Kruger National Park will reopen parts of its southern region to day visitors from Monday, 19 January 2026, after days of extreme rainfall and flooding forced closures and evacuations across north-eastern South Africa.
SANParks said conditions in Limpopo and Mpumalanga, including areas inside the park, have “improved significantly,” allowing day visitation to resume; but the reopening comes with strict cautions as flood damage continues to affect infrastructure.
Which gates are reopening in Kruger National Park?
Entry into the southern region will be permitted via Paul Kruger Gate, Numbi Gate, Malelane Gate and Phabeni Gate, SANParks said.
Phabeni Gate is being “closely monitored” because of fluctuating water levels in a nearby stream and could close at short notice if conditions change.
Crocodile Bridge Gate remains closed until further notice.
Why the reopening is being described as cautious
SANParks is urging visitors to exercise caution and “not to venture onto gravel roads,” warning that some sections may still be affected by recent rainfall.
The agency also warned that shops inside the park are currently low on stock because earlier access limitations disrupted deliveries, and encouraged visitors to bring their own essential supplies.
SANParks said the northern part of Kruger National Park remains inaccessible because “several roads and bridges have been washed away.” Those areas will remain closed until it is safe to reopen them.
The reopening follows days of exceptionally heavy rainfall linked to a slow-moving cut-off low pressure system that flooded parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga and spilled into neighbouring Mozambique.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) raised its flood warning to its highest level, with roads washed away and areas rendered inaccessible.
SANParks said it will continue monitoring conditions and will issue updates as the situation evolves.
“The safety of guests and staff remains our highest priority,” the agency said, urging visitors to obey instructions and signage. It warned that transgressors may be fined and could face prosecution.
For now, Kruger National Park’s reopening is limited to day visits in the southern region while repairs continue elsewhere.
SANParks has not provided a reopening date for the northern section, saying it will remain closed until infrastructure repairs and safety checks are completed.
