For travellers wanting to skip the long road transfer and arrive in the bush in just over an hour, flying from Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport directly into the Kruger region is the most seamless option.
Whether you choose a scheduled safari shuttle flight or a private charter, there are convenient services that connect you straight into Kruger National Park and Greater Kruger’s private airstrips.
Flying from Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport straight into Kruger National Park is the fastest, most hassle-free way to start a safari. There are two practical options: scheduled shuttle flights (shared, regular services into private reserve airstrips) and private charters (bespoke aircraft or helicopter transfers).
Scheduled Shuttle Flights – Fast & Hassle-Free
The shuttle flights land at airstrips close to lodges inside the reserves, meaning your safari often begins just minutes after you land.
Federal Airlines (FedAir) operates daily shuttle flights from OR Tambo International Airport to private airstrips across the Kruger National Park region, including Sabi Sands, Timbavati and Manyeleti. These flights are designed for safari guests and timed to connect with international arrivals.
- Flight time: Around 60–90 minutes, depending on routing.
- Departure point: FedAir’s private terminal at OR Tambo with a comfortable lounge, meet-and-greet service, and easy transfers from the main airport.
- Luggage: Strict allowance of around 20 kg in soft bags (plus a small carry-on).
- Booking: Contact Us for Scheduled Shuttle Flights to Kruger National Park
Private Charter Flights – Luxury and Flexibility
For travellers wanting complete control over their schedule or a direct transfer to a specific lodge airstrip, private charter flights are available from OR Tambo and other airports.
- FedAir Charters: Bespoke private aircraft that can fly into a wide range of bush airstrips.
- Cezani Aviation: Based in Nelspruit (Mbombela), offering fixed-wing and helicopter charters as well as scenic flights over the Lowveld.
- Booking: Contact Us for private charter flights to Kruger National Park
Private charters are ideal for groups, families, or travellers carrying oversized luggage. Aircraft options range from light planes to helicopters, and charters can be tailored to your schedule.
Where You Can Land
Depending on your lodge location, flights can land at:
- Skukuza Airport: inside Kruger National Park, serving lodges in the southern region.
- Private lodge airstrips in Sabi Sands and Timbavati: most convenient, as transfers are often just 5 - 15 minutes.
- Hoedspruit (Eastgate) Airport: gateway for northern Kruger and nearby reserves.
- Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA/Nelspruit): popular for both scheduled and charter flights.
Your Siyabona Africa Kruger Park destination specialist will ensure your flight lands as close to your safari lodge as possible.
Contact Us for Private Charter Flights and Scheduled Shuttle Flights to Kruger National Park
Please Note
Please note flights can only be booked in conjunction with accommodation bookings.
