Hoedspruit, South Africa – 20 January 2026

As many of you will be aware, the Lowveld was recently affected by an intense weather system that brought exceptionally heavy rainfall across the region, including large parts of Kruger National Park. This slow-moving tropical system resulted in widespread flooding, swollen rivers, and infrastructure disruption across the area.

On 8 January, the system moved in decisively and we began receiving significant and sustained rainfall. By 9 January, with conditions deteriorating, the decision was taken to have all day staff remain safely at home. At the same time, alternative arrangements were made to relocate the handful of guests remaining at the lodge to safety. Due to the weather, all air travel was suspended, and transfers were conducted by road only.

A small team of essential staff remained on site, and while operations looked a little different, the spirit of the lodge never wavered. Safari vehicles and Jim Green boots were briefly retired, replaced by tractors and gumboots, proof that adaptability is the most valuable kit in the bush.

Times like these it is incredibly touching to see a team that is already so close jump in wherever they can and simply do what needs to be done.

The wildlife, as always, had their own opinions. Terrapins, Egyptian geese, and the Jabulani herd had an absolute blast, making the most of every puddle, pan, and flooded clearing. The big cats, in true feline fashion, were far less impressed, choosing higher ground and waiting patiently for the bush to return to a more dignified state.

Our ranger department and chefs worked side by side at the HERD elephant homestead each day, assisting with cleaning, chopping bana grass, and preparing branches for our elephants. The butler team, under the guidance of the reserve team, supported power and water requirements, and across departments, everyone stepped in wherever help was needed. Titles disappeared, teamwork took over.

By 19 January, the rain finally eased after an extraordinary 346mm of rainfall, more than half of our average annual total in just over a week.

We were incredibly fortunate. Damage has been limited to sections of road infrastructure and a few minor lodge repairs. The lodge is currently operating on our solar plant and backup generator while Eskom power is being restored. Fresh water systems are in the process of being fully reinstated, and our reserve team is working tirelessly to repair roads and prepare the reserve for the arrival of our next guests.

Eastgate Airport is now operational again, with Cemair and Airlink flying in and out. Only Safair is currently temporarily suspended.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for the messages of concern, support, and kindness. We are deeply grateful to report that everyone here is safe and unscathed. Our thoughts are with neighbouring properties and communities who were not as fortunate, and we continue to hold them close as recovery efforts continue.

Under African skies, muddied, tested, and resilient, we stand steady.

Media Contact
Lerissa van Biljon | Media Manager
Email: media@jabulanisafari.com
Phone: +27 (0) 63 035 0507

Reservations Contact
Adele Welgemoed | Reservations Manager
Email: res@jabulanisafari.com
Phone: +27 (0)12 460 7348