SANParks was awarded funding of R396-million last year for infrastructure upgrades. Of this, R195-million was allocated to the Kruger National Park.
According to Tourism Update, the upgrades to Kruger will be carried out over the next three years. Included in the refurbishments are tourist facilities, gate upgrades, staff accommodation, roads, day visitor facilities, and other smaller upgrades.
Shingwedzi will be getting a new day-visitor site. A conference center at Mopani will also be developed. Lowe Sabie’s tented accommodation will also be getting upgrades.
According to the Head of the Department of Technical Services, Blake Schraader, 99% of the plans for Punda Maria, Shingwedzi, Letaba, Satara, Orpen, Roodewal, Lower-Sabie, Berg-en-Dal and Pretoriuskop have been finalised.
“Our aim is to address the age of structures and to achieve star grading,” says Schraader.
The plans for the main building, reception and restaurant at Punda Maria, as well as restaurant and reception at Letaba and Olifants are on track.
The southern gates, as well as Orpen and Phalaborwa, are receiving upgrades. Crocodile Bridge will be getting a new road and bridge so that the camp becomes an end destination rather than the road passing through the camp.
New bird hides and viewing points will also be built throughout the park.
Image source: Unsplash
