Mpumalanga road conditions: SANRAL issues flood damage update!

last update 26 January 2026 

The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has released an updated status report on national roads affected by recent heavy rainfall and flooding in Mpumalanga, warning road users to exercise extreme caution while recovery and assessments continue.

According to SANRAL Mpumalanga Provincial Head Mabuyi Mhlanga, the agency is actively monitoring flood-affected routes and conducting on-site assessments wherever conditions allow.

“These assessments form part of SANRAL’s ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of all road users. In areas where it remains unsafe to operate, inspections will resume once floodwaters have fully subsided. Our Routine Road Maintenance (RRM) teams remain on standby,” said Mhlanga.

SANRAL has urged motorists to reduce speed, maintain safe following distances, and avoid driving through flooded sections, as water depth and underlying road damage may not be visible. 

Affected National Roads in Mpumalanga

• Nkomazi Local Municipality
• R582 (Section 1) – Coopersdal Road from the N4 to the R571 intersection
  The Komati River Bridge was overtopped, resulting in road damage.
  One-way traffic flow is currently in place.
• Thaba Chweu Local Municipality
• R37 (Section 4) – Sabie/Nelspruit intersection to Mbombela border
  Damage recorded between Km 24 (Brondaal old pump station) and Km 28, including three slip failures.
  Two-way traffic flow is being maintained.
• R36 (Section 3) – Between Lydenburg and Bambi
  Severe pavement deterioration reported along this section.
• Mbombela and Bushbuckridge Local Municipalities
• R40 (Section 1) – At the Bulembu Border
  Drainage and structural failures identified.
  One-way traffic flow in operation.
• R40 (Section 4) – Between White River and Hazyview
• Km 19.4: Slip failure and culvert collapse
• Km 27: Slip failure and culvert collapse
• Contractors are currently on site at both locations.
• R40 (Section 5)
• Km 30.4 (Bushbuckridge to Dwarsloop): 24-hour stop-and-go traffic control in place
• Km 45 (Acornhoek to Dullstroom): Slip failure and culvert damage; two-way traffic maintained
• Km 50.4 (Dwarsloop to Acornhoek): 24-hour stop-and-go traffic control in effect

Travel advisory for Mpumalanga
SANRAL continues to monitor conditions across the province and will issue further updates as assessments progress and repairs are undertaken. Travellers to and within Mpumalanga - particularly those heading to Kruger National Park, Hazyview, White River, and surrounding tourism areas - are advised to plan routes carefully and allow extra travel time.

Motorists should stay informed via official SANRAL communication channels and avoid non-essential travel through flood-affected areas where possible.

 

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Durban Beaches Update: 19 monitored beaches confirmed safe for swimming (22 January 2026)!

The  eThekwini Municipality has confirmed that 19 of Durban’s 23 regularly monitored beaches are currently safe for swimming, following the release of the latest coastal water quality test results dated 22 January 2026. The assessment shows that these beaches comply with national bathing water safety standards, providing reassurance for visitors and residents planning coastal activities along Durban’s shoreline. 

Despite the conclusion of the peak December holiday season, Durban continues to attract local and international visitors thanks to its subtropical climate, warm Indian Ocean waters, and extensive sandy coastline. From the iconic Golden Mile to quieter northern and southern beaches, conditions remain favourable for swimming, surfing, and family-friendly coastal activities.

Coastal water quality monitoring in Durban
To protect public health and ensure the safe recreational use of its coastline, the eThekwini Municipality operates a comprehensive coastal water quality monitoring programme. This ongoing initiative includes:

• Regular seawater sampling at designated bathing beaches
• Laboratory-based microbiological testing
• Transparent public reporting, particularly during peak travel periods such as school holidays and long weekends

The most recent results confirm that Durban's bathing waters comply with national water quality guidelines, underlining the municipality’s commitment to environmental management and coastal safety.

Durban beaches currently open for swimming
Based on the latest official assessment, 19 monitored beaches are open for recreational swimming. Municipal lifeguards are deployed daily from 06:00 to 18:30, providing an additional layer of safety for swimmers, surfers, and beach-going families.

Beaches currently open include:

1. Point Beach
2. uMgababa
3. uShaka
4. Addington
5. North Beach
6. Bay of Plenty
7. Battery Beach
8. Thekwini Beach
9. South Beach
10. Wedge Beach
11. Brighton
12. Westbrook
13. mDloti Main
14. Anstey’s Beach
15. uMhlanga Main
16. Bronze Beach
17. Winklespruit
18. Laguna Beach
19. Country Club

All listed beaches are regarded as safe for swimming, subject to ongoing monitoring and changing environmental conditions.

