Kruger National Park Road & Camp Access Update – January 2026

last updated 30 January 2026 

South African National Parks (SANParks) has provided an important update on road and camp access in Kruger National Park following the recent severe weather events. While conditions have improved across the park, several areas remain affected, and some access restrictions are still in place as recovery and repair work continues.

Gate and entry updates

• Phalaborwa Gate: Reopening for Day Visitors on Saturday, 31 January 2026. Visitors entering here may only travel as far as Satara Rest Camp.
• Pafuri Gate: Open, but the Pafuri Border Post remains closed.
• Orpen Gate: Remains closed until further notice.

Rest camp access

• Letaba and Olifants Rest Camps: Remain closed.
• Mopani Rest Camp: Open but accessible only via Punda Maria Gate; entry from Phalaborwa Gate is not permitted. Guests are advised to bring their own supplies, as the restaurant is closed.
• Shingwedzi Rest Camp: Only the shop and restaurant are open; the rest of the camp remains closed until further notice.

Bush camp access

• Bateleur Bush Camp: The only northern bush camp currently open.
• Sirheni, Shimuwini, and Tsendze Bush Camps: Remain closed.
• Boulders Bush Camp: Closed.

Road and bridge access

• In the southern section of Kruger National Park, the Sabie River and Sand River Bridges are now accessible.
• Visitors can travel:
• From Skukuza to Satara and Lower Sabie via H1-2 > H12 > H4-1
• From Skukuza to Lower Sabie via Tshokwane Picnic Site > H10
• Tshokwane and Nkhuhlu Picnic Sites: Now open, but with limited menu options.

SANParks urges all visitors to plan ahead, carry sufficient supplies, and check current road and camp statuses before entering Kruger National Park. Safety remains the top priority during ongoing recovery efforts.

 

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Durban Beach Water Quality Update: No closures, all beaches safe for swimming!

last updated 30 January 2026 

The eThekwini Municipality has officially confirmed that all 23 of Durban’s regularly monitored bathing beaches remain safe for swimming, following the release of the latest coastal water quality test results dated 29 January 2026.
According to the municipality’s most recent assessment, Durban’s beaches fully comply with South Africa’s national water quality and bathing safety standards, offering reassurance to both residents and visitors enjoying the KwaZulu-Natal coastline.

Durban’s coastline continues to offer excellent swimming conditions
Durban remains one of South Africa’s most popular beach destinations, thanks to its subtropical climate, warm Indian Ocean waters, and long stretches of sandy shoreline. From the iconic Golden Mile to quieter northern and southern beaches, current conditions are ideal for:

• Swimming and bodyboarding
• Surfing and paddle sports
• Family-friendly beach outings
• Coastal leisure and recreation

With consistent water quality monitoring in place, Durban’s coastline continues to deliver a safe and enjoyable seaside experience.

How Durban’s coastal water quality is monitored
To protect public health and ensure safe recreational use of its beaches, the eThekwini Municipality operates a comprehensive coastal water quality monitoring programme, which includes:

• Regular seawater sampling at designated bathing beaches
• Laboratory-based microbiological testing
• Transparent public reporting of results

The latest findings confirm that Durban’s bathing waters meet all national guideline requirements, underlining the municipality’s ongoing commitment to environmental management and coastal safety.

Durban beaches currently open for swimming
Based on the most recent official water quality results, all 23 monitored Durban beaches are open for recreational swimming. Municipal lifeguards are deployed daily from 06:00 to 18:30, adding an important layer of safety for swimmers, surfers, and beach-going families.
Beaches currently open include:

1. Point Beach
2. uMgababa
3. uShaka
4. Addington
5. North Beach
6. Bay of Plenty
7. Battery Beach
8. Thekwini Beach
9. South Beach
10. Wedge Beach
11. Brighton
12. Westbrook
13. mDloti Main
14. Anstey’s Beach
15. uMhlanga Main
16. Bronze Beach
17. Winklespruit
18. Laguna Beach
19. Country Club
20. Reunion Beach
21. Pipeline Beach
22. Toti Main Beach
23. Doonside Beach

All listed beaches are currently regarded as safe for swimming, subject to ongoing monitoring and changing environmental conditions.

Are any Durban beaches closed?
At present, no Durban beaches are closed due to water quality concerns. The municipality continues to monitor conditions closely and will communicate any changes should they arise.

