A long layover in Nelspruit is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Nelspruit Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 75 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of NLP:
- Can you legally enter South Africa? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 75-minute journey each way by Taxi/Shuttle, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the ZAR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some ZAR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
The Best Way Into Nelspruit from NLP
You have two main options for getting from Nelspruit Airport into town:
- Taxi/Shuttle: About 75 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 95 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Exploring Nelspruit on a Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Nelspruit, two standouts are:
- Lowveld National Botanical Garden — Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy.
- Mbombela Stadium — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside NLP — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Premier Lounge (Bidvest)
- Airport Viewing Deck
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Nelspruit: Orange Restaurant and Zest Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for The Runway Restaurant & Bar or Vida e Caffè. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Nelspruit, budget roughly $27 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $11 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $6 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Bag Storage Near NLP
Luggage storage options at NLP can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Nelspruit for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
WiFi at NLP should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in South Africa and you’re good to go.
Need a Nap? Options at NLP
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, NLP has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Nelspruit exploring the streets or relaxing at NLP, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.