Durban beaches currently closed
At present, the following beaches remain closed due to water quality concerns:

1. Reunion Beach
2. Pipeline Beach
3. Toti Main Beach
4. Doonside Beach

The municipality continues to monitor conditions closely and will issue updates once water quality improves and beaches can safely reopen.

Public swimming pools: A safe alternative
For visitors seeking a more controlled swimming environment, Durban offers approximately 40 municipal swimming pools across the metropolitan area. These facilities are particularly popular with families, children, and fitness swimmers, especially during periods of rough sea conditions.

All public swimming pools are:

• Regularly maintained
• Supervised by trained lifeguards
• Continuously monitored for hygiene and safety throughout the summer season

Essential beach safety advice for visitors 
While current conditions are favourable, beachgoers are reminded to follow basic safety guidelines:

• Swim only at designated beaches during official lifeguard hours
• Always observe beach signage and municipal safety notices
• Exercise additional caution after heavy rainfall, which can temporarily affect water quality

Traveller takeaway
With most of Durban's beaches open, safe, and actively monitored, visitors can enjoy the city’s coastline with confidence. As coastal conditions can change rapidly, staying informed through official updates and adhering to safety guidance remains essential for a safe and enjoyable beach experience in Durban.

 

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Kruger National Park accommodation, gates and picnic sites status update – January 2026!

last update 26 January 2026 

South African National Parks (SANParks) has released the latest update on the status of accommodation, gates, picnic sites, and shops across Kruger National Park following recent heavy rains and flooding. Visitors are advised to check specific opening dates and access points before planning their trips.

Main Camps

• Punda Maria – Open 25 Jan
• Pafuri Border Camp – Closed
• Shingwedzi – Closed to overnight guests; day visitor site opens 25 Jan
• Mopani – Open 30 Jan (restaurant & swimming pool remain closed)
• Letaba – Closed
• Olifants – Closed
• Satara – Open; guests advised to use Phalaborwa Gate
• Orpen – Open 25 Jan
• Skukuza – Open
• Lower Sabie – Open
• Pretoriuskop – Open
• Crocodile Bridge – Open
• Berg-en-Dal – Open

Bush Camps

• Sirheni – Closed
• Bataleur – Open 28 Jan
• Shimuweni – Closed
• Talamati – Closed
• Mbiyamiti – Closed
• Satellite Camps
• Balule – Closed
• Tsendze – Closed
• Tamboti – Open for overnight guests
• Maroela – Open for overnight guests
• Malelane – Open

Private Camps

• Boulders – Closed
• Roodewal – Closed

Gate Status

• Pafuri – Closed
• Punda Maria – Open 25 Jan
• Phalaborwa – Open (community protest blockade at Dwarsloop on R40)
• Orpen – Open only for overnight guests to Orpen, Maroela, and Tamboti, as well as emergency services and essential deliveries
• Paul Kruger – Open
• Phabeni – Open 27 Jan (guests to use S3 & S4 to connect to Pretoriuskop and Skukuza)
• Numbi – Open
• Malelane – Open
• Crocodile Bridge – Open

Picnic Sites

• Babalala – Closed
• Tshokwane – Open
• Afsaal – Open
• Nwanetsi – Open

Shops

• Punda Maria – Open 26 Jan
• Shingwedzi – Open 28 Jan
• Mopani – Open 28 Jan
• Letaba – Open 30 Jan

Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and confirm bookings, as some facilities remain closed or partially operational due to ongoing recovery efforts. Kruger National Park remains a premier destination for safaris and wildlife experiences, with most main camps and key gates now reopening.

last update 26 January 2026

• SANParks has released an updated "Road Closure Register".

last update 26 January 2026

• S42, the gravel road to Lake Panic bird hide and Skukuza Golf Club, opened today.  Lake Panic is alive with bird life! 
• S3 from Kruger Gate to S4 junction and S4 connecting to S1 to Phabeni Gate has opened to light vehicles.  No buses and trucks are currently allowed as the road has not completely dried out.  Heavy vehicles may cause damage to the road or may even get stuck.
• S36 from tar road to S125 and including S125 from Hamiltons Tented Camp to the tar road at the Baobab Tree is badly damaged in numerous places and not traversal. (25 January 2026)
• Following further assessment of Satara Rest Camp, the camp is to remain closed to overnight guests and day visitors until further notice. There is a major electrical issue that needs to be attended to before the camp can be reopened. (24 January 2026 15:30) 

South African National Parks (SANParks) has released an updated operational status report for Kruger National Park, outlining which rest camps, bush camps, gates and picnic sites are open or closed following severe rainfall and flooding experienced over recent weeks.
While the majority of facilities remain temporarily closed due to infrastructure damage and ongoing safety assessments, SANParks has confirmed that several key camps and access points will reopen from 25 January 2026, allowing limited visitor access to resume in specific areas of Kruger National Park.

