Showing posts with label day visitors. Show all posts
Showing posts with label day visitors. Show all posts

21 January 2026

Crocodile Bridge Gate to reopen as conditions improve in Kruger National Park!

last update 22 January 2026 

last update 21 January 2026 

As weather conditions continue to stabilise across parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga, including sections of the Kruger National Park, South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed that Crocodile Bridge Gate will reopen to day visitors from Thursday, 22 January 2026.

While this reopening marks an important step toward normal operations, SANParks cautions that the situation remains fluid and subject to rapid change. A dam wall located outside Kruger National Park has reportedly been compromised, which could affect access and operational conditions at short notice, including the potential closure of Crocodile Bridge Gate should safety concerns arise.

Road closures and safety warnings
All gravel roads within the Kruger National Park remain closed until further notice. Visitors are strongly advised not to remove barricades at closed gates or restricted roads, as these measures are in place to protect public safety and prevent further damage to park infrastructure following recent flooding.

SANParks has also requested visitors to take their waste with them when exiting Kruger National Park, as waste management and other operational services continue to operate under strain due to flood-related disruptions.

Gate access status
The following gates are currently operational, subject to the existing entry quota system:

Phabeni Gate remains closed until further notice.

In addition, the southern and northern regions of Kruger National Park remain inaccessible to each other, meaning that key facilities such as Tshokwane Picnic Site, Satara Rest Camp, and the northern sections of the national park are not accessible at this time.

Ongoing monitoring
SANParks continues to closely monitor weather patterns, water levels, and infrastructure stability across Kruger National Park. Visitors are urged to strictly follow all official instructions, signage, and staff guidance to ensure their safety.

Further updates will be issued as conditions evolve and additional areas of Kruger National Park become accessible.  

18 January 2026

Day visitors to Kruger National Park to resume as weather conditions improve!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed that day visitor access to the Kruger National Park (KNP) will resume from Monday, 19 January 2026, following a significant improvement in weather conditions across Limpopo and Mpumalanga, including areas within the park.

While access is being reinstated, SANParks has urged visitors to exercise caution. Guests are strongly advised not to travel on gravel roads, as certain sections may still be affected by residual water damage from recent heavy rainfall.

Visitors should also be aware that shops inside the Kruger National Park currently have limited stock due to earlier access restrictions. Guests are therefore encouraged to bring their own essential supplies to ensure a comfortable and uninterrupted visit.

Despite the reopening of day visits, the northern regions of the Kruger National Park remain closed. Several roads and bridges in these areas have been severely damaged or washed away and will only reopen once safety assessments have been completed.

Access to the southern part of the park will be permitted via the following gates:

SANParks has cautioned that Phabeni Gate is being closely monitored due to fluctuating water levels in a nearby stream and may be closed at short notice should conditions deteriorate.
Crocodile Bridge Gate remains closed until further notice.

SANParks continues to monitor conditions across Kruger National Park and will issue further updates as required. The safety of both guests and staff remains the organisation’s top priority. Visitors are urged to comply with all official instructions and signage while in the park. Transgressions may result in fines and possible prosecution.

Further announcements will be made as the situation develops.

 

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17 January 2026

SANParks issues Kruger National Park operational update amid ongoing heavy rainfall!

last update 17 January 2026

In a media statement issued during the visit of the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Mr Willie Aucamp, to the flood-affected Kruger National Park, SANParks reiterated that the ongoing safety risks necessitate the continued prohibition of day visits.
Access restrictions are currently in place at several entrance gates around Kruger National Park. Entry is limited strictly to essential delivery vehicles, airport transfers with valid flight tickets, government officials, and overnight guests with confirmed accommodation reservations at Berg-en-Dal, Skukuza, and Pretoriuskop rest camps.
SANParks continues to assess road conditions, river levels, and infrastructure damage across Kruger National Park, and will communicate any changes to access regulations as conditions improve. 

last update 17 January 2026 

  • Letaba River from Letaba Rest Camp. River level has subsided.
    Letaba Rest Camp remains closed until further notice.  (17 January 2026, 09:00)

last update 17 January 2026 

South African National Parks (SANParks) has issued an important operational update regarding current conditions in the Kruger National Park, as persistent and above-average rainfall continues to affect large parts of Mpumalanga and Limpopo.

According to SANParks, several areas within the park remain impacted by ongoing rainfall, with particularly increased precipitation recorded in the Pretoriuskop region. As a result, Phabeni Gate may be closed at short notice should conditions deteriorate further. Visitors are strongly advised to remain vigilant and to follow all official SANParks communications, on-site notices, and road signage.

