Getting There
Take a Roadtrip to the Lowveld (5 Hours From Johannesburg!)
The good news is that, while Abelana Game Reserve is located in the Lowveld – in close proximity to the renowned Kruger National Park – vehicle access to the reserve is obtained predominantly via a long stretch of stellar highway and the gorgeous, winding scenery of Route 71.
Approximately 500km from Johannesburg, this drive is nothing short of adventure with plenty stops along the way that add to the wanderlust. A route planned out with plenty curio shops, quaint cafes and views that will take your breath away.
Some of our favourite Route 71 destinations include the delightful Haenertsburg, with it’s quaint cafés and knick-knack shops, Magoebaskloof Canopy Tours and Magoebaskloof Hiking Trails. Enjoy the magnificent drive around Tzaneen Dam, organic farms stalls and dairies, and venture to the Qualito Craft Distillery in Phalaborwa, for those with a refined taste for adventure.
With half of your trip sailing smooth along the N1 highway, and the other half enjoying mountain passes and cultural stops along the way, it’s a 5-hour road trip from Johannesburg that passes in the blink of an eye.
By Air
Airlink connects you to Hoedspruit with direct flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town
Abelana River Lodge Directions by Road
From Johannesburg or Pretoria take the N1 to Polokwane and then the R71 to Moria, Haenertsburg and Tzaneen. Alternatively, you can take the R81 to Modjadjiskloof and then the R36 to Tzaneen. From Tzaneen continue on the R71 to Gravelotte and then turn left continuing on the R71 to Phalaborwa.
Abelana North Gate is approximately 35km from Gravelotte, on the right-hand side and is well signposted. The approximate distance from Johannesburg is 500km and travel time adhering to speed limits is between five and five-and-a-half hours.
Once at the gate and after check-in transfer will be by game viewer to Abelana River Lodge approximately 10 minutes away.
Abelana Safari Camp Directions by Road
From Johannesburg or Pretoria take the N1 to Polokwane and then the R71 to Moria, Haenertsburg and Tzaneen. Alternatively, you can take the R81 to Modjadjiskloof and then the R36 to Tzaneen. From Tzaneen continue on the R71 to Gravelotte. From Gravelotte proceed direct to Mica on the R526 for 32,5km and at the T–junction turn left onto the R40 towards Phalaborwa. Abelana South Gate for Abelana Safari Camp is approximately 8km along the R40 on the left-hand side.
Once at the gate transfer will be by game viewer to Abelana Safari Camp approximately 25 minutes away.