Key Takeaways
- The most popular and convenient way to get to Kruger from Johannesburg is by booking a guided tour or private transfer. This takes about 5-6 hours door-to-door.
- Self-driving from Johannesburg to Kruger takes about 6-7 hours and requires an early start. Be prepared for long days of driving in Kruger.
- There are daily flights from Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP), which is just 15km from the Orpen Gate.
- Intercape buses run daily from Johannesburg, Pretoria and Nelspruit to several gates of Kruger National Park.
- Driving from Cape Town to Kruger takes 2 full days (1700km). Stop in Bloemfontein or Johannesburg enroute.
- Guided safari tours from Cape Town range from 6 to 14 days and stop at highlights along the Garden Route before entering Kruger.
Introduction
As one of the world’s most famous game reserves, a visit to Kruger National Park is a quintessential African safari experience. Stretching over a vast area in northeastern South Africa along the border with Mozambique, this iconic national park protects a huge diversity of wildlife including the “Big 5” – lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo.
Getting to Kruger is relatively easy, with good transport connections by road, air and bus from all the major cities in South Africa. As an independent traveller or in a group, you can choose to self-drive, join a guided tour or fly directly into Kruger’s airport.
In this complete guide, I’ll go through all the transportation options for getting to Kruger National Park from Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and within the park itself. I’ll also include tips and recommendations for families, couples, solo travellers and those on a budget to help you decide the best way to get there.
Flights Into Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP)
The closest and most convenient airport for Kruger Park is Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP). Located just 15km from Orpen Gate and 60km from the southern gates, this small airport has daily nonstop flights from Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban operated by:
- Airlink – Up to 6 daily flights from Johannesburg. Takes 1 hour 10 minutes.
- CemAir – 2 daily flights from Johannesburg. Takes 1 hour.
- FlySafair – Up to 2 daily flights from Johannesburg. Takes 1 hour 10 minutes.
The airport has a small terminal with basic facilities like cafes and souvenir shops. Car rental desks like Avis are located right there.
Airport Baggage Allowances
Light aircraft flights into Kruger Airport and Hoedspruit from Johannesburg have strict baggage limits of 20kg including hand luggage in soft bags only. Leave excess luggage in storage at Johannesburg airport.
For scheduled commercial flights, regular airline baggage allowances apply:
- Airlink – 23kg checked bag + 7kg cabin bag
- CemAir – 20kg checked bag + 5kg cabin bag
- FlySafair – 23kg checked bag + 7kg cabin bag
Ground Transportation Options
- Pre-booked airport transfer: private transfers available to hotels/lodges just outside the park from R500 per vehicle one-way
- Rental car: drive yourself to park accommodation. Desks for Avis, Europcar etc at the airport terminal.
- Taxi: metered taxis available, but arrange return pickup in advance.
With a flight time of only 1 hour from Johannesburg, flying into Kruger Airport allows you to maximize time on safari rather than wasting days driving. It’s the fastest and most convenient option.
Self-Driving vs Guided Tour to Kruger Park
Self-driving allows complete flexibility to explore Kruger at your own pace. You can go off the beaten track and linger at sightings as long as you like. It also allows you to stopover enroute and break up the journey from Jo’burg or Cape Town.
Guided tours mean everything is organized for you so you just sit back and enjoy the trip without any stress. An expert guide does the driving and handles logistics while sharing knowledge about the wildlife. The convenience comes at a higher cost.
Self-Driving Pros:
- Total flexibility and freedom in your own rental car
- Go at your own pace with spontaneity
- Get deep into remote areas of the park
- DIY route lets you stopover along the drive
- More affordable than a guided tour
Guided Tour Pros:
- No stress about driving or navigation
- Learn from an experienced safari guide
- Comfortable open-sided safari vehicle
- Accommodation and meals included
- Packed itinerary with highlights
Buses to Kruger Park Gates (Not Recommended)
For budget travelers, daily Intercape buses run from Johannesburg, Pretoria and Nelspruit to several Kruger gates:
Hazyview – For Paul Kruger Gate
White River – For Numbi Gate Phalaborwa – For Phalaborwa Gate
Journey time is 5-6 hours from Johannesburg with tickets from R370 one-way. Connect in Nelspruit for other gates.
