World Cup Travel 2010: Self Drive routes for Soccer Fans.

SECTION 3: SELF-DRIVE ROUTES | < BACK | NEXT >

3.1 CAPE TOWN - JOHANNESBURG

3.1.1 Direct Route N1
Total distance: +/- 1,405 km
Suggested duration: 2 days

Depart from Johannesburg on the N1 south following signs to Bloemfontein. The first major town is Kroonstad, 207km; through to Ventersburg to Winburg, 93km. Continue on to Bloemfontein, 95km. The N1 bypasses the city to the north.

From Bloemfontein continue on the N1 to Colesberg, 207km. On leaving Colesberg turn right onto the N1 following signs to Beaufort West and Cape Town (if you miss this turnoff you will travel to Middleburg on the N9).

The next major town is Beaufort West, 316km via Hanover and Three Sisters. Continue on the N1 from Beaufort West to Laingsburg, 226km. Continue on to Touwsrivier, 62km; De Doorns, 76km and then down the scenic Hex River Pass through picturesque vineyards to Worcester, 39km.

From Worcester continue down Du Toit’s Kloof Pass through the toll tunnel to Paarl. Bypass Paarl on the right and continue to Cape Town, 44km.

3.1.2 Via Kimberley
Total distance: +/- 1,430 km
Suggested duration: 3 days

Travel west on the N1 ring road around Johannesburg to the N12 to Kimberley signs. Travel 106km to Potchefstroom and on to Klerksdorp, 47km; to Wolmaranstad, 86km; to Bloemhof, 64km; Warrenton, 52km and through to Kimberley.

Excursions around Kimberley can include: The Big Hole diamond diggings and diamond museum near the centre of town. The McGregor Museum featuring excellent siege and Anglo Boer War exhibits, diamond-mining history along with some exceptional photography collections. Nearby the Anglo Boer War battlefields of Magersfontein, Modder River and Paardeberg. These battlefield sites have been especially prepared for the centenary commemoration of the Anglo Boer War – 1899 – 1902.

From Kimberley continue south on the N12 to Hopetown, 122km; Britstown, 131km; Victoria West, 105km; and through to Three Sisters, 61km. At this point the N12 joins with the N1 from Bloemfontein. Continue for 78km to Beaufort West. Close to the town, a short excursion to the Karoo National Park. Continue on the N1 out of Beaufort West to Laingsburg, 226km. 27km from Laingsburg turn left into the historic restored village of Matjiesfontein. Return to the N1 and continue on to Touwsriver, 62km; De Doorns, 76km and then down the scenic Hex River Pass through picturesque vineyards to Worcester, 39km. From Worcester continue down Du Toit’s Kloof Pass through the toll tunnel to Paarl. Bypass Paarl on the right and continue to Cape Town, 44km.

3.1.2 Via George
Total distance: +/- 1,605 km
Suggested duration: 3 days

Depart from Johannesburg to the N1 south following signs to Bloemfontein. The first major town is Kroonstad, 207km; through to Ventersburg to Winburg, 93km. Continue to Bloemfontein, 95km. The N1 bypasses the city to the north. From Bloemfontein continue on the N1 to Colesberg, 207km. Pass through the village of Colesberg where the N1 direct route to Cape Town turns off to the right, continue on the N9 to Middelburg, 97km. Then to Graaff-Reinet, 106km. From Graaff-Reinet visit the Valley of Desolation and the Karoo Nature Reserve both of which are situated close to the town.

Continue on the N9 past Aberdeen to Willowmore, 172km through to the point where the N9 joins the N12, 178km north of George. For an excursion turn right onto the N12 to visit the Ostrich farms and the famous Cango Caves. Return on the same N12 south to George, 63km. From George travel west on the N2 through Mossel Bay, 45km to Riversdale, 84km, then through Heidelberg to Swellendam, 84km and on to Caledon, 109km. Continue on the N2 for 21km where the R44, turnoff to the left will take you on an excursion to Hermanus, this is a famous whale watching town. Return to the N2 and continue through Grabouw to Sir Lowry’s Pass and on to Cape Town passing Somerset West on the right and later on Cape Town International Airport.

3.2 CAPE TOWN – PORT ELIZABETH
The Scenic Leisure Route for Self-drive visitors:
Total distance: +/- 760 km
Suggested duration: 3 to 4 days

We can arrange your rent-a-car at one of our Cape Town offices.

