LIMPOPO – The opening of the Letaba high level bridge is good news for visitors to the Kruger National Park (KNP) after it was damaged by heavy rains earlier this year.

Sanparks confirmed the bridge is officially open, restoring access between the north and the south of the park. The bridge had been closed following severe flooding in January and February, which caused widespread damage to park infrastructure.

While traffic is now permitted, Sanparks has cautioned visitors that the bridge is operating under temporary conditions. There are currently no safety barriers in place, and only one lane is open. As a result, motorists are not allowed to exit their vehicles while crossing the bridge.

KNP general manager Rey Mthimkhulu told the Herald that while traffic flow has resumed, visitors need to be very cautious.

“Traffic is open, but only one lane. We appeal to guests to exercise patience, take turns when crossing, and avoid stopping on the bridge,” he said.

The Letaba high level bridge was among several facilities badly affected by the floods. At the height of the flooding, the Letaba Rest Camp had to evacuate guests and staff after being submerged by rising waters. It has still not reopened for visitors and is currently under renovation.

Sanparks has expressed appreciation for the teams who worked extended hours to repair the bridge, which reconnects the Nxanatseni and Marula regions of the park.

Officials confirmed that once safety barriers are installed and a final inspection is completed, visitors will again be allowed to stop and exit their vehicles on the bridge as per normal park rules.

Other good news for travellers is that Giriyondo Border Post, in KNP’s north, reopened on Tuesday, March 31, following its temporary closure also due to floods in January.

The border post serves as a vital link between the KNP and the Limpopo National Park in Mozambique, enabling nature lovers to experience the rich biodiversity of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area.