NWR Fuel Shortage Update (February 2026): What self-drive travellers in Namibia need to know

Last verified: February 2026

The ongoing NWR fuel shortage continues to affect internal petrol stations operated by Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) across several national parks and remote resort locations.

For self-drive travellers, overlanders, and safari visitors, this is not a minor inconvenience - it is a route-planning issue that must be factored into every Namibia itinerary.

This February 2026 update summarises the current situation and provides practical fuel-planning guidance to help you travel safely and confidently.

Current Status: NWR internal fuel stations

Since first reporting on this issue in September 2025, fuel availability at many NWR-operated pumps has remained inconsistent.

Key patterns observed:

• Fuel deliveries to several internal NWR stations remain irregular.
• Some locations report no stock for extended periods.
• Both petrol and diesel have been affected.
• Reliable timelines for full restoration have not been clearly communicated.

Travellers should therefore not factor NWR camp fuel stations into their route calculations.

Fuel Availability by Region (February 2026)

Below is a practical regional overview based on consistent traveller reports and route observations.

Etosha National Park
Affected stations:

• Okaukuejo
• Halali
• Namutoni

Status: No consistently reliable fuel availability.

Important: If driving the classic Etosha loop (Anderson Gate ? Okaukuejo ? Halali ? Namutoni ? Von Lindequist Gate), you should enter the park with sufficient range to complete the circuit without refuelling inside the park.

Recommended refuel towns before entry:

• Outjo
• Tsumeb
• Omuthiya

Sesriem / Sossusvlei (Namib-Naukluft Region)
Status: Fuel at Sesriem is frequently unavailable or inconsistent.
Recommended refuel points:

• Solitaire
• Maltahöhe

Do not assume fuel will be available at the campsite pump.

Skeleton Coast / Terrace Bay
Status: Terrace Bay fuel availability remains unreliable.
This region requires conservative fuel planning due to long distances between towns.
Refuel before departure in:

• Swakopmund
• Henties Bay

/Ai-/Ais Hot Springs Area
Status: Fuel supply remains inconsistent.
Refuel in:

• Keetmanshoop
• Noordoewer

Southern Namibia distances require careful range calculations.

Waterberg Plateau Park
Status: Internal fuel availability remains uncertain.
Refuel in:

• Otjiwarongo
• Along the B1 corridor before turning off toward the park 

Why the NWR Fuel Shortage Continues

The ongoing fuel shortage appears linked to supply chain disruptions and contractual complications affecting deliveries to internal park fuel stations.

While larger towns and private service stations across Namibia generally operate normally, internal NWR pumps in remote parks continue to experience irregular supply.

This is not a short-term weekend outage. It is a structural supply issue that has persisted for months.

Practical Fuel Planning Advice for Namibia (2026)

If you are planning a Namibia self-drive trip, adjust your fuel strategy accordingly.

Refuel at major towns - not inside parks
Build your route around dependable fuel hubs:

• Windhoek
• Swakopmund
• Walvis Bay
• Tsumeb
• Outjo
• Otjiwarongo
• Keetmanshoop
• Maltahöhe

Assume internal NWR pumps may not have stock.

Carry extra fuel in remote regions
If travelling through:

• Skeleton Coast
• Damaraland
• Etosha circuit
• Southern Namibia between towns

Carry approved jerry cans and secure them properly.
Always calculate realistic fuel range, especially when driving gravel routes or 4x4 tracks.

Verify locally — but don’t depend on It
Before leaving a lodge or campsite, ask reception about:

• Current fuel availability
• Expected delivery schedules
• Nearest confirmed working stations

However, treat this information as advisory rather than guaranteed.

Use apps carefully
Google Maps, Maps.me and Waze can help locate petrol stations — but they do not confirm stock levels at NWR internal pumps.
Always combine app data with local confirmation.

What This Means for Travellers

Until supply stability is restored, travellers should operate under one simple rule:

Enter Namibia's national parks with a full tank and sufficient range to exit without refuelling inside the park.

