 to 20 June 2026 to allow for essential maintenance and safety upgrades. The timeline remains subject to weather conditions and construction progress.

What this means for travellers

During the closure period, the Jeep Track will be completely inaccessible. However, hikers can still reach the summit of Lion’s Head using alternative routes, including:

• Kramat Trail (via Signal Hill Road)
• Upper Rhine Road Trail
• trail from Kloof Road

Importantly, the Lion’s Head parking area remains open, particularly for those accessing the Kramat Trail—making it still feasible to include this iconic hike in your Cape Town itinerary.

Why the closure matters

Lion’s Head is one of Cape Town's most popular hikes, known for its panoramic views over the Atlantic Seaboard and Table Mountain. The current maintenance work is designed to:

• Improve trail safety
• Reduce erosion on heavily used sections
• Enhance the overall visitor experience
• Travel Tips
• Allow extra time and plan your route in advance
• Start early to avoid congestion on alternative trails
• Follow all posted signage and safety instructions
• Wear appropriate hiking footwear, especially on steeper sections

Bottom line

While the Jeep Track closure may require minor adjustments, Lion’s Head remains fully accessible via alternative routes. With a bit of planning, travellers can still enjoy one of Cape Town's most rewarding hikes during this period.

 

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Sossusvlei Shuttle Rules 2026: No more self-drive to Deadvlei

Following earlier proposals to restrict self-driving access beyond the 2x4 parking area at Sossusvlei, Namibia’s Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism has now confirmed that the new system will come into effect on 01 May 2026.

Under the updated regulations, all visitor access to Deadvlei (the 4x4 parking area) will be strictly controlled through an authorised shuttle system.

What this means for travellers

From May 2026 onwards, self-driving beyond the Sossusvlei 2x4 parking area will no longer be permitted — even for experienced 4x4 drivers. Instead, all visitors must transfer to an approved shuttle service for the final stretch into the dune field and Deadvlei.

Only two categories of operators are authorised:

• Grow Namibia (operating as About Adelt Sossusvlei Management) — the official concession holder running shuttle services
• Registered lodge-based guides — permitted to transport their own guests, provided they are employed by lodges in or around the Namib-Naukluft National Park and registered with the Namibia Tourism Board

No independent operators or self-drive access will be allowed beyond the 2x4 parking area.

On the ground, the new shuttle-only system at Sossusvlei will noticeably change the visitor experience at Deadvlei. Instead of self-driving the final deep-sand section, all travellers must now park at the 2x4 area and transfer to a shuttle, which operates on a rolling, demand-based basis rather than fixed departure times. This introduces potential waiting times—especially around sunrise and during peak season—and reduces the flexibility that self-drivers previously enjoyed. Travellers should also budget approximately N$250–300 per person for the return shuttle. On the plus side, 4x4 driving skills are no longer required, making access easier for less experienced drivers. Overall, the system simplifies logistics but shifts the experience from independent exploration to a more structured, time-dependent visit.

Why the change?

This move formalises the government’s earlier plans to regulate traffic flow and reduce environmental impact in one of Namibia’s most iconic landscapes. The new concession system is designed to:

• Minimise congestion and off-road driving damage
• Improve visitor safety in deep sand conditions
• Centralise access control to sensitive areas like Deadvlei

Practical implications

For self-drive travellers — particularly those on Namibia fly-drive itineraries — this is a significant shift:

• 4x4 capability is no longer required for reaching Deadvlei
• Additional shuttle costs and potential waiting times should be factored into your planning
• Early arrival remains essential, especially during peak travel periods

Travellers staying at lodges inside or near the park may still benefit from guided access, depending on their accommodation.

Bottom line

The long-discussed restrictions at Sossusvlei are now official: from May 2026, Deadvlei becomes a shuttle-access-only destination. While this reduces flexibility for self-drivers, it simplifies logistics for many visitors and aims to protect the fragile desert environment for the long term.

