Heavy rains have drenched the northeast of the country since late last year, claiming at least 30 lives, with the region on maximum alert for more rain in the coming days.

The recovery of two bodies in Limpopo province, around 300 kilometres (190 miles) north of Johannesburg, took the provincial death toll to 11 since December, Premier Phophi Ramathuba told reporters.

Neighbouring Mpumalanga has recorded 19 deaths since the punishing rains began in November, provincial officials said this week.

"The devastation inflicted upon our communities, our infrastructure and, tragically, the loss of lives cannot be overstated," Ramathuba said.

Hundreds of schools could not open for the new term and water and power infrastructure were severely damaged, she said.

The flooding forced Kruger National Park, a world-famous safari destination, to halt day visits since Thursday and airlift some guests and staff to safety.

"Only essential staff are allowed access into the parks," South African National Parks (SANParks) spokesman JP Louw told AFP.

At least two camps had been closed and evacuated, he said.

Dramatic SANParks footage showed wide stretches of the reserve swallowed by swirling brown water, with only trees jutting out, and knee?deep currents surging through buildings.

In neighbouring Mozambique, which has also suffered from weeks of heavy rain, communities in low-lying areas near the capital Maputo were urged to evacuate to higher ground on Friday afternoon.

At least eight people have died in Mozambique since December 21, according to official data.

"We are rescuing people and providing food assistance," said Mozambican President Daniel Chapo, adding that the situation was still being assessed.