Below is the latest confirmed status update, accurate as of 24 January 2026.

Main Rest Camps – Kruger National Park

• Punda Maria – Open from 25 January 2026
• Pafuri Border Camp – Closed
• Shingwedzi – Closed to overnight guests
• Open as a day visitor site only from 25 January 2026
• Shop, restaurant and fuel station closed
• Day visitors must bring their own food, drinking water and ensure sufficient fuel
• Mopani – Closed
• Letaba – Closed
• Olifants – Closed
• Satara – Closed to overnight guests
• Open for day visits
• Restaurant and shop operational
• Orpen Rest Camp – Open from 25 January 2026
• Skukuza – Open
• Lower Sabie – Open
• Pretoriuskop – Open
• Crocodile Bridge Rest Camp – Open
• Berg-en-Dal – Open

Bush Camps

All bush camps remain closed until further notice:

• Sirheni
• Bataleur
• Shimuweni
• Talamati
• Biyamiti

Satellite Camps

• Balule – Closed
• Tsendze – Closed
• Tamboti – Open for overnight guests
• Maroela – Open for overnight guests
• Malelane Satellite Camp – Open

Private Concession Camps

• Boulders – Closed
• Roodewal – Closed

Gate Access Status

• Pafuri Gate – Closed
• Punda Maria Gate – Open from 25 January 2026
• Phalaborwa Gate – Closed
• SANParks-guided drives to resume from 25 January
• Orpen Gate – Restricted access
• Open only to overnight guests for Orpen, Maroela and Tamboti
• Emergency services and essential deliveries permitted
• Paul Kruger Gate – Open
• Phabeni Gate – Closed
• Numbi Gate – Open
• Malelane Gate – Open
• Crocodile Bridge Gate – Open

Picnic Sites

• Babalala Picnic Site – Closed
• Tshokwane Picnic Site – Open
• Accessible only to guests travelling from Lower Sabie and Crocodile Bridge
• Mundzandzeni Picnic Site (S36) – Open
• Accessible from the Orpen side

Road Conditions Advisory

• H14 and H9 roads are open for limited travel only
• Visitors should treat these routes as dead ends and plan itineraries accordingly

Important Visitor Advisory

SANParks strongly urges all visitors to:

• Monitor official updates regularly
• Adhere strictly to gate and road restrictions
• Avoid closed areas and barricaded roads
• Plan fuel, food and water supplies carefully, especially in northern Kruger National Park

Further updates will be issued as repairs, safety assessments and weather conditions improve.

 

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FlySafair suspends Hoedspruit flights until mid-February 2026 after flood damage!

South African regional airline FlySafair has confirmed the suspension of all flights to and from Hoedspruit Airport (HDS) in Hoedspruit, Limpopo, until 14 February 2026, citing severe flood damage to critical airport infrastructure.

The decision follows widespread heavy rainfall and flooding across the greater Lowveld region, which has recently been declared a national disaster. The extreme weather has caused extensive damage across Limpopo and Mpumalanga, including parts of the Kruger National Park, significantly disrupting transport networks and tourism operations.

Hoedspruit Airport Infrastructure Severely Affected
At Hoedspruit Airport (HDS), prolonged heavy rainfall has caused substantial runway damage, while the airport’s radar system is currently non-operational. According to FlySafair, these conditions have compromised operational safety, making it unsafe for aircraft to land or depart until repairs are completed and safety assessments are finalised.

FlySafair has emphasised that the suspension is a safety-driven decision, in line with aviation regulations and established risk management protocols.

Passenger rebooking and refund options
All passengers affected by the suspension will be contacted directly using the details provided at the time of booking. Customers will be offered the following options:

• Rebook to a later travel date or an alternative route at no additional cost, or
• Request a full refund for the affected flight(s).

Passengers are advised to monitor their email inboxes and FlySafair’s official communication channels for further updates.

Impact on tourism in the greater Lowveld region/greater Kruger region
Hoedspruit Airport (HDS) serves as a key gateway to the Greater Kruger National Park, including private reserves and lodges in the Hoedspruit, Phalaborwa, and surrounding Lowveld areas. The suspension is expected to temporarily affect travel plans for both domestic and international visitors, particularly during the late summer safari season.

