Kruger Mpumalanga International (MQP) in Nelspruit (also known as Mbombela) is a regional hub connecting travellers to southern Kruger National Park and the surrounding area.
| The trip to Kruger National Park from MQP Airport depends on which gate you plan to enter. The routes include a mix of well-maintained provincial roads and national highways. |
Malelane Gate: ~1 hour
Phabeni Gate: ~1 hour
Crocodile Bridge Gate: ~1 hour 30 minutes
Reasons TO fly into MQP and drive to KNP
- Less Driving: It’s a much shorter drive to KNP than from Johannesburg.
- Car Rental: Most major car rental brands are available and are well-priced.
Reasons to NOT fly into MQP and drive to KNP
- Cost: Domestic flights to MQP can be expensive, but good deals are available when compared to flying into Skukuza.
- Inefficient: Unless you arrive in JNB and then connect to MQP immediately, you are not saving that much time.
- Northern KNP: If you plan on visiting the Northern Region of KNP, time savings are negligible compared to driving from Johannesburg.
It’s important to note:
- Avoid taking a later flight that arrives at MQP after midday.
- You want ample time to pick up your car rental and get to your accommodation, especially if you are staying within KNP.
Summary
- If your budget permits and your inbound international flight arrives early in the morning or late at night, and you sleep over at an airport hotel, go for it!
- If you manage to find cheap flights and don’t enjoy long-distance driving, that would make this option more appealing.
- If you are on a tight timeline, this option would be worthwhile.
