While the Kruger is without doubt the premier Mpumalanga visitor experience, there are many other attractions in this scenic province of South Africa, including the world-famous Panorama Route, which includes the town of Hazyview.
Interesting facts about Hazyview
If you are planning your next Kruger Gate Hotel stay, and are thinking about the self-driving options, then the sub-tropical farming town of Hazyview is going to be on your radar. Known as a gateway town to the southern region of the Kruger National Park, Hazyview is not just on your route, but a picturesque stop, full of interesting attractions.
- The town, famous for its lush macadamia nut and banana plantations is set on the slopes of the Drakensberg Mountains. The iconic Sabie River runs through the area, forming the Sabie River Valley with its last stand of lush, indigenous forest. If action adventure is your thing, you can zip-line here.
- Hazyview is a smooth 4 and a-half-hour drive from Johannesburg along the major N12 and N4 highways to Mpumalanga’s main city, Mombela. From there, you travel about 65km along R40 roadway to arrive at Hazyview. For those flying into Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport and hiring a car, the airport is 56km from the town via the R538 route.
- Hazyview was established formally as a town in 1959, as part of the planning of the Selati Railway Line. The area has a fascinating history that includes the Mapulana, Tsonga and Swazi peoples, whose cultural impacts are still strong today. Like many other towns of Mpumalanga’s lowveld, Hazyview was also shaped by the gold rush of the late 1800’s, though it served more as trading post and railway stop. Due to its proximity to the Kruger National Park and Skukuza Camp, the town’s existence has always been entwined with wildlife and tourism.
The route from Hazyview to Kruger Gate
From Hazyview, it is just a 41-kilometre drive along the R536 to the Paul Kruger Gate and the Kruger Gate Hotel. The road, which is a route recommended by the tourist authority, is in good condition. You will travel alongside rural villages, so be aware of your speed, and look out for pedestrians and animals along the roadside. Visitors are advised to plan their traveling during daylight hours, and you should allocate around 40 minutes for this drive.
Planning your perfect holiday – Hazyview to Kruger Gate distances at a glance:
- From Johannesburg – 408km (approx. 4.5 hours) via N12 and N4
- From Mombela – 66km (approx. 1hr) via R40
- From Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport – 45.6km (approx. 52min) via R538
- To Kruger Gate Hotel – 41.6km (approx. 40min) via R536