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HomeRoad TripsAfricaSouth AfricaRepublic of South AfricaTzaneen to Kruger NP
File:Blyde River Canyon (198812119).jpeg - Wikimedia Commons

Tzaneen to Kruger NP Road Trip

Tzaneen - Graskop - Nelspruit - Malelane

Expect on your itinerary

Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Wildlife Wildlife
Road conditions Road conditions
Landscape Landscape
Comfort Comfort
Security Security
Urban life Urban life
Culture Culture
Tzaneen to Kruger NP Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages3 km457 h/stage2.8

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Tzaneen to Kruger NP Road Trip in Republic of South Africa?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 216EUR drive & more 63EUR sleep & more 209EUR eat & more 192EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 464EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 680EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 324EUR drive & more 88EUR sleep & more 418EUR eat & more 288EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 794EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 1,118EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 576EUR drive & more 113EUR sleep & more 737EUR eat & more 384EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,234EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 1,810EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 900EUR drive & more 125EUR sleep & more 220EUR eat & more 192EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 537EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 1,437EUR
Car rental Book hotel Flights
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Tzaneen to Kruger NP Road Trip Itinerary

This Tzaneen to Kruger NP Road Trip is a great way to explore the breathtaking beauty of the Republic of South Africa. It's a 457km journey that starts in the city of Tzaneen and ends in the city of Malelane. Along the way, you will experience the beautiful landscapes and nature of Graskop, Nelspruit and other towns. The best time of year to take this trip is during the summer months when the weather is warm and pleasant. The roads are in excellent condition and are mostly curvy, so it's suitable for every driver. This road trip is a great way to experience the beauty of South Africa, and can be managed on a moderate budget. It's sure to provide you with great memories and a high level of enjoyment.
number of days 4 number of days
route length 457 km route length
budget fair budget
good for family good for
traffic direction on the left traffic direction
accident level moderate accident level

START Tzaneen

Distance 457 km Driving time 8.4 h Pace: modest 118.9 kWh Airports LTA , PTG
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Tzaneen, located in the Limpopo Province of South Africa, is a great starting point for the "Tzaneen to Kruger NP Road Trip". This beautiful town is surrounded by mountains, valleys, and rolling hills and is a great place to explore. The Modjadji Nature Reserve is a popular attraction for visitors to Tzaneen. The reserve is home to the Modjadji Cycad Reserve, the largest cycad reserve in the world, and the Modjadji Nature Reserve, a protected area of natural vegetation. Visitors can also explore the Magoebaskloof Pass, which is known for its spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. The Tzaneen Dam, located just outside of town, is a great spot for swimming, fishing, and water sports. You can also take a boat tour and explore the area's wildlife. The nearest international airport to Tzaneen is Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP), located about two and a half hours away. Car rentals are available at the airport, allowing you to start your road trip right away. Tzaneen is the perfect starting point for a road trip to Kruger NP. With its stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and outdoor activities, you'll be sure to have an unforgettable experience.

1 Tzaneen - Graskop

Distance 202 km Driving time 3.5 h Pace: modest 52.4 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road junction of road trips attractive landscape accommodation options camping sites
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Embark on a 202 km road-trip from Tzaneen in the Republic of South Africa to Graskop. This journey will take you less than 3 hours, but it is well worth taking the time to enjoy the picturesque landscapes along the way. As you drive, take in the stunning views of the rolling hills, valleys, and rivers. The road is very winding in some sections, so pay close attention to the road. Don't forget to admire the numerous waterfalls along the way. Once you arrive in Graskop, you will be rewarded with the beautiful sights of the majestic mountains and lush forests. You will also find several attractions, such as the Big Swing, God's Window, the Pinnacle, and the Lisbon Falls. Make sure to explore the many restaurants and accommodation options available. If you are looking for a camping spot, there are plenty of campsites in the area. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, make sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road-trip!

2 Graskop - Nelspruit

Distance 188 km Driving time 4.0 h Pace: modest 49.0 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road junction of road trips attractive landscape accommodation options camping sites
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Welcome to the beautiful road trip stage from Graskop to Nelspruit! This 188 km journey will take you fewer than 3 hours, so you can relax and enjoy the stunning views along the way. You will have the opportunity to visit Sabie, a small town with a great atmosphere and plenty of attractions. The road is very winding in some sections, so be sure to pay attention to the scenic road. You can also take a break in one of the many restaurants and cafes in Sabie. Once you reach Nelspruit, you can explore the city's vibrant nightlife and visit the many attractions. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!

