A new seasonal, pre-scheduled tourism-only border crossing between Kruger National Park in South Africa and Gonarezhou National Park in Zimbabwe has been approved by the Ministers of Home Affairs in both countries.
It will operate through the Sengwe-Tshipise Corridor via the Pafuri-Sengwe access point within the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area (GLTFCA).
The pilot project from May 1 to November 30 (subject to river levels) allows for day-time crossings between 11h00 and 15h00 on a maximum of two scheduled days per week. Only 4x4 vehicles will be permitted.
According to the joint statement issued by the Border Management Authority of South Africa, the Zimbabwe Department of Immigration and the GLTFCA Joint Management Board, the initiative is aiming to assess the feasibility and demand for cross-border tourism movement within the transfrontier conservation landscape.
Access to the route is conditional. Travellers must:
- Pre-book a minimum four-night stay in the GLTFCA, including two nights in South Africa (at Makuleke Region sites, Awelani Lodge or other approved locations) and two nights in Zimbabwe (in Gonarezhou or approved nearby lodges)
- Register with SANParks and ZimParks at least 14 days in advance
- Submit completed immigration exemption forms through SANParks and ZimParks prior to arrival
- Present valid passports, vehicle documents and yellow fever certificates if applicable
- Exit the receiving country at a designated international border post within visa time limits
Border formalities will take place at Pafuri Gate (South Africa) and the designated Zimbabwe entry point. Travellers will undergo visual observation, interviews and temperature screening. No goods, commercial cargo or unauthorised items will be allowed.
All participants must comply with eco-tourism requirements, including strict waste management, speed restrictions and cultural respect. No walk-ins will be permitted and access will only be granted on scheduled crossing dates with confirmed reservations and documentation.
