Photo: Kruger Shalati

Kruger Shalati: Sleep Above a Croc-Filled River in Kruger National Park

South Africa Luxe Travel Epic Stays
by Eben Diskin Jan 3, 2023

Few luxury travel experiences are as unique, extravagant, and immersive as Kruger Shalati, also known as The Train on The Bridge. As its nickname indicates, Kruger Shalati is a train that’s been converted into a luxury hotel and that is permanently located on the Selati Bridge, above the Sabie River, in Kruger National Park in South Africa.

@epic.stays 📍 Kruger Shalati – The Train on the Bridge in #SouthAfrica 🎥 @Nathalie – Travel Blogger #traveltiktok #africatravel #uniquestay #southafricantiktok ♬ The sound of love – Mandy & Boots- Viral 🔈Creator

Kruger Shalati consists of 24 Carriage Rooms suspended above the wilderness of the famed national park. Each room features several large windows so guests can enjoy the view and keep an eye on the local wildlife even when they’re relaxing in their bed or when they’re brushing their teeth (elephants, buffaloes, crocodiles, hippos, and many species of birds gathers in the river below). Every Carriage Room has its own private bathroom and a small sitting room. There is a small pool and outdoor lounge area cantilevered above the river for all guests to share.

If you don’t feel comfortable sleeping above a crocodile-filled river, Kruger Shalati also offers seven Bridge House Suites that are on land near the bridge. While those suites don’t have the wow factor of the Carriage Rooms, they are just as gorgeous, more spacious, and also provide great views — including some of the bridge.

No matter what room you choose, know that you can get in-room spa treatments, including massages, pedicures, manicures, and facials. Not too bad for hotel in a train on a bridge in the middle of the South African wilderness.

Kruger National Park is South Africa’s most famous national park and arguably one of the best places to see wildlife. Kruger Shalati provide guests with a unique and deeply immersive experience, without compromising on comfort.

If you decide to book a stay at Kruger Shalati, know that Matador may collect a small commission.

Book Now

Kruger Shalati

Photo: Kruger Shalati/Facebook

Kruger Shalati

Photo: Kruger Shalati/Facebook

Discover Matador