Etosha National Park Safari Update: Okaukuejo–Namutoni Road closed for upgrades (February 2026)

Last updated: 04 February 2026

Travellers planning a self-drive safari in Etosha National Park, Namibia should note that a section of the Okaukuejo–Namutoni Road is temporarily closed since 01 February 2026. This closure is part of a major upgrade project converting gravel tourist roads to low-volume sealed roads from Okaukuejo to King Nehale Gate, including the Halali detours to Namutoni.

Detour Routes
Visitors heading east from Okaukuejo should use the Gemsbokvlakte detour, then continue along a newly constructed bypass for approximately 38 km, where it crosses the main road and connects to the existing Salvadora detour. Traffic will follow the Salvadora detour for around 47 km from Okaukuejo before rejoining the main road.
The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism expects the bypass and associated detour to be fully operational by 26 February 2026, at which point traffic will be redirected entirely onto the new route.

Safari travel tips

• Allow extra travel time for the detour.
• Ensure you have enough fuel and water for the longer route.
• All major waterholes and camps remain open — wildlife viewing is unaffected.
• Follow park signs and speed limits, as construction vehicles are active.

Why this upgrade matters
Once complete, these improvements will make Etosha National Park's main tourist roads safer, more comfortable, and accessible in all seasons, enhancing the self-drive safari experience for visitors from Namibia and beyond.

 

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Kruger National Park in March: What to expect after the summer rains

March is a transitional and rewarding month to visit Kruger National Park. As the summer rainfall season gradually gives way to drier autumn conditions, the park remains lush and green while wildlife activity stays high. Following the exceptional rainfall and flooding in January, widely covered on this blog, March visitors will encounter a park in recovery - resilient, wildlife-rich, and increasingly accessible.

Editor’s note:
The exceptional rainfall and flooding experienced in January 2026 were covered in detail on umhambi.blogspot.com as part of our seasonal climate and travel impact reporting for southern Africa. Travellers planning visits in late summer and early autumn are encouraged to review those updates alongside current SANParks advisories. 

Weather & landscape

March brings warm to hot daytime temperatures, typically ranging from the mid-20s to low-30s °C, with cooler mornings and evenings that are ideal for game drives. Humidity levels are noticeably lower than in January and February, improving overall travel comfort.

Rainfall decreases as the month progresses, although occasional showers may still occur, particularly early in March. Thanks to the generous summer rains, Kruger National Park's landscapes remain vividly green, with flowing rivers, full dams, and productive grazing areas. This creates excellent photographic conditions and supports a wide distribution of wildlife.

January Floods and Ongoing Recovery
As reported earlier on this blog, January 2026 saw widespread flooding across northeastern South Africa, including Kruger National Park and its surrounding regions. Prolonged heavy rainfall led to overflowing rivers, damaged roads and bridges, and temporary closures of certain camps and access routes.

By March, floodwaters have largely receded, but infrastructure repairs are still ongoing, particularly in low-lying areas and parts of northern Kruger National Park. Visitors may encounter temporary road closures or detours, making advance planning and daily updates an important part of any March itinerary.

Fauna

Wildlife viewing in March remains rewarding and diverse:

• The Big Five are present throughout the park, with elephants and buffalo frequently seen near rivers and watercourses.
• Plains game such as impala, zebra, wildebeest, giraffe, and kudu benefit from abundant grazing created by the summer rains.
• Birdlife is outstanding, with resident species breeding actively and many migratory birds still present, making March one of the most productive months for birdwatching.

While denser vegetation can sometimes make animals harder to spot at a distance, overall wildlife density remains high and sightings are frequent.

Animal Behaviour & Sightings

Seasonal conditions strongly influence animal behaviour in March:

With water still widely available across Kruger National Park, wildlife tends to be more dispersed early in the month rather than concentrated around a few permanent water sources. As smaller seasonal pans begin to dry later in March, animals gradually return to rivers and dams, improving predictability and viewing opportunities.

Predators such as lions, leopards, hyenas, and wild dogs remain active, often focusing on breeding herds and young animals. Early morning and late afternoon game drives continue to offer the best chances for observing hunting behaviour and predator movement.

For birders, March delivers breeding displays, fledglings, raptors, and waterbirds, offering dynamic and varied sightings throughout Kruger National Park.

Travel Tips for Visiting Kruger National Park in March

• Stay informed: Some roads and river crossings may still be affected by flood damage. Check park updates and confirm access conditions with your accommodation.
• Game drives: Early mornings and late afternoons provide cooler temperatures and increased animal activity.
• Pack for mixed conditions: Light, breathable clothing, sun protection, and a compact rain jacket are recommended.
• Malaria precautions: March falls within the malaria season - consult a healthcare professional before travel.
• Drive cautiously: Gravel roads may remain uneven or slippery in places following summer rains.
• Remain flexible: Allow extra travel time and be prepared to adjust routes or plans if conditions change.

