safari africa kruger park

Kruger National Park

QUICK FACTS

  • World-famous for it's wildlife
  • Kruger Park is state-owned and accommodates budgets on both the low-end with self-catering, and on the high-end with luxury concessions
  • Luxury customers usually fly in to nearby airports (KMIA / SZK / HDS) from either Cape Town or Johannesburg
  • Self-drive possible but flying more common for luxury itineraries
  • Game viewing best during the dry winters months May to Oct
  • Wet summer season brings full waterholes, lush bushveld, many newborn wildlife and the summer migrant birds arrive
  • 15+ luxury lodges in 9 private concessions (each run by a particular operator) over an area of 1,950,000 hectares.  Bare in mind that the majority of this is state-owned and run.

ADDITIONAL READING

  • https://www.safari.com/blog/top-5-kruger-national-park-safaris
  • https://www.safari.com/blog/top-10-luxury-lodges-in-the-greater-kruger-park

Lodge and package options are shown below, but if it seems daunting, feel free to contact [email protected]

safari africa kruger park

Sub regions inside

Broader region.

Lukimbi Safari Lodge

The Kruger National Park is one of the most famous and visited National Parks in Africa, for good reason. Home to an incredibly diverse wildlife population including the Big 5, a wide range of predators, the biggest collection of mammal species in Africa and an amazing range of bird species - the Kruger Park is a mecca for wildlife encounters.

Over and above the endless African wildlife within the reserve, there are also an incredibly large and unique variety of luxury lodges within and surrounding Kruger National Park.

The Kruger National Park is a destination that is generally considered to be good all year-round.

The attraction to the Kruger National Park is most certainly the wildlife and there is no question that the dry winter season from May to October is considered the best time to experience phenomenal game viewing and walking safaris. The bush is less dense and animals tend to gather around the fewer permanent water sources, allowing for better viewing opportunities.

Mid-winter - June to August - is a very comfortable time of year to visit the Kruger as there are few mosquitoes, little if any rain and temperatures are pleasantly warm during the day and refreshingly cool at night. The bone-dry, end-of-winter months of September and October often experience uncomfortably hot and humid conditions but concentrations of animals around water sources are at their highest - this period is often regarded as the best game-viewing time for a Kruger safari.

The summer rains arrive from November onwards , peak in January and February and end around April. The Kruger is transformed into a beautiful, thriving green landscape and it makes for superb photography. Game viewing is still good with many young animals around, making it a predator's paradise. It is also the best time for bird watching as well as safari-and-beach holiday combinations.

The Kruger National Park is considered a low malaria area, however, we would recommend consulting a medical practitioner for advice about malaria.

The Kruger National Park is also very popular during the long December/January school holidays, so should you be looking to travel during this time period, we strongly recommend that you book well in advance and consider the northern parts of the park or the Kruger's private reserves and concessions, should you desire a less crowded experience.

The Kruger National Park is regarded as the ultimate safari destination and the largest in South Africa . With almost two million hectares of pristine wilderness, the park is split into northern and southern reserves. The northern reserves are often referred to as the Greater Kruger National Park .  

Home to the famous Big 5 : lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo, and the highest number of large mammal species on any African reserve, the Kruger offers a rewarding safari experience and an array of accommodation options including luxury lodges and self-catering. Activities offered at most reserves include morning and afternoon/evening open vehicle game drives and guided bush walks. Some reserves offer optional local village tours, hot air ballooning, elephant interactions, visits to animal rehabilitation centers, treehouse sleep-outs and photographic safaris.

safari africa kruger park

Mar 13, 2024
Fantastic and Professional Service
Fantastic and Professional Service! WhatsApp paltform excellent and email with payment gateway a pleasure to use!
Tanya was extremely helpful throughout…
Tanya was extremely helpful throughout the booking process. She responded quickly to my emails and answered all my questions.
Mar 12, 2024
Prompt and friendly personal service of…
Prompt and friendly personal service of the highest order.
Mar 10, 2024
Shan worked very hard to put together a safari for us. With every corner, she was able to adapt and dig for the best possible outcome for the group. I would highly recommend her!
Safari.com is great.
We had a wonderful safari at The Rhino Post Lodge that we we booke through Safari.com. Dolan made the bookings easy even though I kind of messed up things on my end. The airport transfers were smooth and timely. I will use Safai.com again.
Mar 8, 2024
The assistance in booking the campsite at Glen Reenen
The assistance in booking the campsite was fluent and all relevant documents were supplied. I received I very quick response in my booking confirmation.
Mar 7, 2024
Professional and helpful
Mar 6, 2024
Highly recommended
This is the second time I've used Safari.com and again, I'm totally satisfied. I'm dealing with Shann who is very knowledgeable and quick to respond offering options that suit our expectation and budget perfectly. I was worried when I first booked online with a Travel Agency so far away but the previous holiday was fantastic so I am using them again without the worry
Great Pre Sales and booking
So far I can only comment on booking. It was great. I filled in the online form. Within minutes I was in direct with Shamiel. He able to answer all.my questions and then held a reservation which we confirmed the next day. I'll update on the camp in November.

