SANParks has confirmed “fuel management measures” in some national parks, following reports of shortages and restrictions.
SANParks Head of Communications, JP Louw, told Tourism Update that the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, Augrabies Falls National Park and /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park have implemented limitations on all types of fuel with restrictions varying between 20 litres and 40 litres per vehicle per day.
In Addo Elephant National Park, the limit is 30 litres per vehicle for all types of fuel.
“These measures are precautionary, temporary and actively monitored, and parks remain open and fully welcoming to visitors. Fuel management measures are limited to specific parks and supply points, and primarily relate to the use of all fuel types for operational purposes. There are no blanket fuel bans for visitors and most private visitor vehicles are not impacted, provided standard travel planning precautions are followed,” said Louw.
The measures are largely driven by external fuel supply logistics and broader national fuel distribution pressures combined with SANParks’ responsibility to prioritise essential conservation, safety and operational services, he added.
Speaking about alternative fuel arrangements, Louw said, in some parks, SANParks is exploring or already implementing adjusted fuel allocation points.
Kruger
Kruger National Park remains open, operational and ready to welcome guests. However, Louw said there may be intermittent fuel availability at some fuel stations.
“This does not affect entry into the park or the overall Kruger experience. Visitors are encouraged to enter the park with sufficient fuel, particularly if planning longer routes or multiple-day self-drives.”
Challenges
Despite the reassurance, some operators have experienced challenges on the ground.
Murray Graham of Discover Kruger Safaris said fuel availability at some camps was unclear at the time, prompting precautionary itinerary adjustments.
During an overnight safari around Satara and Orpen, he was advised to fill up after each drive because staff were unsure when supplies might run out.
Diesel was temporarily unavailable at Orpen Camp and queues at filling stations outside the park limited how much fuel he could obtain.
“Thankfully, we managed without disruptions, but it was stressful planning around the uncertainty,” Graham said.
Availability has since improved although operators are monitoring rising fuel costs closely, he added.
“I know some companies in the area have already increased prices and others may need to follow.”
Minimal impact
Despite this, SANParks maintains that the broader safari tourism impact will be negligible.
“Most visitors will experience minimal to no impact, provided they enter the park with a reasonably full tank and plan their routes sensibly. SANParks transport services continue to operate as normal with fuel allocated and prioritised for guest services. Operators have been informed and are working closely with park management to adjust logistics where needed,” said Louw.
“South Africa’s safari market is well-established, diverse and resilient. With clear communication and sensible visitor planning, these temporary measures are unlikely to influence international travel decisions or long-term market demand.”
SANParks emphasised that no permanent or seasonal fuel restrictions are currently planned and any future measures would be “limited in scope” and clearly communicated in advance.
The fuel restrictions are also not expected to impact accommodation establishments within the country’s national parks.
“SANParks has prioritised power generation for off-grid lodges and rest camps, and there are no widespread electricity disruptions affecting visitors. Where applicable, lodges are supported through hybrid energy systems, including solar and generator backup,” said Louw.
