Kruger train hotel defies lockdown odds AND gravity

Suspended high above, guests can enjoy unparalleled views. Photo: The News Portal / Twitter

If you’re looking for interesting accommodation, boy have we got one for you! This luxury, suspended train hotel in the Kruger National Park is a gravity-defying wonder and is not to be missed.

Kruger Shalati the Train on the Bridge certainly is a special one. Not only for its unique offerings and location, but also for its story of perseverance.

The year 2020 saw much of the travel and tourism industry down and out – with empty airports, restaurants, bars and hotels. Despite these deterrent conditions, a local South African company decided to defy the odds and open a brand new hotel. And in true underdog fashion, their perseverance is now paying off.

Cabin Manager, Justice Muchinya told Reuters:

“I thought we were taking very big risk. I never thought we are going operate and have guests coming in during that time,”

“Ever since we opened, we had lots of guests who would be extending or guests who will be returning and that doesn’t normally happen with lodges,” Muchinya added.

What’s so special about Kruger Shalati?

The hotel is an almost 100-year-old train that’s been restored to perfection and sits atop the Selati suspension bridge. If that doesn’t impress you, how about the fact that this bridge is one that spans the incredibly wildlife-rich Sabie River in the heart of the Kruger National Park?

The hotel offers the most unique, luxury accommodation with 24 Carriage rooms and seven Bridge House rooms, a wildlife viewing deck and an impossibly beautiful swimming pool with a view. There’s also a range of spa treatments available on board.

Luxury experiences like these do tend to come at a price, however. Rates for a double/twin Carriage room ranges from R6 750 (SADC) to R8 950 (International). All rates are per person, sharing a room, per night.

Rates include accommodation, all meals and drinks, two game drives daily in open safari vehicles and return road transfers between the Skukuza Airport and the hotel.

ALSO READ: Six unique accommodation spots in SA that you’ll love

Sundeeka Mungroo

Sundeeka Mungroo is a content writer, foodie and all-round adventure-seeker. She's a graduate of the University of South Africa with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature, and has worked as a copywriter and editor in the digital marketing industry. Sundeeka currently writes for I Love South Africa and The South African. She lives in the beautiful Mother City and loves exploring all that South Africa has to offer.