When a cut-off low-pressure system began to develop off the coast of Mozambique in the first full week of January 2026, rumours started flying on social media about the possibility of a deadly flood hitting Limpopo and Mpumalanga, the two provinces across which the Kruger National Park stretches.
Meteorologists were cautious about putting out a warning, but amateur weather watchers began to flood Facebook feeds with their opinions, estimating that the park and the surrounding areas would possibly receive between 300 and 1000mm of rain in less than a week.
Although the 1000mm didn’t happen, some areas of the Kruger received well over 600mm.
The rain was relentless, and when the waters subsided, the damage was unbelievable.
The Kruger serves as the tourism flagship for South African National Parks (SANParks), generating nearly 80% of the organisation’s operating budget.
The flooding has disrupted operations so severely that it now threatens the sustainability of all 21 national parks managed by SANParks.
This latest crisis follows earlier floods in 2023, from which the park was still recovering.
The combined cost of infrastructure damage and operational downtime has exceeded both contingency and maintenance budgets, creating a serious financial strain.
A Fund to Rebuild Hope
In response, SANParks has launched the Kruger Recovery Fund, endorsed by the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment. The fund will be managed through three independent audit firms to ensure transparent governance, public accountability, and donor confidence.
Support has already begun pouring in. The SANParks Honorary Rangers, a long-time strategic partner, have mobilised their own campaign, the “Kruger Flood 2026 Fund”, to bolster recovery efforts. Internationally renowned author Tony Park has also pledged his support, further amplifying the call for collective action.
Access and Closures
The flooding has left large sections of the park inaccessible. In the north, roads to Tshokwane Picnic Site, Satara Rest Camp, and multiple northern camps remain cut off. All northern rest camps, including Pafuri, Punda Maria, Shingwedzi, Letaba, and Olifants, have been closed.
In the south, closures include Crocodile Bridge Rest Camp and Gate, Lower Sabie, Mbiyamiti, Satara, and Talamati. Entry remains possible via Malelane Gate, Numbi Gate, and Paul Kruger Gate, with an entry quota system now in place to manage access safely.
A Centennial Marred but Far From Defeated
Tragically, the flooding coincides with Kruger National Park’s centenary celebrations, marking 100 years since its establishment. Yet amid the devastation, the park’s story remains one of endurance, unity, and hope.
As SANParks and its partners work tirelessly to restore operations, South Africans and global supporters alike are being called upon to play a part in rebuilding this treasured national symbol. Details on how and where to contribute to the official recovery funds will be announced soon through SANParks’ and Honorary Rangers’ official communication channels.
Because Kruger is more than a park, it’s part of who we are.
If you’d like to book a Kruger Park safari, you can do so via our website or you can contact our team.
