Eastgate Airport is just outside the town of Hoedspruit and is the airport of choice for those visiting the nearby Kruger National Park or the private game reserves in the area. Hire a car and head out into this amazing natural wonderland where you’ll get to see the ‘Big Four’ game animals.
Stay in a lodge overnight and fall asleep to the sound of the nocturnal animals and wake up to watch the lions resting after their overnight feed. For something different you can head into the town of Hoedspruit, Tzaneen or Phalaborwa.
Eastgate Mini Guide
Where is Eastgate Airport?
Eastgate Airport is near Hoedspruit in the Limpopo Province in South Africa. It has the second longest runway in South Africa and was a proposed landing site for the NASA space shuttle.
How Would I get There?
There are daily flights with South African Airways to Johannesburg and Cape Town. If you are already in South Africa and have a car you can drive using the N1 route that connects most major cities.
How can I get Around?
You can book a company to provide your transport, for example Eastgate Safaris. However hiring a car gives you complete freedom to explore the area.
What Facilities Does the Airport Have?
The airport is very small but there is a facility for currency exchange and a restaurant that opens at lunch time. Car rental offices are in the terminal, from where you can collect your car. There is a jewellery shop for any last minute gifts featuring local handmade designs.
What Can I do in This Area?
This is your gateway to visit the world famous Kruger National Park – look out for the ‘big five’ and don’t forget your camera! The area also has private game reserves that you can visit, Timbavati and Thorneybush are just two. If you like a challenge, go kayaking through the Blyde River Canyon. You could also visit the towns of Tzaneen and Phalaborwa.
Where Can I Stay?
There are a number of options. For a full-on safari experience, stay at Honeyguide Tented Safari Camp on the Manyeleti Reserve in Kruger Park. They have 2 tented camps with all meals provided and you can go on guided walks and wildlife game drives. If you would prefer to stay in a more luxurious setting, go to the Hans Merensky Hotel and Spa, they have a golf course and spa on-site as well as an outdoor pool. The hotel has its own café and restaurant where you can try local specialities. Game lodges and bush lodges are also a great place to stay and the best of both worlds.
What’s the Food Like?
Many of the lodges and restaurants have open fires and barbeques so don’t be surprised to try local dishes such as warthog sausage or springbok tenderloin. For a snack try Biltong made from zebra or elephant, not for the faint hearted!
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