No day visitors are permitted to enter Kruger National Park until further notice. Access to the park is currently restricted to essential delivery vehicles, airport transfers for travellers holding valid flight tickets, SANParks officials, and guests with confirmed accommodation bookings at Berg-en-Dal, Skukuza, and Pretoriuskop rest camps.

As a precautionary safety measure, all guided game drives and walking trails across the park remain suspended until conditions improve and it is safe to resume activities.

SANParks has confirmed that the situation is being closely monitored and that further updates will be communicated as circumstances change. The organisation has reiterated that the safety of guests, staff, and park infrastructure remains its highest priority during this period of adverse weather conditions.

We are closely monitoring official SANParks announcements and related developments and will continue to update our readers as new, verified information becomes available. Our aim is to provide timely, accurate, and practical updates to help travellers make informed decisions when planning or adjusting their Kruger National Park visits.

However, visitors planning travel to Kruger National Park are also encouraged to check official SANParks channels regularly for the latest access updates and operational announcements.

 

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16 January 2026

SANParks confirms continued suspension of Kruger National Park day visits due to ongoing rainfall and infrastructure damage! [update #2]

last update 16 January 2026

  • H14 remains inaccessible. The bridge is still flooded. (16 January 2026 09:15)

last update 16 January 2026

  • Letaba river water level has dropped and there is currently no water inside the camp. CAMP REMAINS CLOSED. Guests will be contacted to arrange collection of their possessions left in the camp once the risk assessments have been completed. (16 January 2016 07:30)
  • Water over Lower Sabie bridge has subsided a small amount. Bridge remains closed. (16 January 2016 07:30)
  • River level at Crocodile Bridge has subsided a small amount. Bridge remains closed. (16 January 2016 07:30) 

last update 16 January 2026 

Prolonged and intense rainfall continues to affect large areas of Limpopo and Mpumalanga, with multiple sections of the Kruger National Park (KNP) experiencing significant flooding and damage to critical infrastructure. Consequently, the suspension of day visitor access to Kruger National Park remains in place until further notice.
According to SANParks, the decision is driven by ongoing adverse weather conditions, waterlogged and damaged road networks, and compromised park infrastructure, all of which present heightened safety risks to both visitors and park staff.

Restricted access to Kruger National Park
With immediate effect, access to Kruger National Park is strictly limited. Entry is currently permitted only for:

  • Essential delivery and service vehicles
  • Airport transfers, subject to proof of confirmed flight bookings
  • Guests with valid overnight reservations at Berg-en-Dal, Pretoriuskop, and Skukuza rest camps
  • Essential SANParks staff members

All other visitor access, including day visits, remains suspended.

Northern Kruger National Park remains inaccessible
The northern regions of Kruger National Park continue to be inaccessible due to extensive flooding and damage to internal roads. Several routes remain waterlogged or structurally compromised, making travel unsafe.

Satara Rest Camp temporarily closed
SANParks has confirmed a new development at Satara Rest Camp, where staff residential quarters are currently under water. As a precautionary safety measure, all affected staff members have been successfully evacuated. No injuries have been reported.
Due to disruptions to water supply and electricity, Satara Rest Camp has been temporarily closed until further notice.

All tourism activities suspended
All tourism-related activities within Kruger National Park remain suspended, including:

Many internal roads are saturated, damaged, or inaccessible, making it unsafe to conduct these activities at present.

Travel advisory for departing guests
Guests exiting the park are urged to remain vigilant and to monitor road conditions outside Kruger National Park. Several provincial and regional routes across Limpopo and Mpumalanga have also been affected by flooding, and conditions may change rapidly.

Ongoing monitoring
SANParks continues to monitor the situation closely in cooperation with disaster management authorities and will issue regular updates as conditions evolve. The safety of guests, staff, and surrounding communities remains the organisation’s highest priority.

 

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15 January 2026

Kruger National Park closes to day visitors due to flooding!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that it has temporarily suspended day visitor access to Kruger National Park following persistent and heavy rainfall across Limpopo and Mpumalanga, which has resulted in flooding, rising river levels, and unsafe road conditions within the park.

The precautionary decision comes after a recent incident at Crocodile Bridge Gate, where several day visitors were unable to exit the park when floodwaters covered a bridge due to rapidly rising river levels. Although all affected visitors were safely assisted and no injuries were reported, the situation underscored the heightened risks posed by the current weather conditions.

SANParks has emphasised that the ongoing rainfall is placing considerable strain on operational, safety, and emergency response resources. In light of this, the organisation has opted to prioritise its capacity for genuine emergencies and the protection of overnight guests, staff, and surrounding communities, rather than managing avoidable incidents linked to non-essential travel by day visitors.