Depart from Cape Town on the N2 east; pass Cape Town International Airport following signs to Somerset West. Bypass Somerset West; continue on the N2, cross over Sir Lowry’s Pass, through the village of Grabouw to Caledon (see excursion 1). From Caledon continue on, passing through Swellendam, Heidelberg and Riversdale to Mossel Bay, 292km from Cape Town. From Mossel Bay continue on to George, 45km (see excursion 2). From George the N2 passes through the lake district to Knysna, 71km, a beautiful holiday and timber manufacturing town. Visit “The Heads” where the sea passes through narrow cliffs at the mouth of the lagoon. From Knysna, a short drive to Plettenberg Bay, 36km. Superb beaches and hiking on Robben Island.

From Plettenberg Bay continue on the N2, through a toll plaza towards Humansdorp (see excursion 3). Bypass Humansdorp (see excursion 4). Continue on to Port Elizabeth, 71km on the N2 (see excursion 5).

EXCURSION 1:

From the village of Grabouw travel 23km down the short Houwhoek Pass. At the foot of the pass turn right onto the R44 (turning later onto the R43) following the signs to Hermanus, 31km. Hermanus is a resort town famous for the whales which come into the bay every year to calf. Excellent beaches and cliff top walks. Return to the N2 and continue eastwards.

EXCURSION 2:

At George take the N12 north, climbing up the Outeniqua Pass to Oudtshoorn, 63km. Visit the world famous Cango Caves and Ostrich farms in the area. Return to George and the N2.

EXCURSION 3:

70km from Plettenberg Bay follow the sign to the right to Storms River, a short drive through indigenous forest to some spectacular coastal scenery with a foot bridge over the river mouth. Return to the N2. Super picnic site.

EXCURSION 4:

Turn off the N2 into Humansdorp and travel 22km to the resort villages of St Francis Bay and Cape St Francis. Part of the resort is built on canals. Superb beaches on the sea front. Return to the N2.

EXCURSION 5:

Pick up the Jefferies Bay turnoff between Humansdorp and Port Elizabeth. Turn right towards the coast and travel a short distance to Jefferies Bay, 9km. The village is famous for the quality of surfing, offering some of the longest wave rides in the world. Return to the N2.

3.3 DURBAN – JOHANNESBURG

3.3.1 Direct Route N3
This is the most simple direct route for visitors travelling to Johannesburg:
Total distance: +/- 590 km
Suggested duration: 1 day

Depart from Durban on the N3 to Pietermaritzburg, 78km and continue on to Harrismith, 252km via Howick, Mooi River, Ladysmith and Van Reenen’s Pass.

From Harrismith continue on the N3 to Warden, 53km to Villiers, 99km over the Vaal River and through to Johannesburg, 123km.

3.3.2 Via Bergville
Scenic Self-drive Route:
Total distance: +/- 625 km
Suggested duration: 2 days

Depart from Durban on the N3 past Pietermaritzburg, 78km to Howick and Mooi River.

Just beyond the Shell Ultra City Service Station look for the R74 to Bergville, 45km. Bergville is a central point for visitors destined for the northern and central Drakensberg resorts.

From Bergville travel up the scenic Oliviershoek Pass, past the Sterkfontein Dam and through to Harrismith, 76km.

From Harrismith continue on the N3 to Warden, 53km to Villiers, 99km over the Vaal River and through to Johannesburg, 123km.

3.3.3 Via Newcastle and Volksrust
Scenic leisure Route for Self-drive visitors:
Total distance: +/- 625 km
Suggested duration: 2 days

Depart from Durban after arranging your hired car on the N3 towards Pietermaritzburg, 78km. Carry on past Pietermaritzburg, past Howick and Mooi River to the N11 turning right to Ladysmith, 231km from Durban. Ladysmith is one of the principle centers of the Anglo Boer War battlefield sites. Excellent war museum.

Continue out of Ladysmith on the N11 towards Newcastle for 64km to the R68, right to Glencoe and Dundee. Dundee is the centre for the Zulu War (1879) and the first Anglo Boer War battles of Talana and Elandslaagte. The Zulu War battlefields are at Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift are located to the east of the town. There is an excellent museum at the Talana site.

