Kruger National Park Update: Letaba High Level Bridge now open to visitors

last update 23 March 2026 

South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed that the Letaba High Level Bridge in Kruger National Park is officially open to visitors as of today, restoring an important crossing point in the central region of the park.

This reopening improves route connectivity for self-drive travellers exploring areas around Letaba, Olifants, and Mopani camps, making game viewing itineraries more flexible and efficient.

However, visitors should take note of an important safety restriction: the bridge currently has no protective barriers installed. As a result, the standard Kruger National Park rule strictly applies - no stopping or exiting your vehicle is permitted on the bridge.

What This Means for Travellers

• The bridge is fully operational for vehicle crossings
• Ideal for smoother self-drive routes in central Kruger National Park
• No getting out of your car under any circumstances
• Exercise extra caution due to the lack of barriers

As always in Kruger National Park, adhering to safety regulations is essential - not only for your own protection but also for the conservation of wildlife and the safety of other visitors.

Travel tip: Plan your crossings during daylight hours and remain alert, as bridges often attract wildlife activity along riverbanks.

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Air Botswana cuts regional routes after heavy losses

Botswana’s national carrier, Air Botswana, has suspended three recently launched regional routes after reporting losses of approximately P44.5 million. The move highlights ongoing financial challenges at the airline and is likely to affect travel planning across Southern Africa.

Which routes have been suspended?

The following routes have been discontinued:

• Gaborone – Durban
• Gaborone – Windhoek
• Maun – Cape Town

These services were introduced in late 2024 as part of an effort to expand regional connectivity. However, low passenger demand and high operating costs made them financially unsustainable.

What this means for travellers

The suspension of these routes reduces direct flight options between Botswana and key regional destinations. Travellers should expect:

• Fewer direct connections
• Increased reliance on transit hubs such as Johannesburg
• Potentially higher fares due to reduced competition
• Longer overall travel times

This is particularly relevant for those planning multi-country itineraries across Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa.

Impact on popular travel routes

The affected routes played an important role in regional tourism:

• The Maun <> Cape Town route offered a convenient link between the Okavango Delta and one of Africa’s most popular cities
• The Gaborone <> Windhoek route supported overland and fly-drive travel between Botswana and Namibia
• The Gaborone <> Durban route connected two smaller but growing leisure and business markets

Their suspension makes itinerary planning more complex, especially for fly-in safari travellers.

Alternative travel options

Despite the cuts, Botswana remains accessible through several alternatives:

• Flights via Johannesburg with onward connections to Maun or Kasane
• Regional airlines offering connections across Southern Africa
• Remaining Air Botswana domestic and limited regional services

Travellers may need to combine multiple flights or consider alternative entry points into the region.

What you should do if you are travelling

If you are planning a trip to Botswana or nearby countries:

• Check your flight bookings carefully for any schedule changes
• Allow extra time for connections, especially when transiting through major hubs
• Book flexible tickets where possible
• Consider working with a travel specialist for more complex itineraries

Outlook

Air Botswana’s decision to suspend these routes is part of a broader effort to reduce losses and stabilise operations. Given the airline’s ongoing financial pressures and limited fleet, further route adjustments remain possible.

Bottom line

While Botswana continues to offer world-class safari experiences, getting there may now require more planning and flexibility. Travellers should be prepared for indirect routings and evolving flight schedules when planning trips in the region.

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British Airways expands Cape Town route: What travellers need to know

British Airways has confirmed a major boost to its South Africa schedule, with additional flights between London and Cape Town set to launch as part of its expanded winter 2026 long-haul programme.

For travellers planning a trip to South Africa, this is a significant development - and potentially very good news for availability, pricing, and flexibility.

Third daily London–Cape Town flight confirmed

A key development is the introduction of a third daily flight between Heathrow Airport (LHR) in London and Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town, starting in December 2026.

This makes one of Africa’s busiest long-haul routes even more accessible during peak travel season, particularly the Southern Hemisphere summer.

Cape Town remains one of the most in-demand long-haul leisure destinations globally - and this increase directly addresses ongoing pressure on flight availability.

What it means for travel to Cape Town

The additional flights align perfectly with:

• South Africa's peak tourism season (December–March)
• Growing global demand for long-haul, nature-based travel
• Increasing capacity upgrades planned at Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town

More flights also strengthen Cape Town's position as a key gateway to Southern Africa, especially for onward travel to:

• The Garden Route
• The Cape Winelands
• Kruger National Park (via connections)

Traveller insight

From a traveller strategy perspective:

• Book early for December/January - demand will still be strong
• Watch for introductory fares or increased Avios availability
• Consider mid-week departures for better pricing
• Use the added frequency to build more efficient itineraries

This move by British Airways is a clear signal: Cape Town demand isn’t slowing - it’s accelerating.