This approach removes uncertainty and reduces risk in remote areas where distances are significant and assistance can be limited.

Final Thoughts

As of February 2026, the NWR fuel shortage remains an operational reality for travellers visiting Namibia's national parks.

With proper planning, the situation is manageable - but it requires conscious route design and proactive refuelling strategy.

Namibia remains one of Africa’s most rewarding self-drive destinations. Smart preparation ensures that fuel logistics do not disrupt your experience.

If you would like assistance with route-specific fuel planning for your Namibia itinerary, feel free to get in touch.

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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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Fire at Cape Town International Airport (CPT): What travellers need to know

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) confirmed a fire on the landside of Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town, South Africa, today, 24 February 2026. The fire was quickly extinguished, and all passengers, staff, and visitors are safe. Passenger safety remains the top priority, and travellers are advised to check flight updates before heading to the airport.

The incident caused disruptions to network and IT systems, including airport Wi-Fi and other essential systems, prompting temporary operational changes. As a precautionary measure:

• International departures are currently suspended
• Inbound international flights are being diverted
• International arrivals already on the ground are being processed safely

Domestic travellers should note that local flights continue to operate, but passengers are strongly advised to check real?time flight information with their airline or via the ACSA Mobile App before heading to the airport.

Further updates will be published as more details emerge.

 

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Mozambique Travel Update 2026: New eVisa & ETA system launched as flood recovery continues

Mozambique has introduced a new digital eVisa and Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system in February 2026, significantly modernising its entry procedures for international visitors. The reform simplifies border processing and reduces historic uncertainty at land crossings - particularly important for self-drive and safari-and-beach travellers.

The rollout comes as the country continues recovering from a severe 2025–26 rainy season, compounded by heavy rainfall linked to Cyclone Gezani.

Mozambique eVisa & ETA 2026: What travellers must check before departure

Mozambique's new digital entry framework includes two separate mechanisms - and travellers must confirm which applies to their nationality before departure.

eVisa (Electronic Visa)

An eVisa is a full visa issued digitally prior to travel.

It generally applies to:

• Nationalities that previously required a visa in advance
• Longer stays or specific travel categories

The process typically involves:

• Completing an online application
• Uploading passport and supporting documentation
• Paying the visa fee electronically
• Receiving formal digital visa approval
• Presenting the eVisa upon arrival

Processing times vary, so applications should be submitted well ahead of travel.

ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation)

An ETA is not a traditional visa. It is a digital pre-travel authorisation linked electronically to your passport.

It generally applies to:

• Visa-exempt nationalities
• Short-term tourist visits

The ETA requires:

• Online registration before departure
• Confirmation prior to boarding

While simpler than an eVisa, it still requires action before travel. Arriving without the correct digital authorisation may result in delays at air or land borders.

For travellers combining South Africa and Mozambique by road, the system removes much of the previous paperwork uncertainty — but shifts responsibility to travellers to prepare digitally in advance.

Mozambique flooding update – February 2026

The 2025–26 rainy season brought record rainfall to central and southern Mozambique, particularly affecting parts of Gaza, Inhambane, Sofala and Maputo provinces. Hundreds of thousands of residents were impacted, and significant damage occurred to secondary roads, bridges and local infrastructure.

While major airports and primary tourism hubs remain operational, recovery work is ongoing in several inland and rural districts. Some secondary road corridors continue to experience slower travel times due to repair work.

Key travel considerations:

• International airports are operating normally
• Major beach resorts and safari lodges remain open
• Some inland road access routes require condition checks before departure
• Infrastructure restoration is progressing but not yet fully complete in all districts

Northern Mozambique has been comparatively less affected and remains a stable option for travellers seeking beach and marine experiences.

Cyclone Gezani
 
Cyclone Gezani did not make direct landfall in Mozambique. However, its offshore passage intensified rainfall and generated rough coastal seas, temporarily slowing flood recovery efforts and affecting marine conditions.