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  • Umbhaba Specials

3 Day Best of Kruger Safari

  • Umbhaba Accommodation
  • 4 Day Kruger and Panorama Safari
  • 5 Day Kruger and Panorama Safari
  • Kruger and Panorama
  • Group Open Vehicle Safaris
  • Morning Safaris
  • Afternoon Safaris

Full Day Safari

  • Full Day Panorama Tour
  • Full Day Cape Winelands Tour
  • Full Day Cape Canopy Tour
  • Full Day Walk to Freedom Tour
  • Full Day Cape Point & Peninsula Tour

3 Day Best of Kruger Private Safari

  • 4 Day Kruger and Panorama Private Safari
  • 5 Day Kruger and Panorama Private Safari
  • Private Vehicle Full Day Safaris
  • Private Vehicle Morning Safaris
  • Private Vehicle Afternoon Safaris
  • General FAQ’s
  • Accommodation Kruger Park
  • Image Gallery
  • Video Gallery
  • Our Open Vehicle
  • Kruger National Park News
  • Kruger Park Mammal Guide
  • Kruger Park Bird Guide
  • History of the Kruger Park
  • Half Day Soweto Tour
  • Full Day Soweto Bicycle Tour

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Book the Best 3, 4 or 5 Day Kruger Park Safaris and Tours

“Kurt Safari is the # 1 Rated  Kruger National Park Safari Company on Tripadvisor. We specialise in 3, 4 and 5 Day Kruger Park Safari Packages , as well as Day Safaris and Tailor-Made Kruger Safari Trips .

safari africa kruger park

Safaris Depart Johannesburg Every Monday – Wednesday – Saturday

4 Day Best of Kruger Safari

4 day kruger & panorama safari, 5 day kruger & panorama safari.

safari africa kruger park

Private Safaris Depart Daily

Private Full Day Safari

Private morning safari, private afternoon safari.

safari africa kruger park

4 Day Kruger & Panorama Private Safari

5 day kruger & panorama private safari.

safari africa kruger park

3 Day Best of Kruger Budget Safari

4 day best of kruger budget safari, 4 day kruger & panorama budget safari, 5 day kruger & panorama budget safari.

safari africa kruger park

Tailor Made Guided Safaris

safari africa kruger park

Morning Safari

Afternoon safari.

safari africa kruger park

2 Nights Umbhaba Eco Lodge Self-Drive Safari

3 nights umbhaba eco lodge self-drive safari.

safari africa kruger park

Namibia Tours & Safaris

Garden route tours, cape town / johannesburg day tours, trip advisor reviews, for the last 20 years, kurt safari’s experienced kruger guides have been driving both local and international travellers through some of the most exquisite and wildlife-filled areas of the world-famous kruger national park..

Today, we are a highly ranked, and much recommended, TripAdvisor  Kruger National Park safari  company. We have curated an exclusive array of safaris, activities, and tours that promise to give you a wildlife encounter that is nothing less than absolutely extraordinary. We offer some of the very best 3, 4 and 5 Day Kruger Park Safari Packages, as well as an array of Day Safari options. 

A place of untouched African landscapes, the Kruger National Park is a true haven for those seeking adventure in a place that is home to a rich and diverse wildlife and plantlife. It’s a place made for the more adventurous spirit. Have a look at our comprehensive selection of Kruger National Park packages and discover the magic within each expedition.