The suspension of day visitor access to Kruger National Park is a preventative safety measure and will be reviewed continuously as weather patterns stabilise and road and river conditions improve.

Northern Kruger National Park access severely affected
Conditions in the northern regions of Kruger National Park have deteriorated further, with Letaba Rest Camp currently undergoing an evacuation of both guests and staff after floodwaters breached the camp from the Letaba River. As a result, Phalaborwa Gate has been closed for at least 24 hours, with SANParks monitoring the situation closely.

At present, there is no access to the northern parts of the park, and visitors are urged to stay informed through official SANParks communication channels before planning any travel to Kruger National Park.

Safety remains the top priority

SANParks has issued an apology for the inconvenience caused by the restrictions and closures but reiterated that visitor and staff safety remains the organisation’s highest priority. Members of the public are thanked for their patience, understanding, and cooperation during this challenging period.

Travellers planning visits to Kruger National Park in the coming days are strongly advised to postpone day trips, monitor official updates, and remain flexible with travel arrangements until conditions normalise.

 

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17 December 2025

Kruger National Park festive season: Day visitor gate quotas, fees and entry rules explained!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed that gate quotas will be enforced for day visitors to the Kruger National Park (KNP) during the festive season to manage congestion on park roads and facilities and to ensure a safe and enjoyable visitor experience.

Day visitors must pre-book online
Day visitors are strongly advised to book online in advance to secure entry, as daily gate quotas will apply. An administration fee is payable at the time of booking and is non-refundable:

  • Adults: R59
  • Children: R29

This administration fee is separate from the conservation fee, which remains payable at the gate unless the visitor presents a valid SANParks Wild Card. Wild Card holders are not exempt from the administration fee.

Conservation fees explained
Conservation fees for day visitors are as follows:

  • South African residents, Zimbabwean and Mozambican nationals:
    • Adults: R134
    • Children (2–11 years): R67
  • SADC nationals:
    • Adults: R275
    • Children: R137
  • All other international visitors:
    • Adults: R602
    • Children: R300

South African visitors must present a valid South African ID or driver’s licence, while all other guests are required to produce a passport. These requirements apply to drivers and all passengers.
Failure to provide valid identification will result in the standard international conservation fee being charged.

Gate quotas and time slots for day visitors
The quota system applies only to day visitors and does not affect overnight guests. Pre-booked visitors are prioritised at the gate but must arrive within their allocated time slot:

  • Time Slot 1: 05:30 – 08:00
  • Time Slot 2: 08:00 – 10:00
  • Time Slot 3: 10:00 onwards

Late arrivals will be treated as non-booked visitors and will not receive priority access. Once daily quotas are reached, only pre-booked visitors will be permitted entry. Queueing may apply, with access dependent on the number of vehicles exiting the park.

Vehicle compliance strictly enforced
SANParks has warned that vehicles without valid licence plates or temporary licence numbers will not be allowed to enter or exit the park. Any vehicle found inside the Kruger National Park without proper registration plates will be impounded, and the driver will face charges and fines.
To ensure compliance and prevent illegal activities, Ranger Services, the South African Police Service (SAPS), and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) will be deployed throughout the festive season.

Cash-free payments at gates and fuel stations
Visitors are reminded that a secure, cash-free payment system is in place at the following entrance gates:

  • Paul Kruger Gate
  • Phabeni Gate
  • Numbi Gate
  • Malelane Gate
  • Crocodile Bridge Gate

Cash-free payments also apply at fuel stations in the southern part of Kruger National Park, ensuring faster and more convenient entry and exit.

Visitor safety and park rules
Guests are urged to adhere strictly to Kruger National Park rules and regulations, which are designed to protect visitors, wildlife, and the natural environment. Any incidents can be reported using the 24-hour emergency numbers printed on entrance permits:

  • 013 735 4064
  • 076 801 9679

SANParks encourages all visitors to plan ahead, allow sufficient travel time, and enjoy the bush responsibly, ensuring a safe, relaxed, and memorable Kruger National Park experience during the festive season.

 

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02 December 2024

Festive season 2024/25: Kruger National Park enforces gate quotas for day visitors!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that daily quotas for day visitors will once again apply at the entrance gates of Kruger National Park during the festive season 2024/25. Three time slots have been introduced, of which day visitos can choose from. Visitors are urged to make pre-bookings for their visits prior to their arrival. The three time slots are as follows:

  • Time slot 1: 05.30 to 08:00
  • Time slot 2: 08:00 to 10:00
  • Time slot 3: 10:00 onwards

Pre-booked day visitors are prioritised at the gate but must arrive within their booked time slots. Late arrivals will be treated as non-booked and will not receive preference. It’s also important to note that Wild Card members are not exempt from the pre-booking fee.
Once the daily quota has been reached, only people who made pre-bookings are allowed to enter Kruger National Park. The rest will have to queue and rely on the people moving out of the park to create space for them; this situation does not affect overnight guests.


