Kruger NP to Victoria Falls Road Trip Itinerary
This 6-day Kruger NP to Victoria Falls Road Trip is a great way to explore the stunning landscapes and nature of South Africa and Zambia. Starting in Phalaborwa, South Africa and ending in Livingstone, Zambia, the route covers a distance of approximately 1565 km and takes in the towns of Kruger National Park, Masvingo and Hwange National Park.
The best time of year to drive this route is during the dry season from June to August, when the roads are in better condition and the temperatures are milder. Along the way, you will be treated to some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, including vast plains and grasslands, picturesque mountain ranges and lush forests. Wildlife spotting opportunities are plentiful, with a variety of species to be seen in Kruger National Park, Masvingo and Hwange National Park.
Although the roads are generally in poor condition, this road trip is suitable for every driver. With a moderate budget, you can experience a high level of adventure and make some unforgettable memories.
6
number of days
1,589 km
route length
fair
budget
explorer
good for
on the left
traffic direction
fair
accident level
START
Phalaborwa
Distance 1,589 km
Driving time 29.6 h
Pace: modest
413.2 kWh
Airports
PHW
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Phalaborwa is a great starting point for the "Kruger NP to Victoria Falls Road Trip". Located in the Limpopo Province of South Africa, it is the gateway to the Kruger National Park, one of the largest game reserves in Africa. Within the town, visitors can explore the many shops, restaurants, and markets, as well as the beautiful landscapes. From Phalaborwa, travelers can easily access the Kruger National Park and its many attractions, including the Big 5 animals and some of the most beautiful landscapes in Africa.
For travelers arriving by air, the closest international airport is Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (IATA code: KIM). The airport is located 70 kilometers away from Phalaborwa, and is well-serviced by car rental companies.
Once in Phalaborwa, visitors can explore the town's many attractions. The town is home to the Phalaborwa Gate, the main entrance to the Kruger National Park. In addition, visitors can explore the nearby Baobab Tree Forest, the nearby Kruger Dam Nature Reserve, and the spectacular Phalaborwa Copper Mine. For those looking for a more cultural experience, head to the nearby Makotopong Village, where you can learn about the local culture and history.
No matter what your interests, Phalaborwa is an ideal starting point for the "Kruger NP to Victoria Falls Road Trip". With its many attractions and close proximity to Kruger National Park, it is the perfect place to begin your African adventure.
1
Phalaborwa
- Kruger N.P.
Distance 110 km
Driving time 2.9 h
Pace: slow
25.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an incredible road trip from Phalaborwa to Kruger National Park? This 110 km journey will take you less than 3 hours and will be an unforgettable experience!
Your first stop should be at the Phalaborwa Gate, the main entrance to the Kruger National Park. Here you can visit the Information Centre and get all the information you need about the park.
The next stop should be at the Letaba Rest Camp. Here you can observe wildlife from a viewing platform, take a stroll along the Letaba River, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
You should also make a stop at the Olifants Rest Camp. This camp is situated on the banks of the Olifants River and offers a variety of activities, such as game drives, bird watching, and guided walks.
The last stop before reaching Kruger National Park is the Satara Rest Camp. Here you can explore the bushveld on a game drive and get up close and personal with the Big Five.
Finally, you will arrive at Kruger National Park. Here you can explore the park's vast wilderness, take part in guided game drives, and enjoy the beauty of the African bush.
This is just one of the many stages of your journey, and more information about the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!
Kruger N.P. - Republic of South Africa - Africa - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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2
Kruger N.P.
- Pafuri Gate
Distance 157 km
Driving time 3.1 h
Pace: modest
40.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an incredible 157km road trip from Kruger National Park, Republic of South Africa to Pafuri Gate? This is one of the most scenic and rewarding stages of the tour. Get ready to be amazed by the incredible landscapes and wildlife of the area.
Start your journey in Kruger National Park, the largest game reserve in South Africa. Here you can observe the Big Five (elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion, and leopard) in their natural habitat. You can also visit the wilderness trails and various viewpoints.
The next stop is the Makuleke region, home to the Makuleke people. Here you can visit the Crooks Corner, a historical site where the borders of South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique meet.
Continue to the Punda Maria Gate, the northernmost entrance to Kruger National Park. Here you can explore the Northern region of the park, with its diverse wildlife and vegetation.
Finally, arrive at the Pafuri Gate, the gateway to the northernmost tip of Kruger National Park. Here you can visit the Luvuvhu and Limpopo Rivers, the Pafuri Walking Trail, and the Crook’s Corner Viewpoint.