Our Kruger Park Safaris Depart from Johannesburg Every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday

OUR OFFICE IS THE ROADS, CAMPS AND ATTRACTIONS OF THE MAJESTIC KRUGER NATIONAL PARK. AND OUR PASSION FOR THIS EXCEPTIONAL PLACE HAS MADE KURT SAFARI SOUTH AFRICA’S MOST ESTEEMED KRUGER NATIONAL PARK SAFARIS TOUR OPERATOR

We have a selection of the very best  Kruger National Park Safaris travel packages, each of which have been created for clients who are looking for that real African Safari experience, where a rustic adventure meets first world comfort. Every aspect of our Kruger Park safaris and tours are tailor made to suit a variety of budgets, experiences, and tastes.

Our  Kruger National Park safaris include a range of affordable trips, created just for those travelling on a limited budget, and we also have a selection of Kruger Park tours designed for holiday makers wanting a luxury African vacation. Not only do our guests get to explore the best of the  Kruger National Park , spending their days slowly driving along some of the most famous roads, those well-known for their wildlife population’s, but they also have the option to explore some of the region’s most interesting and beautiful attractions.

In the company of a trained and passionate guides, our guests spend up to 9 hours a day in the Kruger National Park . This is more time than most other companies allow for, and this means our guests have a better chance of seeing the Big 5 and more. We make use of the most comfortable, open-air safari vehicles, giving guests a real bird’s eye view of the wildlife we encounter.

Most of our Kruger Park safaris and tours are conducted in areas of the Southern Kruger, where wildlife populations are abundant. This part of the park is home to the Big 5 – Lion, Elephant, Buffalo, Leopard and Rhino – herds of rambling zebras and wildebeest, and more birds than you could imagine. The Kruger National Park has over 148 mammal species, and many of which can be seen in the Southern regions of the park. 

Kurt Safari offers one of the widest varieties of Kruger National Park Safari Packages, from exciting 3, 4, and 5 Day Packages to an epic 8 day Photographic and Birding safaris. Each tour is conducted with professional guides, who are both passionate about the park and knowledgeable about its inhabitants.

To book any of our Kruger Park safaris , you can browse through our website and find the one most suitable for your needs, your expectations and your budget. You can then book directly via our website, pay online and start preparing for your trip. Alternatively, you can contact us and have a chat with one of our knowledgeable consultants.

We are based in the sleepy Lowveld town of Hazyview, which is a 15-minute drive away from the Kruger National Park . Our consultants, guides and management team are predominantly locals who’ve spent a lifetime living in the area. They all have tremendous knowledge about the Kruger National Park and its wild inhabitants and can give you the kind of advice that you won’t find online, which you can use to make your holiday simply unforgettable.

Guests who choose an overnight holiday with Kurt Safari, stay at some of Hazyview’s most incredible private lodges. Just a 15 minute drive from the park, the lodges we use are chosen for their comfort and their high standard of excellence and friendly hospitality. The lodges we choose have Wi-Fi and the booking includes breakfast and dinner. We are also able to block book accommodation. 

Kurt Schultz, the Director of Kurt Safari personally guided Kruger Park safaris for almost 12 years before creating his safari company. Today, the company is rated as one of the leading Kruger Safari operators on TripAdvisor, and all of our packages have been personally curated, after many years of trial, error, and trips in the park. We believe that the Kruger Park safari should be simple but wild, with a focus on quality guiding and safety. We also believe that what can make a market truly special is the added benefits such as secluded but comfortable accommodation, indulgent meals, and the opportunity to have a memorable experience, even if you are travelling on a budget. 

We very much look forward to welcoming you to one of our our favourite places, the Kruger National Park. We hope that you truly enjoy your Kruger Park safari with us.

Read our Complete Guide to the Kruger National Park here

Welcome to kurt safari. here you will find a selection of well-priced kruger park safaris as well as travel information., your adventure begins here.

Kurt Safari Co is one of the Kruger’s leading tour operators, with over 20 years spent welcoming guests from all over the world to experience the ultimate Kruger Park safari.

We have a diverse selection of fantastic Kruger safaris for our clients to choose from. Each safari is carried out in an open safari vehicle and in the company of one of our professional guides, each of whom has years of experience guiding tours through the Kruger. Our safari packages are designed in such a way that you are guaranteed to have a truly unforgettable time in our beautiful country. We know that for many of our guests, a visit to the park is a once in a lifetime adventure and so we try to ensure that our Kruger Park safaris are as entrancing, captivating and as memorable as possible. Our tailor-made safaris as well as our standard safari packages, offer something for everyone. Whether you are looking to spend a single day, 3 days, 4 days or even 5 days in the Kruger, we have the tour for you. We also have shared safaris and private Kruger Park safaris, as well as packages for guests wanting to see the Panorama Route and the Kruger National Park.

