Kruger-craving wildlife enthusiasts will be pleased to hear that the Crocodile Bridge Gate was reopened today, Thursday, 22/01/2026.
The news comes after officials determined that conditions had improved to the point that the bridge is safe to cross. This means all southern entry points are now open.
Additionally, they have cautioned that the situation is dynamic, and would-be visitors must keep informed of the latest updates.
SANParks announced the good news yesterday, Wednesday, 21/01, in a press release issued by spokesperson JP Louw: SANParks Head of Communications.
SANParks also announced the reopening on its official X feed and through various news outlets.
Initial bridge closure
Authorities closed the gate to the public on Wednesday, 14/01, after prolonged rains caused water levels in the Crocodile River to rise. Consequently, it became unsafe for vehicles to cross the low-level bridge as flood waters washed over the road surface.
What began as a typical wet season took a dramatic turn in mid-December 2025. At this time, above-average rainfall figures were first reported and weather warnings issued.
Warnings and road closures
By late December, officials issued severe weather warnings, with numerous roads, including all gravel roads, closed to traffic. Authorities took measures to protect the public, the environment, and vulnerable infrastructure.
On 20/12, SANParks announced the implementation of a Daily Quota for Entries to enhance visitor safety and improve traffic management.
Incessant rainfall
The new year saw no respite in the rains. Authorities issued ongoing weather warnings across much of Mpumalanga and Limpopo, where the park is located.
As a result of rising water levels, precautionary evacuations commenced at Shingwedzi, Sirheni, and Bateleur Rest Camps from 9/01/2026.
Later, floodwater inundated Letaba Rest Camp and Satara Staff Village, prompting authorities to evacuate both on 15/01.
Coinciding with this, park management decided to close the park to day visitors until further notice, as reported by Reuters.
A break in the clouds
Eventually, after a marked improvement in the weather, the park reopened to day visitors on 19/01. However, many roads remained closed, either due to waterlogged conditions or severe damage to infrastructure.
Accordingly, authorities have advised visitors to exercise caution, especially on gravel roads and low-level bridges, and urge guests to heed all road closures.
With these developments, a glimmer of light breaks through the clouds over Kruger. At this time, there is a lot that needs to be done.
First, in assessing the extent of the damage to the environment and infrastructure of the park. And then, the long process of restoring the park to its former glory can begin.
Naturally, Kruger lovers are concerned, both for the wildlife and the people who enhance the visitor experience. Make no mistake, this is a generational disaster that may take years to recover from.
It will no doubt require a well-coordinated effort, combining the joint resources of the public and private sectors.
Remarkably, Kruger has reported no loss of human life. Wildlife has not been as fortunate; however, officials need time to assess the full extent of the impact.
To that end, the South African government today announced the establishment of the SANParks’ Kruger Recovery Fund.
Those wishing to contribute to the effort can do so through the SANParks Honorary Rangers Kruger Flood Fund. SHR will manage the fund, ensuring that 100% of donations go directly to relief efforts.