Short-term impacts included:

• Rough sea conditions affecting diving and boat transfers
• Temporary weather-related delays to coastal activities
• Localised transport disruptions in already flood-affected areas

There has been no nationwide collapse of tourism infrastructure, but weather-related flexibility remains advisable in certain southern and coastal regions.

What this means for international travellers in 2026

If you are planning travel to Mozambique this year:

• Confirm whether you require an eVisa or ETA
• Apply or register well before departure
• Allow flexibility if travelling through southern or central provinces
• Verify road conditions for long self-drive transfers
• Consider routing through major air gateways where possible
• Ensure comprehensive travel insurance covers weather-related disruption
• Maintain malaria precautions where applicable

For most leisure travellers - particularly those flying into primary hubs - Mozambique remains open and accessible.

Bottom line

Mozambique is open for tourism, and the launch of the digital eVisa and ETA system represents a meaningful structural improvement for international visitors.

However, parts of the country are still recovering from severe flooding during the 2025–26 rainy season, with additional rainfall linked to Cyclone Gezani slowing repair operations in some areas. Travel in affected southern and inland regions requires flexible planning and up-to-date route verification.

For safari-and-beach travellers combining South Africa and Mozambique, conditions are manageable - but advance digital entry preparation and smart routing are essential.

 

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Flying from O.R. Tambo on a Monday? Arrive early, says ACSA

Travellers flying out on a Monday morning from OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg are being urged to arrive earlier than usual. Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has confirmed that Monday mornings are one of the busiest travel periods at South Africa’s main international gateway.

High passenger volumes combined with weekday rush-hour traffic can lead to:

• Heavy road congestion to the airport
• Longer check-in and baggage drop queues
• Extended security screening times

This is particularly important for international visitors connecting to safari destinations, regional flights within Southern Africa, or long-haul departures back home.

How Early Should You Arrive?

Standard airline guidance recommends:

• Domestic flights: Arrive at least 90 minutes before departure
• International flights: Arrive 3 hours before departure

On peak Monday mornings at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), travellers should consider adding an extra 30–60 minutes to allow for road traffic delays and security queues.

Transfers from Sandton, Rosebank, and Pretoria can be significantly slower during weekday rush hour, especially via the R21 and N3.

Building in additional buffer time ensures a smoother departure and avoids unnecessary stress at the start -or end - of your South Africa trip.

 

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South Africa toll fees to rise from 01 March 2026: What self-drive travellers should know

If you’re planning a self-drive adventure in South Africa in 2026, it’s important to know that the South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) will implement a toll tariff adjustment from 01 March 2026.

This affects rental cars, road trips, and long-distance travel, particularly along major corridors connecting airports, cities, safari lodges, and coastal destinations.

Toll fee increase at a glance

• Effective date: 01 March 2026
• Increase: 3.12% (CPI-linked)
• Lower than last year’s adjustment of 4.85%

SANRAL explains that toll revenue is critical for maintaining, upgrading, and expanding national highways in South Africa, as well as servicing debt incurred from toll road projects. These funds ensure that travellers enjoy safe, reliable, and high-quality roads throughout the country.

Why toll roads matter for international travellers

South Africa is one of the world’s premier self-drive destinations. Major tourist routes often include toll roads, such as:

• Johannesburg > Kruger National Park (N4 corridor)
• Cape Town > Gqeberha (N2 via Tsitsikamma)
• Johannesburg > Durban (N3 highway)

Well-maintained toll highways help travellers save time, enjoy smoother journeys, and access remote safari lodges, beaches, and national parks. 

