The Malelane Gate is a popular entrance to Kruger Park in South Africa. We have listed five affordable accommodations near Malelane Gate where you can get real value for your money without paying top dollar.
This page contains affiliate links.
A visit to Kruger Park really gets off to a good start with affordable accommodation in or near the park. Malelane Gate is one of the southern entrances to Kruger Park and is known for its excellent access to wildlife viewing. We have listed 5 affordable accommodations at Malelane Gate where you get real value for money without paying top dollar.
Tip: order an e-SIM for South Africa in advance so that you can make calls, send text messages, and use the internet in South Africa.
Why choose an accommodation near Malelane Gate?
The Malelane Gate is a popular entrance to Kruger Park in South Africa. It is located on the southern edge of Kruger Park and is easily accessible by car from Johannesburg. The southern part of Kruger Park is known for its rich wildlife because there is a lot of water in this part of the park. Near Malelane Gate, you will find a mix of luxury lodges and cozy guesthouses, all a short distance from the park entrance. An added bonus is that there are many affordable accommodations near Malelane Gate. From these accommodations, you can easily enter the park early in the morning, just in time to spot the Big Five at sunrise!
Our top 5 affordable accommodations near Malelane gate
Pestana Kruger Lodge is a great choice if you want to stay close to the Malelane Gate. This lodge is located just 700 meters from the entrance to Kruger Park and offers panoramic views of the Crocodile River. While relaxing by the pool, you can see animals such as elephants and hippos drinking from the river. The lodge offers both hotel rooms and luxury chalets and is very affordable.
Distance to Malelane Gate: 700 meters
The Mhlati Guest Cottages are ideal if you are looking for affordable accommodation close to the Malelane gate. These charming cottages are less than a 10-minute drive from the Malelane Gate and offer a peaceful atmosphere. Thanks to their location and tranquil atmosphere, Mhlati Guest Cottages are ideal for couples or small families. The tropical garden with swimming pool is a great place to relax after a long day on safari or between safaris.
Distance to the Malelane gate: 3 km
Belvedere-on-River is located almost 12 km from the Malelane gate. Here you can enjoy a delicious breakfast with a view of the wild animals before going on safari. The lodge is located on the banks of the Crocodile River and offers spacious rooms with modern facilities and a lovely swimming pool. From the lodge, you can not only easily access Kruger Park, but also enjoy the view of wild animals coming to drink along the river.
Distance to the Malelane gate: 11.5 km
Rio Vista Lodge is one of the affordable accommodations near Malelane Gate without compromising on comfort. The lodge is located just a few kilometers from Malelane Gate and offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning. From the terrace and swimming pool, you can enjoy views of the Crocodile River. So you can spot elephants and other animals from your own terrace! A big plus is the cozy bar, where you can end the day with a drink.
Distance to Malelane Gate: 11 km
For a more adventurous and rustic experience, Serenity Mountain and Forest Lodge is an excellent choice. This lodge is located a little further from the Malelane Gate (about a 20-minute drive), but offers a unique bush experience. At this small-scale eco-lodge, you sleep in cottages with a beautiful veranda that blend perfectly into nature, while at night you can hear the sounds of African wildlife.
Distance to Malelane Gate: 15.5 km
Can’t find your favorite accommodation? View all accommodations in Malelane here.
Tips for planning your stay at Malelane Gate in Kruger Park
Below are a few tips if you are looking for affordable accommodation near the Malelane gate of Kruger Park.
- Book early: Accommodation around Malelane gate is often small-scale and popular. Plan your stay at least 3-6 months in advance, especially during high season and South African school holidays.
- Explore the area: In addition to Kruger Park, you can also enjoy beautiful golf courses and nature in the vicinity of Malelane, such as the Schoemanskloof and the Panorama Route.
- Combine your stay: Consider combining your stay with a few nights in other parts of Kruger Park for a varied experience.

Why accommodations near Malelane gate are so great for your safari
The lodges and affordable accommodations at Malelane Gate offer a nice balance between affordable overnight stays, comfort, and a good starting point for your safaris. Thanks to its location on the Crocodile River, you have a good chance of spotting wild animals without even having to enter Kruger Park. Whether you choose a luxury lodge or one of the affordable accommodations at Malelane Gate, Malelane is a great location for exploring the southern part of Kruger Park and its animals.
Plenty of choice in affordable accommodation near Malelane gate.
There are plenty of affordable accommodations to be found at the Malelange gate. Each lodge or guest house has its own advantages, but whichever lodge you choose, you will always be close to the wild animals of Kruger Park in South Africa. Be sure to book early to avoid disappointment. The best spots and most beautiful affordable accommodations at the Malelane gate are always booked up quickly.
Staying at one of these affordable accommodations near Malelane gate will guarantee that your visit to Kruger Park is a unique and unforgettable experience.