Mbombela (Nelspruit) – Owing to adverse weather, Pafuri and Giriyondo Border Posts that allow access from Mozambique into the Kruger National Park have been closed by the Border Management Authority.
“The evolving severe weather conditions affecting the Kruger National Park, following the Level 6 warning for severe weather conditions issued for parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces has resulted in the closure of Pafuri and Giriyondo Border Posts by the Border Management Authority,” SANParks explained in a statement made available to The Bulrushes on Sunday, 11 January 2026.
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SANParks said as a result of continuous and heavy rainfall experienced across the park, affected visitors are urged to revise their travel plans accordingly and follow guidance from Park officials.
“Several rivers are currently flowing at high speed, with water levels expected to rise significantly today, particularly at the De Laporte River, N’watshitsaka River, and Crocodile River,” SANParks said.
“In addition, the Sabie River is rising, which is expected to impact the Sand River, potentially affecting travel routes between Satara Rest Camp, Tshokwane Picnic Site, Lower Sabie Rest Camp, and Skukuza Rest Camp.”
As a result, SANParks warned road closures may occur at short notice for safety reasons.
“Campers in affected camps will be moved as not all camping sites are affected; those in caravans and motorhomes will be requested to relocate closer to chalet areas within camps and will not be moved to chalets,” SANParks said.
“Furthermore, visitors are advised not to remain in designated camping areas that may be vulnerable to flooding, and Park staff will provide guidance on-site to ensure guest safety.
“Guests wishing to access Skukuza Airport from North of Tshokwane should use Kruger Gate via Satara/Orpen gate or access from outside of the park through the R40, and need to be mindful of added traveling times so not to miss their flights.”
Rainfall
Figures for rainfall overnight and measured early this morning:
- Tshokwane: 73.5 mm
- Houtboschrand: 85.5 mm
- Olifants: 30 mm
- Letaba: 40.2 mm
- Malelane: 57 mm
- Kingfisherspruit: 51.2 mm
- Phalaborwa: 25 mm
- Mahlangeni: 36 mm
- Mooiplaas: 71.0 mm
- Lower Sabie: 58.5 mm
- Crocodile Bridge: 45 mm
- Pafuri: 90.0 mm
- Punda Maria: 52 mm
- Shingwedzi: 71 mm
- Vlakteplaas: 51.5 mm
SANParks strongly urges all guests and staff to adhere strictly to no-entry and road closure signage, avoid driving through flooded roads or low-lying bridges, and refrain from removing logs, debris, or barriers placed on roads.
“The safety of visitors, staff, and surrounding communities remains SANParks’ highest priority,” the statement said.
“The South African Weather Service (SAWS) will continue to closely monitor the situation and issue, or update weather warnings based on expected impacts.”
SANParks spokesperson JP Louw said as a precaution, Shingwedzi, Sirheni, and Bateleur Camps have been evacuated to avoid challenges in the event of flooding, while guests at Balule and Pafuri are given the option to stay, as these areas are not at risk.
Guests and staff at the following bush camps, Talamati, Mbiyamiti, and Roodewaal, will be moved to Satara and Lower Sabie rest camps, as they can be accessed from Tshokwane.
“For guests flying in and out of Skukuza Airport, plans are in place to safely access the airport via Shalati Railway Station, and all Concessions are part of the Disaster Management Committee,” said JP Louw.
“Furthermore, Airlink will deploy additional resources from Johannesburg to support safe tourist movement between the airport and various accommodation facilities in the park.
“The safety of guests, staff, and surrounding communities remains the park’s highest priority.”