  • All guests (drivers and passengers) will be required to identify themselves upon admission (by producing a South African driver’s license, identity document or passport); please ensure you are in possession of one of these documents and have them ready.
  • Pre-booking is crucial for day visitors, as it allows them to secure up to 80% of the Day Visitor Quota per gate. This can be done via SANParks Reservations offices and online.
  • Day Visitor pre-bookings are subject to a non-refundable booking fee of R56 per adult and R28 per child, which must be paid in advance. This fee ensures their space because they would have been counted in the number that made the daily quota.
  • Day Visitors who have pre-booked will still be required to pay Conservation Fees or use a valid Wild Card to enter Kruger National Park. The Conservation Fee for SA residents as well as Zimbabwe and Mocambique nationals (passport required to prove this) is R128 per adult and R64 per child (between ages 2 – 11). For nationals of Eswatini and other SADC countries, the conservation fees are R257 per adult and R128 per child. The standard conservation fees of R535 for adults and R257 for children apply to all other guests.
  • Guests are reminded of the secure and convenient cash-free payment system at the gates (Paul Kruger, Phabeni, Numbi, Malelane and Crocodile Bridge) and fuel stations in the southern part of Kruger National Park. This system ensures a smooth and hassle-free entry and exit from the park.
  • Vehicles without licence plates will not be allowed to enter/exit the park at the entrance gates; any vehicle found inside the park without front and rear licence plates will be impounded, and the driver will be charged under the NEMPA ACT and fined.
  • Ranger services, SANDF, and Protection Services will be full force to ensure compliance and prevent poaching. The upgraded camera technology will assist them, vigilant law enforcers, and the public, who have shared information to assist in numerous arrests.
  • Visitors are urged to observe Kruger National Park's rules, which are primarily intended to ensure safe and pleasant experiences. By respecting these rules, visitors contribute to the preservation of the park’s natural beauty and the safety of all its inhabitants. They are further urged to plan their trips and allow sufficient time to enjoy the bush, relax, and arrive safely at their destination.

14 December 2023

Festive season 2023/24: Kruger National Park enforces gate quotas for day visitors!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that daily quotas for day visitors will once again apply at the entrance gates of Kruger National Park during the festive season 2023/24 from 15 December 2023 until 16 January 2024. Three time slots have been introduced, of which day visitos can choose from. Visitors are urged to make pre-bookings for their visits prior to their arrival. The three time slots are as follows:

  • Time slot 1: 05:30 to 07:30
  • Time slot 2: 07:30 to 09:30
  • Time slot 3: 09:30 onwards

Pre-booked day visitors will get preference over non-booked day visitors at the gate but must ensure that they arrive within their booked time slots. Arriving outside the booked time slot will be regarded as non-booked and therefore will not receive preference and could be turned away. These bookings can be changed as well through SANParks Reservations offices if need be.
The three different time slots are aimed at improving the spread of vehicles and preventing unnecessary waiting periods at gates. The day visitor quota for Kruger National Park is a management tool, which is  is applied throughout the year, to prevent overcrowding the roads and facilities. However, Kruger National Park mostly reaches carrying capacity during long weekends and school holidays resulting in SANPark having to turn visitors away.

 
SANParks has also made plans for increased visibility of both traffic officials and visitor management personnel to monitor speeding, after-hours travelling and general behaviour on the roads. Visitors are reminded not to bring liquor with them as the alcohol ban on public areas in Kruger National Park is a permanent rule which is enforced at all times. Visitors are advised to plan their trip carefully, allowing sufficient time to enjoy the bush and to get to your destination. Entrance Gate operating hours will be from 05:30 to 18:30 during December and January.

Visitors should also take note of the following important information:

  • Visitors will be able to book up to 80% of the day visitor quota per gate via SANParks Reservations offices
  • Day Visitor pre-bookings are subject to a non-refundable booking fee of R53 per adult and R26 per child, which must be paid in advance and is meant to ensure their space because they would have been counted in the number that made the daily quota.
  • Day Visitors who have pre-booked will still be required to pay Conservation Fees or use a valid Wild Card to enter Kruger National Park. The Conservation Fee for residents of South Africa as well as Zimbabwe and Mocambique nationals (passport required to prove this) is R122 per adult and R60 per child (between ages 2 – 11). For nationals of Eswatini and other Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries, the conservation fees are R246 per adult and R122 per child. For all other guests, the standard conservation fees of R486 for adults and R243 for children apply.
  • Guests planning to use Wild Cards are requested to ensure membership is valid before arrival.
  • The number and profile of persons (adults and children) on the reservation and actual persons arriving should correspond.
  • All guests (drivers and passengers) will be required to identify themselves upon admission (by producing a South African driver’s license, identity document or passport); please ensure you are in possession of one of these documents and have them ready.
  • Gate Quotas will be strictly applied and guests without pre-bookings could be denied entry if quotas are full.
  • Guests are reminded of the cash-free payment system at the gates (Paul Kruger, Phabeni, Numbi, Malelane and Crocodile Bridge) and fuel stations in the southern part of Kruger National Park.

21 June 2018

Kruger National Park: Gate quotas in force during the coming school holidays (June/July 2018)!

South African National Parks (SANParks) will enforce daily quotas for day visitors at the entrance gates to Kruger National Park over the coming school holidays starting on 23 June 2018 (Saturday) until 16 July 2018 (Monday). Through the day visitor quota for Kruger National Park SANParks aims to better manage the expected volumes of visitors, as well as to improve the visitors' expectations. SANParks has introduced three time slots, of which day visitos can choose from. It is advised to book a time slot prior to arrival, as pre-booked day visitors will get preference over non-booked day visitors at Kruger National Park's entrance gates.

The times slots below will apply:

  • Time slot 1: 06:00 to 08:00
  • Time slot 2: 08:00 to 10:00
  • Time slot 3: 10:00 onwards
Pre-booked day visitors must ensure that they arrive within the time slots, as per their reservation. Arriving outside the booked time slot, will be regarded as non-booked and therefore not preferential. These bookings can be changed through SANParks Reservations offices. Visitors will be able to book up to 80% of day visitor quota per gate.

Kruger National Park, South Africa, elephant, black white, safari

Visitors should also take note of the following important information:

  • Day visitor bookings are subject to a non-refundable booking fee of  R41 per adult and R21 per child.
  • Day visitors who have pre-booked will still be required to pay conservation fees or use a valid Wild Card to enter Kruger National Park. The conservation fee for residents of South Africa is R83 per adult and R42 per child (between ages 2 – 11) and for international guests it is R331 per adult and R166 per child.
  • Guests planning to use Wild Cards are requested to ensure membership is valid before arrival and this can best be done online at www.sanparks.org/wild
  • The number and profile of persons (adults and children) on the reservation and actual persons arriving should correspond.
  • All guests (drivers and passengers) may be required to identify themselves upon admission (SA driver's license, identity document or passport).
  • Due to existing contractual arrangements with Open Safari Vehicles (OSVs), they are regarded as booked for all day visitor admissions.
  • Gate quotas will be applied and un-booked guests could be denied entry.

25 April 2018

Kruger National Park: Gate quotas in force during the Freedom Day/Workers' Day long weekend!

South African National Parks (SANParks) will enforce daily quotas for day visitors at the entrance gates to Kruger National Park over the Freedom Day/Workers' Day long weekend (26 April 2018 - 01 May 2018). Through the day visitor quota for Kruger National Park SANParks aims to better manage the expected volumes of visitors, as well as to improve the visitors' expectations. SANParks has introduced three time slots, of which day visitos can choose from. It is advised to book a time slot prior to arrival, as pre-booked day visitors will get preference over non-booked day visitors at Kruger National Park's entrance gates.

The times slots below will apply:
  • Time slot 1: 06:00 to 08:00
  • Time slot 2: 08:00 to 10:00
  • Time slot 3: 10:00 onwards
Pre-booked day visitors must ensure that they arrive within the time slots, as per their reservation. Arriving outside the booked time slot, will be regarded as non-booked and therefore not preferential. These bookings can be changed through SANParks Reservations offices. Visitors will be able to book up to 80% of Day Visitor Quota per gate.


Kruger National Park, rhino, safari, safari vehicle, South Africa

Visitors should also take note of the following important information:
  • Day Visitor bookings are subject to a non-refundable booking fee of  R41 per adult and R21 per child.
  • Day Visitors who have pre-booked will still be required to pay Conservation Fees or use a valid Wild Card to enter Kruger National Park. The Conservation Fee for residents of South Africa is 83 per adult and R42 per child (between ages 2 – 11) and for international guests it is R331 per adult and R166 per child.
  • Guests planning to use Wild Cards are requested to ensure membership is valid before arrival and this can best be done online at www.sanparks.org/wild
  • The number and profile of persons (adults and children) on the reservation and actual persons arriving should correspond.
  • All guests (drivers and passengers) may be required to identify themselves upon admission (SA driver’s license, identity document or passport).
  • Due to existing contractual arrangements with Open Safari Vehicles (OSVs), they are regarded as booked for all Day Visitor admissions.
  • Gate Quotas will be applied and un-booked guests could be denied entry.