From Dundee return to the N11 and proceed to Newcastle and on to Volksrust, 95km. Just before Volksrust, the battlefields of the 1st War of Independence (1881) with the Mjuba battle site on the left.

At Volksrust take the R23 left to Standerton, 82km and through to the N3 via Balfour, 111km. Turn right onto the N3 and travel north into Johannesburg.

3.4 DURBAN – NELSPRUIT

3.4.1 Direct Route
This is the Direct Route for Car Rental Visitors:
Total distance: +/- 690 km
Suggested duration: 2 days

Our Vehicle rental offices have a great variety of models to suit your requirements and budget.

Depart from Durban on the N2 north following signs to Stanger, 66km to Empangeni, 112km, bypass Richard’s Bay to Mtubatuba, 51km.

Continue past Hluhluwe to Mkuze, the Jozini Dam and on to Pongola. From Pongola to Piet Retief is 124km. 10km beyond Piet Retief turn right onto the R33 to Amsterdam, 47km. Continue through Amsterdam for 56km to the N17, turn right. Continue east on the N17 for 25km and turn left onto the R541 to Badplaas.

At Badplaas, turn right onto the R38 to Barberton, 120km. Before you reach Barberton, the R38 joins the R40, turn left at this T junction for Nelspruit, 40km

3.4.2 Via Dundee- Battlefields route
Scenic Leisure Route for self-drive travellers:
Total distance: +/- 798 km
Suggested duration: 3 days

We have a modern fleet of low mileage vehicles for hire at special discount rates.

Our all inclusive rates include unlimited kilometres and airport surcharges.

Depart from Durban on the N2 north following signs to Stanger, 66km past Mandini to the village of Gingindlovu. Turn left onto the R68 to Eshowe, 22km and Melmoth, 47km. 4km out of Melmoth, the R68 turns left to Babanango and Dundee, 167km.

Dundee is the centre of the Zulu War Battlefields – excellent museums at Dundee (Talana Museum). From Dundee head north to Vryheid continue north to Piet Retief, 107km via Paulpietersburg.

From Piet Retief continue on the R33 to Amsterdam 47km. Continue through Amsterdam for 56km to the N17, turn right. Continue east on the N17 for 25km and turn left onto the R541 to Badplaas.

At Badplaas, turn right onto the R38 to Barberton, 120km. Before you reach Barberton, the R38 joins the R40, turn left at this T junction for Nelspruit, 40km

3.4.3 Via Swaziland
Scenic Route for self-drive holidays:
Total distance: +/- 820 km
Suggested duration: 3 days

Depart from Durban on the N2 north following signs to Stanger, 66km to Empangeni, 112km, bypass Richard’s Bay to Mtubatuba, 51km.

At Mtubatuba, the R618 takes you to St. Lucia Village, Wetland Parks and Marine Reserve. Continue on the N2 towards Hluhluwe. A short distance from Mtubatuba turn left onto the R618 to Hluhluwe Game Park.
Continue past Hluhluwe to Mkuze, the Jozini Dam and on to Pongola. From Pongola to Piet Retief is 124km. At Piet Retief take the R543 to the Mahamba border crossing, 48km (passports required). Cross into Swaziland and proceed on the Route 9 to Manzini via Nhlangano and Hlathikulu, 145km. At Manzini turn left onto the Route 3 to Mbabane up the Ezulwini Valley. From Mbabane continue on Route 3 for 14km to the turn off right to Pigg’s Peak, Route 1, 51km. At Pigg’s Peak turn left to the Bulembu border post (passport required) and travel down the scenic Bulembu Pass to Barberton. From Barberton take the R40 to Nelspruit, 45km.

3.5 DURBAN – PORT ELIZABETH

3.5.1 Direct Route
Scenic Self-drive Route:
Total distance: +/- 1,395 km
Suggested duration: 3 days

Depart from Durban on the N3 west, towards Pietermaritzburg on the Johannesburg N3 highway and continue on this route for 329km to Harrismith. Then take the N5 to Kestell, 46km where you should turn left onto the R57 and follow signs to the Golden Gate Highlands National Park on the R712. This is a wonderful scenic route through sandstone canyons, to the village of Clarens. From Clarens take the R711 to Fouriesburg, 36km and on to Ficksburg, 48km and then on to Ladybrand, 70km. At Ladybrand turn right onto the N8 and continue on this road past Thaba Nchu (Black Mountain) to Bloemfontein, 64km.

