Authorities have launched a manhunt after two tourists were found murdered in the northern section of the Kruger National Park, in a case that has sent shockwaves through South Africa’s tourism sector.
Image used for illustrative purposes/Joss Woodhead/Unsplash
According to police, the bodies were discovered near Cross Corner, at the confluence of the Levubu and Limpopo rivers in the park’s remote Pafuri region. The victims were identified as a 71-year-old man and a woman whose identity was still being confirmed at the time of reporting.
Initial reports indicate that the pair had arrived at one of the park’s camps earlier this week in a green Ford Ranger double cab before communication with them was lost. Authorities later discovered their bodies in the northern reaches of the reserve, prompting a large-scale investigation.
The South African Police Service has since mobilised resources to track down those responsible, while SANParks said management was “shocked and saddened” by the incident.
The incident has again placed the spotlight on safety concerns linked to routes surrounding and within the greater Kruger region. In recent years, isolated incidents involving tourists travelling to and from the park have drawn international attention, including the fatal shooting of a German tourist near the Numbi Gate area in 2022.
Despite these incidents, Kruger National Park remains one of Africa’s most visited wildlife destinations, attracting local and international travellers with its biodiversity, safari experiences and extensive wilderness areas.
Police investigations are ongoing, and authorities have urged anyone with information related to the case to come forward.
Follow us on social media for more travel news, inspiration, and guides. You can also tag us to be featured.
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
