Se-Anne Rall|Published
Visitors to the Kruger National Park can look forward to refreshed dining experiences, with new restaurant operators appointed at selected rest camps.
South African National Parks (SANParks) announced the changes following a competitive tender process. The appointments coincide with the expiry of previous concession agreements.
SANParks Head of Communication and spokesperson JP Louw said the changes will introduce new restaurant concepts at Lower Sabie, Pretoriuskop and Berg-en-Dal. The Cattle Baron restaurant at Skukuza will also undergo refurbishment.
SANParks said the new operators would bring fresh concepts and investment to some of the park’s popular camps.
The changes form part of its efforts to improve visitor experiences and maintain tourism facilities.
Four restaurant outlets set for changes
Several familiar dining spots will have new identities as the park refreshes its food offering.
- At Lower Sabie, the former Mugg & Bean will become Sabie River Café.
- Pretoriuskop’s Wimpy will make way for Le Lapeng Burgers and Grill.
- At Berg-en-Dal, Tindlovu Restaurant will be transformed into Eziko Eatery.
- Meanwhile, Cattle Baron at Skukuza will undergo refurbishment to give the restaurant a refreshed look and feel.
The changes will bring new concepts to the park while maintaining dining options for visitors staying at or passing through the camps.
What visitors need to know
The refurbishment work may temporarily affect dining services at the camps.
SANParks said temporary dining facilities with limited menus would be available during refurbishment periods to help maintain service.
Visitors should therefore be prepared for a reduced food offering while the upgrades are under way.
SANParks and the operators have apologised for any inconvenience and thanked visitors for their patience.
The park authority said it looked forward to unveiling the upgraded facilities in the coming months.
Investment in the Kruger tourism experience
Beyond the restaurant changes, the appointments form part of a wider effort to strengthen the park’s tourism offering.
SANParks said the new operators would bring investment and contribute to economic growth and job creation.
For visitors, the changes promise refreshed dining spaces and new food concepts at selected camps.
Those planning a Kruger getaway should keep the refurbishment work in mind when arranging meals during their stay.
The upgrades are expected to roll out over the coming months.
seanne.rall@iol.co.za
IOL