Tourist trampled by elephants
Tragic incident at Pilanesberg National Park

Rustenburg – A tragic incident occurred on Sunday morning, 7 July 2024, when a tourist from Spain was trampled to death by elephants at Pilanesberg National Park. The tourist, who was accompanied by his fiancée and two other female friends from Boksburg, was fatally injured after approaching a herd of elephants near the Bakgatla gate.

According to the North-West Parks and Tourism Board acting chief conservation officer, Pieter Nel, the group encountered a breeding herd of elephants feeding at a distance from the road. Despite warnings from his companions and other nearby tourists, the man exited their Hyundai Grand I10 to take photographs. An adult elephant cow charged at him, and as he attempted to flee, he was caught and trampled by the entire herd.

Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone, SAPS spokesperson, confirmed: “The police in Mogwase have opened an inquest docket after the 43-year-old man was killed by elephants. Reports suggest that the man stopped the vehicle, got out on foot, and walked closer to take photos. His companions were not harmed, and the vehicle was unaffected.”

Eyewitnesses reported that despite warnings from his fellow passengers and occupants of two other vehicles at the sighting, the man did not heed their advice. The adult elephant cow charged at him, and he was unable to escape or evade the herd. The elephants then moved away from the scene without displaying aggression towards nearby vehicles and eventually disappeared into the bushes.
Moremi Keabetswe, the manager of Pilanesberg Nature Reserve, expressed condolences on behalf of the reserve management team. “The Pilanesberg Nature Reserve management team extends condolences to the family of the deceased. This unfortunate incident has deeply affected not only the victim’s family but also the Pilanesberg Nature Reserve family. We are sorry that his wildlife experience resulted in such a tragedy. May his soul rest in peace.”

Park officials were alerted and promptly rushed to the scene to aid the affected persons, secure the area, and assist SAPS and other officials with necessary procedures and investigations. Statements from witnesses suggest that the female elephant might have attacked to protect the herd and its young ones. The case has been handed over to the police for further investigation.

The North-West Parks and Tourism Board emphasised the unpredictable nature of wild animals and the importance of following park rules. Tourists are continually educated on the significance of staying inside their vehicles, respecting the distance between animals and vehicles, and only getting out in designated areas. These regulations are printed on the entry permits and are essential for the safety of both guests and animals.

In response to the incident, the North-West Parks and Tourism Board expressed their deep sorrow. “We also appreciate Sun City Resort for providing immediate counselling to the visibly traumatised friends of the deceased.”