• Attractions

Kruger National Park Gates and Facilities Reopen as Weather Improves and Safety Checks Continue Kruger National Park Gates and Facilities Reopen as Weather Improves and Safety Checks Continue

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced the reopening of several gates and facilities in Kruger National Park following improved weather conditions and ongoing safety assessments in the Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces. As of 26 January 2026, overnight visitors are once again allowed entry through Phalaborwa Gate, with Phabeni Gate reopening to overnight guests from 27 January 2026. Visitors using these gates will be routed via the S3 and S4 roads, providing access to the popular Pretoriuskop and Skukuza Rest Camps.

Several camps and facilities are also resuming operations: Bateleur Bush Camp reopened on 28 January, while Mopani Rest Camp will reopen on 30 January, though its restaurant and swimming pool remain closed. In the northern region, shops at Punda Maria reopened on 26 January, with Shingwedzi and Mopani shops following on 28 January, and Letaba Shop reopening on 30 January. However, Letaba and Shingwedzi Rest Camps and the Pafuri Border Post remain closed and inaccessible.

In the Marula Region, Satara Rest Camp and N’wanetsi Picnic Site are open, but Biyamiti and Talamati Bush Camps remain closed. The Orpen Gate is still inaccessible except for overnight guests, emergency services, and essential supply vehicles. SANParks has issued a safety warning for visitors traveling to Orpen to remain vigilant along the R40 near Dwarsloop due to reported protest activity.

SANParks strongly advises visitors not to remove barricades or attempt to access closed roads, emphasizing that these restrictions are vital for visitor safety and ongoing infrastructure recovery. All gravel roads within the park remain closed until further notice.

Authorities continue to monitor conditions closely, with access restrictions subject to review as repairs progress. SANParks has expressed gratitude to visitors for their patience and cooperation during this recovery phase as the park gradually returns to full operational capacity.