Property

Inside the Kruger National Park’s ultra-luxury train hotel

Kirsten Minnaar • 15 October 2025

Kruger Shalati is a luxurious, one-of-a-kind hotel in Kruger National Park, built on the historic Selati railway bridge above the Sabie River, and is considered one of the best safari hotels in South Africa.

Located in South Africa’s Kruger National Park (KNP), the Kruger Shalati Train on a Bridge development was announced in 2019.

Developed by the Motsamayi Tourism Group, the project was inspired by the fact that visitors of the KNP used to arrive by train.

The project incorporates the original old Selati railway bridge at Skukuza Camp, where the KNP’s first warden, James Steven-Hamilton, welcomed visitors during the 1920s.

At night, these same guests would retreat into the train to sleep before it moved on to its next destination the following day.

Looking to recreate these early visits, the project encompassed the restoration and upgrading of a train that now permanently rests on the original tracks running across the bridge, high above the waters of the Sabie River.

“This is our opportunity to revitalise and recapture an important part of Kruger’s history, while at the same time increasing both the range and quality of product on offer in the park,” said Judiet Barnes, former Concession General Manager of Kruger Shalati, in 2019.

She explained that the product design is largely the differentiator in this project, since there is no similar offering in South Africa or anywhere in the world.

“As a result, an important ‘must experience’ destination will entice visitors locally and from across the globe to experience a very important part of our Park’s history,” she said.

Barnes explained that the Kruger Shalati team also had to work very closely with SANPARKS to ensure minimal disruption to the KNP.

“We have put into place all the necessary measures needed to ensure the impact on the environment is minimal and the Fauna and Flora is not disturbed,” she explained.

One of these measures included restoring the train coaches in Johannesburg and only transporting them to the Kruger once they were fully completed to minimise disruptions.

A safari hotel on the right track

“This is an exciting addition to our portfolio of tourism products in the Kruger”, said SANPARKS CEO Hapiloe Sello when the project was under construction.

“We are particularly excited about its uniqueness, which will be a major attraction for domestic and international tourists alike.”

Motsamayi Tourism Group CEO Jerry Mabena echoed this sentiment, explaining that they wanted to create a tourism destination so unique that people from around the world would travel to stay at Shalati.

“Through this development, we are truly reimagining Africa with pioneering innovations and ingenuity,” Mabena said.

Unfortunately, the project hit a bump in the road when Covid-19 shutdowns hit, which led some to speculate that the original opening date of December 2020 would have to be moved up.

However, not only did they open on time, but even in the height of the pandemic, their pre-opening early-bird offer sold out within days, despite tourism rates dwindling globally.

From the start, Shalati has been receiving praise for its one-of-a-kind, luxury accommodation, exceptional Kruger views and amenities.

Kruger Shalati offers two types of accommodation – 24 carriage suites on the Train on the Bridge and 7 bridge house suites adjacent to the bridge in a picturesque garden setting with the train as a backdrop.

The arrival lounge, reception, and dining areas, along with two of Shalati’s three swimming pools, are adjacent to the Selati Bridge, which overlooks the Sabie River. The river flows all year round, drawing animals and birds daily.

Guests can also enjoy the following amenities –

Unique overhanging pool with a viewing deck on the bridge, as well as two land-based swimming pools
Kruger Shalati boutique gift store and a pool with a deck at the Bridge House
African-inspired fare at the Bridge House restaurant
Perfect positioning in the heart of Big Five territory
A myriad of wildlife and birds, easily spotted from your luxurious room and on game drives
Rates inclusive of all meals, house drinks, and two game drives daily
In-room spa treatments

For locals, prices start from R5,960 per night for local adults sharing the twin or family rooms, and go up to R11,940 for a carriage suite. For international tourists, prices go up to R16,190 per night.

Recently, Kruger Shalati was voted South Africa’s Leading Safari Lodge at the prestigious 2025 World Travel Awards.

“This accolade reflects not only our lodge but also our valued guests who choose Kruger Shalati for their safari adventures,” Shalati said.

“We’ll carry this momentum forward. Expect continuous enhancements in personalised service, sustainability initiatives, and immersive wildlife experiences – all designed to honour the authenticity and magic of the Kruger National Park.”