Etosha Transit Ban: What it means if you've booked a guided safari

Update: 29 August 2026 – The dispute over Etosha National Park's ban on empty game-viewing vehicles entering the park remains unresolved. Recent Namibian media reports say more than 100 jobs at local tour operators could be at risk, while operators claim losses of more than N$1 million following cancellations and disruption to pre-booked itineraries. The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, however, continues to defend the restriction as an enforcement measure and there is currently no indication that the ban has been lifted or relaxed. Travellers with guided itineraries involving a later pickup from inside Etosha National Park should therefore continue to confirm their transfer arrangements directly with their operator. 

If you've booked a guided game drive or transfer in and out of Etosha National Park, there's a change at the gates you should know about before you travel.

Since early July 2026, Etosha management has stopped tour operators from driving empty vehicles through the park — including the old practice of dropping guests off, leaving, and later returning to fetch them. For travellers relying on a local guide or transfer company to get in and out of Etosha, this is worth understanding, because it's already causing headaches for some operators and, by extension, some itineraries.

Here's the background, what's actually changed, and what it means for your trip.

What actually changed at Etosha's gates?

On 02 July 2026, Etosha National Park's deputy director issued an instruction to officers at the park's four main gates - Ombika, Galton, King Nehale and Namutoni - to stop admitting empty game-viewing vehicles, full stop. That includes vehicles simply passing through (transiting) the park to reach the other side, and it includes operators trying to return empty to collect clients who are staying inside the park.

In plain terms: a guide can still drive you into Etosha National Park to reach your accommodation at a Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) camp. What they can no longer do is leave afterwards and come back later with an empty vehicle to pick you up again once your stay is over.

Operators who ignore the rule risk suspension or a permanent ban from the park, so this isn't a grey area they can quietly work around — expect it to be enforced.

Why should travellers care, not just tour operators?

It's easy to read this as an industry dispute that doesn't touch guests directly, but it does - mainly around logistics.

• If you booked a guided package where a driver drops you at Okaukuejo, Halali, Namutoni or Dolomite and returns days later to collect you, that pickup now needs a different plan.
• Some tour operators say they've already had to cancel or restructure bookings because of this, and a few report losing business worth well over N$1 million collectively since the directive came in.
• Operators also mention international guests losing confidence in bookings made months in advance - not because the safari itself is affected, but because the transfer logistics around it are in flux.

If your own trip depends on a shuttle or guided pickup from inside Etosha National Park, it's a good idea to confirm with your operator now how they plan to handle your specific transfer, rather than assuming the old drop-off-and-return model still applies.

This isn't actually a brand-new fight

Worth knowing: the empty-vehicle question at Etosha National Park has been simmering for a while, not something that appeared out of nowhere in July. Local operators say they've struggled with restricted transit access for more than two years, and a very similar dispute over transit rules played out back in 2024. What's different this time is that the July 2026 directive is being enforced more strictly, with named gates, named consequences, and a clear instruction to staff.

A group representing local operators and guides — the Local Tour Operators and Tour Guides of Etosha — has asked the ministry for an urgent meeting and wants the legal basis for the restriction made public. So far, no resolution has been announced.

What does the park's management say?

The Namibian Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism isn't backing down. Their position, in short:

• Etosha National Park is a protected area, "not a transit town," and transit permissions were never meant to be used to shuttle in and out to collect clients.
• The ministry says it's been receiving complaints about the practice since 2018 — this has been on their radar for years.
• Officials point to specific abuses: guides entering after sunset, jumping locked gates, permits with altered dates, and changed vehicle registrations that led to underpaid park fees.
• There are also allegations linking some guides to wildlife-related crimes, and reports of guides resisting or assaulting enforcement officers.

Whether or not you agree the response is proportionate, it's clearly framed as a compliance and security crackdown rather than a policy that's likely to be quietly reversed.

Other things stacking up for Etosha travellers right now

The transit ban isn't happening in isolation. A few other factors are worth folding into your planning if you're headed to Etosha National Park this year:

• Fuel shortages at NWR camps (Okaukuejo, Halali, Namutoni) have been an ongoing issue since early 2025, with no confirmed fix as of mid-2026 — fill up before you enter where possible.
• Park fees rose sharply from 01 April 2026 — a standard vehicle with two international adults now pays around N$620/day in combined fees, up from N$350.
• Malaria risk in northern Namibia (including areas around Etosha) tends to pick up from around September, so factor in mosquito precautions if you're travelling in the coming months.

None of this should put you off an Etosha National Park trip — it remains one of Southern Africa's best self-drive and guided safari destinations — but 2026 is a year where a bit of extra logistics-checking pays off.

What should you actually do if you have a guided Etosha booking?

