Kruger National Park unveils major upgrades ahead of festive season

As the festive season fast approaches, the Kruger National Park (KNP) is promising holidaymakers a refreshed experience, thanks to major changes at its Skukuza park in Mpumalanga.

With thousands of guests expected to visit SANParks facilities in the coming weeks, South Africa’s largest self-owned and managed park says its high-impact revamp project is well under way, following a significant cash injection from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.

In 2023, the department allocated R700 million for infrastructure upgrades. Currently, about 40% of the old rondavels have been renovated and fitted with modern finishes in a simple, rustic-industrial style that still bares the feel of a safari lodge.

KNP programme manager for technical services, Bharat Gulab, told EWN that each renovated hut costs approximately R1.7 million. He added that most of the furniture in the chalets is sourced from local suppliers in neighbouring communities.

Gulab explained that the aim of upgrading the self-catering units is to create multipurpose spaces that better cater to guests’ needs.

“In the past, the idea was that you didn’t need the best facilities you just needed a place to sleep before heading out early to look for animals,” he said. “But that vision has changed. With the help of external consultants and appointed architects, we initially set out to upgrade the kitchens and patios, and the project evolved from there.”

According to management, the revamps also align with their efforts to welcome a new and emerging market of travellers.

Commercial operations manager Thabo Tlalanyane said new offerings have been introduced to appeal to both long-standing visitors and newcomers.

“We’ve also established the new Train on the Bridge, which is an additional facility and product. By introducing these new offerings, we’re ensuring we cater to the entire range of guests who require more sophisticated services.”

Gulab noted that the funds have also been used to address other infrastructure needs, includingroad maintenance, repairs to flood-damaged facilities, staff accommodation, and various other upgrades.

Work has also been done towards road maintenance, repairs to flood-damaged facilities, staff accommodation and various other upgrades.