Intercape buses have aircon, reclining seats, restrooms and WiFi. An affordable transit option but requires forward planning as connections are needed.
How to Get to Kruger Park from Johannesburg
The most common entry point for international visitors is from Johannesburg, which has the biggest airport in South Africa. Situated about 550km from Kruger, Johannesburg offers the most convenient and fastest access.
There are several ways to get from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park:
Organized Tour from Johannesburg
One of the easiest and most comfortable ways to get to Kruger from Johannesburg is by booking a guided safari tour. These are typically 5-6 day tours that include transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, Kruger safari drives with an expert guide, accommodation just outside or inside the park, most meals and airport transfers.
Some reputable tour companies operating Kruger safaris from Johannesburg are:
I’d recommend this option for first-time visitors who want a stress-free experience getting to Kruger and touring the park. With everything organized for you, it leaves you free to sit back and enjoy the magnificent scenery and wildlife sightings.
Duration: 5-6 days
Cost: From R8,500 ($500 USD) per person, excluding flights.
Private Transfers from Johannesburg to Kruger
For more flexibility at an affordable price, consider booking a private transfer from Johannesburg direct to your lodge or camp inside Kruger National Park. Companies like MoAfrika Tours and Africa Travel Co. offer scheduled shuttles and private transfers by minibus or car.
It takes about 6 hours to drive from Johannesburg to the Orpen Gate in the central region of Kruger. You’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation, making it easy if you have lots of luggage. Private Kruger transfers are ideal for families and groups.
Duration: 5-6 hours
Cost: From R1800 ($105 USD) per person for a shared shuttle. Private transfers from R6800 ($400) for the vehicle (up to 7 passengers).
Self-Drive from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park
One of the most popular options is to self-drive from Johannesburg to Kruger. It’s a long drive of about 6-7 hours to cover the 550km to the park’s central and southern region. I’d recommend spending the night before in Johannesburg so you can get an early start by 6am.
The drive along the N4 highway is easy and well-signposted all the way. After passing Witbank you’ll turn off onto the R40 towards Hazyview, a popular stopover town just outside the Paul Kruger Gate. From here it’s just 35km to enter the park.
When self-driving, book your accommodation well in advance, especially in peak season. National Park rates start from R905 ($53 USD) per night for basic huts and bungalows. There are also many lodges and camps just outside the park along the R40 with more facilities.
I’d recommend a minimum of 5 days to self-drive Safaris let you get deep into the park at your own pace to maximise wildlife sightings. You can either follow set routes or go off road to more remote areas.
Self-driving is best suited to experienced Safarists who are accustomed to long days of driving game viewing on rough roads. Along with park entry fees, fuel and vehicle hire, costs quickly add up.
Duration: 6-7 hours plus 5 days minimum for safari
Cost: Park entry from R80 ($5 USD) per day. Hut from R905 ($53) per night. Vehicle hire from R500 ($30) per day. Fuel, food and other costs.
Stopovers From Johannesburg
Driving from Johannesburg to Kruger takes 6-7 hours so consider overnighting enroute. Good stopovers include:
- Dullstroom – Quaint highland village with great restaurants
- Lydenburg – Historical mining town with museum
- Hazyview – Lively gateway town near Paul Kruger Gate
Make the drive part of the safari adventure by stopping at small towns and nature sights along the way.
Intercape Bus from Johannesburg to Kruger
If you’re travelling solo on a budget, an affordable option is the daily Intercape bus from Johannesburg to some of Kruger’s southern gates along the R40. These scheduled buses have air-conditioning, reclining seats, onboard restrooms and even free WiFi.
