Crocodile Bridge Gate in the Kruger National Park (KNP) will reopen for day visitors on Thursday, 22 January 2026, after severe weather conditions eased across parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga.
However, the South African National Parks (SANParks) agency has issued an urgent warning to potential visitors, highlighting the unpredictable and dynamic conditions that continue to pose challenges.
Although the gate's reopening marks a significant step towards normalcy, SANParks cautioned that a dam wall outside the park has been reported as compromised.
“Visitors are advised that the situation remains dynamic. A dam wall outside the park has been reported as compromised, which may affect operations at short notice, including access through Crocodile Bridge Gate. All gravel roads remain closed, and visitors must not remove barricades placed for public safety and infrastructure protection,” the agency said.
Visitors are also urged to take their waste with them, as park operations continue to be under pressure following recent flooding. Other gates, including Malelane, Numbi, and Paul Kruger, remain open with entry quotas, while Phabeni Gate remains closed.
SANParks added that the southern and northern sections of the park remain cut off. “Tshokwane Picnic Site, Satara Rest Camp, and the northern regions are not accessible at this stage. SANParks continues to monitor conditions and will communicate changes as they occur. Visitors are urged to adhere strictly to all instructions and signage for their safety.”
Minister Willie Aucamp, who recently visited the park, described the damage as severe. “I am still affected by the extent of the impact and devastation to our cherished national asset. The weather has not only affected the Kruger but also wider Limpopo and Mpumalanga, with loss of life, homes, and critical infrastructure. The decision to classify this as a National Disaster under Section 23 of the Disaster Management Act was the right one.”
Aucamp said the damage to Kruger’s infrastructure alone could run into hundreds of millions but praised SANParks’ preparedness. “Despite the devastation, the most important highlight is that no lives were lost. SANParks’ early warning systems and swift, coordinated response ensured all guests and staff were safely evacuated.”
To aid recovery, he announced the establishment of the SANParks Kruger Recovery Fund. “The fund is intended to ensure the long-term sustainability of the Kruger National Park as a national heritage asset, economic driver, and symbol of South Africa’s commitment to conservation amid climate risks. It will be administered with strong oversight to attract national and international donors and ensure transparent use of funds for infrastructure reconstruction.”
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za
Saturday Star