Example toll costs for key routes

Here’s a practical guide for international visitors planning road trips in South Africa:

Route	Estimated Toll Cost (One Way, Light Vehicle)	Notes
Johannesburg → Kruger National Park	~R280–R300	Three main toll plazas; ideal for safari access
Cape Town → Gqeberha	~R70–R90	Mainly Tsitsikamma toll plaza on N2
Johannesburg → Durban	~R200–R220	Multiple tolls along the N3 corridor; common for KwaZulu-Natal coast trips

Please note: Toll costs are approximate and may vary slightly depending on your vehicle class and exact entry/exit points.

Tips for self-drive international travellers

1. Check toll payment with your rental company – e-tags or manual payment may apply.
2. Carry small Rand denominations for manual tolls if required.
3. Include tolls in your budget for long-distance itineraries like Cape Town > Gqeberha or Johannesburg > Kruger National Park.
4. Plan routes ahead – use GPS or route planners that highlight toll roads.

Why this matters for your trip

SANRAL toll revenue keeps national highways in top condition, ensuring:

• Smooth drives for tourists exploring the Garden Route, Kruger National Park, and KwaZulu-Natal coast
• Safe access to lodges, national parks, and adventure activities
• Reliable infrastructure for connecting flights, buses, and local transport

For overseas visitors, this means better road quality, shorter travel times, and safer journeys, enhancing your South African self-drive experience.

Bottom Line

From 01 March 2026, toll tariffs on SANRAL-operated roads will increase by 3.12%. While modest, this adjustment ensures that South Africa's roads remain safe, efficient, and ready for international travellers.

Budgeting for tolls on long-distance routes is smart, but overall, self-drive trips remain an affordable and rewarding way to explore South Africa's iconic destinations.

Toll costs are approximate and may vary slightly depending on your vehicle class and exact entry/exit points.

 

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Kruger National Park flood recovery update: Re-opening timeline for camps, roads and bridges (February 2026)

last updated: 23 February 2026

SANParks confirmed that the Timbavati Picnic Spot remains closed due to ongoing water supply challenges after the solar system was washed away by recent floods. The roads near the site (S12 and S40) are open, but access to the picnic spot itself will remain closed. Guests are encouraged to use Nwanetsi Picnic Spot as an alternative. (22 February 2026) 

last updated: 21 February 2026

SANParks released a Kruger Roads Update (20 February 2026).

last updated: 20 February 2026 

South African National Parks (SANParks) has released an updated timeline for the phased re-opening of flood-affected rest camps, bush camps, roads and bridges in Kruger National Park on 19 February 2026.

Following severe flooding earlier this year, infrastructure repairs in Kruger National Park are progressing steadily. While many facilities are already open, several key camps and access routes remain under restoration. Below is a traveller-focused breakdown to help you plan your Kruger National Park safari in 2026.

Please note: All dates below are expected timeframes and remain subject to change depending on repair progress and weather conditions.

Northern Kruger National Park: Camp re-openings

Shingwedzi Rest Camp
Expected reopening: 07 March 2026
Fence restoration is currently underway. Once complete, the camp will resume normal operations.

Mopani Rest Camp
Expected 100% tourism capacity: 13 March 2026

• Temporary restaurant facilities available from reopening
• Full restaurant operations expected by end May 2026

Mopani will return to full accommodation capacity first, with dining services phased in shortly thereafter.

Shimuwini Bush Camp
Expected reopening: 01 September 2026
This smaller, intimate bush camp is undergoing extensive civil and building works and will reopen once fully restored.

Letaba Rest Camp
Currently open: Shop, filling station and museum
Phased reopening schedule:

• 07 March 2026: Coffee/Food trailer for day visitors
• 05 May 2026: Partial reopening of undamaged tourism facilities (Circle A, B, C; Family Cottages; Guest Houses; Line Rooms)
• 02 June 2026: Restaurant fully operational
• 01 August 2026: Moderately damaged facilities reopen
• 02 November 2026: Camp fully operational

Olifants Rest Camp
Open

Sirheni Bush Camp
Open (access via alternative bypass route)

Balule Satellite Camp
Status: Yet to be assessed

Sable Sleepover Hide
Infrastructure remains submerged. Assessment pending.

