Embarking on a Unique Odyssey: Kruger Shalati’s Timeless Journey

South Africa, a land renowned for its extravagant and nostalgic train journeys, harbors an unexpected gem that captures the hearts of enthusiasts in a different way – Kruger Shalati: The Train on the Bridge. Situated in Skukuza within Kruger National Park, an expansive game reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site, this unconventional hotel marries luxury accommodation with an intimate wildlife experience, creating a one-of-a-kind travel escapade. Let’s find out with nowglas.

The roots of Kruger Shalati delve into the earliest days of the park, when steam trains traversed Kruger along the Selati Railway Line in the 1920s. During that era, steam trains were not merely a mode of transportation but an integral part of the tourist experience. These trains would park overnight on the same bridge where Kruger Shalati now stands, creating a historical backdrop that resonates with the romance of rail travel.

Jerry Mabena, CEO of Motsamayi Tourism Group, the visionary behind this unique venture, shares the inspiration behind Kruger Shalati. He reminisces about the golden age of train travel, where the Selati line and its bridge played a crucial role in facilitating tourists’ access to the wonders of Kruger National Park. While the 1970s saw the retirement of the Selati line due to the construction of a new railway, the bridge retained its historic significance.

In 2016, a spark of innovation ignited the idea to resurrect the bridge and reimagine it as a luxury hotel. Mabena recalls the moment when the opportunity arose to acquire mothballed old carriages from Transnet, South Africa’s rail logistics operator. The decision was made to breathe new life into these carriages, transforming them into 24 modern suites with balconies that offer breathtaking views of the Sabie River.

The interior of each carriage underwent meticulous renovation, seamlessly blending modern comforts with a touch of Art Deco elegance. Guests who leave their curtains open are greeted by the soft hues of dawn filtering through east-facing floor-to-ceiling windows. The Sabie River becomes a stage for wildlife activity, allowing guests to lounge on their balconies or by the pool, soaking in the sights and sounds of the wild.

Kruger Shalati offers a unique balance, allowing guests to savor the wild while indulging in luxurious amenities. For those who wish to further immerse themselves in the natural beauty surrounding the hotel, guided game drives are available. Thuli Mnisi, a senior guide and a member of the local community, highlights the unparalleled experience of the train, describing it as “breath-taking” for first-time visitors.

Beyond providing an extraordinary travel experience, Kruger Shalati places a strong emphasis on community involvement. The staff, including guides like Mnisi, are recruited locally, fostering a sense of connection between the hotel and the surrounding community. The commitment to community extends to the hotel’s grounds, where indigenous plant species thrive, and a kitchen garden supplies the fine dining restaurant with fresh produce.

Chef Vusi Mbatha, with a philosophy rooted in transforming simple ingredients into culinary masterpieces, crafts a menu that reflects the richness of the local landscape. The refined setting of the restaurant offers an opportunity for guests to indulge in local delicacies, including crocodile, venison, and springbok carpaccio. Mbatha encapsulates the essence of their culinary approach, stating, “Mother nature is the true artist.”

Despite facing development delays induced by the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, Kruger Shalati opened its doors in December 2020, marking the beginning of its fourth summer season. Accommodation aboard the train, with double and twin rooms, starts at 9,950 Rand ($530) per person per night for international guests, offering discounts for longer stays. The rates include all meals, selected beverages, two game drives, and airport transfers.

For travelers yearning for a touch of nostalgia intertwined with wildlife encounters, Motsamayi Tourism Group also owns Kruger Station, located just south of the bridge. This station is home to the last train that operated in the park, a South African Railway Class 24 steam locomotive. Stranded after the removal of most tracks in the 1970s, this locomotive has transitioned through various roles, including serving as a funeral coach for a former prime minister, and now enjoys its retirement alongside a restaurant and bar.

Jerry Mabena reflects on the resurgence of steam train culture and historical trains, expressing optimism about the potential return of a moving steam train one day. In the heart of Kruger National Park, where wildlife thrives, and luxury meets history, Kruger Shalati stands as a testament to the enduring allure of unconventional journeys – a train hotel that takes guests on a unique voyage to nowhere. As the sun sets over the Sabie River, Kruger Shalati becomes a sanctuary where the echoes of bygone eras harmonize with the untouched beauty of the African wilderness, creating an unforgettable symphony of travel and timelessness.

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