• Contact your operator directly and ask exactly how your pickup/drop-off will work under the new rule.
• If you're self-driving, this doesn't affect you directly — the restriction targets commercial game-viewing vehicles, not private tourist cars.
• Ask whether your accommodation is inside the park (NWR camps) or outside — bookings based outside the gates are far less exposed to this dispute.
• Keep an eye on Namibian travel-news coverage in the coming weeks. Given the operator group has requested a meeting with the ministry, there's a reasonable chance the rules get clarified — or adjusted — before peak season.

Bottom line

Etosha National Park hasn't closed to tourists, and self-drive visitors aren't affected. But if your trip relies on a guided transfer or pickup from inside the park, the way operators move in and out has genuinely changed, and it's worth a quick check with your tour company before you land. Combine that with ongoing fuel shortages and this year's steep fee increase, and Etosha in 2026 is a park where a little extra planning goes a long way.

 

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Kruger National Park Road Conditions: A self-drive guide for visitors

Update - 07 September 2026: One of Kruger National Park's busiest tourist routes, the H4-1 Road between Skukuza and Lower Sabie, has been reopened following flood-related damage and closure. The rebuild culverts were unveiled on 06 September 2026. 

Update – 28 August 2026: There is some encouraging progress for travellers affected by the R531 Orpen Road closure. Work has begun on a temporary detour around the flood-damaged section of road, with clearing and grading reportedly underway.

The detour is being developed as an interim solution to restore easier access between Hoedspruit and Kruger National Park's Orpen Gate. However, it is not yet open to public traffic, and visitors should continue to use the currently available alternative routes until an official opening is announced.

The new detour could provide significant relief for self-drive visitors and the tourism businesses around Orpen Gate once completed. We will update this post as soon as its opening date and traffic arrangements are confirmed.

Kruger Road Network Update – 27 August 2026: SANParks has published an updated Kruger Roads Register (27 August 2026), providing the latest information on road conditions, closures, restrictions and diversions across Kruger National Park.

update (19 August 2026): SANParks is urging visitors to respect road closures in Kruger National Park and never remove or drive around “No Entry” signs or barriers.

According to SANParks, some visitors have deliberately opened closed roads and subsequently become stranded, requiring search-and-rescue operations involving rangers and, in some cases, aircraft. Apart from putting themselves and rescue teams at risk, vehicles using closed roads can cause further damage to roads already affected by wet weather.

Visitors who deliberately bypass a road closure may face fines and could be held responsible for costs arising from search-and-rescue operations. SANParks also points out that driving on closed roads is a contravention of the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act.

With mobile-phone coverage limited in parts of Kruger, getting stranded on a closed road can quickly become a serious situation. If a road is closed, do not attempt to find a way through — follow the official diversion or ask SANParks staff for an alternative route.  

Kruger Road Network Update – 15 August 2026

SANParks has published an updated Kruger Roads Register (14 August 2026), providing the latest information on road conditions, closures, restrictions and diversions across Kruger National Park. 

Kruger Road Network Update – 13 August 2026

SANParks has published an updated Kruger Roads Register (11 August 2026), providing the latest information on road conditions, closures, restrictions and diversions across Kruger National Park. 

Updated: August 2026

The Kruger National Park road network is one of the reasons the park works so well for a self-drive safari. More than 2,000 kilometres of designated tourist roads cross the park, ranging from major tar roads connecting the main camps to smaller gravel routes that take visitors deeper into the bush.

The network, however, has had a difficult year.

Exceptional rainfall and flooding in January 2026 caused significant damage to roads, bridges, causeways and drainage infrastructure in Kruger National Park. Although access has progressively been restored, the effects of the floods continue to influence road conditions in some parts of the park.

For travellers planning a Kruger National Park self-drive safari in the coming months, the situation is therefore worth understanding — particularly if your itinerary includes the northern part of the park or relies heavily on gravel roads.

How extensive is Kruger's road network?

Kruger National Park has an extensive network of roads available to visitors.

According to South African National Parks (SANParks), the park has more than 850 kilometres of tarred roads and approximately 1,444 kilometres of gravel roads. These are the roads that make up the visitor-accessible tourist network.

The network can broadly be divided into:

• Tar roads, which form the main links between entrance gates, rest camps and other major destinations.
• Gravel tourist roads, which provide access to quieter areas and many of the park's best self-drive game-viewing routes.
• Specialist routes, such as 4x4 Eco Trails, which operate under separate conditions and should not be confused with the normal tourist-road network.

Kruger National Park's firebreaks are not part of the tourist road network. Visitors may not use them as alternative routes.

What did the 2026 floods do to Kruger's roads?

The January 2026 floods were exceptional and caused extensive damage in several parts of the park.