Join the N1 north of Bloemfontein and head south-eastwards to Colesberg, 227km. A short distance beyond Colesberg the N1 to Cape Town branches to the right. At this point continue straight on the N9 to Middelburg, 93km. Turn left onto the N10. Continue on the N10 to Craddock, 98km, Somerset East, 69km, then on to the point south of Paterson (Excursion 1) where the N10 joins the N2 from East London. Turn right onto the N2 and continue to Port Elizabeth.

Excursion 1: At Paterson locate the signs to Addo Elephant National Park. Turn right for a short distance to the park entrance.

3.5.2 Via Transkei and East London
Direct Route along the Coast:
Total distance: +/- 970 km
Suggested duration: 2 days

We have rent-a-car offices conveniently situated around Durban. Our rates are probably the most competitive in Southern Africa.

Depart from Durban on the N2 south bypassing the many coastal resorts, towns and villages for 131km to Port Shepstone. From Port Shepstone continue on the N2 to Harding, 133km, passing the Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve on the right hand side. From Harding continue on the N2 bypassing Kokstad, 102km. At this point you enter the area formerly known as the Transkei. The road is generally unfenced presenting the danger of livestock straying onto the road.

Continue on the N2 to Umtata, 175km, then on to Butterworth, 121km and into East London, 111km.

From East London continue on the N2 driving inland to King William’s Town, 61km.

Continue on the N2 through to the historical settler town, Grahamstown, 120km (Excursion 1), and then head back to the coast on the same N2 to Port Elizabeth (Excursion 2), 129km.

Excursion 1: Take the R67 to Port Alfred, 56km. From Port Alfred take the R73 coastal road to Kenton-on-Sea, Alexandria, and join the N2 at the point where the N10 meets the road.

Excursion 2: 49km from Port Elizabeth, the N10 joins the N2. Turn right onto the N10 travelling northwards for 22km, then take the R342 to the Addo Elephant National Park. From the Park proceed down the R335 towards Port Elizabeth rejoining the N2, 14km from Port Elizabeth.

3.6 NELSPRUIT - DURBAN

3.6.1 Direct Route
Self-drive Vacation Route:
Total distance: +/- 690 km
Suggested duration: 2 days

Depart from Nelspruit on the R40 south towards Barberton, travelling for 46km then turn right onto the R38 to Badplaas continue for 54km over the scenic Nelshoogte Pass. Just 1km before the village of Badplaas turn left onto the R541 to Lochiel, 68km. Turn right on to the N17 for 25km, then turn left onto the R33 to Amsterdam, 56km through scenic forests to Piet Retief, 47km from Amsterdam.

From Piet Retief take the N2 south east to Pongola, 99km. Continue on past the Jozini Dam to the village of Mkuze, 64km. At Mkuze you might wish to visit the game reserves of Northern Natal. A short distance from Mkuze on the left hand side is the Mkuze Game Reserve, extending eastwards to the Sodwana State Forest, Sodwana Bay National Park, Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park and the St. Lucia Marine Sanctuary. To reach these you will travel on gravel roads.

From Mkuze continue southwards on the N2 towards Durban to the signboard indicating Hluhluwe. Turning left you will reach the St. Lucia Game Reserve and Wetland Park. Turn right for the Hluhluwe Game Reserve, northern gate. Continue south on the N2 for 44km to the R618 which will take you to the central Hluhluwe Game Reserve, Mambeni Gate, 21km. Return to the N2 and continue south past Richard’s Bay to Empangeni. From Empangeni, travel for 40km to the R66. If you turn right at this point for a short excursion to Eshowe, a frontier town at the time of the Zulu War where there are a number of points of interest, including an excellent museum and frontier fort. The interesting Shakaland Zulu Cultural village is not far from Eshowe. Continuing south on the N2 over the Tugela River to the Stanger turnoff, 48km and on to Durban, 65km. Entering from the north through Umhlanga Rocks

