Sketch: Runway at Eastgate Airport, Hoedspruit
Nestled just outside Hoedspruit in Limpopo, South Africa, Eastgate Airport (HDS) is the key air access point for travelers heading into the Greater Kruger region. With close proximity to Kruger's Orpen Gate and iconic private reserves like Timbavati and Klaserie, this charming airport blends convenience with wild adventure.
Sketch: Runway at Eastgate Airport, Hoedspruit
Originally developed as an air force base and NASA emergency shuttle landing site, Eastgate's transformation into a civilian terminal began in the early 1990s. Today, it welcomes thousands of safari-bound tourists each month on scheduled and charter flights.
Airlink and CemAir offer daily flights to and from Johannesburg and Cape Town. Charter operators like Federal Air and Execujet serve travelers connecting directly with remote lodges. The airport handles roughly 150 flights and over 7,000 passengers monthly.
Recent upgrades include an expanded departure lounge, faster check-in counters, improved baggage handling, and a shaded waiting area. A small café and curio shop are available for refreshments and souvenirs.
Eastgate Airport is the closest commercial airport to Kruger's central-western gates. It's a faster, more scenic alternative to long road transfers, and a favorite among international safari-goers. Charter flexibility, proximity to nature, and streamlined service make it an excellent choice for fly-in safaris.
Plans to expand Eastgate into a fully international airport are in motion, aiming to welcome direct flights from global destinations. As Kruger's popularity grows, Eastgate will play an increasingly vital role in connecting travelers with Southern Africa's wilderness.
Whether you're beginning your safari or heading home with camera rolls full of lion sightings, Eastgate Airport makes travel seamless and memorable. It's not just a runway—it's your first step into the wild.