Monthly Update (August 2026):
Pontdrift is in its more favorable dry-season period in August, when lower Limpopo levels generally make access through this unusual crossing easier than during the wetter months. There has been no major new restriction reported this month, and the crossing continues to serve mainly travelers heading into the Tuli Block and its safari lodges. For visitors using the route, the river rather than border congestion remains the main thing that can affect the crossing.
About this crossing
A History of a Wilderness Frontier
The history of this crossing is the history of the Tuli Block itself. The Tuli Block is a long, narrow strip of privately-owned land on the Botswanan side of the Limpopo River. It was originally created in the late 19th century by Cecil Rhodes's British South Africa Company. The area was later developed into large cattle ranches. In recent decades, most of these ranches have been converted into private game reserves, and the Tuli Block has become a major destination for wildlife tourism, famous for its large elephant herds, unique rock formations (kopjes), and the beautiful Mashatu Game Reserve. The Pontdrift border crossing was established as the primary access point for these exclusive game reserves. The unique cable car was built to ensure that guests could cross the river even when it was too high for vehicles. It is a border that is defined by its wildness and its deep connection to the safari industry.
The Border Crossing Procedure: A Two-Part Adventure
This is a very quiet border, and the process is generally very relaxed and personal. The border is open from 07:30 to 16:30, and it is essential to check the current operating times and, most importantly, the river level before you travel.Exiting South Africa (Pontdrift): The South African immigration and customs post is a small, simple facility. You will present your passport and get your exit stamp. If you are a guest of a lodge like Mashatu, you will typically park your vehicle in a secure parking area on the South African side.The River Crossing: This is the main event. If the river is high, you will cross in the cable car. It is a small, open-air cage that is winched across the river high above the water. It is a thrilling experience with fantastic views. If the river is very low (typically in the dry winter months), you may be able to drive your own 4x4 vehicle across the concrete causeway. You must confirm this with the border officials.Entering Botswana (Pontdrift): On the Botswanan side, the immigration and customs post is equally small and rustic. You will present your passport and get your entry stamp. The customs check is a brief formality. If you have left your car in South Africa, your guide from the safari lodge will be waiting for you here with a game drive vehicle to take you to the lodge.
Nearby Border Crossings
Route, Onward Travel, and The Mashatu Game Reserve
This crossing is almost exclusively for tourists visiting the game reserves of the northern Tuli Block, such as the Mashatu Game Reserve. On the South African side, the road to the Pontdrift border is a mix of paved and good-quality gravel roads. The nearest major town is Alldays. On the Botswanan side, the "roads" are the sandy tracks of the game reserves. The most common way to use this crossing is to drive to the South African side, leave your car in the secure parking lot, cross by cable car, and be met by your safari lodge. This is a very smooth and well-organized process that the lodges have perfected over many years. For the very adventurous self-driver with a high-clearance 4x4, it is sometimes possible to drive your own vehicle across the causeway in the dry season and continue your journey through the Tuli Block, but you must confirm this in advance.
Final Planning Advice for a Unique Safari Gateway
The Pontdrift crossing is a fantastic and unique adventure, a perfect start to a safari in the Tuli Block. The key to using this crossing is to have your accommodation booked at one of the local safari lodges. They will provide you with all the necessary information about the current river level and the best way to cross. Have all your documents in order. The experience of crossing the Limpopo River in a small cable car, with crocodiles basking on the sandbanks below, is unforgettable. It is a border that is not a barrier but an integral part of the wilderness experience. It is a passage that feels like a true adventure, a unique and exciting entry into the wild and beautiful world of the "Land of Giants."
View all border crossings between Botswana and South AfricaPractical information
Currency
Limited near Pontdrift (BWP, ZAR)
Safety information
Generally safe, wildlife risks
Connectivity
Limited Wi-Fi, 3G
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