Visiting South Africa’s Kruger National Park is already an exciting prospect; now an intriguing luxurious hotel, Kruger Shalati is poised to enhance the experience.
The Kruger Shalati, a luxury train that was converted into a hotel, is possibly the most unique lodging option in this era.
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What is Unique About Kruger Shalati?
It is a piece of the marvellous invention in South Africa that has the world talking about Kruger Shalati for years now.
The luxurious hotel sits permanently on a train bridge passing over the expansive Kruger National Park. That’s why Kruger Shalati is popularly known as The Train on the bridge – Selati Bridge in particular.
Selati Bridge looms large above the Sabie River in Kruger. According to the hotel’s website, the train is a reimagined lodging that “pays respect to the tourists who explored the park nearly 100 years ago while welcoming new explorers from near and far.”
In addition, the train station is designed to commemorate where the first visitors to the park were allowed in the early 1920s.
Kruger Shalati sits in the exact spot where the train would stop for the night.
Kruger Shalati in South Africa. Photo/Twitter
Is Kruger Shalati Open?
Visitors are free to the Kruger Shalati Train on a Bridge in 2022. The luxurious hotel’s launch took a hit in 2020 following the coronavirus pandemic that hit South Africa so hard.
Kruger Shalati’s Sales, Marketing, and Brand Executive Judiet Barnes told Getaway that all they’ve been looking for was opening the facility after winning the Selati Concession bid in 2017.
After years of planning and hard effort building an elevated railway hotel on a bridge inside the Kruger National Park, the hotel welcomes guests for a unique experience.
In total, there are 24 train compartments located on the Selati Bridge, which spans the beautiful Sabie River between the banks. In addition, there’s an extravagant bar and deck with a gorgeous pool for relaxation and game viewing from the river’s vantage point.
At a later date, seven land-based rooms will be made accessible in what will be known as the Bridge House, situated close to the bridge, overlooking the river and the Train on the Bridge.
What Does Kruger Shalati Offer?
For those who want to see the best of Africa’s natural splendours while enjoying some well-earned luxury, this is the train for you.
Kruger Shalati, a re-imagined train, is permanently stationed on the Selati Bridge above the Sabie River. It pays homage to the guests who toured the park over a century ago.
Today, it welcomes new visitors from all around the world to soak in the experience. When the first visitors to Kruger Park were allowed to get on board in the early 1920s, a train celebrated their arrival by stopping overnight in the precise spot where Kruger Shalati sits.
Its 31 rooms, including 24 carriage rooms and 7 Bridge House rooms, are tastefully designed to present guests with an immersive, sensory experience.
Irrespective of whether you’re seeking an unforgettable experience, a rejuvenating respite, or a chance to soak up the best of nature, Kruger Shalati is ready to take you on a journey of discovery, unlike anything you’ve ever experienced before.
While the expansive train cabins with glass walls provide a panoramic view of the Sabie River, the train’s decor pays homage to local art and craftsmanship while also celebrating African design.
It features a special pool deck perched high above the riverbanks, parallel to the train’s track, to give a riveting swimming experience unlike any other. Below you will see crocodiles, hippos, buffalos, and elephants from Kruger National Park.
In addition to the thought-provoking, unique design, the overall experience is centred around humanity and cultural subtleties. People are involved in the making of every aspect, and finally, the warmth of the hotel’s staff makes it worthwhile visiting.
Kruger Shalati Rooftop. Photo/Gites.fr
Why is the Kruger National Park Famous?
Kruger National Park is a well-kept secret in South African tourism circles. With so many different habitats to explore, a safari in this national park will never be the same.
The 2.2 million hectares of this untouched wilderness can be explored in a variety of ways, including guided safaris, self-driving or guided trails, and 4×4 adventure.
The Greater Kruger gets its name from the addition of adjoining private game reserves with high-end branded lodges. They add value to the destination by establishing a natural buffer and adding valuable territory to the Kruger.
This is a natural wonderland that’s ideal for anyone who enjoys the great outdoors.
Besides, Kruger has everything to intrigue a wanderlust, from African bushes, wildlife, hotels, and lodges.
You couldn’t expect less from the third largest park in the world. Moreover, it accommodates everyone – budget travellers or not.