26 March 2018

Kruger National Park: Gate quotas in force during the Easter weekend 2018!

South African National Parks (SANParks) will enforce daily quotas for day visitors at the entrance gates to Kruger National Park over the coming Easter weekend (29 March 2018 - 02 April 2018). Through the day visitor quota for Kruger National Park SANParks aims to better manage the expected volumes of visitors, as well as to improve the visitors' expectations. SANParks has introduced three time slots, of which day visitos can choose from. It is advised to book a time slot prior to arrival, as pre-booked day visitors will get preference over non-booked day visitors at Kruger National Park's entrance gates.

The times slots below will apply from 29 to 31 March 2018:
  • Time slot 1: 05:30 to 07:30
  • Time slot 2: 07:30 to 09:30
  • Time slot 3: 09:30 onwards
The times slots below will apply as from 01 April 2018 onwards:
  • Time slot 1: 06:00 to 08:00
  • Time slot 2: 08:00 to 10:00
  • Time slot 3: 10:00 onwards
Pre-booked day visitors must ensure that they arrive within the time slots, as per their reservation. Arriving outside the booked time slot, will be regarded as non-booked and therefore not preferential. These bookings can be changed through SANParks Reservations offices. Visitors will be able to book up to 80% of Day Visitor Quota per gate.

Kruger National Park, safari, safari vehicle, South Africa

Visitors should also take note of the following important information:

  • Day Visitor bookings are subject to a non-refundable booking fee of R40 per adult and R20 per child until 31 March 2018 and R41 per adult and R21 per child from 01 April 2018 onwards.
  • Day Visitors who have pre-booked will still be required to pay Conservation Fees or use a valid Wild Card to enter Kruger National Park. The Conservation Fee for residents of South Africa is R82 per adult and R41 per child (between ages 2 – 11) and for international guests it is R328 per adult and R164 per child until 31 March 2018 and R83, R42, R331 and R166 respectively from 01 April 2018 onwards.
  • Guests planning to use Wild Cards are requested to ensure membership is valid before arrival and this can best be done online at www.sanparks.org/wild
  • The number and profile of persons (adults and children) on the reservation and actual persons arriving should correspond.
  • All guests (drivers and passengers) may be required to identify themselves upon admission (SA driver’s license, identity document or passport).
  • Due to existing contractual arrangements with Open Safari Vehicles (OSVs), they are regarded as booked for all Day Visitor admissions.
  • Gate Quotas will be applied and un-booked guests could be denied entry.
 

28 June 2017

Kruger National Park: Gate quotas in force during the the July 2017 school holidays!

South African National Parks (SANParks) will enforce daily quotas for day visitors at the entrance gates to Kruger National Park over the coming school holidays (01 July 2017 - 23 July 2017). Through the day visitor quota for Kruger National Park SANParks aims to better manage the expected volumes of visitors, as well as to improve the visitors' expectations. SANParks has introduced three time slots, of which day visitos can choose from. It is advised to book a time slot prior to arrival, as pre-booked day visitors will get preference over non-booked day visitors at Kruger National Park's entrance gates.
  • Time slot 1: 06.00 to 08:00
  • Time slot 2: 08:00 to 10:00
  • Time slot 3: 10:00 onwards
Pre-booked day visitors must ensure that they arrive within the time slots, as per their reservation. Arriving outside the booked time slot, will be regarded as non-booked and therefore not preferential. These bookings can be changed through SANParks Reservations offices.

Kruger National Park IMPALA

Visitors should also take note of the following important information:

  • Day Visitor bookings are subject to a non-refundable booking fee of R38 per adult and R19 per child. 
  • Day Visitors who have pre-booked will still be required to pay Conservation Fees or use a valid Wild Card to enter Kruger National Park. The Conservation Fee for SA residents is R76 per adult and R38 per child between ages 2 - 11 and for international guests it is R304 per adult and R152 per child.
  • Guests planning to use Wild Cards are requested to ensure membership is valid before arrival and this can best be done online at www.sanparks.org/wild
  • The number and profile of persons (adults and children) on the reservation and actual persons arriving should correspond.
  • All guests (drivers and passengers) may be required to identify themselves upon admission (SA driver’s license, identity document or passport).
  • Due to existing contractual arrangements with Open Safari Vehicles (OSVs), they are regarded as booked for all Day Visitor admissions.
  • Gate Quotas will be applied and un-booked guests could be denied entry.