 

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Namibia Fuel Update 2026: NWR shortages & where to refuel

Planning a self-drive safari in Namibia in 2026? Fuel availability at Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) locations remains a critical consideration. While Namibia is one of Africa’s top road trip destinations, the ongoing fuel shortages at NWR-operated camps continue to impact travel logistics across key national parks and remote regions.

This April 2026 update gives you a clear, traveller-focused overview of the situation, including affected locations, reliable alternatives, and what to expect in the months ahead.

Background: Why is there still no fuel at NWR camps?

The fuel shortage at NWR facilities is not a new issue—it dates back to early 2025 and remains unresolved more than a year later.

The root cause lies in supply chain failures involving NWR’s contracted fuel provider, which has repeatedly failed to deliver fuel to remote park locations.

Despite intermittent updates and expectations of improvement, fuel pumps at most NWR camps have remained empty or unreliable throughout 2025 and into 2026.

Compounding the issue, Namibia is also facing broader national fuel supply concerns, with government task forces exploring contingency measures amid regional and global supply pressures.

Bottom line: This is no longer a temporary disruption—it is an ongoing operational constraint that travellers in Namibia must plan around.

Affected locations: Where fuel is NOT available

As of April 2026, travellers in Namibia should not rely on fuel being available at any NWR-operated petrol station.

The most consistently affected locations include:

• Etosha National Park
• Okaukuejo
• Halali
• Namutoni
• Namib-Naukluft National Park
• Sesriem (gateway to Sossusvlei)
• Skeleton Coast
• Terrace Bay
• Southern Namibia
• /Ai-/Ais Hot Springs & Spa
• Central Namibia
• Waterberg Plateau Park

Across these locations, fuel availability has been unreliable or entirely absent since early 2025, with no consistent restoration reported.

Where to refuel instead

For self-drive travellers in Namibia, the strategy is simple: fuel up before entering any national park—and assume there is no fuel inside.

Here are key fuel stop alternatives near major NWR destinations:

• Etosha National Park
• Okaukuejo Gate: Outjo
• Anderson Gate: Outjo / Kamanjab
• Von Lindequist Gate: Tsumeb / Grootfontein
• Sossusvlei / Sesriem
• Solitaire (limited supply, check ahead)
• Mariental
• Maltahöhe
• Skeleton Coast (Terrace Bay)
• Henties Bay
• Khorixas (for inland routes)
• /Ai-/Ais Hot Springs
• Keetmanshoop
• Waterberg Plateau Park
• Otjiwarongo

Expert tip: Always refuel when you have the chance—even if your tank is still half full. Distances in Namibia are vast, and detours can quickly add 100–200 km.

Practical travel advice

• Carry extra fuel if your vehicle allows it (especially for remote routes like Skeleton Coast)
• Plan routes conservatively—don’t rely on “next stop” assumptions
• Check locally (lodges, tour operators) for the latest updates before entering parks
• Avoid tight fuel margins—Etosha loops and Sossusvlei excursions can be longer than expected

As highlighted in earlier advisories, fuel planning is now a core part of Namibia itinerary design—not an afterthought.

Outlook: Will the situation improve?

As of April 2026, there is no confirmed timeline from NWR for full restoration of fuel supply.

However, several developments are worth watching:

• Government involvement in national fuel supply stabilisation
• Potential restructuring or replacement of NWR’s fuel supply contracts
• Increased private-sector fuel solutions near park gateways

That said, based on the persistence of the issue throughout 2025 and into 2026, travellers should assume the current situation will continue for the foreseeable future.

Bottom line for travellers

Fuel shortages at NWR camps remain one of the most important logistical considerations for Namibia travel in 2026.

• Do not rely on fuel inside parks
• Always refuel before entering remote areas
• Build flexibility into your itinerary

Handled correctly, this is a manageable challenge—and Namibia remains one of the world’s most rewarding self-drive destinations.

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Have you recently travelled through Etosha, Sossusvlei or the Skeleton Coast?
Share updated fuel information in the comments to help fellow travellers plan safely.

 

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