3.6.2 Via Wakkerstroom
Self-drive Leisure Route:
Total distance: +/- 744km
Suggested duration: 2 days

From Piet Retief take the R543 to Wakkerstroom, approximately 90km, which is one of the foremost bird watching areas of southern Africa where a number of endemic and extremely rare species are found. From Wakkerstroom continue on the R543 to Volksrust, 27km. Here turn left onto the N11 to Newcastle, 54km. A short distance from Volksrust on the right hand side is the Majuba battlefield site of the First Anglo Boer War of 1881. O’Niell’s Cottage nearby is where the peace treaty was signed. From Newcastle continue on the N11 to Ladysmith, 99km. Ladysmith was held under siege during the Anglo Boer War of 1899 to 1902 and there are a number of interesting battle sites and military cemeteries throughout the area. The museum in the town features an excellent Anglo Boer War display which has been especially prepared for the centenary of the war. From Ladysmith continue on the N11 to the main N3 Johannesburg to Durban highway. Turn left and continue through to Durban via Pietermaritzburg

3.6.3 via Swaziland and Dundee
Charming Holiday Route:
Total distance: +/- 820km
Suggested duration: 3 days

Our Nelspruit vehicle rental branch can supply you with excellent rates on your car hire. We include unlimited kilometres and insurance in our fee.

Depart from Nelspruit on the R40 south to Barberton, 45km. Visit the many historical houses and mining sites in and around the town. Then proceed south over the scenic Bulembu Crossing. Continue into Swaziland on the same road for a further 21km to Piggs Peak, turn right to Motjane for 51km, then left to the capital Mbabane. You will find excellent accommodation just south of Mbabane in the Ezulwini Valley. From Mbabane take the Manzini road for 54km, then turn right onto Route 9 to Hlathikulu continuing through the town bypassing Nhlangano to the South African border post at Mahamba.

From the border post take the R543 to Piet Retief, 48km. Depart Piet Retief on the N2 south for 4km before turning right on to the R33 to Paulpietersburg and on to Vryheid, 107km. From Vryheid take the R33/34 to Kingsley and on to Dundee, 70km. You are now in the battlefields area of both the Zulu War 1879 – Battles of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift – (These sites are some distance from the town) and the Anglo Boer War, 1899 to 1902, Battles of Talana and Elandslaagte. At Dundee there is an excellent museum at the Talana battlefield site. From Dundee continue on the R33 through Helpmekaar to Pomeroy through scenic country to Tugela Ferry, a Zulu trading centre in KwaZulu-Natal. This road passes through rural KwaZulu and is generally not fenced. Beware of domestic livestock on the road. Cross the Tugela River at Tugela Ferry and continue up a steep escarpment to Greytown, 148km from Dundee. There is an excellent museum in Greytown featuring Zulu War, Anglo Boer War and Bambata Rebellion exhibits.

From Greytown continue on the R73 for 73km to Pietermaritzburg. Turn left on to the N3 to Durban, 78km.

3.7 NELSPRUIT – JOHANNESBURG or PRETORIA

For the Self Drive Traveller:
Total distance: Nelspuit – Johannesburg: +/- 360 km OR Nelspruit – Pretoria: +/- 345 km
Suggested duration: 1 day

Depart from Nelspruit on the N4 west. Travel up the Eland’s River Valley past Waterval Boven through toll plaza, and Machadodorp to the highveld.

Continue past Belfast and Middelburg. After Middelburg you will pass a Shell Ultra City Station, continue through a toll plaza for a short distance where the N4 splits.

The left hand forks, N12, takes you to Johannesburg passing Springs and Benoni. For Sandton follow the Pretoria signs at the N3/N12 interchange and travel north following signs to Sandton.

The right hand fork continues as the N4 to Pretoria, 103km.

3.8 JOHANNESBURG/SANDTON CITY – PILANESBERG/SUN CITY

Direct Route for self-drive visitors :
Total distance: +/- 155km,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Suggested duration: 2 hours

Depart from Sandton on Sandton Drive. Turn right into William Nichol Drive, R511 heading north. Continue on R511 to Fourways. Turn left into Witkoppen Road and a the first set of traffic lights turn right into Cedar Avenue (Fourways Shoppng Mall is on your right).

