Kruger National Park Rules, Fees & Entry Requirements

Overview

Kruger National Park is managed by South African National Parks (SANParks). Entry is open year-round, but access is governed by daily conservation fees, set gate times, and strict conduct rules designed to protect visitors and wildlife.


Park Entry Requirements

Requirement
Details
Identification
South African ID or passport (foreign visitors).
Entry Permit
Issued at the gate; must be displayed on your vehicle dashboard.
Vehicle Registration
Registration number required at check-in.
Proof of Booking
Accommodation or day-visitor reservation (peak periods).
Payment Method
Cash, credit card, or proof of valid Wild Card.


Conservation & Entry Fees

(Rates valid 2025 – subject to change by SANParks)
Visitor Category
Daily Fee (ZAR)
South African Citizens & Residents (with ID)
R122 per adult / R61 per child
SADC Nationals (passport required)
R244 per adult / R122 per child
International Visitors
R488 per adult / R244 per child
Wild Card: Unlimited entry for 12 months to SANParks reserves after a one-off payment. Cost varies by residency and category.


Gate & Camp Hours (Approx.)

Season
Gate Opening
Gate Closing
Summer (Oct–Mar)
05:30
18:30
Winter (Apr–Sep)
06:00
17:30
Internal rest camps have similar but slightly earlier closing times; always confirm exact times at arrival.


Key Rules & Conduct

Vehicle Rules

  • Stay inside your vehicle unless in a designated area.
  • Obey speed limits: 50 km/h tar, 40 km/h gravel, 20 km/h in camps.
  • Do not drive off-road or block others at sightings.
  • Seatbelts compulsory; no riding on vehicle roofs or hanging out of windows.

Wildlife Etiquette

  • Maintain a respectful distance (minimum 30 m from big game).
  • Never feed animals—dangerous and illegal.
  • Keep noise levels low to avoid stress to wildlife.

General Park Conduct

  • No littering; remove all waste when leaving.
  • Alcohol is only allowed in rest camps and picnic sites.
  • Firearms must be declared and sealed at entry.
  • Drones are prohibited without explicit SANParks research permits.


Health & Safety

  • Malaria: Low-to-moderate risk (Nov–Apr). Consult a medical professional for prophylaxis.
  • Emergency Numbers: Displayed at all gates and camps; Skukuza has a medical clinic.
  • Road Safety: Watch for animals on roads, especially at dawn/dusk.


Booking & Day-Visitor Caps

  • Accommodation: Reserve well ahead for school holidays and winter peak.
  • Day Visitors: Strict limits at southern gates (Phabeni, Numbi, Paul Kruger, Malelane, Crocodile Bridge) during December and long weekends. Pre-book online to secure entry.


Practical Tips

  • Carry printed or digital confirmations to speed up gate processing.
  • Keep a park map—cell signal varies.
  • Respect closing times: after-hours exit may incur fines.
  • Ensure adequate fuel; available at all main camps.


Quick Reference

  • Organisation: SANParks
  • Website:  www.sanparks.org 
  • Emergency Number (Kruger): +27 (0)13 735 4325
  • 24-hr Control Centre: +27 (0)13 735 0197


Key Takeaways

  • Valid ID and payment are required at every gate.
  • Daily conservation fees differ for locals, SADC nationals, and international guests.
  • Speed, noise and feeding restrictions are strictly enforced—offenders can be fined or removed.
  • Gate hours shift by season; late arrivals are not admitted.