Intercape buses depart from Park Station in downtown Johannesburg and drop off at several destinations near Kruger:
- Hazyview (for Paul Kruger Gate)
- White River (for Numbi Gate)
- Phalaborwa (for Phalaborwa Gate)
Buses take around 6-7 hours from Johannesburg. Check-in and luggage drop off opens 90 minutes before departure. Tickets cost from R370 ($22 USD) one-way booked online. This is one of the cheapest ways to get to Kruger, but not one I would recommend for first-time visitors to South Africa.
Duration: 6-7 hours
Cost: From R370 ($22 USD) one-way
Fly from Johannesburg to Kruger Mpumalanga Airport (Recommended)
To maximize your time on safari, you can catch a direct flight from Johannesburg to Kruger Park’s airport, officially named Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (IATA code MQP). Located just 15km from the Orpen Gate in the central region, this small airport has daily scheduled flights.
Airlines flying direct from Johannesburg to Kruger Airport:
Flying time is only 1 hour and 10 minutes, with airline fares starting from R1200 ($70 USD) each way. It’s then an easy 15-20 minute drive from the airport to your Kruger lodge or camp. I’d recommend booking a private transfer or car rental in advance.
This flight/drive option allows you to maximize your time on safari compared to a long overland transfer. It’s ideal for short visits of 3-4 days in Kruger from Johannesburg.
Duration: 1 hour 10 minute flight + 15km transfer
Cost: Flights from R1200 ($70) each way. Transfer around R300 ($20).
How to Get to Kruger National Park from Cape Town
Located at the opposite end of South Africa, Cape Town is over 1500km from Kruger National Park. You can choose to fly, take a long bus journey or self-drive, which takes 2 full days.
Self-Drive from Cape Town to Kruger
The classic Cape Town to Kruger road trip takes around 2 days and 1700km of driving each way. I’d recommend stopping overnight in either Bloemfontein or Johannesburg to break up the long journey.
From Cape Town, head inland along the N1 highway via Worcester, Beaufort West, Colesberg and Bloemfontein. After the Free State capital, continue north on the N1 via Kroonstad and Johannesburg. From Jozi, follow the directions above to self-drive to Kruger’s southern gates.
This is an epic South African overland trip showcasing the diversity of the country’s landscape. Make sure your rental car is serviced and stock up on essential spares like fuel cans and drinking water. Budget 5-7 days for the round trip.
Duration: 2 long driving days each way
Cost: Use price estimator sites like ViaMichelin to calculate fuel, tolls and other costs. Campsites and budget hotels enroute to keep costs down.
Stopovers From Cape Town
Driving from Cape Town to Kruger takes 2 long days. Recommended stopovers:
Day 1: Beaufort West, Karoo National Park, Colesberg
Day 2: Bloemfontein, Welkom, Kroonstad
Route via N1 highway and Northern Cape. See the wide-open Karoo’s desert landscapes and giant camel thorn trees along the way.
Intercape Bus from Cape Town to Kruger
For budget conscious travellers, Intercape buses run the popular route from Cape Town to Kruger including overnight stops. The direct “Kruger Express” bus departs Cape Town at 8am, arriving at Nelspruit bus station the next morning.
After an overnight rest in Nelspruit, you can then catch a connecting Intercape or Citybug bus onwards to Kruger gates including Hazyview and Phalaborwa. Total journey time is around 33 hours. One-way tickets cost from R870 ($50 USD).
Duration: 33 hours with overnight stop
Cost: From R870 ($50 USD) one-way
Fly from Cape Town to Kruger
To save time, I recommend flying to Kruger Park’s airport from Cape Town, with a stopover in Johannesburg. Both Airlink and CemAir offer connecting flights via Johannesburg to Kruger Airport.
Airlink flies from Cape Town to Livingstone Airport in Nelspruit, just 56km from Kruger’s southern gates. You can pre-book a rental car or transfer to complete the short drive into the park.
This option maximizes your Safari time rather than spending days driving. Shop around for discounted fares online or as part of a package deal with accommodation.
Duration: 2-3 hours total flight time + transfer
Cost: From R2000 ($120 USD) return flights. Transfer around R500 ($30).
