The Greater Kruger region has recently experienced a significant weather event, with persistent heavy rainfall leading to widespread flooding across the north-east of South Africa. We understand that if you have an upcoming safari, you might be feeling a bit concerned. However, we want to reassure you that we’re monitoring the situation on an ongoing basis to ensure your journey remains as seamless and extraordinary as ever.
Kruger in summer means an abundance of water and lush greenery, Image Credit: Savannah St Claire
The Numbers Behind the Rain
While this time of year marks the peak of the usual rainy season in the Kruger region, the volume of water received over the last few weeks has been extraordinary. To put it into perspective, the region typically records around 300mm for the entire season. So far this year, we have seen nearly 600mm, which amounts to double the seasonal average in just a fraction of the time.
Despite the intensity of the rain, our CEO and Founder, David Ryan, remains optimistic about the resilience of the region:
"Africa has a natural knack for turning challenges into enduring memories. While the sheer volume of rain has been a surprise, it has also transformed the landscape into a lush, vibrant paradise. Our priority, as always, is the safety and experience of our guests, and we’re working closely with our partners on the ground to ensure every Rhino Africa guest is well looked after."
David Ryan has a deep love for Kruger National Park and its seasonal changes
National Park vs. Private Reserves
It’s important to understand the differences between the Kruger National Park’s public sector and the adjoining private game reserves, such as Sabi Sand, Timbavati, and Thornybush.
While the public national park has borne the brunt of the weather, with SANParks currently managing repairs to bridges and low-level crossings alongside temporary camp closures, the private reserves remain far less affected.
In fact, the majority of our partner lodges have reported little to no infrastructure damage, and while a select few took the proactive step of closing briefly for minor clean-ups, most will be fully operational within the next fortnight.
Barry Langenhoven, Head of Sales at Rhino Africa, shares his first-hand insights:
"We’re in constant contact with our lodge partners in the Sabi Sand and Timbavati. The message is clear: they’ll be up and running soon. For the vast majority of our guests, their itineraries remain unchanged, and the warm, world-class hospitality they expect is exactly what they’ll receive."
Come rain or shine, a safari in the Kruger is a life-altering experience
What to Expect on Safari Right Now
If you’re travelling to Kruger National Park soon, your safari experience will be as thrilling as ever, though with a few "adventurous" tweaks.
- Engaging the 4x4: Expect a slightly more rugged game drive experience. Your expert rangers may need to engage 4x4 modes more frequently to navigate the damp terrain, adding a bit of extra "wild" to your wildlife viewing.
- Off-Roading Limits: To protect the delicate soil and ensure vehicle safety, rangers may limit off-road driving in certain areas until the ground dries further.
- Exciting Sightings: The abundance of water often leads to spectacular sightings, as animals congregate on higher ground or around drainage lines that are now flowing beautifully.
- Lush Green Landscapes: Rain equals green, and Kruger is a photographer’s dream right now!
Greenery makes for stunning photography, Image Credit: Katharina Mandy
Travel with the Best, Travel with Rhino Africa
In unexpected times, expertise is your best travel companion. And at Rhino Africa, we don't just book holidays; we curate life-changing journeys backed by first-hand knowledge.
Our team is handling all the logistics, from re-routing transfers to checking road access, so all you have to do is show up and enjoy the magic of the bush.
The sun is already beginning to poke through the clouds, and the "Rhinoverse" is as beautiful as ever. Come, see for yourself.