Road and Bridge Updates

Access remains one of the most important considerations for self-drive visitors in Kruger National Park. Several key routes have reopened, while others remain under repair.

• Lower Sabie Road: Open
• Alternative route available via H1-2 > H12 > H4-1
• Phabeni Road (S1): Expected reopening October 2026
• Alternative route currently in place
• Letaba High-Level Bridge (HL): Expected reopening 13 March 2026
• Minor non-obstructive works will continue thereafter
• Letaba Low-Level Bridge (LL): Expected reopening 30 June 2026
• S12 & S40: OPEN (Nsemani Dam bypass operational)
• S39: Open

What This Means for Travellers

If you're planning a Kruger National Park safari in 2026:

• Southern and central regions are largely accessible and suitable for current bookings.
• Northern Kruger National Park will progressively reopen through mid- to late-2026.
• Expect occasional detours and temporary dining solutions in some camps.
• Always check the latest SANParks updates before departure.

The positive takeaway: recovery is well underway, and Kruger National Park remains very much open for unforgettable wildlife experiences.

For families, photographers and self-drive enthusiasts, flexibility will be key over the coming months — but Kruger National Park's wildlife viewing remains world-class.

 

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Cape Town: Kirstenbosch named one of the Most Beautiful Gardens in the World

Cape Town has added another global accolade to its name: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden has been named one of the Most Beautiful Gardens in the World by Homes & Gardens.

For travellers planning a visit to the Mother City, this recognition confirms what many already know — Kirstenbosch is not just a garden, but one of South Africa’s most extraordinary natural attractions.

A World-Class Garden at the Foot of Table Mountain

Set against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch forms part of the UNESCO-listed Cape Floral Kingdom - the smallest yet richest of the world’s six floral kingdoms.

Established in 1913, the garden was the first botanical garden in the world dedicated entirely to a country’s indigenous flora. Today, it showcases more than 7,000 plant species, many of them endemic to South Africa.

Unlike many formal European-style gardens, Kirstenbosch blends cultivated botanical displays with wild natural landscapes, creating a seamless transition between designed garden spaces and mountain fynbos.

Why Kirstenbosch Stands Out Globally

Being featured by Homes & Gardens places Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden alongside some of the most iconic gardens across Europe, Asia, and the Americas. What makes it exceptional?

Dramatic Natural Setting
Few gardens in the world can rival its backdrop. Towering sandstone cliffs, indigenous forest, and sweeping lawns combine to create one of the most photogenic green spaces in Africa.

The Boomslang Tree Canopy Walkway
The curved steel-and-timber canopy bridge - locally known as the “Boomslang” - offers elevated panoramic views across the gardens and towards the mountain. It’s a highlight for photographers and families alike.

Iconic South African Flora
From king proteas to vibrant fynbos displays, Kirstenbosch celebrates plants that cannot be found anywhere else on Earth. Spring (August to November) is particularly spectacular.

Open-Air Concerts
During summer, the lawns transform into a natural amphitheatre for the famous Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts — a uniquely Cape Town experience combining music, mountain views, and picnic culture.

Planning Your Visit

Location: Newlands, Cape Town
Ideal Visit Duration: 2–4 hours (longer if hiking or attending a concert)
Best Time to Visit:

• Spring (Aug–Nov) for peak blooms
• Summer (Dec–Feb) for concerts and long daylight hours
• Autumn and winter for quieter walks and crisp mountain views

Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring sun protection, and allow time simply to sit on the lawns and absorb the setting.

Why This Matters for Travellers

Global recognition from Homes & Gardens reinforces Kirstenbosch’s status as one of Africa’s premier garden experiences. For international visitors, it offers an accessible introduction to South Africa’s unique biodiversity. For locals, it remains a place of pride - and an essential stop on any Cape Town itinerary.

If you are visiting Cape Town and skip Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, you are missing one of the most beautiful gardens in the world - officially.

 

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