Two SA border posts shut due to flooding
By Communications on March 17, 2026
Operations at the Pafuri and Giriyondo ports of entry between South Africa and Mozambique have been suspended after heavy flooding raised safety concerns for travellers and border officials.
Border Management Authority (BMA) commissioner Michael Masiapato said the closures followed rising water levels in rivers surrounding the ports, which are located in the Kruger National Park.
The Pafuri port of entry, in the far northern section of the park, is accessed through Pafuri Gate, about 30km away. The gate is also closed after flood waters made the route unsafe.
According to reports from rangers monitoring conditions, water levels at the Luvuvhu River bridge have risen significantly.
The Klein Letaba and Middlevlei rivers are overflowing, while the Letaba bridge is nearing capacity as more water flows into the system.
The Luvuvhu River runs alongside the Pafuri port of entry, increasing risk to infrastructure, personnel and travellers in the area.
As a precautionary measure, the BMA has suspended operations at the affected ports until conditions improve.
The Giriyondo port of entry, also linking South Africa and Mozambique, is part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park shared by South Africa, Mozambique and Zimbabwe.
Travellers planning to access Pafuri Gate are advised to use Punda Maria Gate instead.