06 April 2017

Kruger National Park: Gate quotas in force during the Easter weekend 2017!

South African National Parks (SANParks) will enforce daily quotas for day visitors at the entrance gates to Kruger National Park over the coming Easter weekend (13 - 17 April 2017). Through the day visitor quota for Kruger National Park SANParks aims to better manage the expected volumes of visitors, as well as to improve the visitors' expectations. SANParks has introduced three time slots, of which day visitos can choose from. It is advised to book a time slot prior to arrival, as pre-booked day visitors will get preference over non-booked day visitors at Kruger National Park's entrance gates.
  • Time slot 1: 06.00 to 08:00
  • Time slot 2: 08:00 to 10:00
  • Time slot 3: 10:00 onwards
Pre-booked day visitors must ensure that they arrive within the time slots, as per their reservation. Arriving outside the booked time slot, will be regarded as non-booked and therefore not preferential. These bookings can be changed through SANParks Reservations offices.


Visitors should also take note of the following important information:
  • Day Visitor bookings are subject to a non-refundable booking fee of R38 per adult and R19 per child.
  • Day Visitors who have pre-booked will still be required to pay Conservation Fees or use a valid Wild Card to enter Kruger National Park. The Conservation Fee for SA residents is R76 per adult and R38 per child between ages 2 - 11 and for international guests it is R304 per adult and R152 per child.
  • Guests planning to use Wild Cards are requested to ensure membership is valid before arrival and this can best be done online at www.sanparks.org/wild
  • The number and profile of persons (adults and children) on the reservation and actual persons arriving should correspond.
  • All guests (drivers and passengers) may be required to identify themselves upon admission (SA driver’s license, identity document or passport).
  • Due to existing contractual arrangements with Open Safari Vehicles (OSVs), they are regarded as booked for all Day Visitor admissions.
  • Gate Quotas will be applied and un-booked guests could be denied entry.

07 February 2017

New areas for day visitors in Wilderness section of Garden Route National Park

Due to the growing numbers of day visitors to the Wilderness section of the Garden Route National Park, South African National Parks (SANParks) has introduced officially designated areas for day visitors. These designated areas are all within existing footprint and include the following spots:
  • Tarentaal day visitor area (inside the Ebb & Flow Rest Camp)
  • Island Lake (in close proximity of the main rest camp)
  • Wilderness Lagoon (a picnic spot close to the Touw River Estuary) giving visitors easy access to the beach area which is just across the bridge
  • Woodville Big Tree (Forest area, a few kilometres from the main camp)
  • Goudveld: Jubilee Creek and Krisjan se Nek (Forest area, a few kilometres from the main camp)

According to SANParks, campers (multi-day visitors) mainly visit Garden Route National Park for the tranquillity and serenity of the riverside camping sites, whilst day visitors enter the Park for a variety of activities including nature walks/ hiking trails, water activities, segways, birding and a sense of place the open access Park offers.


23 June 2016

Kruger National Park: SANParks to enforce visitor access management during June/July holidays!

South African National Parks (SANParks) is set to enforce the visitor access management for day visitors in the Kruger National Park during coming June/July holidays (24 June 2016 - 17 July 2016). Through the visitor access management SANParks aims to better manage the expected volumes of visitors, as well as to improve the visitors' expectations. SANParks has introduced three time slots, of which day visitos are able to choose from. It is advised to book a time slot prior to arrival, as pre-booked day visitors will get preference over non-booked day visitors at Kruger National Park's entrance gates.
  • Time slot 1: 06:00 to 08:00
  • Time slot 2: 08:00 to 10:00
  • Time slot 3: 10:00 onwards
Pre-booked day visitors must ensure that they arrive within the time slots, as per their reservation. Arriving outside the booked time slot, will be regarded as non-booked and therefore not preferential. These bookings can be changed through SANParks Reservations offices.

Visitors should also take note of the following important information:

  • Day Visitor bookings are subject to a non-refundable booking fee of R36 per adult and R18 per child.
  • Day visitors who have booked will still be required to pay Conservation Fees or use a valid Wild Card to enter the Kruger National Park.
  • In order to expedite the admission process, on busy days in particular, day visitors are requested to pay for conservation fees in advance or ensure that they have valid Wild Card membership.
  • Guests planning to use Wild Cards are requested to ensure membership is valid before arrival and this can best be done online at www.sanparks.org/wild
  • The number and profile of persons (adults and children) on the reservation and actual persons arriving should correspond.
  • All guests may be required to identify themselves upon admission (SA driver’s license, identity document or passport).
  • Due to existing contractual arrangements with Open Safari Vehicles (OSVs), they are regarded as booked for all Day Visitor admissions.
  • Gate Quotas will be applied and un-booked guests could be denied entry.