Heavy rainfall left catchments saturated and resulted in rapidly rising rivers. Roads were damaged or washed away, bridges and causeways were affected and access to some camps was temporarily disrupted.

The impact was particularly serious in the central and northern sections of Kruger National Park. Even after the initial flooding had subsided, the saturated catchments remained vulnerable to renewed rises in river levels.

SANParks was still reporting flooding-related access problems in the north in March, noting that rivers in the Shingwedzi and Luvuvhu systems were rising and that the catchments remained extremely saturated following the exceptional January rainfall.

This is important because the effects of such flooding are not limited to the immediate aftermath. Damaged culverts, bridge approaches, road surfaces and drainage structures can require months of repair.

Has Kruger's road network reopened?

Much of the network has reopened and normal visitor access has resumed, but this should not be interpreted as meaning that every individual road has returned to its pre-flood condition.

SANParks has restored access in stages as roads and infrastructure were assessed and repaired.

A good example is the H7 between Orpen Gate and Satara. The road reopened after flood damage, but the section around Nsemani Dam was initially restricted to a single lane because of significant damage. SANParks also constructed a bypass using the S12 and S40 while work continued.

In the north, Shingwedzi Rest Camp reopened in March, but access arrangements initially remained restricted while repairs were carried out on the approach to the Letaba high-water bridge.

These examples illustrate the current situation well: Kruger National Park is open, but infrastructure recovery is an ongoing process rather than a single reopening event.

Tar roads: the backbone of a Kruger safari

For most visitors, the tar roads remain the easiest way to travel between the major camps.

They provide the principal connections through the park and are generally suitable for ordinary passenger vehicles. SANParks sets the speed limit at 50 km/h on tar roads.

But tar does not necessarily mean "unaffected by weather".

Many of Kruger National Park's tar roads cross rivers or seasonal streams, and a bridge or causeway can become the limiting factor after heavy rain. The January floods showed how quickly a normally straightforward route can become impassable.

Travellers should therefore think of the road and its crossings as one system.

Gravel roads: an important part of the safari experience

The gravel-road network is arguably even more important to safari enthusiasts.

These roads allow visitors to get away from the main traffic corridors and explore quieter sections of the park. They also provide access to many loops and connecting routes that make it possible to design a full day's game drive without simply travelling between camps.

SANParks describes the visitor road network as consisting of tarred and good gravel roads, with a 40 km/h speed limit on gravel roads.

Following the January floods, however, gravel roads were particularly vulnerable to washaways and erosion. SANParks temporarily closed large sections of the gravel network during the worst conditions and progressively reopened routes as conditions improved.

Visitors should therefore not assume that an old road-status list found online still applies.

A gravel road that was closed in January or March may have reopened, while another route may subsequently have been restricted because of maintenance or weather.

River crossings remain the weak points

For travellers, the most important legacy of the floods is probably the condition of bridges, causeways and river crossings.

These are the places where a road can suddenly become unusable after rainfall.

The problem is not necessarily rainfall directly over the road. Rain falling elsewhere in a river's catchment can result in a rapid rise in water levels downstream.

This is particularly relevant in the northern part of Kruger National Park, where the Shingwedzi and Luvuvhu river systems were among those affected during the 2026 floods.

The rule for visitors is straightforward:

Never attempt to cross a flooded or submerged road, causeway or bridge.

If SANParks closes a road, do not drive around a barrier or ignore a "No Entry" sign. SANParks explicitly states that driving off-road or using roads marked "No Entry" is prohibited.

Can ordinary cars use Kruger's gravel roads?

Yes.

A 4x4 is not normally required for a self-drive safari in Kruger National Park. The designated tourist gravel roads are intended for ordinary visitor vehicles under normal conditions.

A 4x4 does not, however, give a visitor permission to use a closed road or drive off the designated network.

The situation is different for specialist activities such as 4x4 Eco Trails, which have their own rules and access arrangements.

What vehicles are restricted?

There are several important vehicle restrictions for visitors.

SANParks states that:

• Caravans and trailers are restricted to tar roads.
• Coaches and buses are restricted to tar roads.
• Vehicles with an axle load exceeding 8,000 kg are not permitted.
• Motorcycles are not permitted.
• Vehicles with a carrying capacity exceeding 4,000 kg, buses and vehicles with more than 25 seats are restricted to tar roads.

This matters when planning a Kruger National Park itinerary with a caravan or larger vehicle. A route shown on a map is not necessarily suitable for every type of vehicle.

What can visitors expect over the coming months?

The outlook changes as Kruger National Park moves from the dry winter season towards spring and summer.

August

August is normally part of the dry season, which generally means more favourable road conditions. The absence of widespread summer rainfall reduces the immediate risk of flood-related road closures.