Continue Cedar Avenue for 8.5km to a stop street. Turn left and immediately right (Sun City sign board). Continue to the next stop street, 3km and turn right onto the R512 (Sun City sign board). Continue through the Lanseria Airport stop street for 20.5km to a T junction. Turn left here at the T junction onto the R27 (Sun City sing board). Travel for 10km to a turnoff to the right indicating Brits, R512, turn right, cross over a railway crossing to the Hartebeesport Dam, crossing this on a long bridge to the next T junction. Turn right, cross over the hill and down to a four way stop. Garage in front of you and numerous roadside stalls. Turn left here onto the R27 for 9,3km to a second sign indicating Brits. Continue for 1km and turn left (Sun City sing board). Continue for a further 5km when the R27 merges with the N4 from Rustenburg. 9.4km on the N4 you will pick up a sign on the slip road to the left indicating Pilansberg (Sun City sing board). Turn right over the N4 on the R556 heading north for 70km following signs to Pilansberg and Sun City. Sun City is in the hills to the right of the road. While at Sun City visit the Pilansberg National Park set in an ancient volcanic crater and offering excellent game viewing.

3.9 SUN CITY/PILANESBERG – SANDTON CITY/JOHANNESBURG

Direct Travellers Route:
Total distance: +/- 155km
Suggested duration: 2 hours

Leave Sun City. Turn left at the gates onto the R556, 3km along the R556 take the right hand fork and continue for about 70km to the N4. Cross the bridge over the N4 and continue on the R556 to a T junction. Turn left and continue to the four way stop, garage and roadside stalls.

Here turn right, over the hill for 2.3km, then turn left onto the R512 indicated to Randburg. Cross over the back of the Hartebeespoort Dam, over a railway crossing and immediately left onto the R27 for 9.6km to the R512 indicating Randburg to the right. Travel for 20.5km, past the Lanseria Airport stop street, then left at the next turnoff to the left, then continue for 3km to a stop street. At this stop street turn left, then immediately right for 8.5km to the Fourways Shopping Mall. At the T junction lights left, then right at the next set of traffic lights and you are on the R511 William Nichol Highway.

Proceed on the William Nichol and turn left into Sandton Drive. You will see Sandton City on your left.

3.10 PRETORIA – PILANESBERG/SUN CITY

Direct Drive for Visitors:
Total distance: +/- 155km
Suggested duration: 2 hours

From Pretoria drive west on the N4, past the Hartebeesport Dam towards Rustenburg. Follow the Pilansberg/Sun City signs driving 74km to Sun City on the R556.

Sun City is in the hills to the right of the road. While at Sun City visit the Pilansberg National Park set in an ancient volcanic crater and offering excellent game viewing.

3.11 SUN CITY/PILANESBERG – PRETORIA

Direct directions :
Total distance: +/- 155km
Suggested duration: 2 hours

From Sun City/Pilanesberg follow the N4 signs to Pretoria, 74km. Continue on this route which will take you to the centre of Pretoria.

3.12 JOHANNESBURG AIRPORT/PRETORIA/SANDTON – KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

Direct Route
Total distance: Johannesburg – Nelspruit: +/- 360 km
Pretoria – Nelspruit: +/- 345 km
Kruger Park South to North: +/- 400 km
Suggested duration: 1 day

From:

Johannesburg International Airport Exit Johannesburg International on the R21, Rietfontein Road travelling south east, turn left after 6km onto the N12 Witbank highway for 96km to Witbank. *

Sandton, exit Sandton on Grayston Drive take the N1 towards Pretoria for 27km, then follow the Pietersburg signs and continue through the eastern suburbs of Pretoria for a further 21km to the N4 Witbank off ramp. Take this route travelling eastwards past Bronkhorstspruit to Witbank, 100km. *

Pretoria, exit the city on Schoeman Street which becomes the N4, to Witbank, 103km. *

*Continuing eastwards from Witbank on the N4, pass through the first toll road point and bypass Middelburg. Continue eastwards bypassing Belfast, Machadodorp, through the second toll road point, then bypassing Waterval Boven through the tunnel and down the Elands River Valley, past the Sudwala Caves, to Nelspruit, the capital of Mpumalanga. Just outside Nelspruit on the R40, the Nelspruit Lowveld Botanic Gardens and nearby Reptile Park.

From Nelspruit take the R40 to White River, 19km (Witrivier). 2km beyond White River turn right onto the R538 indicating Numbi Gate – 32km, which will be your entrance point into the Kruger National Park.

