Unique, Luxurious Accommodation in the Kruger National Park
Stories and photos by Elsa Dixon (unless otherwise indicated)
The luxury Kruger Shalati Train on the Bridge may not be going anywhere, but it certainly provides a travel experience of a lifetime. Perched high on the iconic Selati Bridge above the Sabie River, you can enjoy the endless vistas of the Kruger National Park from your sleeping quarters and relax at the swimming pool on the deck while admiring the wild animals meters below. The Kruger National Park is renowned for its abundance of wildlife, rich flora, and biodiversity.
Map of Shalati Train in Kruger National Park in South Africa
Welcome to the Kruger National Park
One gets a warm welcome and a lovely refreshing drink on arrival. Sit down for a few minutes and enjoy the tranquility and understated luxury of the reception area.
What a feeling to walk across the bridge as the river roars below. I climbed up the steps to glimpse one of the 24 luxury en-suite compartments, gasping as I saw a big glass wall spanning the room’s length. It must be an incredible feeling waking up to this stunning view of the Park below.
Awesome Views from the Train
Or, what about enjoying the bathtub or shower while gazing at what is happening in the bush below?
Then, the finest quality fittings and delicate touches of the Afro-chick boutique-style caught my attention. Utilizing local art and crafting skills, the throws on the Super-King beds are hand-made and specially designed for the hotel. So also, are the luxurious one-of-a-kind printed robes hanging in the closet.
Next, I walked along the external walkway created on the bridge to explore the rest of the train. The friendly barman welcomed me with a big smile while the plush chairs in the lounge area beckoned invitingly.
But the next surprise was the impressive swimming pool area. Ingeniously constructed terraced decks surround a big circular infinity pool jutting out over the bridge. Imagine swimming high above the Sabie River while gazing into its depths. One could scarcely wish for a better vantage point from where to feel the fresh breeze, smell the bush, and observe the animal movements.
Retaining Elements of the Railways
I was still smiling from the sheer joy of seeing this lively elevated accommodation as I walked down to explore the other seven rooms in the Kruger Shalati Bridge House next to the bridge. I loved how the planners retained elements of the railways, such as the aluminum water containers in the yard. These rooms, as well as the innovative pool deck, are gorgeous as well.
“Insane!” and “The ultimate piece of real estate!” are just a few visitors’ comments on seeing the complex. The Train stands precisely where the original train would park overnight when the first guests explored the Park in the early 1920s. The Train and the Bridge Houses are adjacent to the Kruger Station, built where those guests enjoyed a feast in the bush. This Precinct offers the visitor retail and food, while there are plans afoot for presenting edutainment experiences. The 3638 Artisanal Eatery refers to the number of the train parked in the station.
Skukuza on the Banks of the Sabie River
The Train on the Bridge is not far from the main camp on the southern banks of the Sabie River. Skukuza is the Kruger National Park’s largest rest camp and administrative headquarters. The camp houses banking facilities, a Post Office, a laundromat, medical facilities, and a world-class spa. Besides the beautiful curio and gift store, there is a choice of a deli and restaurant for visitors. Of course, the Shalati complex has its own fine dining restaurant.
Kruger Gate Welcome Sign
If you have your own or rented a vehicle, enjoy a self-drive through the Kruger National Park. Keep in mind that the gates open and close at fixed hours and different times during different seasons. You can also enjoy official game drives with trained field guides on demand. In addition, there are guided walks, mountain biking, eco-trails, and birding activities for the more adventurous. For the avid golfer, the
Skukuza Golf Club
offers a unique ‘wild experience’ since the greens are not fenced, and wild animals roam the grass at times.
World Class Hospitality at The Shalati Train on the Bridge
The Kruger Shalati complex has provided the local people with job opportunities, skills development, and world-class hospitality training, thereby improving the quality of life for the surrounding communities. For the tourist, revel in luxurious comfort, reminisce about bygone times and enjoy the Kruger from high above the Sabie River.
Thebe Group
Kruger Shalati The Train On The Bridge
Selati Station and Bridge Skukuza Rest Camp Kruger National Park
PO Box 360 Skukuza 1350
Telephone +27 (0)66 15 999 72
info@krugershalati.com
OFFICE HOURS ARE BETWEEN 07:30 AND 17:00 (GMT+2), FROM MONDAY – FRIDAY
ALTERNATIVELY, PLEASE EMAIL US ON RESERVATIONS@KRUGERSHALATI.COM OR
INFO@KRUGERSHALATI.COM AND WE WILL GET BACK TO YOU REGARDING YOUR QUERY.