Other airlines operating at hoedspruit
South African regional airlines Airlink and CemAir are currently operating flights to and from Hoedspruit Airport (HDS).

• Airlink resumed scheduled services on 16 January 2026, following a brief suspension. Operations remain subject to favourable local weather and road conditions.
• CemAir has also reinstated its flights, following improved weather assessments issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS).

Travellers are advised to remain flexible and confirm flight status directly with their airline prior to departure.

 

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Kruger National Park Access Update: SANParks confirms eased restrictions as weather conditions improve!

last update 23 January 2026 

South African National Parks (SANParks) has issued a new operational update confirming that weather conditions across Limpopo and Mpumalanga - including key areas of Kruger National Park - have improved sufficiently to allow limited easing of access restrictions.

Following ongoing safety inspections and infrastructure assessments, day and overnight visitors are now permitted to access Punda Maria Gate, Babalala Picnic Site, and Punda Maria Rest Camp with effect from Sunday, 25 January 2026.

Areas and facilities that Remain closed
Despite the improved conditions, several sections of Kruger National Park remain inaccessible due to continued safety concerns and infrastructure recovery work:

• Letaba Rest Camp – Closed
• Pafuri Rest Camp – Closed
• Pafuri Border Post – Closed
• Phalaborwa Gate – Closed to day visitors
• Orpen Gate – Restricted access only for:
• Overnight guests
• Emergency services
• Essential supply and service deliveries

Due to limited operational facilities at this stage, Open Safari Vehicles (OSVs) are not permitted to operate anywhere in Kruger National Park until further notice.

Road conditions in Kruger National Park
SANParks has confirmed that all gravel roads across Kruger National Park remain closed. Visitors are strongly advised to plan routes carefully and adhere strictly to official guidance.

SANParks has reiterated its warning to visitors not to remove barricades or attempt to access closed roads, as these restrictions are critical to ensuring visitor safety and allowing engineers and maintenance teams to complete assessments and repairs.

Ongoing monitoring and future updates
The situation across Kruger National Park continues to be actively monitored. Access restrictions will be reviewed progressively as weather conditions stabilize further and infrastructure rehabilitation advances.

SANParks has assured visitors that additional updates will be communicated through official SANParks platforms as conditions evolve.

Visitor advisory
SANParks has thanked all visitors for their patience, cooperation, and understanding during this recovery period and encourages travelers to remain flexible with travel plans.

Travellers heading to Kruger National Park are advised to check official SANParks updates regularly before departure.

 

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Mozambique Flooding Update: Tourism impacts & travel advisory – January 2026!

last updated - 24 January 2026!

Should you travel to Mozambique right now?
Mozambique remains open to tourism, but travel to flood-affected provinces is strongly discouraged at present. Severe flooding continues to impact road access, national parks, and coastal routes in parts of Gaza, Maputo Province, and Sofala. While international flights are operating, ground transport is unreliable and safety risks remain elevated. Travellers should postpone non-essential trips to affected regions, confirm accommodation and transfers directly with operators, and ensure travel insurance covers weather-related disruptions and evacuation. Flexible itineraries and real-time monitoring are essential. 

last updated - 23 Januay 2026! 

Mozambique is currently facing one of its most severe flooding emergencies in decades, with widespread impacts across southern and central provinces. While the country is not closed to tourism, the ongoing situation has significant implications for travel planning, road access, national parks, coastal resorts, and hospitality services.

This update provides a tourism-focused overview of the current conditions and practical guidance for travellers and tour operators as of 23 January 2026.

Current flooding situation in Mozambique

Prolonged heavy rainfall, overflowing river systems, and controlled dam releases have led to extensive flooding in Mozambique, particularly in Gaza, Maputo, Sofala, Inhambane, and parts of Manica Province. More than 600,000 people have been affected nationwide, with hundreds of thousands displaced into temporary accommodation centres.

Mozambique remains under a national Red Alert, and authorities warn that conditions remain dynamic as the country is still within the peak cyclone and rainy season.

Impact on key tourism areas

National Parks & wildlife tourism

• Limpopo National Park (Gaza Province) has been severely affected, with internal roads flooded, access routes damaged, and several areas currently inaccessible.
• Safari operations, self-drive routes, and lodge access within the park are restricted or suspended until floodwaters recede and safety assessments are completed.
• Travellers should expect temporary closures and operational disruptions across low-lying conservation areas.

