Frequently Asked Questions
CORE SERVICE QUESTIONS
What services does SWIFT Kruger Shuttles offer?
We provide scheduled shared shuttle services between Pretoria, Johannesburg, and OR Tambo International Airport and destinations across Hoedspruit, Phalaborwa and Greater Kruger National Park.
With our extensive fleet of vehicles, we are able to also assist with private transfers to/from anywhere in the whole of Kruger National Park and any game/ safari lodge in Greater Kruger, Madikwe, Welgevonden, Entabeni, Pilanesberg, Pontdrift (Tuli Block – Mashatu), Soutpansberg Reserves, Mapungubwe, Northern Kwa Zulu Natal reserves, St Lucia – basically anywhere within an 8–10-hour drive from OR Tambo International Airport.
Our services are designed for:
- International travellers
- Safari lodge guests
- Families, groups and solo travellers
- Travel agents and tour operators
Is it better to take a shuttle or rent a car to Kruger National Park?
This depends on your travel style.
A shuttle or private transfer is ideal if you:
- Prefer not to self-drive long distances
- Are unfamiliar with South African roads
- Want a stress-free, safe transfer to your lodge
Renting a car may suit experienced drivers who plan extensive self-driving within the park. Many travellers choose a shuttle in and a rental vehicle locally.
Do you offer private transfers for families or groups?
Yes. We offer private, door-to-door transfers for:
- Families
- Small groups
- Safari groups
- VIP or time-sensitive travel
Private transfers allow flexible departure times, fewer stops, and direct routing to lodges or airports.
ROUTES, PICKUPS & TIMING
Do you offer transfers from Johannesburg Airport to Kruger National Park lodges?
Yes. We provide transfers from OR Tambo International Airport to:
- Hoedspruit and surrounding lodges
- Phalaborwa and surrounding lodges
- Marloth Park, Southern Kruger Park Restcamps
- Hazyview, Nelspuit, Whiteriver
- Graskop and Panorama Route
- Safari lodges in and around Greater Kruger National Park
- Madikwe Game Reserve Lodges
- Entabeni and Waterberg Lodges
- Sun City & Pilanesberg Lodges
- Welgevonden Game Reserve Lodges
- Northern Kwazulu Natal Game Lodges
- Northern Kruger National Park Lodges and Rest Camps
- Mapungubwe National Park and Thuli Block Lodges
Transfers are available as scheduled shared shuttles or private transfers, depending on route and availability.
Where is your meeting point at OR Tambo International Airport?
For the Scheduled Shared Shuttle services we meet clients at the OR Tambo Shuttle Terminal.
For Private Transfers we meet clients inside the terminal at a clearly defined meeting point with a name board.
You will receive:
- Exact meeting instructions
- Terminal details
This is sent via booking confirmation and pre-travel communication.
What time will we arrive in Hoedspruit or Phalaborwa?
Arrival times depend on:
- Departure & drop-off locations
- Route
- Number of drop-offs
For long-distance routes, we use arrival time windows rather than exact times to allow for traffic, weather, and road conditions. Final estimated arrival windows are confirmed before travel.
For the Scheduled Shared Shuttle Services the trip takes between 6 and 8 hours.
Do you travel to other destination apart from Kruger National Park?
Yes. Transfers to Other Destinations are available, usually as private transfers due to location and timing requirements.
BOOKING, AVAILABILITY & ROUTES NOT LISTED
Do you only operate shuttles on certain days of the week?
Our Greater Kruger Shuttle service operate every day of the year except on 25 Dec.
The Express Shuttle operate on Mondays and Tuesdays.
If your preferred date or route is not visible online, this does not automatically mean we cannot assist. In many cases, a private transfer can be arranged.
I don’t see the route or destination I need on your website. Can you help?
Yes. Not all routes are published online.
If your destination is not listed:
- Contact us with your pickup and drop-off details
- We will advise whether a private transfer or alternative solution is available
Many custom transfers are handled this way.
Do you still operate the Nelspruit (Mbombela) to Hoedspruit route?
Some routes operate seasonally or on demand, based on traveller demand.
If a route is not currently visible, please contact us so we can advise on:
- Current availability
- Alternative routing
- Private transfer options
How far in advance should I book my shuttle or transfer?
We strongly recommend booking as early as possible, especially during:
- Peak safari seasons
- School holidays
- International travel peaks
Early booking improves availability and allows better coordination with flight schedules.
RELIABILITY, SAFETY & TRUST
How reliable are your shuttle and transfer services?
Reliability is central to our operation.
We prioritise:
- Professional, experienced drivers
- Well-maintained vehicles
- Conservative scheduling
- Clear pre-travel communication
Our services are trusted by international travellers, safari lodges and travel agents.
Is your shuttle service safe for international travellers?
Yes. Our services are specifically designed with international travellers in mind.
We prioritise:
- Clear instructions and communication
- Professional drivers
- Reliable routing to safari destinations
Safety, punctuality and comfort are key operational priorities.
Do Travel Agents. DMC’s, and Tour Operators book through you?
Yes. We regularly work with travel agents, DMC’s, tour operators and safari lodges.
We offer:
- Agent support and rates
- Group handling
- Reliable scheduling for guest transfers
Agents are welcome to contact us directly.
CHANGES, CANCELLATIONS & POLICIES
What happens if my flight is cancelled or rescheduled?
We understand that flight disruptions can occur.
If your flight is cancelled or rescheduled due to circumstances beyond your control, please contact us as soon as possible.
Where feasible, we will attempt to:
- Reschedule your transfer
- Issue a travel credit (subject to conditions)
Each case is reviewed individually.
Do you still offer discounts for online bookings?
Pricing is structured to reflect fair and transparent operational costs.
While promotions may be offered from time to time, pricing is not dependent on booking channel. Our focus remains on service quality and reliability.
The booking page on our website will clearly indicate any discounts where applicable.
Can you transfer me to a hotel, guesthouse or hostel in Hoedspruit?
Yes. We can assist with transfers to:
- Hotels
- Guesthouses
- Hostels
- Safari lodges
- Airports
If your accommodation is not listed, we will advise on the closest suitable pickup or drop-off point, and can assist you with pre/post shuttle transfers where required.
SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS TO THIS E-MAIL LINK:
res@swiftkrugershuttles.com