However, the infrastructure damage from earlier in the year does not disappear simply because conditions are dry. Visitors should continue to check their intended routes, particularly where repairs or bridge work have been necessary.

September

September is the month when travellers should start paying more attention to the weather again.

The first thunderstorms of the approaching summer rainy season can occur, although rainfall is typically still far less persistent than later in the season.

For most visitors this should not be a reason to change a Kruger National Park itinerary. It does mean that road conditions can become more variable, particularly on gravel roads and at low-water crossings after significant rainfall.

The experience of 2026 has also demonstrated why this matters: Kruger National Park's river systems can respond rapidly when catchments are already saturated.

October and beyond

As the summer rainfall season becomes established, the possibility of temporary road closures increases.

This does not mean that Kruger National Park becomes inaccessible. Rather, visitors should expect a greater possibility of localised closures, damaged gravel sections and temporary restrictions at river crossings after heavy rain.

The park's enormous road network usually provides alternative routes, but travellers should allow sufficient time and avoid building an itinerary that depends on one particular minor road being open.

What should self-drive visitors do?

A few simple precautions make a big difference.

Check the latest road information before setting out. Ask at your rest camp or entrance gate about conditions on the route you intend to use.

Do not rely on an old road-closure list. Conditions can change, and information published during the January floods is no longer necessarily relevant.

Allow extra time for long drives. A temporary closure or detour can add considerable distance.

Watch the weather forecast. This becomes increasingly important from September onwards.

Treat river crossings with caution. Never drive through flowing or rising water.

Respect every road closure. SANParks warns that driving on a closed road or a road marked "No Entry" is an offence.

Stay on the designated tourist network. Off-road driving is prohibited, even if a particular track appears to provide a shortcut.

Bottom line

The Kruger National Park road network is operational and remains perfectly usable for self-drive safaris, but 2026 has demonstrated just how quickly weather can affect travel inside the park.

The January floods caused serious damage to roads, bridges and drainage infrastructure, particularly in the central and northern parts of Kruger National Park. SANParks has progressively restored access, but some infrastructure work and localised restrictions remain part of the picture.

For travellers, there is no need to avoid Kruger National Park because of the floods. Instead, plan with a little flexibility.

The main tar roads provide reliable connections between the major camps, while the extensive gravel network offers the freedom and adventure that make a Kruger National Park self-drive so rewarding. From September onwards, however, keep a closer eye on rainfall and be prepared for temporary changes, particularly around river crossings and on minor gravel roads.

The most important advice remains simple: check the latest SANParks information before every long drive, follow all temporary restrictions and never attempt to bypass a road closure. 

 

 

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Sossusvlei & Deadvlei Access Update 2026: 4x4 rules, shuttle services & entry restrictions

Namibia has clarified access rules for one of its most iconic desert landscapes. In an official update issued on 02 May 2026, the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism confirmed the latest regulations governing shuttle services and entry to Deadvlei within the Sossusvlei area of the Namib-Naukluft National Park.

What travellers need to know

Access to Deadvlei remains open—but with clearly defined conditions aimed at protecting the fragile desert ecosystem:

• Registered tour guides accredited by the Namibia Tourism Board may continue to transport their guests directly into the area.
• Self-drive visitors with 4x4 vehicles are still permitted to access Deadvlei independently via the sandy track beyond Sossusvlei.

For travellers without suitable off-road vehicles, official shuttle services operated by the designated concessionaire remain available. This is the safest and most practical option for many visitors unfamiliar with deep sand driving.

Important restriction: no large vehicles

To minimise environmental impact, buses and trucks are strictly prohibited from accessing the Deadvlei area. This measure is designed to preserve the delicate dune and pan ecosystem, which is highly sensitive to heavy vehicle traffic.

Immediate implementation

The Ministry has confirmed that these updated regulations take effect immediately and override all previous notices regarding access to Deadvlei and shuttle operations. The current system will remain in place until further notice, making it essential for travellers to plan accordingly.

Travel tip for Sossusvlei visitors

If you’re planning a trip to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei:

• Opt for a reliable 4x4 rental if you want full flexibility and independence.
• Alternatively, use the shuttle service for a stress-free experience—especially during peak heat or if you’re unsure about sand driving techniques.
• Arrive early to avoid queues and experience the dunes and clay pan in the best light for photography.

This update brings clarity after previous uncertainty and reinforces Namibia's commitment to balancing tourism access with environmental conservation—something that continues to define the country’s approach to sustainable travel.