For the southern entrances to the park, continue through Nelspruit on the N4 to Malelane, 61km. The Malelane Gate entrance is indicated on the left off the N4, 2km east of Malelane. Continue to Komatipoort, a further 44km for the Crocodile Bridge Gate.

3.12.1 JOHANNESBURG AIRPORT/PRETORIA/SANDTON – KRUGER PARK via BARBERTON

Total distance: +/- 405 km
Suggested duration: 2 to 3 days

From:

Johannesburg International Airport: Exit Johannesburg International on the R21, Rietfontein Road travelling south east, turn left after 6km onto the N12 Witbank highway for 96km to Witbank. *

Sandton: Exit Sandton on Grayston Drive take the N1 towards Pretoria for 27km, then follow the Pietersburg signs and continue through the eastern suburbs of Pretoria for a further 21km to the N4 Witbank off ramp. Take this route travelling eastwards past Bronkhorstspruit to Witbank, 100km. *

Pretoria: Exit the city on Schoeman Street which becomes the N4, to Witbank, 103km. *

*Continue on the N4 from Witbank for 67km to Wonderfontein where the R38 travelling to Badplaas, hot springs are a feature of the village. Continue on the R38, over the scenic Nelshoogte Pass to the R40, 60km. Turn right to Barberton, 9km. Barberton is an old mining town where alluvial gold was mined at the turn of the 19th century. Numerous museums and historic houses to visit. A short distance from Barberton the Bulembu Pass, one of the most scenic in South Africa. Continue on the R40 travelling eastwards past the Sheba and Eureka Gold Mines to rejoin the N4 to Kaapmuiden, 53km. Turn right onto the N4 and enter the Kruger National Park at either Malelane, 22km or at Crocodile Bridge near Komatipoort, a further 44km. To reach the Private Game Reserves turn left onto the N4 at Kaapmuiden for Nelspruit.

If you are travelling to the private game reserves continue through White River on the R40 to Hazyview, 66km. In Hazyview turn right onto the R536. The sign to the Private reserves is on the left before Kruger Gate, +/- 22km.

3.12.2 JOHANNESBURG AIRPORT/PRETORIA/SANDTON – KRUGER PARK via PILGRIMS REST

Scenic Holiday Route:
Total distance: +/- 520 km
Suggested duration: 2 to 3 days

From Johannesburg International Airport Exit Johannesburg International on the R21, Rietfontein Road travelling south east, turn left after 6km onto the N12 to Witbank, 96km. Bypass Witbank – here the N12 joins the N4 from Pretoria. Travel for 22km, through the toll plaza to the R35 turnoff to Middelburg. From Middelburg take the N11 towards Groblersdal – 93km. At 20km on the left, the famous Botshabelo Mission Station and frontier fort – Return to the N11 and continue to the Loskop Dam. The entrance to the Loskop Dam Nature Reserve is on the left, just after the dam wall. This is a small but well stocked park with a 2 hour circuit which follows the dam waterline. Return to the N11 and proceed along the Olifants River to Groblersdal from where you should take the R33 to Belfast, 118km. This is now highveld trout fishing country. From Belfast, take the R540 for 35km to the quaint trout fishing village of Dullstroom, an excellent stopover point. +/-350km from Johannesburg International Airport.

Continue on the R540 for 66km to Lydenburg – old Voortrekker church, trout hatchery and museum before taking the R37 to Sabie. This road crosses the dramatic Long Tom Pass with numerous photo points, 46km. Sabie is forestry centre with numerous waterfalls and forest walks on the Sabie River. From Sabie head north on the R352 towards Graskop, 24km. 18km from Sabie turn left onto the R533 to Pilgrim’s Rest, a historic mining village with excellent theme shopping, coffee shops and gold panning in Peach Tree Creek. Retrace your route back to the R532 and continue on for 6km to Graskop village. Good souvenir shopping and numerous pancake houses. From Graskop continue on the R532 northwards to the famous and dramatic Blyde River Canyon, one of the deepest in the world, stopping off at the Lisbon and Berlin falls, God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Pot Holes and on to the canyon. Excellent photo sites at all points. Return to Graskop on the same route. Then take the R533 to Hazyview, turning onto the R535 after 11km. Hazyview is then 26km from this turnoff. Avoid travelling via Bushbuckridge. Hazyview is the hub of the lowveld with excellent accommodation. From Hazyview take the R536 for 35km to the Kruger Gate entrance to the Kruger National Park the sign to the Private reserves is on the left before the Kruger Gate.

