last updated 19 February 2026
South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed that the Olifants Rest Camp and the Sirheni Bushveld Camp are now open.
last updated 18 February 2026
SANParks released a Kruger roads update (18 February 2026)
last updated 18 February 2026
Severe flooding in January 2026 has significantly affected Kruger National Park, with major rivers including the Crocodile, Sabie, and Letaba overflowing and causing closures of key roads, bridges, and camps. While southern and central sectors - including Satara, Lower Sabie, and Orpen routes - have reopened, northern areas such as Shingwedzi, Punda Maria, and Letaba camps remain closed for ongoing repairs, some for several months. Visitor access is restricted, and itineraries may need adjustment due to road closures and safety measures. Cyclone Gezani, which struck eastern Madagascar and the Mozambique Channel, caused significant regional damage but poses no direct threat to Kruger. Travelers are strongly advised to check the latest SANParks updates before visiting, confirm gate and road status, and anticipate limited services in affected areas.
Kruger National Park Camp Recovery Update (10 February 2026)
SANParks has released a new status update on the recovery of several camps following recent flood damage in Kruger National Park. While road access is gradually improving, full restoration of accommodation and facilities across the northern region will take many months.
Northern Kruger camps still recovering
Several camps in the far north remain partially closed or are operating with limited capacity:
- Singwedzi Rest Camp: Fence repairs are ongoing and expected to take at least another month.
- Mopani Rest Camp: Limited accommodation available. Full capacity is expected in about six weeks, while temporary restaurant facilities still need to be installed.
- Letaba Rest Camp: One of the hardest-hit camps. Accommodation, restaurant and perimeter fence suffered extensive damage. A partial reopening is expected in roughly three months, with full operations only anticipated towards the end of 2026. The shop, filling station and Elephant Museum reopened on 10 February 2026.
- Shimuwini Bush Camp: Severe structural damage; major civil and building works will take many months.
- Olifants Rest Camp: Will reopen once water supply has been restored and confirmed safe. Maintenance of the restaurant and shop buildings continues.
- Sirheni Bush Camp: Will reopen once an alternative access road has been completed.
Bush camps and smaller facilities
- Talamati Bush Camp: Now open, but access is currently limited to the S106 and S140.
- Balule Camp: Extensive damage; repairs expected to take several months.
- Sable Hide: Still inaccessible by road. Infrastructure remains submerged and damage assessments have not yet been completed.
What this means for travellers
Travellers planning Kruger National Park trips in 2026 should continue to expect limited availability in the northern region, ongoing repairs and changing access conditions. The central and southern parts of the park remain the most reliable areas for confirmed accommodation and travel planning in the short term.
last updated 10 February 2026
SANParks released a Kruger roads update (10 February 2026)
last updated 10 February 2026
SANParks released a Kruger roads update (09 February 2026)
last updated 09 February 2026
South African National Parks (SANParks) has released a new operational update for Kruger National Park, outlining the current status of key roads and camps following recent flood damage. Travellers planning self-drive safaris or upcoming visits should review the latest access changes and reopening timelines.
Kruger National Park road status (09 February 2026)
Several important routes remain affected, although gradual reopening is underway.
H4-1 Lower Sabie Road
SANParks hopes to reopen this popular route within the next 1–2 weeks. In the meantime, drivers can use the H1-2 and H12 as an alternative connection back to the H4-1.
Phabeni Road (S1)
Reopening is currently planned for the last quarter of 2026. Alternative access routes are in place.
Nsemani Dam Wall Area
The dam wall sustained extensive damage, requiring major construction.
- One lane is currently open.
- A bypass via S12 and S40 is under construction and will add approximately 6 km to journeys.
H14
Two bridges along this route have not yet been assessed, and reopening timelines remain uncertain.
Kruger National Park camp status (09 February 2026)
Flood damage has impacted several rest camps and bush camps across Kruger National Park. Restoration work is ongoing, with phased reopening expected throughout 2026.
Singwedzi Rest Camp
Fence repairs are in progress and will take at least another month.
Mopani Rest Camp
Operating with limited accommodation. Full capacity is expected in approximately six weeks, while temporary restaurant facilities still need to be installed.
Letaba Rest Camp
Sustained major damage to accommodation, restaurant facilities and fencing.
- Partial reopening expected in around three months.
- Full reopening targeted towards the end of 2026.
Shimuwini Bush Camp
Extensive civil and building repairs are required and will take many months.
Olifants Rest Camp
Will reopen once the water supply is restored and certified safe.
Sirheni Bush Camp
Reopening depends on completion of an alternative access road.
Talamati Bush Camp
Will reopen once the access road is operational.
Balule Satellite Camp
Severe damage means repairs will take several months.
What this means for travellers
Despite ongoing repairs, Kruger National Park remains open and accessible, with alternative routes and phased camp reopenings ensuring continued safari travel. Visitors should expect detours, reduced accommodation availability and ongoing restoration work during 2026, and should check updates before travel.
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