Kruger National Park is currently experiencing flooding in several northern and central areas following persistent rainfall, according to an update from South African National Parks (SANParks).
Heavy rain both inside and outside Kruger National Park has caused river levels to rise rapidly, particularly in the Shingwedzi and Luvuvhu river systems. Authorities expect water levels to continue fluctuating in the coming days as further rainfall is forecast.
The situation is compounded by exceptionally heavy rains earlier in January, leaving surrounding catchment areas saturated and vulnerable to sudden increases in river flow.
Current Conditions in Northern Kruger
While the Shingwedzi River is rising, SANParks says water levels have not yet reached a stage requiring evacuation of guests or staff at camps. However, Kruger National Park management is closely monitoring the Shisha Stream near Babalala and Sirheni, which is currently spilling over onto the tar road.
Several camps, gates and tourist facilities in the north of Kruger National Park are temporarily affected by flooding or road closures.
Facilities currently affected include:
- Punda Maria Gate
- Pafuri Gate
- Giriyondo Border Gate (including Makhadzi Picnic Site)
- Sirheni Bushveld Camp
- Bateleur Bushveld Camp
- Shimuwini Bushveld Camp
- Roodewal Bush Lodge
- Balule Satellite Camp
- Talamati Bush Camp
In addition, the Letaba High-Level Bridge remains inaccessible, with repair work suspended until further notice.
Camps and Gates Still Operating
Despite the flooding in northern sections, many parts of Kruger National Park remain open and accessible to visitors.
Operational facilities currently include:
- Phalaborwa Gate
- Olifants Rest Camp
- Letaba Rest Camp (filling station, Elephant Hall and shop open)
- Orpen Gate
- Orpen Rest Camp
- Satara Rest Camp
- Tamboti and Maroela camps
In the southern Kruger National Park region, all access gates and camps remain open. However, Biyamiti Bush Camp can currently only be reached via the Crocodile Bridge entrance (from the S25 intersection), and there is no access to the S114 road.
Travel Advice for Kruger Visitors
Visitors travelling to Kruger National Park are advised to remain alert and follow all road signage and park instructions, as many gravel roads in the northern and central regions are temporarily closed due to flooding and water damage.
SANParks continues to monitor river levels and road conditions closely and says the safety of guests, staff and park infrastructure remains its highest priority.
Travellers planning to visit Kruger National Park over the coming days should check the latest road and gate updates before departure, particularly if heading to the northern regions.
Subscribe for updates:
Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates, border info, road alerts, and travel inspiration for Southern Africa.
No comments:
Post a Comment