 

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Sossusvlei Shuttle Rules 2026: No more self-drive to Deadvlei

Update (21 April 2026):

Industry resistance to the new Deadvlei shuttle rules is growing, with the Tour and Safari Association of Namibia (TASA) reportedly preparing an urgent formal submission against the implementation. Tour operators argue the concession creates an effective monopoly and could increase costs while reducing flexibility for visitors. However, Namibia’s Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism has not announced any postponement, and the 01 May 2026 start date remains in place. 

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Following earlier proposals to restrict self-driving access beyond the 2x4 parking area at Sossusvlei, Namibia’s Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism has now confirmed that the new system will come into effect on 01 May 2026.

Under the updated regulations, all visitor access to Deadvlei (the 4x4 parking area) will be strictly controlled through an authorised shuttle system.

What this means for travellers

From May 2026 onwards, self-driving beyond the Sossusvlei 2x4 parking area will no longer be permitted — even for experienced 4x4 drivers. Instead, all visitors must transfer to an approved shuttle service for the final stretch into the dune field and Deadvlei.

Only two categories of operators are authorised:

• Grow Namibia (operating as About Adelt Sossusvlei Management) — the official concession holder running shuttle services
• Registered lodge-based guides — permitted to transport their own guests, provided they are employed by lodges in or around the Namib-Naukluft National Park and registered with the Namibia Tourism Board

No independent operators or self-drive access will be allowed beyond the 2x4 parking area.

On the ground, the new shuttle-only system at Sossusvlei will noticeably change the visitor experience at Deadvlei. Instead of self-driving the final deep-sand section, all travellers must now park at the 2x4 area and transfer to a shuttle, which operates on a rolling, demand-based basis rather than fixed departure times. This introduces potential waiting times—especially around sunrise and during peak season—and reduces the flexibility that self-drivers previously enjoyed. Travellers should also budget approximately N$250–300 per person for the return shuttle. On the plus side, 4x4 driving skills are no longer required, making access easier for less experienced drivers. Overall, the system simplifies logistics but shifts the experience from independent exploration to a more structured, time-dependent visit.

Why the change?

This move formalises the government’s earlier plans to regulate traffic flow and reduce environmental impact in one of Namibia’s most iconic landscapes. The new concession system is designed to:

• Minimise congestion and off-road driving damage
• Improve visitor safety in deep sand conditions
• Centralise access control to sensitive areas like Deadvlei

Practical implications

For self-drive travellers — particularly those on Namibia fly-drive itineraries — this is a significant shift:

• 4x4 capability is no longer required for reaching Deadvlei
• Additional shuttle costs and potential waiting times should be factored into your planning
• Early arrival remains essential, especially during peak travel periods

Travellers staying at lodges inside or near the park may still benefit from guided access, depending on their accommodation.

Bottom line

The long-discussed restrictions at Sossusvlei are now official: from May 2026, Deadvlei becomes a shuttle-access-only destination. While this reduces flexibility for self-drivers, it simplifies logistics for many visitors and aims to protect the fragile desert environment for the long term.

 

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Etosha National Park Safari Update: Okaukuejo–Namutoni Road closed for upgrades (February 2026)

Last updated: 24 March 2026

The extended Gemsbokvlakte–bypass–Salvadora detour introduced in late February remains the active routing between Okaukuejo and Halali. No official confirmation has been issued that the original main road section has reopened. Travellers should continue to follow the full diversion, which adds distance and travel time. The route forms part of ongoing road upgrades and is currently treated as the primary eastbound corridor within the park. 

Current detour route, Okaukuejo > Halali, Etosha National Park (March 2026).

Last updated: 04 February 2026

Travellers planning a self-drive safari in Etosha National Park, Namibia should note that a section of the Okaukuejo–Namutoni Road is temporarily closed since 01 February 2026. This closure is part of a major upgrade project converting gravel tourist roads to low-volume sealed roads from Okaukuejo to King Nehale Gate, including the Halali detours to Namutoni.

Detour Routes
Visitors heading east from Okaukuejo should use the Gemsbokvlakte detour, then continue along a newly constructed bypass for approximately 38 km, where it crosses the main road and connects to the existing Salvadora detour. Traffic will follow the Salvadora detour for around 47 km from Okaukuejo before rejoining the main road.
The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism expects the bypass and associated detour to be fully operational by 26 February 2026, at which point traffic will be redirected entirely onto the new route.

Safari travel tips

• Allow extra travel time for the detour.
• Ensure you have enough fuel and water for the longer route.
• All major waterholes and camps remain open — wildlife viewing is unaffected.
• Follow park signs and speed limits, as construction vehicles are active.

Why this upgrade matters
Once complete, these improvements will make Etosha National Park's main tourist roads safer, more comfortable, and accessible in all seasons, enhancing the self-drive safari experience for visitors from Namibia and beyond.

