Matt Davison
Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Unfortunately, it’s not Superman but wouldn’t it be great if you could hitch a ride with him to Kruger National Park? One of the tricky things to figure out when you travel is how you’ll get there. In this guide, we’ll give you three scenic routes from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park that you can choose from.
Travelling to Kruger National Park can take as little as ten hours, depending on which entrance of the park you enter. Maybe you’re the type of traveller, who doesn’t do well loading up on caffeine while on the road. Or maybe you’re the type of traveller who is afraid of flying. This guide will map out the way for you so that you don’t have to.
Flights to Kruger National Park
If flying to Kruger National Park is the option for you, there are a few things you should know beforehand.
This trip takes about 1.5 hours to get to one of two KNP map locations. If you’re heading to the southernmost point of the Kruger, then take a flight to Skukuza Airport. You will have to take a 10 min drive once you land, to the Skukuza Rest Camp.
The airport at the northernmost point is Phalaborwa. This flight is an hour and 10 minutes long. Once you have arrived in Phalaborwa, there will be private transfers available to take you to your camp or accommodation. For day visitors, game drivers will take you directly on safari.
Road Trip to Kruger National Park
If you were seeking adventure, why not make this a road trip? You can choose to take a private transfer or rent a car. Either way, the Kruger National Park road map estimates a 5-6 hour journey.
It’s important to note, that should you take a private transfer there will most likely be a set fee irrespective of the number of passengers. When renting a car, be sure to have cash or a credit card on hand, for toll gate fees.
Bus Tour to Kruger National Park
This is the most scenic route to the Kruger National Park because there aren’t any direct bus routes between Johannesburg and Kruger National Park. This trip is between seven and ten hours long.
Those heading to the northern part of the reserve will need to take a bus from Johannesburg to Nelspruit and then catch a connecting bus to Phalaborwa. There are no car rentals available at this bus stop, but you can arrange a private transfer there.
Alternatively, those heading to the southern point of Kruger National Park will need to take a bus from Johannesburg to Malelane. Then you can arrange a private transfer for the remainder of the trip.
Final Destination: Johannesburg to Mpumalanga
No matter how you chose to travel to the Kruger National Park from Johannesburg, it’s a small part of the bigger picture. Pick an option that is easy and comfortable for you and your loved ones. Remember to do plenty of your own research and stay safe- the wild awaits.