02 March 2016

South Africa: South African National Parks adds new day visitor online pre-booking!

Great news for all day visitors of South Africa's National Parks. South African National Parks (SANParks), the body responsible for managing country's national parks, has included a pre-booking option for day visitors in its online booking portal. The new feature on SANParks' website enables day visitors to pre-book their park permits in a variety of time slots and for several days at a time. Previously, advanced day visitor bookings could only be done for the Kruger National Park, by contacting SANParks' Reservations office.



Guests are able to book a permit/permits online for a specific timeslots such as:
  • Entry from gate opening time (depending on the season) to two hours after the gate has opened
  • Two to four hours from the gate opening time
  • Four plus hours from the gate opening time

08 December 2015

Kruger National Park introduces new day-visitor entry system!

The management of the Kruger National Park has introduced a new system to streamline day visitor arrivals at the gates during busy periods.
  • Day visitors will now be able to choose and book a time slot prior to their arrival from one of the following three time slots:
    • Time slot 1: Arrive 0 to 2 hours after gate opening time. (Summer months 05:30 to 07:30)
    • Time slot 2: Arrive 2 to 4 hours after gate opening time. (Summer months 07:30 to 09:30)
    • Time slot 3: Arrive 4+ hours after gate opening time. (Summer months 09:30 onwards).
  • The Day Visitor Quota for Kruger National Park is a management tool to maintain the carrying capacity of the park. Visitors will be able to book up to 80% of Day Visitor Quota per gate, via South African National Parks (SANParks) Reservations offices.
  • Pre-booked visitors will have preference over non-booked day visitors at the gate
Pre-booked day visitors must ensure that they arrive within the time slots, as per their reservation. Arriving outside the booked time slot, will be regarded as non-booked and therefore not preferential. Visitors who made reservations prior to this new system have been allocated to Time slot 1. These bookings can be changed through SANParks Reservations offices.

Visitors should also take note of the following important information:
  • Day visitor bookings are subject to a non-refundable booking fee of R36 per adult and R18 per child.
  • Day visitors who have booked will still be required to pay Conservation Fees or use a valid Wild Card to enter Kruger National Park.
  • In order to expedite the admission process, on busy days in particular, day visitors are requested to pay for Conservation Fees in advance or ensure that they have valid Wild Card membership.
  • Guests planning to use Wild Card are requested to ensure membership is valid before arrival and this can best be done online.
  • The number and profile of persons (adults and children) on the reservation and actual persons arriving should correspond.
  • (All) guests may be required to identify themselves upon admission (SA driver’s license, identity document or passport).
  • Due to existing contractual arrangements with Open Safari Vehicles (OSVs), they are regarded as booked for all day visitor admissions. OSVs entering Phabeni Gate will be allowed entry 30 minutes before external gate opening time during the summer.
  • Gate quotas will be applied and un-booked guests could be refused admission.
  • In order to make the wait in the queue at gates a bit more pleasurable, South African National Parks (SANParks) will be providing serviced toilets at strategic points on the side of the road during peak times. Further to this a community initiative has been set up that will see hot and cold beverages being available for sale to visitors who will be waiting for entry.
  • Guests are kindly requested to be patient and understanding of this new change. SANParks will be learning from this so please feel free to provide feedback through the customer feedback system.

12 December 2014

Kruger National Park: Gate quotas in force during the 2014 Festive Season

South African National Parks (SANParks) will stictly enforce gate quotas in Kruger National Park during the 2014 festive season. Day visitors are therefore advised to either arrive at the gate very early in the morning ("first come first served") or pre-book their entrance with SANParks' central reservations office in order to ensure that they gain access to the park in terms of their own plan and are not sent back at the gate. Day visitors who pre-book their visit are expected to pay a non-refundable deposit of R36 per adult and R18 per child to secure the space so that they can be counted in the number that makes a daily quota at that particular gate (booking lapses at 1300!).


In case the the gate quota has been reached, day visitors who did not pre-book with SANParks have the option to make use of the park and ride scheme available at Numbi Gate, Phabeni Gate and Paul Kruger Gate. The duration of such drives is 4 hours. The morning drives start at 07:00 and end at 11:00, while the afternoon drives start at 14:00 and end at 18:00 from each gate.
Kruger National Park has ten entrance gates: Pafuri Gate, Punda Maria Gate, Phalaborwa Gate, Giriyondo Gate, Orpen Gate, Paul Kruger Gate, Phabeni Gate, Numbi Gate, Malelane Gate and Crocodile Bridge Gate.