 

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Botswana issues travel advisory for Chobe National Park roads!

Chobe Road Conditions Update – April 2026

Road conditions in Chobe National Park remain challenging following the severe flooding reported earlier this year. Above-average rainfall across northern Botswana has delayed recovery, and several key routes—particularly the Mababe–Savuti Marsh Road—are still impassable. Alternatives such as the Sand Ridge Road and the Pimple Hill route are open but heavily degraded, with deep mud, standing water, and difficult driving conditions. While some sections have begun to dry out, “open” roads should not be mistaken for easy access, and self-drive travellers continue to require high-clearance 4x4 vehicles, recovery equipment, and preferably convoy support. At this stage, fly-in lodge access remains the most reliable option, and meaningful improvements to road conditions are only expected as the dry season progresses through May and June 2026. 

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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Namibia: Proposed restrictions on self-drive access to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei postponed!

last updatee – 08 April 2026

The proposed restrictions on self-drive 4×4 access to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei remain on hold, with no new implementation date announced. Travellers can still drive the final stretch beyond the 2×4 parking area using their own 4×4 vehicles. Authorities continue to review the proposal following industry feedback, and while a revised access model is expected, self-drive access remains unchanged until further notice. 

last update – 24 March 2026

The proposed restrictions on self-drive 4×4 access to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei remain on hold, with no new implementation date announced. Travellers can still drive the final stretch beyond the 2×4 parking area using their own 4×4 vehicles. Authorities continue to review the plan following industry feedback, and while a revised approach is expected, self-drive access currently remains unchanged until further notice. 

last updated 09 March 2026 

The proposed restriction that would have ended self-drive access to the 4×4 track leading to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei has not yet been implemented. Although the concession holder About Africa Co. initially indicated that private vehicles would no longer be allowed beyond the 2×4 parking area from 15 December 2025, the measure has since been postponed following industry feedback and consultations. For now, visitors to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei can still self-drive the final 4×4 section, as before. Travellers should nevertheless keep an eye on future announcements, as a controlled access system may still be introduced at a later stage. 

last update 06 February 2026

As of early February 2026, here is the current status of access to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei:

• The "Ban" is still On Hold
  While a private concessionaire (About Africa Co.) announced they would take over exclusive shuttle rights and ban private 4x4s starting 15 December 2025, the Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism (MEFT) stepped in to clarify.
• Status: Self-driving remains permitted for now.
• The Rule: You can still drive your own 4x4 vehicle from the 2x4 parking lot to the Deadvlei/Sossusvlei parking areas at no extra cost (other than your standard park entry fee).
• Who Is Restricted?
  The Ministry has tightened the screws on specific types of traffic to protect the dunes:
• Unsuitable Vehicles: 2x4 vehicles, buses, and heavy trucks are strictly prohibited from attempting the 4x4 sand track.
• Unregistered Operators: Only tour operators registered with the Namibia Tourism Board (NTB) or lodges located inside the park are allowed to ferry guests.
• Changes to the Shuttle Service
  If you choose not to drive the sand yourself, the shuttle system has changed:
• Operator: About Africa Co. is now the official concession holder for the shuttle (taking over from Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR)).
• Pickup Point: Most shuttles now depart from the Sesriem Campsite area or the 2x4 parking lot.
• Cost: As of early 2026, the return shuttle fee is approximately N$260 per adult and N$130 for children (under 12).

last update 22 January 2026

As of late January 2026, the status of self-drive access to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei is as follows: 
Self-drive 4x4 access to the final 5km stretch remains permitted until further notice. 

• Postponement: The ban originally scheduled for 15 December 2025, was officially postponed following significant backlash from the tourism industry and clarification from the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT).
• Official Stance: MEFT confirmed that the current shuttle concession with About Africa Co. does not restrict access for self-drive visitors, registered tour operators, or lodges. 

Restrictions in place
While 4x4 self-drivers are still allowed, the following restrictions are strictly enforced to protect the UNESCO-listed Namib Sand Sea: 

• Prohibited Vehicles: Unsuitable 2x4 vehicles, buses, and trucks are banned from the 4x4 sand track.
• Unregistered Operators: Only tour operators and lodges registered with the Namibia Tourism Board (NTB) are permitted to drive their own vehicles in this zone.
• 2x4 Parking: Visitors with 2x4 vehicles must still park at the designated 2x4 lot and either walk or use the official shuttle service. 

2026 Price updates & logistics

• Shuttle Pricing: Effective 01 January 2026, the return shuttle fare has increased to N$260 per adult and N$130 for children under 12.
• Payment & Booking: Card payment facilities are available at the 2x4 parking lot gate, and an online booking platform for shuttle tickets and park permits is currently in development.
• New Facilities: A "refreshment lounge" has been established at the 2x4 parking area to improve the visitor experience. 

