South Africa

Johannesburg to Kruger National Park

Urban jungle to the Big Five

Plan This Trip

Distance

460 km (285 miles)

Duration

5-6 hours direct, 1-2 days scenic

Best Time

May to September (dry season)

Route

Johannesburg, Gauteng → Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga/Limpopo

About This Drive

The drive from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park takes you from South Africa's economic hub to one of Africa's greatest wildlife destinations. Journey through the Mpumalanga highlands, past the Blyde River Canyon, and into Big Five country where lions, elephants, and leopards roam free.

Stops Along the Way

1

Dullstroom

220 km from start

Trout fishing village with craft beer

2

Blyde River Canyon

340 km from start

Third largest canyon on Earth

3

God's Window

350 km from start

Viewpoint over the Lowveld

4

Kruger Gate

460 km from start

Entry to South Africa's premier park

5

Safari Drives

460 km from start

Self-drive or guided Big Five experiences

Driving Tips

  • 1

    Take the Panorama Route via Blyde River Canyon—spectacular

  • 2

    Book Kruger rest camps well in advance (6-12 months)

  • 3

    Dry season (winter) offers best wildlife viewing

  • 4

    Self-drive safaris are excellent in Kruger—rent a 4x4

  • 5

    Wake early—animals are most active at dawn

Alternate Routes

  • N4 direct route

  • Panorama Route via Blyde River Canyon (scenic)

More Drives in South Africa

South Africa

Cape Town to Plettenberg Bay

South Africa's premier scenic drive

530 km (330 miles)
Back to All City Drives