Proof that kindness is still a currency in the Kruger.
Kruger National Park, South Africa (04 June 2026) – The Kruger National Park has been in the headlines for difficult reasons lately. But kindness has always been a currency in the park – and Tony’s story is a little reminder of that.
Tony was driving on a dirt road near Red Rocks when his car stopped without warning.
“One gets a sinking feeling when your car decides to just stop and won’t start,” he tells us. “Especially when you’re on a dirt road off the main road near Red Rocks.”
Naturally, there was panic. The spot is famous for its population of predators, and when you’re stranded there, it becomes all the more difficult not to feel like…you’re being watched.
Before the panic could even set in, a stranger named George stopped with a tow rope and another couple then helped turn the vehicle around and get it set up for towing. Meanwhile, Tony’s daughter Diane posted a plea for help on Facebook and within minutes, people were flooding the comments with offers.
“Thanks to George who towed us to Shingwedzi, about 50 kms or so, giving up his game viewing time,” Tony says. “George was a life-saver. He then asked who could help at the camp and got a number for Herman who does odd car repairs.”
Herman, a mechanic, happened to already be out fetching spares and picked up what Tony needed along the way. Tony was then safely transported back to his Mopani campsite before nightfall.
The car was fixed the next day, and Herman drove it all the way back to Tony once it was done. All in a day’s kindness.
“Thanks to George, Anel, and all the helpful people who assisted us when one felt so helpless,” Tony says.
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Twenty-Six Skydivers Set an Unforgettable South African RecordThe Kruger is full of people who love it deeply and who look out for each other within it. This is the legacy that should be celebrated as the park celebrates its 100th birthday.
In other Kruger news – two suspects have been arrested in connection with the brutal murders of Mr and Mrs Marais aged 71 and 73, whose bodies were discovered at Crooks Corner in the park on 22 May, SANParks reports. The two suspects were positively linked to the crime, and face two counts of murder and hijacking. Additional charges may be added as investigations continue.
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