Stay Close to the Kruger National Park Gates

Lisa Croeser, 19 September 2022

Reading time: 6 minutes

The Kruger National Park is South Africa’s flagship Big Five game reserve, covering two million hectares of the Lowveld region. Anyone who has visited this natural treasure knows all too well that this is where you go to recharge your batteries, absorb nature and unwind for a while. That is exactly why TravelGround compiled a list of stays close to the entrance gates of the Kruger National Park, allowing you to enjoy comfortable getaway destinations not too far from the park!

Sit back, relax and scroll through these conveniently located spots.

Hamiltons Lodge and Restaurant

Malelane

Distance to park: 500 m from the Malelane Gate

This family-friendly stay has a relaxed atmosphere and boasts lovely rooms that sleep two to four guests each. Breakfast is included at this spot where the fresh Bushveld air helps unwind any guest. The rooms are serviced daily, and have high ceilings, DStv, and large sliding doors.

Facilities: swimming pool, restaurant, two local art and homeware shops, conferencing facilities and wine tasting

Click here for rates.

Elephant Walk Retreat

Crocodile Bridge

Distance to park: 700 m from the Crocodile Bridge Gate

This retreat on the banks of the Crocodile River caters to those in search of the Big Five. The lodge often has magnificent herds of elephants visiting the area and the units here each have views of the Crocodile River. Activities include game drives into the Kruger National Park, hiking tours and fishing.

Facilities: braai facilities, swimming pool, shaded lapa area and free Wi-Fi

Click here for rates.

Sausage Tree Safari Camp

Hoedspruit

Distance to park: This safari camp shares an open boundary with the Kruger National Park.

Sausage Tree Safari Camp is where you want to be if you’re in search of a luxurious African safari experience and the best part is two meals and two Big Five game drives are included! These tents overlook a dry river bed and are nestled between trees. Each tent has a private deck and outdoor shower and guests can enjoy breakfast and dinner with a view of waterholes frequented by animals.

Facilities: boma, swimming pool, fireplace on the deck and free Wi-Fi

Click here for rates.

Silonque Bush Estate & Spa

Phalaborwa

Distance to park: 8 km from the Phalaborwa Gate

Silonque Bush Estate flaunts luxury self-catering safari houses, each suitable for two to six guests with terraces facing the Kruger National Park. Enjoy the birds, warthogs, impalas and other animals that roam freely on the estate and come and unwind at night while you listen to the lion’s roar in the distance.

Facilities: tennis courts, two swimming pools and free Wi-Fi

Click here for rates.

Cambalala Kruger Park Lodge

Hazyview

Distance to park: 9 km from the Phabeni Gate

This self-catering lodge is located on a golf resort on the banks of the Sabie River and offers the perfect location for exploring the Kruger National Park. Impala, vervet monkeys and Egyptian geese roam freely on the grounds while the lodge also has a hippo hide. The rooms are ideal for couples, families or groups of friends, and guests can braai on one of the large wooden decks.

Facilities: tennis courts, mini-golf course, swimming pools, walking trails and a Gary Player-designed golf course

Click here for rates.

Awelani Lodge

Tshikuyu

Distance to park: 12 km from the Pafuri Gate

Awelani Lodge hides in a 1700-hectare conservancy, near the Pafuri Gate on the R525. Here, guests can walk or mountain bike through a wooded conservancy with a variety of trees and enjoy nature to its full extent. Accommodation is available for two to six guests in bungalows, a chalet, standard rooms or neat safari tents.

Facilities: on-site restaurant and pub, braai facilities, a swimming pool, Wi-Fi and conferencing facilities

Click here for rates.