The 496-kilometer border between Mozambique and South Africa is a frontier of immense economic importance and a gateway to some of the region’s most famous natural attractions. It is a line that separates two regional powerhouses and is home to one of the most modern and busy border posts on the African continent.
Your main crossing point will be the Lebombo (South Africa) and Ressano Garcia (Mozambique) border. This is a massive, 24-hour facility that operates as a key part of the Maputo Corridor, a major trade route linking South Africa’s industrial heartland with the port of Maputo. The crossing is modern and efficient but can be subject to long queues, especially during holiday periods.
This border is also your entry point to world-renowned wildlife areas. It is located right next to Kruger National Park in South Africa, and many travelers cross here to continue their safari into Mozambique’s part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park. A smaller, more scenic crossing is available at Kosi Bay, for 4×4 vehicles heading to the southern Mozambican coast.
The Lebombo-Ressano Garcia crossing is a powerful symbol of the economic integration of southern Africa. The constant flow of trucks, trains, and tourists underscores the deep connection between the two countries, making it a vital artery for the entire region.