--------------- 

Plans to restrict self-drive 4x4 vehicles from accessing Namibia’s iconic Sossusvlei and Deadvlei have been postponed following strong opposition from tour operators and industry stakeholders.

According to reports from Namibia, concerns raised by the tourism sector prompted further engagement with the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT), resulting in a delay to the proposed access changes at two of the country’s flagship desert attractions.

Heiko Dörgeloh, CEO of About Africa, confirmed that the current self-drive arrangements will remain in place for the foreseeable future. Speaking after recent stakeholder consultations, Dörgeloh said the implementation of the proposed restrictions has been deferred while authorities review feedback from the industry.

“Following recent stakeholder input and engagement with MEFT, the implementation date has been postponed and self-drive access will remain unchanged until further notice, pending the release of an updated implementation schedule,” he said.

The revised implementation schedule is expected to be finalised and communicated in early 2026. Until then, travellers planning a self-drive visit to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei can continue to access the sites under the existing regulations.

The announcement provides welcome clarity for independent travellers and tour operators alike, particularly as self-drive 4x4 travel remains a key part of Namibia’s tourism offering and a popular way to explore the Namib-Naukluft National Park.

 

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Namibia: Roads in southern Namibia damaged after heavy rains! [update]

update (12 January 2021): A section of the MR 25 or tourist route C11 from Karasburg to Main Road MR26 Junction has been severely washed away at kilometre 85, thus this road is closed temporary to all traffic.

update (11 January 2021): According to Namibia's Road Authority (RA) repair works on some sections on the Aussenkehr - Rosh Pinah road were completed and the road has been opened for traffic. However, road users must please exercise caution when travelling on this road as some minor damages  have not been repaired yet.

update (07 January 2021): Namibia's Road Authority (RA) has released a list of alternative routes to roads, in the southern part of Namibia, that were closed due to damages by recent heavy rains:

• Aroab – Keetmanshoop
• Take Main Road 25 (MR 125)/C11 south of Aroab, proceed to Main Road 26 (MR26) and B1 (TR 1/2) to Keetmanshoop.
• Koës to Keetmanshoop
• Take District Road 614 (D 614)/C11 south of Koës, proceed to Main Road 25 (MR25), Main Road 26 (MR26) and B1 (TR 1/2) to Keetmanshoop.
• Koës to Mariental
• Take Main Road 30 (MR30)/C17 north of Koës, proceed to Main Road 33 (MR33)/C15 via Gochas up to Stampriet and proceed to TR 5/1 to Mariental.
• Berseba to Keetmanshoop
• Take Main Road 98 (MR98) east of Berseba and proceed to B1 (TR 1/3) to Keetmanshoop.
• Oranjemund/Rosh Pinah to Aussenkehr/Noordoewer
• Please make use of the tarred roads via Aus, Keetmanshoop and Grünau.
  

NB: The alternative gravel roads are accessible but with washaways that are still being repaired. However, warning signs have been installed accordingly, thus, road users are kindly requested to adhere to these signs at all times.

update (06 January 2021): Namibia's Road Authority (RA) has released an update on the roads in southern Namibia, which got damaged after heavy rains.

• District Road D212 or tourist road C13: From Aussenkehr to Rosh Pinah
• The Road has been temporary closed due to flooding from the Fish River which crosses the road. Please do not attempt to cross the section where the river passes, it is extremely dangerous.
  

update (06 January 2021): Namibia's Road Authority (RA) has released an update on the roads in southern Namibia, which got damaged after heavy rains.

• B1 route (Trunk Road TR 1/2 ): Grünau to Keetmanshoop road
• TR 1/2 at kilometer (km) 121 near Guruchab River Bridge, the eastern road shoulder has been extensively damaged. The road is open to traffic but the RA has erected road signs to warn the road users about the damaged section. The road is narrow, kindly exercise extreme caution
• Main Road (MR) 27 or tourist Route C16: From Keetmanshoop to Aroab
• The Stampriet River has flooded this road and caused extensive damage to the sections near the Stampriet River Bridge, hence the road has been closed temporarily to all traffic.
• Main Road 22 (MR 22) & District Road 271 (D271): Gravel roads from Noordoewer to Karasburg
• Both roads are closed temporary to traffic due to serious wash aways at river crossings and a collapsed culvert on MR 22. Roads users from Noordoewer to Karasburg are urged to use the tarred road via Grünau. 
• Homs River Bridge in Warmbad on District Road 210 (D210)
• D210 is closed temporary to traffic due to the damage to the bridge near Warmbad.
• Main Road 30 (MR 30) or tourist Route C17: From Keetmanshoop to Koës
• A portion on this road was severely damaged, hence, the road has been closed temporary to all traffic.
• Main Road 29 (MR 29): gravel road from Keetmanshoop to Mariental via Vaalgras
• The Vaalgras River has flooded the road and caused extensive damage to a portion of the road near the River, hence the road has been closed temporarily to all traffic.
• District Roads 609 & D 511: From Keetmanshoop to Berseba
• The Fish River crosses both roads and currently it is not safe to access both roads. The roads are closed temporary to all traffic.
  

