Safari goers have poured into the Kruger National Park this past week after SANParks opened to the public on Monday [8 June]. Excited visitors shared magnificent pictures of the bush on social media, leaving those stuck in different provinces green with envy.
Since the reopening though, several complaints have emerged about the safety rules and regulations imposed by the Park.
Some visitors are not happy with the vehicle capacity regulations.
Only self-drive safaris are permitted under Level 3.
Only 70% of a vehicle’s capacity may be occupied when entering the Park, resulting in some families having to go in multiple vehicles. Rules pertaining to specific vehicles have been set out as follows:
Credit: Facebook/SANParks- Kruger National park
‘The 70% vehicle capacity is strictly applied – not a bit over is permitted,’ said the Park’s Facebook group administrator, Dalene Preston.
Members of the public took to social media to express their dissatisfaction, arguing that the rules are illogical.
‘Please tell me why a family of 5 are not permitted to enter Croc Bridge KNP? We were told yesterday at the Croc Bridge office that only 3 people allowed in a double cab, in a Fortuner 4. What’s the difference? We just renewed our Wildcard, and are not permitted to enter as a family,’ Facebook user Yolande Ehlers Venter posted in the Facebook group.
Many agreed, saying that families who live together should be allowed to travel in the same vehicle.
‘Please can we get more clarity on why a family of 4 (2 adults and 2 children under the age of 12) cannot travel in one car to the park. We have been in lockdown together in the same house for over 2 months. Surely the government and SanParks cant expect us to now come in 2 cars,’ added Natalie Petal Alsworth-Elvey.
General Manager of Communications and Marketing of the Kruger National Park Ike Phaala, told Getaway Magazine that these rules are in line with government regulations.
‘We don’t come up with the rules and we can’t change it. People must adhere for their own safety,’ he added.
Government states that public transport services like taxis are allowed to operate at 70% capacity, while e-hailing services like Uber as well as private vehicles may only occupy 50% capacity.
For reservations, phone +27 12 428 9111. Find the full regulations for entering SANParks here.
Image credit: Madeleine-van-Heerden
