Friday, January 20, 2012

Kruger National Park Floods

Taken at Mohlabetsi Safari Lodge


While all rivers have subsided and no infrastructure is currently threatened, SANParks has decided to block access to the Kruger National Park (KNP) for all day visitors, as officials will not be able to locate them should they be stranded. The park is also urging guests to exercise caution around rivers as crocodiles are likely to be in flat areas.
Thank goodness the rain has stopped but there is another cyclone developing off the Mozambique coast and we are all hoping this does not bring more rain to this area. The problems are not over as the mopping up begins, there are numerous lodges who have suffered flood damage, some loosing entire rooms and a few lodges severely damaged and there are also the lucky lodges with no damage. The major problem is now access and the game drives, even if the lodge is okay getting to some is impossible and once you get to the lodge they can not go on game drives as the roads have been washed away and are to muddy to drive on even in a very capable 4x4. The plus side is guest can go on walks and experience the bush this way.


The other good thing is Game Reserves like Pilanesberg and Madikwe situated in the north west of South Africa have not been affected at all. So while the damage in the Greater Kruger Park is being repaired and this may take months – some lodges have decided to close until July 2012 – if you want a genuine safari experience you can visit one of these great “Big 5” reserves.


To book your safari in Pilanesberg or Madikwe please contact GoSAfari