Public swimming pools: A safe alternative
For those seeking a more controlled swimming environment, Durban offers around 40 municipal swimming pools across the metropolitan area. These facilities are particularly popular with families, young children, and fitness swimmers, especially during periods of rough sea conditions.
All municipal swimming pools are:

• Regularly maintained
• Supervised by trained lifeguards
• Continuously monitored for hygiene and safety

Essential beach safety advice for visitors 
While current beach conditions are favourable, beachgoers are encouraged to follow basic safety guidelines:

• Swim only at designated beaches during official lifeguard hours
• Pay attention to beach signage and municipal safety notices
• Exercise extra caution after heavy rainfall, which can temporarily affect water quality

Traveller takeaway
With all Durban beaches open, safe, and actively monitored, visitors can enjoy the city’s coastline with confidence. As coastal conditions can change, staying informed through official municipal updates and following basic beach safety guidance remains essential for a safe and enjoyable beach experience in Durban.

 

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Power outage disrupts Matyholweni Gate at Addo Elephant National Park!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has issued an operational update confirming a power outage at the Matyholweni Gate in the Colchester section of Addo Elephant National Park, Eastern Cape. The outage affects reception services, including payment facilities and telephone lines.

To ensure continued access to the park, guests entering via Matyholweni Gate are being redirected to Addo Main Camp to complete payment of their entrance and conservation fees. SANParks advises visitors who need to contact park staff during this period to use the hospitality duty line on 082 471 0267.

The outage has been formally reported to the relevant municipal authorities, and restoration efforts are underway. SANParks and park management have apologised for the inconvenience, and visitors are encouraged to plan accordingly when travelling to the Colchester section of Addo Elephant National Park.

About Addo Elephant National Park
Located just an hour from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), Addo Elephant National Park is South Africa’s third-largest national park and a major Eastern Cape tourism icon. Famous for its thriving elephant population, diverse wildlife, and spectacular landscapes stretching from dense thicket to dune fields and marine environments, Addo Elephant National Park offers excellent game viewing, family-friendly activities, and easy self-drive experiences year-round. 

 

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Namibia to increase National Park entrance fees from 01 April 2026: What visitors need to know!

last updated 29 January 2026 

Namibia will introduce a revised national park entrance and conservation fee structure from 01 April 2026, marking the first major adjustment to park fees since 2021. The updated fees apply across most national parks and reserves managed by the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) and will primarily affect international (non-Namibian, non-SADC) visitors.

According to the newly published fee schedule, Namibia's flagship and premium national parks will see the most significant increases. These changes align Namibia's conservation fees more closely with those charged in neighbouring Southern African destinations and are intended to support long-term conservation funding.

Premium National Parks: New Fees from 01 April 2026

For premium national parks, the total daily park fee for international adult visitors will increase from N$150 to N$280 per person per day.

Parks affected include:

• Etosha National Park
• Ai-/Ais Game Park
• Namib-Naukluft National Park (excluding Sandwich Harbour)
• Skeleton Coast National Park
• Cape Cross Seal Reserve
• Dorob National Park
• Tsau //Khaeb (Sperrgebiet) National Park
• Waterberg Plateau Park

Adult visitors (16 years and older)

• Namibians: N$30 park entrance + N$30 conservation = N$60
• SADC nationals: N$90 + N$90 = N$180
• Other foreign nationals: N$140 + N$140 = N$280

Children (9–15 years)

• Namibians: No fee
• SADC nationals: N$50 + N$50 = N$100
• Other foreign nationals: N$90 + N$90 = N$180

Children under 8 years of age enter free of charge.

Vehicle fees (per day)

• Vehicles with 10 seats or less: N$60
• 11–25 seats: N$150
• 26–50 seats: N$600
• 51+ seats: N$1,000

Example:
A visit to Etosha National Park for two international adults in a standard vehicle will increase from N$350 to N$620 per day from April 2026.

Standard National Parks: Fees Also Doubling

Namibia  will also double entrance fees at remaining national parks and smaller reserves, with international adult rates rising from N$100 to N$200 per day.

Parks affected include:

• Bwabwata National Park
• Mudumu National Park
• Khaudum National Park
• Nkasa Rupara National Park
• Mangetti National Park
• Popa Falls Game Park
• Daan Viljoen Game Park
• Hardap Game Park
• Naute Game Park
• Von Bach Game Park
• South West Nature Reserve

Adult visitors (16 years and older)

• Namibians: N$20 + N$20 = N$40
• SADC nationals: N$65 + N$65 = N$130
• Other foreign nationals: N$100 + N$100 = N$200

Children (9–15 years)

• Namibians: No fee
• SADC nationals: N$40 + N$40 = N$80
• Other foreign nationals: N$75 + N$75 = N$150

Children under 8 years remain free of charge.

Vehicle fees for these parks remain identical to the premium park structure.