Namibia's Road Authority (RA), whose core business is to construct and maintain the country's road sector, has announced that some roads in the southern part of Namibia were damaged after heavy rains during the past two days. The RA is urging all road users to exercise extra caution and be vigilant during their journeys in the southern part of Namibia. According to the RA, maintenance teams are working around the clock to inspect and assess the conditions of the roads and ensure that warning signs are erected. As of today (05 January 2021), the following roads in southern Namibia are affected:

• B1 route (Trunk Road TR 1/2 ): From Grünau to Keetmanshoop
• TR 1/2 at kilometer (km) 121 near Guruchab River Bridge, the eastern road shoulder has been extensively damaged. The road is open to traffic but the RA has erected road signs to warn the road users about the damaged section. The road is narrow, kindly exercise extreme caution.
• Main Road 27 (MR 27) or tourist Route C16: From Keetmanshoop to Aroab
• Main Road MR 27 has been damaged at several places with the southern lane washed away at some spots, the road is currently only accessible by 4x4 vehicles. Small vehicles owners are advised to refrain from travelling on this road until further notice.
• Main Road 22 (MR22) & District Road 271 (D271): Gravel roads from Noordoewer to Karasburg
• MR 22 and D271 are both temporarily closed to traffic due to serious wash aways at river crossings and a collapsed culvert on MR 22. Roads users from Noordoewer to Karasburg are urged to use the tarred road via Grünau.
• Hom River Bridge in Warmbad on District Road 210 (D210)
• D210 is closed temporary to traffic due to the damage to the bridge near Warmbad.

Southern Africa: Rainfall season (October 2020 - March 2021) outlook! >>

South Africa: SANParks to open National Parks for self-drive day excursions!

South Africa National Parks (SANParks) today (06 Jun 2020) announced that self-drive excursions for day visitors will be permitted from 08 June 2020 in National Parks in South Africa that cater for self-drives. SANParks is limiting face-to-face contact between staff and guests by encouraging online and telephonic day visit bookings and full payment of conservation fees prior to arrival where possible. Bookings can be made at 012 428 9111 or sanparks.org from 08 June 2020. In the case of Wild Card members, guests have to ensure that their membership is valid prior to arrival.
Namaqua National Park as well as Boulders Beach and Cape Point in Table Mountain National Park remain closed for the meantime.
The majority of gates at Kruger National Park will be open with the exception of Pafuri Gate and Numbi Gate. Gate quotas for Kruger National Park have been revised to approximately one third of what they were prior to the coronavirus pandemic. Three time slots for arrival will be introduced with the understanding that booked day visitors must arrive at the gate within that time span. Slot 1 is from 06:00 to 08:00, Slot 2 from 08:00 to 10:00 and Slot 3 from 10:00 onwards. 

Hides and picnic spots at all National Parks remain closed; braaing at picnic sites will also not be allowed during this period. Ablutions will be open in camps, at gates and at some picnic spots. A limited number of shops and petrol stations will open in some parks during the course of the week and will be operated in accordance with relevant alert level 3 lockdown regulations. South Africa's lockdown regulations relating to movement between provinces must be observed within the National Parks. Inter-provincial travel within National Parks that stretch between two provinces is not permitted. Guests therefore must exit into the province from which they entered the park.
SANParks is requesting guests to adhere to all official alert level 3 regulations when inside the National Parks including wearing masks, keeping social distance, and following transport capacity directives. SANParks also implores guests not to deposit their litter inside the bins within the National Parks but to leave with as much of it as hygienically possible.

Timelapse video: A roadtrip through Namibia

Are you currently planning your next hols in Africa? Having difficulties to decide where to go? Well, the stunning video below will definitely sort it out and makes you want to visit Namibia right now! The timelapse roadtrip video was shot by photographer and adventure film maker Rufus Blackwell in collaboration with Safari Drive, a self drive safaris specicalist based in the UK. Switch the video to fullscreen (HD!), lean back and enjoy the great trip through Namibia. Enjoy! Kudos Rufus & Safari Drive!

NAMIBIA from Rufus Blackwell on Vimeo.

Self drive trips through Namibia & South Africa >>
online car hire on TravelComments.com >>