Southern Africa is taking a bold step towards seamless cross-border safari tourism with the launch of a pilot tourism-only border crossing between South Africa’s Kruger National Park and Zimbabwe’s Gonarezhou National Park. Approved by the Ministers of Home Affairs of both countries, this seasonal initiative will operate from 1 May to 30 November 2025, subject to river levels.
Located in the awe-inspiring Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area (GLTFCA) — a vast, shared conservation landscape spanning South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique — the crossing at Pafuri-Sengwe offers nature lovers and adventure travellers a new way to experience the region’s rich biodiversity, culture, and landscapes in one continuous journey.
This pilot project is designed with conservation and community in mind. Access will be limited to pre-scheduled crossings (maximum twice a week), between 11:00 and 15:00, for 4×4 vehicles only. To be eligible, travellers must pre-book a minimum 4-night itinerary, including at least two nights in South Africa’s Kruger National Park (Makuleke Region, Awelani Lodge, or other approved properties), and nights in Zimbabwe’s Gonarezhou National Park or surrounding approved accommodations.
All travel must be registered with SANParks and ZIMParks at least 14 days in advance. Immigration exemption forms must be submitted prior to travel, and standard health and identification checks will be conducted at Pafuri Gate and the Zimbabwe entry point.
This is a tourism-only crossing: no commercial goods, large quantities of personal medicine, or non-prescribed items will be permitted. Biosecurity and visa regulations must be strictly observed, and travellers are expected to adhere to eco-friendly travel practices.
By linking these iconic parks, the Pafuri-Sengwe crossing opens the door for immersive transboundary safaris, deeper community engagement, and a unified vision for conservation-driven travel. It’s a major milestone in positioning the GLTFCA as a singular, cross-border wilderness destination — and a new chapter in safari travel across Southern Africa.