South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed that gate quotas will be enforced for day visitors to the Kruger National Park (KNP) during the festive season to manage congestion on park roads and facilities and to ensure a safe and enjoyable visitor experience.
Day visitors must pre-book online
Day visitors are strongly advised to book online in advance to secure entry, as daily gate quotas will apply. An administration fee is payable at the time of booking and is non-refundable:
This administration fee is separate from the conservation fee, which remains payable at the gate unless the visitor presents a valid SANParks Wild Card. Wild Card holders are not exempt from the administration fee.
Conservation fees explained
Conservation fees for day visitors are as follows:
- South African residents, Zimbabwean and Mozambican nationals:
- Adults: R134
- Children (2–11 years): R67
- SADC nationals:
- Adults: R275
- Children: R137
- All other international visitors:
- Adults: R602
- Children: R300
South African visitors must present a valid South African ID or driver’s licence, while all other guests are required to produce a passport. These requirements apply to drivers and all passengers.
Failure to provide valid identification will result in the standard international conservation fee being charged.
Gate quotas and time slots for day visitors
The quota system applies only to day visitors and does not affect overnight guests. Pre-booked visitors are prioritised at the gate but must arrive within their allocated time slot:
- Time Slot 1: 05:30 – 08:00
- Time Slot 2: 08:00 – 10:00
- Time Slot 3: 10:00 onwards
Late arrivals will be treated as non-booked visitors and will not receive priority access. Once daily quotas are reached, only pre-booked visitors will be permitted entry. Queueing may apply, with access dependent on the number of vehicles exiting the park.
Vehicle compliance strictly enforced
SANParks has warned that vehicles without valid licence plates or temporary licence numbers will not be allowed to enter or exit the park. Any vehicle found inside the Kruger National Park without proper registration plates will be impounded, and the driver will face charges and fines.
To ensure compliance and prevent illegal activities, Ranger Services, the South African Police Service (SAPS), and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) will be deployed throughout the festive season.
Cash-free payments at gates and fuel stations
Visitors are reminded that a secure, cash-free payment system is in place at the following entrance gates:
- Paul Kruger Gate
- Phabeni Gate
- Numbi Gate
- Malelane Gate
- Crocodile Bridge Gate
Cash-free payments also apply at fuel stations in the southern part of Kruger National Park, ensuring faster and more convenient entry and exit.
Visitor safety and park rules
Guests are urged to adhere strictly to Kruger National Park rules and regulations, which are designed to protect visitors, wildlife, and the natural environment. Any incidents can be reported using the 24-hour emergency numbers printed on entrance permits:
SANParks encourages all visitors to plan ahead, allow sufficient travel time, and enjoy the bush responsibly, ensuring a safe, relaxed, and memorable Kruger National Park experience during the festive season.
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