South African National Parks are set to embark on a R370 million upgrading and refurbishment programme of many of its tourism facilities in the Kruger National Park (KNP).
Punda Maria Rest Camp is earmarked for an upgrade. Image: Melanie van Zyl/ Getaway Gallery
According to KNP’s managing director, Gareth Coleman, visitors will see a marked improvement by the end of the year. ‘The first phase of the programme will provide important impetus to upgrading infrastructure and improving the visitor experience.’
Coleman added that the refurbishment should not interfere with those planning to visit the park soon, commenting that ‘we will do our utmost to minimise the impact on visitor experience and request patience and understanding from our clients during the refurbishment period for any inconvenience caused.’
The Letaba Shop which burnt down in September 2020 is one of the facilities prioritised to be rebuilt. Picture: Lauren Dold.
The facilities prioritised for 2022 are:
- Rebuilding of the burnt Letaba Shop and fencing.
- The rebuilding of Lower Sabie petrol station also destroyed by fire.
- Construction of the Shingwedzi main building roof which had been removed due to termites.
- Phalaborwa Wildlife Activity Hub (Phase I).
- Shangoni (Phase I) which includes a picnic spot, camping site and Shangoni reception facility.
- Punda Maria tent upgrades.
- Upgrade of five Entrance Gates at Pafuri, Punda Maria, Orpen, Phabeni and Numbi.
- Renovation/Upgrade of more than 110 Tourism Accommodation units at camps across the Park.
- Upgrading of Sweni Trails camp.
- Repair and upgrade of the viewing deck at Skukuza camp impacted by termites.
- Repair and upgrade the restaurant viewing deck and handrails at Olifants camp impacted by termites.
Funds have also been allocated to the upgrading of selected Staff accommodation, the resurfacing of identified tar roads, and the re-gravelling of selected gravel roads.
Picture: Getaway Gallery
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