Mbombela (Nelspruit) – Owing to persistent rainfall, SANParks has announced that day visitors will not be permitted entry into the Kruger National Park until further notice.
The heavy rains have resulted in flooding in parts of Mpumalanga and Limpopo, including areas of the Kruger National Park.
“Increased rainfall has been recorded in the Pretoriuskop area, which may result in the closure of Phabeni Gate at short notice should conditions deteriorate,” SANParks said on Saturday, 17 January 2026.
“Visitors are urged to remain alert to official updates and signage.
“No day visitors are permitted entry into the Kruger National Park until further notice.”
SANParks said access to the park is limited to essential delivery vehicles, airport transfers with valid flight tickets, officials, and guests with confirmed accommodation bookings at Berg n Dal, Skukuza, and Pretoriuskop.
“As a precautionary safety measure, all game drives and walking trails remain suspended until conditions improve,” said SANParks, adding that the park authority was monitoring the situation closely.
“The safety of guests, staff, and infrastructure remains the organisation’s highest priority.
“Members of the public are encouraged to follow SANParks’ official communication platforms for verified updates.”
