Earlier this year, we reported extensively on the devastating floods across much of Kruger National Park. Today, we bring you the latest update received from South African National Parks (SANParks).
SANParks Communications Manager JP Louw released a statement to the media yesterday, 17 March 2026.
Camp access affected
Louw reported that parts of the central and northern Kruger National Park (KNP) are currently experiencing flooding. This comes after substantial rainfall both within and outside the park’s boundaries..
He explained that as a result, water levels in both the Shingwedzi and Luvuvhu Rivers had risen drastically. Louw added that further rains expected this week will cause river levels to fluctuate.
Saturated ground
Louw informed the public that subsequent to the floods in January this year, the catchment area for these rivers remains saturated. As such, the rivers and associated tributaries are vulnerable to sudden increases in the river flow.
Affected camps
On 4 March, Latest Sightings reported that successful repairs to its perimeter fenced would allow Shingwedzi Rest Camp to reopen.
Now, it seems the camp may once again threatened by flooding. In his statement, Louw said,
“Although the Shingwedzi River is rising, it is not at a stage that an evacuation process for guests and staff in the camp is required.”
He went on to add that officials are closely monitoring the Shisa Stream near Babalala/Sirheni, which has overflowed onto the tar road.
Access to the park unaffected
According to Louw, all access gates and camps in the southern section of the park remain open.
However, he added that Biyamithi Bush Camp can only be accessed via the Crocodile Bridge side at the S25 intersection. Access via the S114 is still not possible.
Meanwhile, in the central section, Orpen Gate is open to all traffic. Accordingly, the public can access Orpen and Satara Rest Camps, as well as Tamboti Tented Camp and Maroela Camp Site.
Further north, Phalaborwa Gate is also open, as is Olifants Rest Camp which was temporarily closed due to water supply issues.
At Letaba Rest Camp, the filling station, Elephant Hall and shop remain open for trade.
WATCH | Flooding returns to parts of Kruger National Park, affecting access to several camps in the central and northern regions. SANParks spokesperson Reynold Thakuli provides details. pic.twitter.com/pTHyEqNWA1
— SABC News (@SABCNews) March 16, 2026
Limited access and continued closures
The statement also advises the public that most gravel roads in the central and northern reaches of the park remain closed to traffic. This is due to the fact that they remain saturated, a matter exacerbated by the latest rainfall.
It goes on to add that the following tourism infrastructure remains out of service:
Gates
- Punda Maria
- Pafuri
- Giriyondo Border Gate (including Makhadzi Picnic Site)
Bush & satellite camps
- Sirheni
- Bateleur
- Shimuwini
- Roodewaal
- Balule
- Talamati
Letaba High Water Bridge
Earlier this month, Latest Sightings reported that the reopening of the Letaba High Water Bridge had been delayed from 13 March, until today, 18 March.
This was eagerly anticipated, as the bridge forms a vital link between the north and south of the park.
However, due to the incessant rains, SANParks has just announced that the repair work has now been suspended entirely until weather conditions improve.
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Stay alert
Louw urged visitors to remain alert and adhere to all road closures and related signage. He said that officials will continue to monitor the situation and advise the public through their official channels of any changes.
He emphasised that the safety of guests, staff, and protection of infrastructure remain their highest priorities.
Kruger Recovery Fund
In the wake of the disaster, the South African government established the Kruger Recovery Fund to address reconstruction costs. At the same time, SANParks Honorary Rangers established a relief fund to assist those affected by the flood.
SANParks Honorary Rangers Relief Fund:
Latest Sightings encourages our members to support these worthy causes so that our beloved park and those who live in the area receive all the assistance they need.