Numbi Gate Kruger National Park
Numbi Gate: A southern Kruger entrance offering potential for close wildlife encounters and access to Pretoriuskop Camp, with varied visitor experienc...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & see more animals
Numbi Gate Kruger National Park
Best Time
Beat the crowds & see more animals
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Numbi Gate: A southern Kruger entrance offering potential for close wildlife encounters and access to Pretoriuskop Camp, with varied visitor experiences on safety and efficiency.
"Professional and friendly team greeted us at Numbi Gate... we were through in 5 minutes, and saw a den of hyena within meters of the gate."
✅ Buy Tickets Online
Speeds up entry, especially during peak times.
⏰ Arrive Before 7 AM
Avoid long queues and maximize your wildlife viewing time.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hyena Den Surprise
Near Numbi Gate
Spot a mother hyena with her cubs just meters from the gate – an unforgettable welcome!
Scenic Wildlife Drive
Kruger National Park
Experience the thrill of spotting diverse animals in their natural habitat. The park offers unparalleled beauty.
Pretoriuskop Camp Access
Numbi Gate
A shorter route to Pretoriuskop Camp, making it a convenient entry point for exploring this area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Gate Safety & Access
Early Bird Gets the Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Driving to the Kruger - Skukuza specifically - safe routes?
✅ Buy Tickets Online
Speeds up entry, especially during peak times.
⏰ Arrive Before 7 AM
Avoid long queues and maximize your wildlife viewing time.
Self-driving around Kruger on first visit to South Africa
Are the R538 and R40 unsafe/sketchy roads to drive?
🚗 Double-Check Car Locks
Be vigilant about car security at the gate.
🗺️ Grab a Park Map
Essential for planning your wildlife spotting routes.
Kruger Park Itinerary + Type of Rental Car?
Tips
from all over the internet
✅ Buy Tickets Online
Speeds up entry, especially during peak times.
⏰ Arrive Before 7 AM
Avoid long queues and maximize your wildlife viewing time.
🚗 Double-Check Car Locks
Be vigilant about car security at the gate.
🗺️ Grab a Park Map
Essential for planning your wildlife spotting routes.
💧 Pack Snacks & Water
Stay hydrated and fueled for your adventure.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Numbi Gate offers a convenient entry to Kruger, with some visitors reporting quick and friendly service and exciting wildlife sightings right at the entrance. However, past safety concerns linger for some, prompting advice for vigilance regarding vehicle security. Arriving early is key to avoiding long queues, especially during peak times.
"What a lovely experience gates open at 6.. be there as early as possible! Remember your South African ID, and definitely buy tickets on line, it makes entrance to the park a lot easier! Get yourself a map to help plan a route!
Pack in your snacks sun block and lots of water it can get hot out there!
There’s always amazing animals to spot! There’s just no place as beautiful as the Kruger National Park"
Claudia Nvd Merwe
"We went on the free week in september. When we arrived after 8am there were long and Massive queues. We normally arrive before 7am but we're delayed. No security issues on the route and wonderful views but sadly local taxi drivers and buses who slip the queues caused such a backlog that the gate had to be closed and unfortunately not enough staff where out at the gate so unfortunately seemed badly managed at least on the day but in the past, this has still been one of my favourite gates to visit as a local and will be returning soon. Sad we missed this year but lesson learnt"
Erafold Industries
"Such a professional and friendly team greeted us at Numbi Gate ... we were through in 5 minutes, and saw a den of hyena within meters of the gate. Mom with 2 babies. The officials said the safety concerns were from a long while ago, and they are proud to say no recent issues experienced. Much shorter route to Pretoriuskop Camp."
Wendy Case
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
While some travelers have reported safety concerns on the route to Numbi Gate in the past, recent visitors indicate a smoother experience. However, if you have concerns, consider entering via Malelane Gate or Phabeni Gate. The route via Mbombela and Hazyview is often mentioned as being close to Numbi.
The route from Mbombela (Nelspruit) to Numbi Gate typically involves driving towards Hazyview. This route is often considered a direct approach to the park's southern entrance.
Phabeni Gate is often recommended as a safer alternative to Numbi Gate. If you wish to visit the Numbi Gate area, some suggest entering at Phabeni and taking the first sand road right to access it.
Driving conditions can vary, but generally, the roads leading to the park are paved. However, vigilance is advised, especially when approaching the gate.
Information on direct public transport to Numbi Gate is limited. Most visitors opt for private vehicles or organized tours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees for Kruger National Park apply. It's recommended to check the official SANParks website for the most current pricing for daily conservation fees.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended. It significantly speeds up the entry process, especially during busy periods.
Numbi Gate, like other Kruger National Park gates, typically opens at 6:00 AM. It's always best to confirm the exact closing times for the day of your visit on the SANParks website.
Yes, if you are a South African resident, you will need to present your South African ID for entry, especially if you are eligible for resident rates.
If you arrive after the gate has closed for entry, you will not be able to enter the park until it reopens the following morning. Plan your arrival accordingly.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Numbi Gate has limited facilities, primarily focusing on the registration process. You'll need to fill out a form and sign in. It's advisable to have all your supplies before entering.
Visitors have reported seeing hyenas with cubs very close to Numbi Gate. The surrounding areas of Kruger National Park are rich with diverse wildlife, including the Big Five.
Yes, Numbi Gate is considered a shorter and more convenient route to access Pretoriuskop Camp compared to some other entry points.
While some past reports mention safety concerns, many recent visitors have found the gate and its officials to be professional and friendly, with no recent issues experienced. However, vigilance regarding vehicle security is still advised by some.
Entry can be very quick, with some visitors getting through in as little as 5 minutes. However, during peak times or free weeks, queues can become very long, leading to significant delays.
📸 📸 Photography
The immediate vicinity of Numbi Gate has offered incredible close-up sightings, like hyenas with cubs. For broader wildlife photography, explore the roads leading from the gate towards Pretoriuskop and beyond.
A telephoto lens (300mm or more) is highly recommended for capturing wildlife from a distance. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscapes and larger scenes. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards!
While specific tours starting directly at Numbi Gate might be less common, many general Kruger photography tours can be arranged that will pick you up or meet you at a convenient point.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography and are when animals are most active. Golden hour can provide stunning shots.
Be patient and observant. Sometimes, incredible sightings happen right at the entrance. Ensure your camera is ready to go as soon as you arrive.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Self-Drive Adventurers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Numbi Gate: Safety and Entry
For those prioritizing a smoother entry, consider alternative gates like Malelane or Phabeni. One common tip is to enter at Phabeni and take the first sand road right if you intend to visit the Numbi Gate area. If you do choose Numbi, arriving early is key. Gates open at 6 AM, and being there before 7 AM can help you avoid the long queues that can form, especially during peak seasons or free entry weeks.
Wildlife Encounters Near Numbi Gate
As you venture further into the park from Numbi, the opportunities for spotting a wide array of animals, including the iconic Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo), are abundant. The diverse habitats within Kruger National Park support a rich ecosystem, making every game drive a unique adventure. Remember to pack binoculars and a good zoom lens to make the most of your sightings.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit