Travel Advisory: Diesel restrictions in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

Travellers planning a self-drive safari in the remote and spectacular Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park should prepare carefully, as fuel availability inside the park is currently limited.

South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed that ongoing supply disruptions are affecting diesel availability at filling stations within Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. As a result, visitors are currently restricted to a maximum of 40 litres of diesel per vehicle per transaction, effective immediately.

This temporary rationing measure is designed to ensure that as many travellers as possible can access fuel during this period of constrained supply.

Government update: No national fuel shortage

According to the South African Government, there is no nationwide fuel shortage, and travellers should not panic. Authorities emphasise that fuel supplies remain stable at a national level, with only isolated, localised logistical challenges affecting availability in certain areas.

? MYTH ?? “Fuel prices are high because South Africa has a fuel shortage and is running out of supply.”

There is NO shortage of fuel in South Africa.
Government has confirmed that petrol, diesel, paraffin and jet fuel supplies are stable. #GovZAUpdates #ANationThatWorksForAll pic.twitter.com/xMrb2ssybS

— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) March 27, 2026

What this means for travellers

• Plan ahead: Fill up your tank before entering Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, especially when travelling long distances through remote areas.
• Expect local shortages: While national supply is stable, remote parks like Kgalagadi Transfrontier Parkmay still experience temporary constraints.
• Drive efficiently: Fuel conservation is key given the long distances between camps.
• Carry backup fuel (where permitted): Extra fuel can be useful on longer wilderness routes.
• Check distances carefully: Camps such as Twee Rivieren, Nossob and Mata-Mata are far apart, with limited services in between.

The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park remains one of Southern Africa’s most rewarding self-drive safari destinations—but its remoteness means that even minor supply disruptions can have a noticeable impact on travel logistics.

SANParks has indicated that travellers will be updated as soon as the situation improves. Until then, a conservative fuel strategy is strongly recommended to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted safari experience.