Sandwich Harbour exempt from fee increases

According to a report by the Windhoek Express (August 2025), Sandwich Harbour, although geographically part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park, will be exempt from the new park fee increases. The area is set to be formally designated as a concession area, meaning access will continue to be regulated through licensed tour operators rather than standard park entrance fees.

Context: Why the Increase Matters

While the new fees represent a notable rise - particularly for international visitors - it is important to note that:

• The previous fee increase occurred in 2021, five years earlier.
• Even after the adjustment, Namibia's  park fees remain competitive within the Southern African region.
• The revised structure supports conservation funding, park management, and infrastructure maintenance in one of Africa’s most extensive protected-area networks.

Cederberg Wilderness Area update: Recovery underway after major wildfire!

last updated 28 January 2026 

CapeNature has provided an update on the current conditions in the Cederberg Wilderness Area in South Africa’s Western Cape. Following a significant wildfire over the 2025/26 festive period, efforts are now focused on ecological recovery and reopening visitor facilities, with CapeNature preparing to welcome nature enthusiasts back safely.

The Cederberg Wilderness Area is globally recognized for its unique biodiversity and fragile ecosystems. Wildfires expose soil, damage vegetation, and displace wildlife, making careful management essential for both ecological recovery and visitor safety.

CapeNature’s recovery plan
CapeNature has launched a comprehensive six- to twelve-month recovery programme, which includes:

• Assessing and repairing hiking trails, jeep tracks, and mountain huts
• Replacing damaged signage and improving safety infrastructure
• Managing erosion and removing invasive plant species
• Monitoring ecological recovery, including restoration of the critically endangered Clanwilliam Cedar, in collaboration with conservation groups and volunteers

The wildfire, which began on 22 December 2025 near Uitkyk Pass, burned approximately 53,000 hectares, affecting CapeNature-managed land and adjoining private properties. The fire was successfully contained on 05 January 2026.

Visitor access and safety measures
Although the fire is no longer active, extensive damage means that several hiking trails, wild camping areas, and recreational sites will remain temporarily closed to allow for rehabilitation and ecosystem recovery.

However, key sites remain accessible under monitored conditions:

• Northern Cederberg: Areas between Pakhuis Pass/Kliphuis, Heuningvlei, Langkloof, and Krakadouw are open to visitors.
• Wolfberg Arch (via The Cracks) & Maltese Cross: Day hikes only. Overnight stays are prohibited. Access via Sandrift with required permits.
• Stadsaal and Truitjieskraal Rock Art Sites: Structurally intact and open under limited access conditions. Bookings required online or at Matjiesrivier office (07:30–16:00 daily).
• Algeria and Bosherberge Cottages: Scheduled to reopen 27 January 2026, pending final safety checks.

“The scale of this fire has significantly impacted both the landscape and visitor infrastructure in the Cederberg. Our priority is to safeguard lives, support ecological recovery, and ensure reopened areas are safe and resilient for people and nature. Respecting access restrictions is critical for ecosystem recovery and visitor safety,” said Dr Ashley Naidoo, CEO of CapeNature.

Visitor guidance
CapeNature urges all visitors to:

• Respect closure notices and restricted areas
• Use only approved access points
• Obtain necessary permits before entering the wilderness
• Explore alternative accommodation options through the CapeNature Contact Centre if affected by cancellations

With these measures in place, the Cederberg Wilderness Area is on the path to recovery, ensuring that hikers, campers, and nature lovers can safely enjoy this iconic Western Cape destination in the coming months.

About the Cederberg Wilderness Area
The Cederberg Wilderness Area is one of South Africa’s most striking outdoor destinations, located roughly 250 kilometres north of Cape Town in the Western Cape. Known for its dramatic red sandstone mountains, ancient San rock art, and vast open landscapes, the Cederberg offers a true wilderness experience. As part of the UNESCO-listed Cape Floral Region, the area boasts remarkable biodiversity, scenic hiking routes, iconic landmarks such as Wolfberg Arch and Maltese Cross, and exceptional stargazing. Popular with hikers, climbers, photographers, and nature lovers, the Cederberg combines adventure, cultural heritage, and solitude in a uniquely remote setting. 

 

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Durban beach water quality update: All 23 beaches cleared for swimming!

last update 27 January 2026 

The eThekwini Municipality has confirmed that all 23 of Durban’s regularly monitored beaches are currently safe for swimming, following the release of the latest coastal water quality test results dated 26 January 2026.

According to the official assessment, Durban’s bathing beaches fully comply with national water quality and bathing safety standards, providing reassurance to residents and visitors planning coastal activities along the KwaZulu-Natal shoreline.

