KNP GATE QUOTAS IN FORCE DURING THE EASTER WEEKEND

SKUKUZA – Day Visitors to the Kruger National Park (KNP) are requested to take note of gate quotas when planning their visit, as these will strictly be enforced during the coming Easter Weekend which starts on Thursday, 2 April until Monday, 6 April 2015.

Visitors are advised to either arrive at the gate very early in the morning because the service is on a “first come first serve” basis or pre-book their entrance with central reservations office on 012 428 9111; to gain access.

Although operational throughout the year, the gate quotas are mostly reached during long weekends or public holidays. “We urge individuals planning to come to the park as day visitors to please make the necessary arrangement ahead of time in order to avoid unnecessary disappointment”, said the General Manager: Communications and Marketing in the KNP, William Mabasa.

Pre-booking for entrance comes with a non-refundable deposit of R 36 per adult and R 18 per child; which must be paid in advance. Day visitors with advanced bookings are expected to arrive at the booked gate and date before 13:00; after which the booking lapses. A pre-booking however does not exempt the day visitor from paying the normal conservation fees upon arrival at the gate but secures him/her entry.

All visitors are also reminded to bring along their identity documents (IDs) or alternative form of identity to avoid problems at the gates. Wild Cards cannot be used to identify one as legitimate holder and should be accompanied by some form of identity.

Mabasa also reminded Day Visitors not to bring liquor with them as the alcohol ban on public areas in the Park is a permanent rule which is enforced at all times; other Park rules must also be adhered to at all times whilst in the Park.

Visitors can report any rules and regulations infringement which they witness to the Emergency Call Centre numbers 013 735 4325/013 735 0197 or 076 801 9679.

Day Visitors, who may not be able to gain entry because the quota shall have been reached, can if they wish, make use of the park and ride a facility which is available at some gates. The park and ride will cost visitors extra money but should be better than having to return home.

“We request visitors to plan their trip by observing gate opening and closing times so that they do not find themselves either speeding or arriving late at the camps/gates on their way in/out of the park. People must please read their permits which they receive at the gates because all the rules and regulations of the park are clearly stipulated in those documents”, concluded Mabasa.

KNP has 10 entrance gates i.e. Pafuri, Punda Maria, Phalaborwa, Giriyondo, Orpen, Paul Kruger, Phabeni, Numbi, Malelane and Crocodile Bridge.