Tourist Petronella Viljoen leaves Sirheni Bushveld Camp gate for solitary walk and is fatally trampled by elephants near Kruger National Park gravel road
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Tourist Petronella Viljoen leaves Sirheni Bushveld Camp gate for solitary walk and is fatally trampled by elephants near Kruger National Park gravel road

Nothing prepares you for the silent power of an elephant herd—yet that’s what unfortunate tourist Petronella “Ronel” Viljoen, 68, experienced after leaving her cottage at Sirheni Bushveld Camp in Kruger National Park for an evening stroll.

Late Afternoon Departure Goes Unnoticed

According to park security footage, Ronel slipped out of her fenced cottage sometime in the late afternoon.

She passed through the camp gate alone, unnoticed by staff or fellow guests.

Alarm Raised as Sun Sets

By around 6:30 pm, her husband realized she hadn’t returned and alerted camp personnel.

Within minutes, rangers, field guides, and SANParks staff were mobilized for a ground search—using thermal drones and tracker dogs—to comb the bushveld.

Grim Discovery on Deserted Road

At approximately 11 pm, the search team found Ronel’s body on a gravel access road about 400 meters from the camp gate.

Nearby elephant tracks and fresh dung suggested a herd had passed through the scene shortly before.

Official Response and Investigation Underway

Limpopo SAPS spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba confirmed a culpable-homicide docket is open as police piece together the exact circumstances.

All of Ronel’s next of kin have been notified.
SANParks representative JP Louw extended heartfelt condolences and urged people to wait for the investigation’s outcome, reminding visitors they must stay within fenced camp areas after sunset unless accompanied by an armed ranger.

Why Late Afternoon Walks Can Be Risky

During the dry season, elephant herds often trek to Sirheni Dam in the late afternoon, moving freely through unfenced stretches.

Kruger rules strictly prohibit guests from wandering outside camp boundaries between sunset and sunrise, unless on a guided safari activity.

Safety Tips for Kruger Visitors

  1. Know the rules: Check each camp’s perimeter guidelines before stepping out.

  2. Save emergency contacts: Keep your section ranger’s and camp manager’s numbers at the ready.

  3. Opt for guided outings: Book a sundowner or night drive with an armed ranger rather than venturing out solo after dark.

  4. Respect wildlife: Always maintain at least 50 meters from elephants and never approach on foot.