Durban’s coastline continues to offer excellent swimming conditions
Durban remains a popular coastal destination thanks to its subtropical climate, warm Indian Ocean waters, and extensive sandy coastline. From the vibrant Golden Mile to quieter northern and southern beaches, conditions are currently favourable for swimming, surfing, paddling, and family-friendly beach activities.

How coastal water quality is monitored in Durban
To protect public health and ensure the safe recreational use of its coastline, the eThekwini Municipality operates a comprehensive coastal water quality monitoring programme, which includes:

• Regular seawater sampling at designated bathing beaches
• Laboratory-based microbiological testing
• Transparent public reporting of results

The most recent findings confirm that Durban’s bathing waters meet national water quality guidelines, highlighting the municipality’s ongoing commitment to environmental management and coastal safety.

Durban beaches currently open for swimming
Based on the latest official assessment, all 23 monitored beaches in Durban are open for recreational swimming. Municipal lifeguards are deployed daily from 06:00 to 18:30, providing an added level of safety for swimmers, surfers, and beach-going families.

Beaches currently open include:

1. Point Beach
2. uMgababa
3. uShaka
4. Addington
5. North Beach
6. Bay of Plenty
7. Battery Beach
8. Thekwini Beach
9. South Beach
10. Wedge Beach
11. Brighton
12. Westbrook
13. mDloti Main
14. Anstey’s Beach
15. uMhlanga Main
16. Bronze Beach
17. Winklespruit
18. Laguna Beach
19. Country Club
20. Reunion Beach
21. Pipeline Beach
22. Toti Main Beach
23. Doonside Beach

All listed beaches are regarded as safe for swimming, subject to ongoing monitoring and changing environmental conditions.

Beaches currently closed in Durban
There are currently no beaches in Durban closed due to water quality concerns.

Public swimming pools: A safe alternative
For visitors seeking a more controlled swimming environment, Durban offers approximately 40 municipal swimming pools across the metropolitan area. These facilities are particularly popular with families, children, and fitness swimmers, especially during periods of rough sea conditions.

All public swimming pools are:

• Regularly maintained
• Supervised by trained lifeguards
• Continuously monitored for hygiene and safety

Essential beach safety advice
While current conditions are favourable, beachgoers are reminded to follow basic safety guidelines:

• Swim only at designated beaches during official lifeguard hours
• Observe beach signage and municipal safety notices
• Exercise extra caution after heavy rainfall, which can temporarily affect water quality

Traveller takeaway
With all Durban beaches open, safe, and actively monitored, visitors can enjoy the city’s coastline with confidence. As coastal conditions can change, staying informed through official municipal updates and following safety guidance remains essential for a safe and enjoyable beach experience in Durban.

 

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Outeniqua Choo Tjoe: Restoration progress on South Africa’s historic George–Knysna railway (January 2026)!

last update 27 Januay 2026 

Classic Rail, the successful tenderer for the return of the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe steam train, has issued a progress report confirming that restoration work on the George-Knysna railway line is well underway. This marks a key milestone in the revival of one of South Africa’s most historic and scenic rail routes.

As of 26 January 2026, vegetation clearing along the railway reserve has reached the 12 km mark from Sedgefield Station. This essential groundwork is preparing the century-old railway corridor for track rehabilitation and safe future operations.

Early inspections indicate that most of the original wooden sleepers remain structurally sound, despite being nearly 100 years old, reinforcing the overall viability of the restoration project.

The restoration has been structured into two operational phases:

• Phase 1 – Waterfront Express: Sedgefield to Knysna
• Phase 2 – Museum Limited: Sedgefield to the George Railway Museum

Behind the scenes, work is progressing on locomotive and heritage carriage refurbishment, regulatory compliance, and supporting infrastructure. This includes the overhaul of steam and diesel locomotives, restoration of historic coaches, and planning for a new steam hub at Sedgefield Station, complete with a turntable and workshop facilities.

Classic Rail has also secured the necessary rail safety approvals, ensuring that the project meets all regulatory requirements ahead of operational testing.

Further updates on bridge rehabilitation, operational readiness, and marketing plans are expected in the coming months as the project advances toward the return of South Africa’s most scenic heritage rail journey.

A South African rail icon
The Outeniqua Choo Tjoe first began operating in 1928. Winding its way along the spectacular Garden Route coastline, the train offered breathtaking views of lakes, forests, and beaches, making it a favourite among local travellers and international visitors alike.
The service was discontinued after severe flood damage to the line in 2006, followed by years of uncertainty and stalled negotiations. Since then, railway enthusiasts, tourism bodies, and the local community have been campaigning passionately for its return - and now, after nearly 20 years, that dream is finally becoming reality. 

 

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