How to Get to Kruger National Park from Durban
On South Africa’s eastern coast, Durban has good air and road connections to Kruger National Park. The drive time is around 7-8 hours covering 650km via Mbombela (Nelspruit).
Self-Drive from Durban to Kruger
Budget 2 full days driving if self-driving from Durban to Kruger and back. Head west out of the city on the N3 toll road via Pietermaritzburg and Harrismith. Continue past Ladysmith and Newcastle to Volksrust.
From here, follow the signs to Mbombela (Nelspruit) then take the R40 past White River and Hazyview which leads to Kruger’s southern gates. Expect to pay toll fees along the N3. I’d recommend overnighting in Harrismith heading north and Hazyview on the return south.
Aim to arrive at the park gates before 10am to maximize your first day game viewing. Self-driving allows complete flexibility to explore Kruger at your own pace. Book accommodation well ahead in peak seasons.
Duration: 7-8 hours driving each way plus 2+ days safari time
Cost: Use a fuel price calculator for costs. Add accommodation, park fees, food and other expenses.
Intercape Bus from Durban to Kruger
Intercape and Greyhound operate daily buses from Durban to Nelspruit, the gateway town to Kruger National Park. The buses depart from Durban Station and follow the N3 toll route via Pietermaritzburg and Harrismith.
Total journey time is around 7-8 hours of traveling to reach Nelspruit. From there you can catch a connecting shuttle to Kruger’s nearby southern gates. Expect to pay from R670 ($40 USD) for the one-way Intercape ticket purchased online.
Duration: 7-8 hours
Cost: From R670 ($40 USD) one-way
Fly from Durban to Kruger Airport
To maximize your time on safari, I recommend flying from Durban’s King Shaka Airport direct to Kruger Mpumalanga Airport. There are several daily flights via Johannesburg, with both Airlink and FlySafair operating this route.
Flying time is around 2.5 hours with one stopover in Johannesburg. Fares start from R1600 ($95 USD) one-way. The aircraft are modern and comfortable. From Kruger Airport, pre-book a rental car or transfer to reach your lodge.
This is the fastest route from Durban, ideal if you only have 4-5 days to spend in Kruger itself. You can focus on early morning and late afternoon game drives when animals are most active, without wasting time driving.
Duration: 2.5 hours flight time + transfer
Cost: From R1600 ($95 USD) one-way flight. Add transfer cost.
Getting Around Within Kruger National Park
At nearly 20,000 square kilometers in size, Kruger National Park is larger than some countries! Getting around and exploring the vast landscape requires some planning.
Here are the best transportation options for getting around within Kruger itself:
Self-Drive in Kruger
The freedom of self-driving through Kruger is a popular choice, however distances are deceptively large. From Punda Maria camp in the far north to Malelane Gate south is over 350km, taking 5 hours non-stop driving.
When self-driving, plan a circuit or route each day to cover a manageable distance. Focus on 2 or 3 regions in-depth, rather than trying to cover the entire park. Avoid driving after dark due to animals on the roads.
You can drive your rental car or hire an additional vehicle inside Kruger from SANParks. Always keep fuel and water topped up and watch road signs closely. Self-driving allows you to go deep into the quieter areas of the park at your own pace.
Join a Guided Safari Vehicle
For convenience and a more comfortable experience inside Kruger, consider booking onto an organized game drive in an open safari vehicle. These are available through most lodges, camps and tour operators.
In an expert guide’s capable hands, you’ll learn about the wildlife and ecology while they handle the driving and navigation. Safari vehicles can go off-road for closer animal encounters. Prices for guided drives are around R450 ($25 USD) per person for half-day.
Fly-In Safaris
For the ultimate wildlife-spotting from above, book a fly-in Safari to reach remote areas of Kruger. Operators like Safari Air offer scenic flights over the park combined with ground game drives from landing strips deep in the bush.
These small planes and helicopters can get you between far flung camps and luxury lodges to maximize your time game viewing. It’s an expensive option but a bucket list experience! Prices start from R8400 ($500 USD) per person.