Coastal & beach destinations

• Parts of Maputo Province’s coastal belt and surrounding low-lying areas have experienced flooding and isolation due to damaged road access.
• Some beach lodges and resorts may remain operational, but access reliability varies significantly.
• Travellers should confirm road conditions, transfer arrangements, and service availability directly with accommodation providers.

Road access & transport

• Sections of Mozambique's main north–south artery, the EN1 highway, and several secondary routes have been cut or damaged.
• Overland travel between Maputo, Gaza, and Sofala provinces is unreliable and subject to sudden closures.
• Flooded bridges, washed-out roads, and detours are common, affecting self-drive itineraries and scheduled transfers.
• Air travel remains operational, but onward ground connections may be disrupted.

Accommodation & Hospitality Sector

Lodges, hotels, and guesthouses in affected provinces are facing:

• Intermittent power and water supply issues
• Staffing challenges due to displacement
• Cancellations and booking flexibility requests

Property-specific conditions vary widely; direct confirmation with operators is essential.

Health & safety considerations for travellers

Flooding has increased the risk of water-borne diseases, particularly in affected regions. Travellers in Mozambique are advised to:

• Avoid flood-affected areas and low-lying river basins
• Follow official weather and emergency updates
• Ensure comprehensive travel insurance covering weather-related disruptions and emergency evacuation
• Build flexibility into itineraries and onward travel plans

Is Mozambique Still Open to Tourism?

Yes — Mozambique remains open to international visitors, and there has been no nationwide suspension of tourism activities. However, localized impacts are substantial, and travel in affected regions requires heightened caution, up-to-date information, and flexible planning.

Short-term outlook for tourism

Floodwaters in Mozambique are expected to persist in some areas for weeks, with road and infrastructure repairs continuing well beyond the immediate emergency phase.

Tourism recovery will depend on:

• Receding water levels
• Road and bridge rehabilitation
• Safety assessments of parks, lodges, and transport routes

Travellers planning visits in late January and February 2026 should closely monitor updates and consider alternative routes or destinations where feasible.

Travel advisory summary

• International flights: operating
• Road travel: highly disrupted in affected provinces
• National parks: access restrictions and closures likely
• Coastal travel: possible, but access varies
• Tourism not suspended, but careful planning essential

We will continue to monitor the situation in Mozambique and provide verified updates relevant to travellers, tour operators, and self-drive visitors across southern Africa.

 

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Botswana issues travel advisory for Chobe National Park roads!

last update 22 January 2026 

The Botswana Ministry of Environment and Tourism, through the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP), has issued an important advisory regarding current road conditions in and around Chobe National Park following widespread heavy rainfall.

Recent downpours have resulted in deep standing water, muddy tracks, and severely degraded access routes, particularly in the Mababe, Savuti, Ghoha and Linyanti regions. Self-drive visitors are urged to plan routes carefully and strictly follow official guidance to ensure safety.

Mababe – Savuti Routes

• Marsh Road: Closed. Do not attempt to use this route under any circumstances.
• Sand Ridge Road: Open, but significantly affected by deep water puddles.
• Solo travel and single-vehicle convoys are strongly discouraged.

Savuti – Ghoha Routes

• Airstrip Route: Affected by deep water.
• Direct (Straight) Route: Also waterlogged but currently in better condition than the Airstrip Route.
• Pimple Hill Route: Recommended route.
• This track is narrower, less flooded, and requires extra caution. The route is available on Google Maps.

Access to Linyanti

• Ghoha – Linyanti Park Boundary Road: Closed due to high-risk conditions.
• Alternative access: Visitors should use the Savuti – Linyanti Road only.

Mababe Gate – Mababe Village / Moremi Access

• Upon exiting Mababe Gate, take the right-hand turn to join the Maun–Khwai Access Road.
• The Maun–Khwai Access Road is currently in poor condition; drivers should proceed with extreme caution.

Important safety notice for tourists

All visitors travelling in these remote areas must have 24-hour emergency communication, such as a satellite phone or equivalent device. Recovery services may be delayed due to road conditions and weather.

Travellers are advised to monitor official updates from the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP and to adjust itineraries where necessary. Conditions may change rapidly depending on further rainfall.

About Chobe National Park

Chobe National Park is one of Botswana's premier safari destinations and forms a critical part of the country’s northern conservation network, linking the Chobe Riverfront, Savuti, Linyanti and Nogatsaa regions. Renowned for its vast elephant population, diverse wildlife habitats and seasonal floodplains, the park attracts both guided and self-drive visitors year-round. During the rainy season, however, access routes within Chobe National Park can deteriorate rapidly, making up-to-date road condition information essential for safe travel planning. 

 

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