Self Drive Directions
From Johannesburg
The driving time from Umkumbe Bush Lodge is approximately 5 hours. The Lodge contact number is +27 78 8253999 (WhatsApp calls only)
- This route is safe to drive; you will pass through rural areas where the locals are friendly
- Please drive carefully, and be aware of village pedestrians, children and domestic animals
- The gate into Sabie Game Reserve opens at 05h00 and closes at 22h00; please let us know if you will be arriving outside of these hours so we can make the necessary arrangements for your entrance
- Once in the reserve, please strictly adhere to the speed limits and afford the animals right of way
Recommended route from Johannesburg
- On departure, please contact the lodge so that we can keep track of your journey and ensure you arrive safely.
- Take the N12 or N4 highway to eMalahleni (formerly Witbank)
- From eMalahleni, follow the N4 highway past Middleburg and continue on to Mbombela (formerly Nelspruit)
- From Mbombela, take the R40 past White River and on to Hazyview
- At the T-junction between Kiepersol and Hazyview, turn left onto the R538 to Hazyview
- At the second set of traffic lights (there will be a shopping centre on your right), turn right onto the R536 towards Paul Kruger Gate (Kruger National Park)
- After following the road for 38km, turn left onto a gravel road signposted Umkumbe
- Drive for 4km, then turn right at the T-junction, and drive for a further 4km to Shaw’s Gate – the entrance to Sabie Game Reserve & the Sabi Sand Game Reserve
- You will use the left hand gate called Sabie Game Reserve Gate. No entrance fee is required.
- Follow the signposted route on to Umkumbe
- Please do not take the turn off to Newington Gate, despite what Google Maps will tell you. Please follow the above directions.
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Tailored African Travel Ideas
The opportunity to experience an astonishing country at your doorstep makes it a good idea to make your time at Umkumbe Bush Lodge as part of a larger African vacation. We are often asked to recommend unique itineraries to other amazing destinations by our guests.
Our team is passionate about African travel and has crafted an eclectic combination of tours for you to choose from. We offer tours and experiences that combine Cape Town, the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls, Mozambique and the Winelands - all iconic African destinations.
Recommended Tours
The opportunity to experience an astonishing country at your doorstep makes it a good idea to make your time at Umkumbe Bush part of a larger African vacation. We are often asked to recommend unique itineraries to other amazing African destinations by our guests.