This road trip will take you less than 4 hours and is sure to be an unforgettable experience. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage.
Pafuri Gate - Republic of South Africa - Africa - Road Trip - photostream.ch – Adventure Africa
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3
Pafuri Gate
- Masvingo
Distance 445 km
Driving time 7.0 h
Pace: fast
133.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome road-trippers! Get ready for an amazing journey from Pafuri Gate in the Republic of South Africa to Masvingo. This 441 km journey will take you less than 6 hours.
Start your journey by exploring Pafuri Gate, a nature reserve located in the far north of South Africa. Here you can explore the wildlife, including the Big Five, and the beautiful landscapes. Afterward, you can head to the Kruger National Park, where you can find a variety of wildlife and activities.
Continue your journey to the town of Tshipise, located in the Limpopo province. Here you can visit the Tshipise Hot Springs and the nearby Tshipise Nature Reserve. The hot springs offer a unique experience, while the nature reserve offers a great opportunity to observe the local wildlife.
Your next stop is the town of Beitbridge. Here you can visit the Beitbridge Museum, which houses a variety of artifacts and historical documents. You can also explore the nearby Beitbridge Falls, where you can find a great view of the river.
Finally, you'll arrive at your destination, Masvingo. Here you can explore the city's many attractions, including the Great Zimbabwe Ruins and the nearby Chilojo Cliffs. You can also visit the Masvingo National Park and the nearby Lake Mutirikwi.
This is just one stage of a larger tour. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!
Masvingo - Republic of South Africa - Africa - Road Trip - en.wikipedia.org
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4
Masvingo
- Bulawayo
Distance 289 km
Driving time 4.6 h
Pace: fast
86.7 kWh
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Embark on a 287 km road trip from Masvingo to Bulawayo, the second largest city in Zimbabwe. This scenic drive will take you fewer than 4 hours.
Start your journey in Masvingo, the oldest city in Zimbabwe, and visit the Great Zimbabwe Monument, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterward, take a break for lunch at the Masvingo Balancing Rocks, a spectacular natural rock formation.
On the way to Bulawayo, make sure to stop at Khami Ruins, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Matobo Hills, a region of fantastic granite formations.
Finally, arrive in Bulawayo, the City of Kings, and explore the National Art Gallery, the Khami Prison Museum, and the Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Bulawayo - Republic of South Africa - Africa - Road Trip - Mapcarta
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5
Bulawayo
- Hwange N.P.
Distance 413 km
Driving time 7.3 h
Pace: modest
107.4 kWh
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Bulawayo to Hwange National Park? This stage of the tour is 395 km long and takes less than 7 hours to complete.
The trip starts in Bulawayo, a city full of history, culture and natural beauty. Make sure to visit the Khami Ruins, a World Heritage Site, and the Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe.
The route then takes you to Dete, a small rural town with the Dete Hot Springs, a relaxing spot to take a break and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
From Dete you will drive through the Hwange National Park, a wildlife sanctuary with a variety of wildlife, including the Big 5. Make sure to visit the Painted Dog Conservation Centre and the Main Camp, where you can take a guided game drive.
The final destination is Hwange National Park, home to the world-famous Victoria Falls. Here you can experience the breathtaking beauty of the falls, take a boat cruise on the Zambezi River and explore the nearby game reserves.
This is just one of the stages of a larger tour. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip from Bulawayo to Hwange National Park!
Hwange N.P. - Republic of South Africa - Africa - Road Trip - www.needpix.com
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6
Hwange N.P.
- Victoria Falls
Distance 162 km
Driving time 4.5 h
Pace: slow
37.4 kWh
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Itinerary
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Start your journey with a visit to the Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe! This amazing park is home to the Big Five and many other species of wildlife. You could easily spend days exploring the park, but don't forget to make time to visit the nearby town of Victoria Falls. The 163 km journey from Hwange to Victoria Falls will take you less than 6 hours. Here, you can admire the spectacular Victoria Falls, one of the world's most impressive waterfalls. You can also take a boat ride on the Zambezi River, go on a game drive, or take a guided tour of the falls. In Victoria Falls, you can also visit the local markets and craft shops, or take a scenic flight over the falls. All these experiences will make your road trip unforgettable! For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Victoria Falls - Republic of South Africa - Africa - Road Trip - Tamuka Travel
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7
Victoria Falls
- Livingstone
Distance 13 km
Driving time 0.3 h
Pace: slow
2.9 kWh
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Victoria Falls to Livingstone? This 12 km journey will take you less than an hour, so you can easily fit it into your itinerary.
Start your journey in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, and visit the magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Take a walk across the Victoria Falls Bridge and experience the thunderous roar of the cascading water. Get a bird's eye view of the falls from a helicopter ride or a bungee jump.
Continue your journey to Livingstone, Zambia, and explore the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, home to some of the most amazing wildlife in the world. See the magnificent Victoria Falls from the other side and take a boat ride along the Zambezi River. Visit the nearby Livingstone Museum, a great place to learn about the area's history and culture.
This is just one stage of your journey, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready to explore the wonders of Victoria Falls and Livingstone!
Livingstone - Republic of South Africa - Africa - Road Trip - Victoria Falls Guide
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Livingstone
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Livingstone, Zambia, is the perfect end point for the "Kruger NP to Victoria Falls Road Trip". This vibrant city is located on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe and is home to a wide variety of attractions, from the vibrant markets and nightlife to the beautiful Victoria Falls.
Livingstone's most popular attraction is the majestic Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Here you can take a boat ride up the river to the falls and experience the raw power of the cascading waters. You can also take a guided tour of the falls and learn the local legends associated with them.
Other popular attractions in Livingstone include the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, home to a variety of wildlife including elephants, zebras, and buffalo. You can also visit the Livingstone Museum, which houses an impressive collection of African artifacts and is a great place to learn about the culture and history of the region.
For those traveling by car, the closest international airport is Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI), located just outside the city. From here you can take a shuttle or taxi to Livingstone.
Livingstone is a vibrant and exciting city that offers travelers a wealth of attractions and experiences. Whether you're looking for a relaxing holiday, an adventure, or a chance to explore the culture and history of the region, Livingstone is the perfect destination.
Kruger NP to Victoria Falls Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Phalaborwa
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End:
Livingstone
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Distance:
1,589 km
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Stay:
6 days
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Getting there:
Hendrik Van Eck Airport (PHW)
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When to drive:
January, February, August, September, October, November
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embarking on a 6-day Kruger National Park to Victoria Falls Road Trip is a journey of discovery through the heart of Southern Africa, an area brimming with staggering wildlife, awe-inspiring landscapes, and rich cultural history. Starting from Phalaborwa in South Africa, travelers will traverse approximately 1,565 km before reaching their final destination in Livingstone, Zambia.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Kruger National Park: As one of Africa's largest game reserves, Kruger boasts a high density of wild animals, including the Big Five: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalos. The park is also home to hundreds of other mammals and diverse bird species like the martial eagle and saddle-billed stork.
- Masvingo: Home to the Great Zimbabwe National Monument, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which reveals the grandeur of ancient African architecture and the historical significance of the medieval Kingdom of Zimbabwe.
- Hwange National Park: Zimbabwe's largest national park is renowned for its vast elephant population, which is one of the world's largest, and its commitment to conservation efforts, making it a stronghold for several endangered species.
Best Time to Go:
The prime time to embark on this adventurous Road Trip is during the dry season from June to August. During these months, wildlife is easier to spot as animals congregate around water sources, and the sparse vegetation provides less cover. Additionally, the weather is cooler and more pleasant for game drives, and the risk of malaria is lower.
Potential Risks:
Travelers should be prepared for uneven and unpredictable Road conditions, particularly in remote areas where maintenance is sporadic. Caution is necessary due to potential wildlife crossings that can pose risks, especially at dawn and dusk. Prior to departure, verify any travel advisories, regional health concerns, and ensure vaccinations are up to date.
Fascinating Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Kruger National Park spans across 19,485 square kilometers, an area about the size of New Jersey or Israel, giving you vast terrain to explore.
- The Great Zimbabwe National Monument stands as a testament to the Bantu civilization of the Shona people and dates back to the 11th century.
- Hwange National Park protects over 100 mammal and 400 bird species, providing a sanctuary for diverse African fauna.
- When planning your budget, take into account the various activities available such as guided Safaris, cultural excursions, and park conservation fees, which can enhance your experience.
- Traveling in a 4x4 vehicle is advisable for optimal navigation across challenging terrains and through occasionally rugged Roads.
- Thoroughly check the visa requirements and documentation needed for border crossings between South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Zambia.
- Keep abreast of park schedules to maximize your chances of spotting wildlife during game drives and to partake in any available guided tours.
A good choice for:
This Road Trip is a phenomenal opportunity to delve into the splendors of Southern Africa's natural and cultural heritage. With each destination offering unique encounters and breathtaking vistas, adventurers are sure to collect unforgettable experiences and a deeper appreciation for one of the world's most vibrant regions.
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