Advice for Families, Couples and Solo Travellers
Kruger National Park welcomes all kinds of visitors. Here is my expert advice for getting there and around tailored to families, couples and solo travellers:
For Families:
- Book a private Kruger transfer from Johannesburg for convenience and to keep kids entertained. Or fly directly into Kruger Airport.
- Stay in family-friendly camps like Skukuza Rest Camp with lots of activities. Get adjoining rondavels for privacy.
- Join guided safari drives for fun learning experience. Kids often get priority front seats!
- Travel in the school holidays when camps offer supervised kids activities like treasure hunts.
- Pack plenty of snacks, games and binoculars to keep kids engaged on long drives.
For Couples:
- Self-drive for maximum flexibility to create a romantic safari. Stop frequently for wildlife watching and scenic picnics.
- Book a secluded private game lodge bordering Kruger for luxury accommodation and fine dining.
- Take a guided night drive for incredible stargazing.
- Arrange a candlelit bush dinner on a safari walk for ultimate privacy.
- Spend a few nights camping under the stars for back-to-basics romance.
For Solo Travellers:
- Treat yourself to a fly-in safari to maximize wildlife viewing from both air and ground.
- Join a small group safari tour or guided camping trip to meet like-minded travellers. Share costs.
- Self-drive at your own pace, detouring down back roads and following animal tracks spontaneously.
- Get to know fellow guests at park camps over braais and swapping stories around the fire.
- Splurge on a private safari guide and vehicle so you can choose the day’s route and timing.
Expert Tips for Getting to and Around Kruger
Over many years visiting Kruger Park, I’ve learned some invaluable tips and tricks to make getting there and enjoying your safari smoother:
Arrive Early Give yourself maximum time on your first day by arriving at park gates before 10am when gates open. This lets you drive in and have a game drive the same day.
Book Accommodation Early Reserve your accommodation at park camps, lodges and hotels 6-12 months ahead for peak periods like Easter and school holidays. Or be flexible with dates.
Pack Snacks and Water Bring plenty of drinking water and nutritious snacks to keep your energy up during long days of game driving. Shop at the supermarkets in nearby towns beforehand.
Get the Map Right Use a detailed printed map, or install the latest park map on Google Maps offline on your phone. Know the distances between camps and gates.
Watch Wildlife Safely Keep a safe distance from all wildlife. At least 30 meters from dangerous animals like lions, elephants or rhino. Don’t get out of your vehicle except at designated sites.
Pack Binoculars A good pair of binoculars will make a big difference in wildlife sightings, especially for spotting animals in the distance.
Drive Cautiously Strictly observe speed limits and watch out for animals on the roads, especially at night. If you break down, stay in your car and call for help.
Charge Devices Charge phones, cameras and other devices at every opportunity as camps have limited power points. Bring portable chargers and spare batteries too.
Recommended Kruger Accommodation
Kruger has an enormous range of accommodation options from budget camps to 5-star bush lodges. Here are my top picks in different categories:
Inside Kruger National Park:
Budget: Olifants Rest Camp – Rustic huts and cottages with shared kitchen and barbecue facilities. Great game viewing at Olifants River.
Mid-range: Berg-en-dal Rest Camp – Situated in lush Malelane region with variety of guest houses and family cottages. Close to Crocodile Bridge Gate.
Luxury: Singita Lebombo Lodge – Ultra-luxurious suites with epic views at one of Kruger’s premier lodges. Fine dining and spa, 100% solar powered.
Just Outside Kruger:
Budget: Gecko Lodge – Affordable en-suite rooms and family cottages with swimming pool. 5km from Numbi Gate.
Mid-range: Pestana Kruger Lodge – Comfortable safari lodge just 3km from Kruger’s Malelane Gate with 4-star facilities like spa and restaurant.
Luxury: Lion Sands Tinga Lodge – Intimate lodge with luxury suites overlooking the Sabie River and Big 5 game.
Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Kruger
What is the closest airport to Kruger Park?
The closest airport is Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP), just 15km from Orpen Gate in the central area of the park. There are daily flights from Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban.
What is the main road to Kruger?
The R40 highway runs along Kruger’s southern boundary, connecting to the Paul Kruger, Numbi and Phabeni Gates. The other main access roads are the R81 from Gauteng to the Orpen Gate, and R524 to Phalaborwa Gate.
Can I get a train to Kruger Park?
Unfortunately there are no passenger trains running directly to Kruger. The closest train station is Nelspruit, from where you can get a bus transfer or taxi to Kruger’s southern gates.
Which gate should I enter Kruger at?
The South: Malelane or Crocodile Bridge Gates for easiest access from Johannesburg. Central: Orpen or Phalaborwa Gates if flying into Kruger Airport. North: Punda Maria Gate for a wilderness experience.
Is it safe to self-drive to Kruger?
Yes, the roads to and within Kruger are well-maintained 2-lane highways. Just be vigilant about animals suddenly crossing. Avoid driving at night due to poor visibility.
How far in advance should I book Kruger accommodation?
Book at least 6-12 months ahead for peak holiday periods. More availability in low season, but camps can still get full at short notice, especially over Easter.
Can I get a direct Intercape bus to Kruger?
No, Intercape buses only go as far as Nelspruit, Hazyview or Phalaborwa, from where you need to arrange an onward transfer to Kruger Park.
Should I fly or drive to Kruger from Johannesburg?
Flying is much faster, you can maximize time on safari. Driving lets you stop enroute and breaks up the journey. Both have pros and cons.
Does Uber or Bolt operate to Kruger Park?
Unfortunately ridehailing apps like Uber are not available for transfers to Kruger yet. You need to pre-book an accredited tour company or private transfer operator.
What car rental company do you recommend for Kruger self-drives?
Reputable companies like Avis, Europcar and First Car Rental have desks at Kruger Airport and depots in nearby towns. Book well ahead for peak periods.
What is the best time of year to visit Kruger?
The dry winter months from May to September are ideal for easy game viewing as vegetation is thinner. It can get very hot though. The wet summer brings dramatic thunderstorms and a lush landscape, with slightly fewer animals visible.
How many days do I need in Kruger?
I’d recommend a minimum of 4-5 days to have a good safari experience. Longer is always better to cover more ground and spend time around waterholes waiting for animals.
What should I pack for Kruger?
Essentials include sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), neutral coloured clothing, comfortable walking shoes, binoculars, camera with spare batteries, and medicine for potential conditions like malaria.
Is Kruger dangerous?
Thousands safely visit Kruger every year. As long as you follow the park rules, keep your distance from wildlife, and avoid getting out of your vehicle outside designated areas, the risk is very low. Always be alert.
What are the Big 5 animals in Kruger?
The iconic Big 5 are: elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard. Kruger has excellent densities of all these sought-after species, as well as cheetah, wild dog and hundreds of bird species.
How much does it cost to visit Kruger National Park?
Entry fees are R80 ($5 USD) per person per day. Accommodation starts from around R1000 ($60) per night for budget rest camps. Additional costs include fuel, car rental, food, and guided tours.
Conclusion
I hope this detailed guide gives you all the important information and advice you need to plan getting to and around Kruger National Park. With good transport connections by air, road and tour packages, there are easy options accessible to all types of travellers and budgets.
Once you arrive, allow enough time to immerse yourself in the magnificent landscapes and wildlife sightings that make Kruger such an iconic safari destination. Whether self-driving or joining a guided tour, use my tips to make the most of your Kruger experience.
Now all that’s left is to start finalizing your South African travel plans, pack your bags and get ready for an epic adventure exploring one of Africa’s most famous game reserves!
Enjoy your trip – I’m confident that Kruger will exceed your expectations and provide you with lifelong memories out in the wilds of the African bush. Drive safely, watch wildlife respectfully, and have the adventure of a lifetime!
