Important Notice: Do not enter KNP through Numbi Gate
The road passes through local townships known for higher crime rates between White River and Hazyview.
As of the writing of this article, SANP (South African National Parks) advises visitors not to enter Kruger National Park through Numbi Gate.
This advice comes due to several incidents reported on the R538 and Numbi Gate Road.
This is not temporary advice and should be heeded for your safety.
Map of R538 And Numbi Gate Road
R538
Numbi Gate Road
The only exception to this rule: Emergencies
- If you had an Emergency that delayed your arrival till after KNP gates closed, but before 21:00 AND
- You have a booking at Pretoriuskop Rest Camp.
→In this situation, please see the “Late Gate Arrival Due to an Emergency” guide.
When no other option is available, exercise extreme caution on the R538 and Numbi Gate Road.
It would even be worth calling the gate ahead of time and asking for an update on the road conditions as you are arriving late due to an emergency.
→See the gate phone numbers directory on the SANP website.
Other Options
The good news is that unless you plan to stay at Pretoriuskop Rest Camp within KNP or a resort in the Numbi area (which is not advised unless you are driving to other gates), this should have minimal to no impact on your visit. If you are staying in Pretoriuskop, see the below gate recommendations.
Recommended Entry Gates
Malelane Gate
Distance to Pretoriuskop: Approximately 82 km via a tarred road, (H3, H1-1).
Malelane Gate → Pretoriuskop Route
Phabeni Gate
Distance to Pretoriuskop: Approximately 15 km via a graded dirt road (S3 & S7, avoid after heavy rains).