Final Thoughts

Visiting Kruger National Park in March offers a compelling combination of lush landscapes, active wildlife, exceptional birdlife, and improving travel conditions. While the January floods temporarily disrupted access and infrastructure, the park is steadily recovering and continues to deliver a world-class safari experience.

With informed planning and a flexible approach, March is an excellent time to explore one of Africa’s most iconic national parks.

Kruger National Park tours >>
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South Africa Seasonal Climate Outlook: What travellers should know (February–June 2026)

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has released its latest Seasonal Climate Watch for February to June 2026, offering important insights for travellers planning trips across South Africa in late summer, autumn and early winter. Current global climate indicators show the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) in a weak La Niña phase, which is expected to shift back to a neutral state within the next month. Most climate models suggest ENSO will remain neutral through autumn, with a possible return to El Niño conditions later in spring 2026.

La Niña typically increases the likelihood of above-normal summer rainfall over South Africa's north-eastern regions, including popular safari destinations such as Kruger National Park, Limpopo and Mpumalanga. As the season transitions into autumn, SAWS forecasts that most summer-rainfall areas are likely to receive above-normal rainfall, particularly during the March–April–May period. Some interior regions, however, may experience below-normal rainfall, which could improve road conditions and accessibility in drier landscapes.

Looking ahead to early winter, rainfall projections indicate below-normal rainfall for the southwestern and southern coastal regions, including parts of the Western Cape and Garden Route. This may favour outdoor sightseeing, wine tourism and self-drive travel, although water levels in dams and rivers should still be monitored.

Temperature forecasts suggest that both minimum and maximum temperatures are expected to be above normal across most of South Africa during autumn. For travellers, this points to generally milder, warmer conditions, ideal for wildlife viewing, road trips and shoulder-season travel before winter sets in.

Overall, the February to June 2026 climate outlook supports continued travel across South Africa, with seasonal rainfall patterns and warmer temperatures offering both opportunities and considerations for itinerary planning.

 

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Western Cape: Agulhas Plain gains Ramsar status, boosting nature-based tourism!

South Africa has designated the Agulhas Plain as its 32nd Wetland of International Importance (Ramsar Site No. 2587), reinforcing the tourism and conservation value of this distinctive coastal landscape at the southernmost tip of Africa, near Cape Agulhas in the Western Cape.

Formed on an ancient wave-cut platform where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet, the largely flat plain is shaped by dunes, limestone hills and coastal cliffs that support a rich mosaic of wetlands. These include Soetendalsvlei, the country’s second-largest freshwater lake, after Lake Sibaya in KwaZulu-Natal, as well as marshes, floodplains, salt pans and estuaries - making the area especially appealing for birdwatching, photography and slow travel.

Situated within the Cape Floral Region UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Agulhas Plain forms part of the fynbos biome and supports outstanding biodiversity, including rare plants, abundant birdlife and threatened species such as the maccoa duck, the critically endangered Rose’s mountain toadlet and the Cape flats frog.

With a dedicated management plan in place, the new Ramsar status supports responsible eco-tourism and further enhances the appeal of the Overberg region, particularly for travellers exploring Cape Agulhas, Struisbaai and surrounding coastal routes.

About the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands
The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands is an international agreement adopted in 1971 in the Iranian city of Ramsar, aimed at conserving and promoting the wise use of wetlands worldwide. Wetlands listed as Ramsar Sites are recognised for their global ecological importance, particularly for waterbirds, biodiversity and ecosystem services, and the designation encourages long-term protection while supporting education, research and responsible nature-based tourism. 

 

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Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: SANParks confirms infrastructure work at Bitterpan Wilderness Camp!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed that construction work to increase water capacity at Bitterpan Wilderness Camp in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park will commence in February 2026. The project is expected to run for approximately four weeks and forms part of SANParks’ ongoing efforts to strengthen critical park infrastructure and improve long-term sustainability in remote wilderness camps.

What visitors can expect from early February 2026
From around 04 February 2026, guests travelling to or through the Bitterpan area may notice limited construction-related activity, including:

• Construction vehicles operating along the Moravet Road
• General site preparation work near the camp

SANParks has indicated that visitor safety and the wilderness experience remain a priority, and disruptions are expected to be minimal. These upgrades are essential to ensure reliable water supply at one of the park’s most remote and exclusive camps.

About Bitterpan Wilderness Camp
Set on stilts above the red dunes of the Kalahari, Bitterpan Wilderness Camp is an exclusive, remote camp overlooking a waterhole in the heart of the Kgalagadi. It forms part of a one-way 4x4 wilderness route linking Nossob Rest Camp with Mata-Mata Rest Camp and the Kalahari Tented Camp.

Key access information:

• Route: One-way only, starting at Nossob Rest Camp
• Vehicles: 4x4 only (heavy 4x4 vehicles not permitted)
• Driving times:
• Nossob Rest Camp  > Bitterpan: ± 2.5 hrs
• Bitterpan > Mata-Mata Rest Camp: ± 3 hrs
• Check-in: Nossob Rest Camp only

Visitors should overnight at Nossob Rest Camp before travelling to Bitterpan Wilderness Camp. Due to the camp’s isolation and strict one-way access, careful planning is essential. 

 

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Cape Town: Chapman’s Peak Drive weekly closures announced – What travellers need to know!

Cape Town’s iconic Chapman’s Peak Drive, the breathtaking 9 km coastal route connecting Noordhoek and Hout Bay, will be temporarily closed every Wednesday from 10:00 to 16:00 between 04 February and 25 March 2026. The closure is due to alien vegetation clearing operations managed by South African National Parks (SANParks), aimed at preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of this world-famous scenic drive.

Travellers are advised to plan alternative routes during these hours. Recommended alternatives include:

• Ou Kaapse Weg (M64) – From Noordhoek, head north via Ou Kaapse Weg, which reconnects to Hout Bay via Constantia Nek, offering a scenic mountain drive.
• Silvermine Road – Ideal for local traffic, this route runs parallel to the western side of Table Mountain National Park and can be used to bypass the closure.
• Main Road (M6) via Fish Hoek – Though slightly longer, this coastal route provides a reliable and safe alternative with spectacular sea views.

Whether you’re a local commuter or a visiting traveler, it’s important to check traffic updates and plan your journey accordingly to avoid delays while enjoying the surrounding Cape Peninsula scenery.

 

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Southern Africa Trip Planner: Rain & temperature forecast for travellers February – June 2026!

Travellers heading to Southern Africa between February and June 2026 should prepare for a wetter-than-usual late summer and early autumn, according to the latest Southern African Development Community (SADC) climate outlook. The seasonal forecast, released by SARCOF-32, indicates normal to above-average rainfall across much of the region, particularly in the first half of the period.

Wetter Conditions Likely February to April 2026

The rainy season is expected to remain active from February to April, with frequent rainfall across South Africa, Angola, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Mauritius, and Tanzania. Some areas may experience heavier-than-average downpours, creating lush landscapes and high river levels.

What this means for travellers:

• Vibrant, green scenery in national parks and rural areas
• Rivers, dams, and waterfalls at full capacity
• Occasional disruptions to outdoor activities

Although rain can sometimes be inconvenient, it offers dramatic photography opportunities and fewer crowds compared to the peak dry season.

South Africa highlights:
The Kruger National Park, Drakensberg, and parts of the Garden Route may see significant rainfall. Coastal cities such as Durban might experience brief showers, but these rarely affect travel plans or tourist attractions.

Gradual Transition to Drier Conditions from May

From May onwards, rainfall is expected to decrease as Southern Africa enters its winter dry season. This transition offers ideal travel conditions:

• Improved road conditions, especially on gravel and secondary routes
• Easier wildlife spotting as vegetation thins
• Warm days and cooler nights, perfect for safari drives and outdoor excursions

By June, most destinations are well into the dry-season travel window, offering excellent game-viewing and sightseeing opportunities.

Temperature Outlook: Warmer than Average

In addition to rain, temperatures are expected to be above long-term averages across much of the region.

Traveller tips:

• Expect warm to hot daytime temperatures in low-lying and inland areas
• Nights may be cooler from May onwards, particularly in deserts and highlands
• Layered clothing is recommended for early-morning activities like game drives

Travel Planning Recommendations

Safaris and National Parks
Early rainy-season wildlife can be more dispersed due to abundant water. However, late April to June offers improving game-viewing conditions. Key safari destinations include:

• South Africa: Kruger National Park, Addo Elephant National Park, private reserves
• Namibia: Etosha National Park
• Botswana: Okavango Delta
• Zimbabwe & Zambia: Victoria Falls region

Road Trips and Self-Drive Travel
Heavy rainfall may affect rural roads. Travellers should:

• Allocate extra time for journeys
• Monitor local road conditions and updates
• Coastal and Island Destinations

Coastal regions may experience short, passing showers early in the season. By late autumn, weather usually becomes more stable, making beach holidays and island visits more enjoyable.

A Seasonal Outlook, Not a Daily Forecast

This SADC climate outlook reflects broad regional trends, not specific daily conditions. Local weather variations can occur, especially near coastlines, mountains, and rivers. Travellers are encouraged to check local forecasts, park advisories, and road conditions closer to their trip.

Bottom Line for Travellers

The February to June 2026 travel period in Southern Africa offers:

• Rainy-season scenery early on
• Increasingly favorable conditions for safaris, road trips, and coastal travel later in the season

With flexible planning and realistic expectations, travellers can enjoy a rewarding journey through Southern Africa, with South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, and the Victoria Falls region as highlights.

About the Southern African Development Community

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) is a regional organization established to promote economic integration, political cooperation, and sustainable development across Southern Africa. SADC also coordinates regional climate monitoring and early warning systems, providing valuable guidance for travellers and planners. The community currently comprises 16 member states: Angola, Botswana, Comoros, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. 

 

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