Final thoughts

British Airways’ decision to add a third daily flight to Cape Town is a major win for travellers, improving access to one of Africa’s most iconic destinations.

For anyone planning a South Africa trip in late 2026 or early 2027, this expansion could make your journey easier, more flexible, and potentially more affordable.

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Moremi Game Reserve reopening soon? Latest Botswana flood & road update (March 2026)

last updated 20 March 2026 

The Department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP), under Botswana’s Ministry of Environment and Tourism, has confirmed a gradual improvement in conditions within the Moremi Game Reserve -offering cautious optimism for travellers planning a safari in the coming weeks.

Current access challenges in Moremi

While the situation is improving, road access remains difficult in several key areas due to lingering floodwater:

• The Shorobe–Sankoyo road is still challenging, with recent reports of vehicles getting stuck
• The Khwai–South Gate route has multiple waterlogged sections
• Large stretches of the Xakanaxa–Third Bridge and Third Bridge–South Gate roads remain submerged

Ground assessments conducted between 14 and 15 March 2026 confirmed that recent rainfall continues to impact drivability, particularly along the Khwai–South Gate and South Gate–Xakanaxa routes.

Gradual improvement & reopening outlook

Encouragingly, conditions are slowly improving, especially on:

• South Gate–Khwai
• South Gate–Xakanaxa

If the current dry weather persists, further improvements are expected over the next week. This raises the possibility that Moremi Game Reserve could reopen to visitors soon, potentially as early as next week.

However, travellers should note that the Third Bridge section is likely to remain inaccessible for now, even if the reserve reopens.

Central Kalahari Game Reserve: Travel conditions stabilising

Conditions in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR) have improved significantly following a break in the rains.

• Internal routes are currently passable
• No incidents of stranded visitors have been reported for over a week

Despite the improved situation, authorities continue to advise travellers to drive in convoys or groups, particularly in remote areas where recovery assistance may be limited.

Travel advice for Botswana safaris right now

• Expect wet and unpredictable road conditions, especially in Moremi
• A high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is essential
• Avoid travelling alone—convoy travel is strongly recommended
• Monitor official updates from DWNP before entering reserves

Botswana’s Ministry of Environment and Tourism will continue to closely monitor conditions and issue updates as the situation evolves. Travellers are encouraged to stay flexible with their plans as weather conditions remain a key factor in accessibility.

 

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Kruger National Park Flood Update (March 2026): Gate openings, camps & travel advice

last update 23 March 2026

South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed that the Letaba High Level Bridge in Kruger National Park is officially open to visitors as of today, restoring an important crossing point in the central region of the park. READ MORE 

last update 20 March 2026 

SANParks has confirmed that diesel is available again at the fuel station in the Skukuza Rest Camp. 

update (20 March 2026) 

According to SANParks (19 March 2026), the fuel station at Skukuza Rest Camp is currently out of diesel. Supplier TotalEnergies is expected to provide an update on the next delivery. Travellers are strongly advised to refuel before arriving in Skukuza to avoid disruptions to their itinerary. 

update (20 March 2026)

SANParks released a Kruger Roads Update (19 March 2026) 

last update 20 March 2026 

South African National Parks (SANParks) has released its latest operational update following recent flooding in the northern region (Nxantseni) of Kruger National Park. While many key access points and camps are now open, some infrastructure and accommodation remain affected - making careful trip planning essential.

Gate access: Mostly 0pen, border posts limited

Access to Kruger National Park is largely restored:

• Phalaborwa, Punda Maria and Pafuri Gates are open
• Pafuri Border Post is open
• Giriyondo Border Post remains closed, pending repairs to the Letaba High-Level Bridge and surrounding roads

Day visitor sites: Partial availability

Several popular picnic and rest sites are accessible, including Masorini, Olifants, Mooiplaas, Shingwedzi, Babalala, Pafuri and the Punda Maria Environmental Education Centre.

However, travellers should note that Letaba and Makhadzi day visitor sites remain closed.

