Travel advisory: R538 closure impacts travel to and from Kruger National Park!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed that the Mkhuhlu Road is currently closed following a community protest at Cork Trust, near the bridge adjacent to the cultural village and the traffic college. The closure affects traffic on the R538 and has direct implications for travellers accessing or exiting Kruger National Park via the Paul Kruger Gate.

Motorists are advised to avoid the affected area until further notice and to plan alternative routes to minimise delays, particularly during peak travel periods.

Alternative access points and routes to consider

Travellers heading to or from the central and southern regions of Kruger National Park may use the following nearby options:

• Phabeni Gate (near Hazyview): A practical alternative for visitors approaching from Hazyview and the Panorama Route. This gate provides convenient access to the southern Kruger road network and helps bypass congestion near Paul Kruger Gate.
• Numbi Gate (near White River): Suitable for travellers coming from Mbombela (Nelspruit) or White River. While historically busy, it remains a viable alternative depending on traffic conditions.
• Malelane Gate: Ideal for those travelling via the N4 corridor. Although further south, it offers reliable access and good road infrastructure.
• Crocodile Bridge Gate: Best suited to travellers already in the far southern Lowveld or approaching from Komatipoort and surrounding areas.

Travel planning advice

SANParks recommends monitoring official updates, allowing additional travel time, and confirming gate operating hours before departure. Accommodation providers inside and outside Kruger National Park may also assist with route planning during the disruption.

The situation remains under review, and travellers should remain flexible with itineraries until normal access via the R538 and Paul Kruger Gate is restored.

Kruger National Park tours >>
online car hire >> 

 

Subscribe for updates:

Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates, border info, road alerts, and travel inspiration for Southern Africa.