3 Nelspruit - Malelane

Distance 67 km Driving time 1.0 h Pace: fast 20.2 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road accommodation options camping sites
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Welcome to the Nelspruit to Malelane road trip! This 67km journey will take you less than an hour, so you can expect to be at your destination before you know it. Get ready to explore the beauty of South Africa as you drive through the scenic roads. Start your trip in Nelspruit, where you can explore the Lowveld National Botanical Garden, which is the largest botanical garden in the country. Here you can find a variety of plants, trees, and birds and enjoy a peaceful stroll. Continue your journey and you'll arrive in Malelane, where you can visit the Kruger National Park. Here you can spot some of the most majestic African wildlife, such as elephants, lions, and rhinos. You can also enjoy the great outdoors and go on a hike or visit the Malelane Crocodile Farm. This is just one part of your South African road trip, so make sure to check out the itinerary for more attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!

  Malelane

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Malelane is a small town located at the southern end of Mpumalanga province in the Republic of South Africa. It is the perfect ending spot for the "Tzaneen to Kruger NP Road Trip" and is situated close to the Kruger National Park, which makes it a great place to explore the natural beauty of the area. The town is known for its beautiful landscapes, with vast open spaces and rolling hills. It is also home to some of the most interesting places to visit, including the Kruger Gate, which is the entrance to Kruger National Park, and the nearby Crocodile River, which is teeming with wildlife. There are also a number of golf courses in the area, as well as the unique Black Rock Nature Reserve, where visitors can view a variety of rare and endangered species. Malelane is a great place to spend a few days exploring the natural beauty of the region. It is also a great starting point for a road trip, with easy access to the Kruger National Park and other nearby attractions. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA), which is located just outside the town. For those looking to explore the beauty of the area, Malelane is the perfect ending point of the "Tzaneen to Kruger NP Road Trip". With its beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and attractions, Malelane is an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience the beauty of South Africa.

Tzaneen to Kruger NP Road Trip at a glance

Before you set off

Embark on a captivating journey from the verdant valleys of Tzaneen to the iconic landscapes of Malelane, which serves as one of the gates to the world-renowned Kruger National Park. This 457km odyssey is a dream for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, offering a diverse tapestry of South Africa's majestic scenery. Along the route, travelers will encounter charming towns, panoramic vistas, and a rich tapestry of flora and fauna.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

  • Tzaneen: A tropical garden town nestled in the lush Limpopo Province, renowned for its avocado and mango farms, as well as the enchanting Tzaneen Dam and surrounding forests.
  • Graskop: A quaint town that serves as a portal to natural wonders, including the awe-inspiring God’s Window viewpoint and the verdant Blyde River Canyon, the third largest canyon in the world.
  • Nelspruit: This bustling city is not only the commercial hub of the Mpumalanga Province but also a conservation haven, with the Lowveld National Botanical Garden and its rare collection of plant species.
  • Kruger National Park: South Africa's flagship national park, a conservation area larger than Israel or Wales, offering unparalleled Safari experiences, with the chance to encounter the celebrated Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo) amidst its 2 million hectares.

Best Time to Go:

The ideal time for this Road Trip is during the dry winter months from May to September when wildlife viewing is at its peak due to thinner vegetation and animals congregating around water sources. The weather is also cooler and more comfortable for game drives.

Potential Risks:

The journey features winding Roads that require vigilant driving. Additionally, it is crucial to be cautious of wildlife crossings, particularly when approaching and traversing through Kruger National Park, where animals have the right of way.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

  • The journey can be tailored to suit a range of budgets while still providing an exceptional experience.
  • Accommodation options are varied, including camping under the stars, cozy bed and breakfasts, and opulent Safari lodges.
  • The route is dotted with cultural landmarks and gastronomic delights, reflecting the rich heritage and flavors of South Africa.
  • Essentials such as fuel and refreshments are accessible along the route; however, planning is recommended, especially for the more remote stretches.

A good choice for:

The Tzaneen to Kruger National Park Road Trip is an enchanting adventure that offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and discovery. It's the quintessential South African experience for travelers eager to explore the country's natural wonders and vibrant ecosystems at a leisurely pace.

Facts for safer driving in Republic of South Africa

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 60 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 120 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 120 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime off
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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