Overnight hides & campsites: Limited options

• Sable Hide and Shipandane Hide are currently closed, with reopening expected around May 2026
• Tsendze Campsite is open
• Balule Campsite is closed, with a projected reopening in mid-July 2026

Bush camps: Disruptions continue

• Bateleur Bush Camp is open
• Sirheni Bush Camp has closed again due to renewed access issues following recent rains
• Shimuwini Bush Camp is expected to reopen only by September 2026

Main camps: Gradual recovery underway

• Shingwedzi, Olifants and Mopani Rest Camps are open
• Mopani’s restaurant remains under construction, with full operations expected by end-May 2026

At Letaba Rest Camp, core services such as the shop, fuel station and Elephant Museum are operational. Accommodation and facilities are reopening in phases:

• 05 May 2026: Partial reopening (less damaged units)
• 02 June 2026: Restaurant fully operational
• 01 August 2026: Moderately damaged units reopen
• 02 November 2026: Full camp restoration expected

Bridge infrastructure: Key travel constraint

Flood damage to bridges in northern Kruger National Park continues to impact travel routes:

• Letaba High-Level Bridge: expected to reopen 23 March 2026
• Letaba Low-Level Bridge: reopening anticipated July 2026

What This Means for Travellers

If you're planning a trip to northern Kruger National Park in the coming months, expect limited route flexibility and reduced accommodation availability, particularly around Letaba and bush camps. However, with major gates open and several camps operational, a well-planned itinerary can still deliver a rewarding safari experience.

Travel tip: Focus your route around Phalaborwa, Mopani, Olifants and Shingwedzi for the most reliable access and services in the short term.

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Best Airports in Africa 2026: Cape Town tops for 11th Year

South Africa continues to shine on the African aviation scene, with multiple airports receiving top accolades at the Skytrax 2026 World Airport Awards. For travellers, this means cleaner terminals, friendlier staff, and smoother journeys across the country.

The awards ceremony was held at PTE World in London on 18 March 2026. Known as the largest global airport customer satisfaction survey, the World Airport Awards are independent, impartial, and trusted as a benchmark for airport quality. Since 1999, over 575 airports worldwide have been assessed based on customer feedback covering everything from check-in and arrivals to shopping, security, lounges, and boarding.

Cape Town International Airport: Africa’s best for 11th year

For the eleventh consecutive year, Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town has been named Best Airport in Africa. Beyond the top ranking, the airport also claimed:

• Cleanest Airport in Africa 2026
• Best Airport Staff in Africa 2026

South Africa dominates Africa’s top airports

Other airports in South Africa also performed strongly in the 2026 rankings:

• #2 Best Airport in Africa: OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg
• #4 Best Airport in Africa: King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban

Regional airports recognised for excellence

South Africa's regional airports also received accolades for quality service and passenger experience:

• #2 Regional Airport: King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban
• #4 Regional Airport: Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ) in Gqeberha
• #5 Regional Airport: Bram Fischer International Airport (BFN) in Bloemfontein
• #6 Regional Airport: King Phalo Airport (ELS) in East London

In addition, King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban ranked #10 globally in the 5–10 million passengers category, cementing its status as a rising star for regional travel.

Best Airport Staff and Hotels

Service quality was also a major factor in the survey:

Best Airport Staff in Africa 2026:

• #1 Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town
• #2 King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban
• #3 OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg

Best Airport Hotel in Africa 2026:

• #5 InterContinental Johannesburg O.R.Tambo Airport, located at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg

What this means for travellers

The World Airport Awards are based on the World Airport Survey questionnaires completed by over 100 nationalities of airport customers during the survey period, which operated from August 2025 to February 2026. The survey evaluated the customer experience across airport service and product key performance indicators – from check in, arrivals, transfers, shopping, security / immigration through to departure at the gate.

For travellers planning trips to Africa, the 2026 results highlight a clear trend: South Africa offers some of the continent’s most reliable, clean, and service-oriented airports, making travel smoother and more enjoyable.

Whether you’re flying into Cape Town for a coastal getaway, connecting through Johannesburg, or exploring regional hubs like Durban, Gqeberha, or East London, you can expect a world-class experience from check-in to take-off.

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New airline partnership connects Southern and East Africa more seamlessly

Travellers flying between Southern and East Africa now have more flexible routing options, following a new commercial partnership between South Africa's second-largest airline by number of flights, CemAir, and Kenya Airways, the flag carrier airline of Kenya. The agreement marks a meaningful step towards improving regional air connectivity and simplifying multi-leg journeys across the two networks.

Implemented as a Special Prorate Agreement (SPA), the partnership introduces interline-style cooperation, allowing passengers to book selected connecting itineraries more seamlessly. In practical terms, this means smoother transfers, coordinated ticketing, and improved journey planning when combining flights operated by both carriers.

For travellers, the benefits are immediate: easier access to a wider range of destinations across Southern and East Africa, greater flexibility when building itineraries, and a more streamlined travel experience overall. Whether you’re connecting via key hubs or planning a multi-country trip, the collaboration enhances convenience for both leisure and business travel.

Both airlines have indicated that this agreement is only the first phase of a broader strategic relationship. Further cooperation - potentially including deeper network integration - remains under discussion, subject to regulatory and operational approvals.

The Special Prorate Agreement (SPA) is now live, offering travellers expanded options across the region.

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