Numbi Gate – take the R538 from Hazyview to White River after 11km the Numbi Gate entrance into the Kruger National Park will be on your left.

For the southern entrances to the park, continue through White River turning on to the R40 to Nelspruit. From Nelspruit take the N4 to Malelane, 61km. The Malelane Gate entrance is indicated on the left off the N4, 2km east of Malelane. Continue to Komatipoort, a further 44km for the Crocodile bridge Gate.

3.13 KRUGER NATIONAL PARK - PRETORIA/SANDTON/JOHANNESBURG AIRPORT

3.13.1 DIRECT ROUTE

Total distance: +/- 360 km
Suggested duration: 1 day
If you are leaving Kruger Park from the:
Kruger Gate: Travel to Hazyview on the R536, 26km. Turn left on the R40 to White River, 66km and continue on to Nelspruit, 19km.

Numbi Gate: Take the R538 to White River, 37km. Follow the R40 to Nelspruit, 19km.

Either Crocodile Bridge or Malelane: Drive west on the N4 to Nelspruit.

From Nelspruit take the N4 west. Travel up the Eland’s River Valley past Waterval Boven through toll plaza, and Machadodorp to the highveld.

Continue past Belfast and Middelburg. After Middelburg you will pass a Shell Ultra City Station, continue through a toll plaza for a short distance where the N4 splits.

The left hand fork, N12, takes you to Johannesburg passing Springs and Benoni. For Sandton follow the Pretoria signs at the N3/N12 interchange and travel north following signs to Sandton.

The right hand fork continues as the N4 to Pretoria, 103km.

3.13.2 Via CROCODILE BRIDGE or MALELANE

Total distance: +/- 405 km
Suggested duration: 1 day

On leaving the Kruger National Park, probably at either Crocodile Bridge or Malelane, travel to Nelspruit on the N4.

As you leave the town turn left to Barberton on the R40, 45km. At Barberton, an historic mining town, visit the museum, historic buildings and other places of interest. Return towards Nelspruit for 9km and turn left onto the R38, over the Nelshoogte Pass to Badplaas, hot springs, to Carolina, 120km. Drive straight through Carolina to the N4 west of Wonderfontein, 38km. From Wonderfontein turn left onto the N4 past Middelburg. After Middleburg you will pass a Shell Ultra City Service Station, continue through a toll plaza for a short distance where the N4 splits.

The left hand fork, N12, takes you to Johannesburg passing Springs and Benoni. For Sandton follow the Pretoria signs at the N3/N12 interchange and travel north following signs to Sandton.

The right hand fork continues as the N4 to Pretoria, 103km.

3.13.3 Via PILGRIMS REST

Total distance: +/- 520 km
Suggested duration: 2 days

Leave the Kruger National Park from either Numbi or Kruger Gates and follow signs to Hazyview. At Hazyview turn right onto the R40, pass the first turn off to the right (1km to Sabie). Cross the Sabie River and turn left onto the R535 to Graskop. Follow signs to Graskop turning onto the R533 through forest plantations to Graskop, 37km. Excellent curio shopping in Graskop and numerous pancake houses.

From Graskop take the R532 to Blyde River Canyon passing God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, the Lisbon and Berlin Waterfalls to the Canyon.

Return to Graskop and take the R533 to Pilgrim’s Rest, 16km. This is an historic mining village – theme shopping, coffee houses and panning for gold in Peach Tree Creek. Continue on the R533 for 27km following signs to Lyndenburg over a steep pass to the R36. Turn left to Lyndenburg, 29km. Lyndenburg is a historic town and farming community – superb early architecture, museum and a trout breeding station. Leave Lydenburg on the R36 for a short distance and turn right onto the R540 to Dullstroom, 58km. Dullstroom is one of the highest points on the highveld and a trout fishing centre. From Dullstroom continue on the R540 to Belfast, 35km Join the R33 out of Belfast for 2km to the N4 – turn right to Witbank where the N4 splits.

The left hand fork, N12, takes you to Johannesburg passing Springs and Benoni. For Sandton follow the Pretoria signs at the N3/N12 interchange and travel north following signs to Sandton.

The right hand fork continues as the N4 to Pretoria, 103km.

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