By Siphiwe Nyathi
Skukuza - Day visitors planning to go to the Kruger National Park during the upcoming Easter Weekend have been warned to book early.
Kruger spokesman William Mabasa said day visitors who do not pre-book will be treated on a first come, first served basis. Once the visitor quota is reached, visitors will be turned away.
“We are calling on everyone who is planning to come to the park as a day visitor to please make the necessary arrangement beforehand in order to avoid unnecessary disappointment," said Mabasa on Wednesday.
Day visitors may pre-book by providing a non-refundable deposit of R32 per adult and R16 per child.
They must arrive by no later than 1pm at the gate and on the date they have chosen, after which the booking lapses.
They will still be charged the normal conservation fees upon arrival.
“All visitors are also reminded to bring along their identity documents or alternative form of identity to avoid problems at the gates," said Mabasa.
He warned that Wild Cards cannot be used as a form of identity.
Pre-bookings may be done by calling (012) 428 9111.
“We also 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,” said Mabasa.
Mabasa reminded all visitors that they may not bring alcohol into the park.
The Kruger will make park and ride facilities available at some gates so that if the quota is exceeded, day visitors can still visit public picnic areas.
"This will cost visitors extra money, but should be better than having to be turned back at the entrance gate,” Mabasa said.
The Kruger has ten entrance gates which are Pafuri, Punda Maria, Phalaborwa, Giriyondo, Orpen, Paul Kruger, Phabeni, Numbi, Malelane and Crocodile Bridge.
To report any incident at the park visitors can call the Emergency Call Centre on 013 735 4325. – SAnews.gov.za
