Kruger's train hotel keeps its two Michelin Keys
Kruger Shalati, the hotel on a bridge over the Sabie River, is still among the South African properties recognised by the Michelin Guide, and credits staff from around the park.
Skukuza — Kruger Shalati: The Train on the Bridge, a hotel built in railway carriages parked on a bridge in the Kruger National Park, has kept its two Michelin Keys, the Mail & Guardian reports. The Michelin Guide extended its hotel distinctions to Africa last year.
Michelin inspectors visit anonymously and book like any other guest. The hotel's concession general manager, Gavin Ferreira, credited the team's daily service and said keeping the standard is harder than winning the award. Most staff come from in and around the park and know the land, which the hotel says helps guests experience it more closely. Executive chef Vusi Mbatha travels with Ferreira twice a year to research restaurant trends.
The hotel belongs to Motsamayi Tourism Group, an independent South African hospitality company.
Source: Mail & Guardian, reporting by Lesego Chepape, 16 October 2026.