Our guests stay in the exclusive Umbhaba Eco Lodge, where they can look forward to a world class experience in their air conditioned en-suite room. Should there be no availability at Umbhaba Eco Lodge during their trip, guests will stay at the equally stunning Sanibonani Lodge in Hazyview.

The Kurt Safari Kruger Experience

A Kurt safari is a laidback experience and our itineraries, as well as all that is included in each tour, will ensure that you are well taken care of and in the best company. 

Our guided tours are well priced and well organised and accommodation is included with each overnight package.

We specialise in small guided group Kruger Park safaris and with our daily departures from Johannesburg to Hazyview, you can arrive in the city in the morning and be enjoying the Kruger in the afternoon! Our Kruger safaris are ideal for both locals and international visitors.

Each safari vehicle is open, giving you ample visibility, allowing you to easily spot animals through the wild vegetation. This visibility makes each safari perfect for budding and experienced photographers looking to capture those one of a kind snaps. If you are in search of a more photographic focused safari, please have a look at our custom photographic safaris.

The Kruger National Park is without a doubt the best place in South Africa to spot the Big 5. The Kruger is home to the Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Rhino, and Cape Buffalo and a day trip to the park can offer enough time to spot these animals and many more. Keep in mind that when visiting the Kruger, you never know what is waiting around the next twist and turn in the road! The Kruger boasts a massively diverse number of wildlife and bird species.

Although we have a wide range of Kruger Park safaris and exciting game drives for our guests to choose from, we are also more than happy to customise a package to fulfil all of your wildest safari daydreams! We always go the extra mile for our guests as we know how truly amazing and memorable a real African safari should be. We are SATSA accredited, which is our guarantee to you that the safari you are paying for will live up to all of your expectations. You can look forward to a safe, well-priced, one of a kind safari. Each of our safaris will meet your expectations for that African experience you seek.

You can view the pricing of our bestselling Kruger Park safaris on our website.

Should you have any questions about our tours kindly get in touch with our helpful Hazyview based team. You can also check out TripAdvisor to see all of our latest reviews.

We look forward to welcoming you to the African continent. You can make your safari booking via our website or by getting in touch with us via email.

Kruger park safaris: must know info.

The majestic Kruger National Park is one of South Africa’s best loved iconic landmarks. Each year the conservation reserve welcomes thousands of guests from all over the world. Embarking on one of the many Kruger Park trips available, or taking a self-drive through the park , is the way that most guests are introduced to the quiet solitude that you will only find when out in the wild. But it is not the quietness that brings guests to the park. It’s the animals.

Booking a Kruger Park safari or a Kruger Day Tour has also never been so easy. A quick look online will present you with a huge number of options, most of which are from top-notch safari companies, such as ours. Why book a safari instead of doing a self-drive? 

We reap the benefits of the wisdom and foresight of those who came before us. The Kruger Park safari is an experience to be remembered and it’s one that is not as costly as you might think.

The Founding of a Legendary Conservation Park

Paul Kruger , the onetime president of the now-defunct Transvaal Republic, made it his mission to have an area of the Transvaal set aside for the conservation of animals. Without his efforts, the animals that we now see roaming the park would have long been erased from the land. Back in 1898, when the park was first founded, hunting was rife and trophies of big game, such as lions and elephants were much sought after by overseas visitors. 

To prevent the local animal life from becoming completely eradicated, the park became a no-hunting zone and to this day remains one of the oldest and biggest areas of conserved land in the world.

The Kruger National Park might have been proclaimed in 1898 , but it was only in 1927 that it was named the Kruger National Park and opened to tourists. Those early days were interesting, to say the least, with tourists literally flying through the park on a train. Not a lot could be easily seen, and the route was one that could not be changed. But this was the safest way for the earliest visitors to see the park. These were the days before the can.

By 1928, the Kruger Park was being steadily run by a board of directors and it was decided that in order to make the park more accessible, overnight accommodation needed to be built. The park’s first rondavels, a round hut style of accommodation that is as synonymous with the park as the Big 5, were built at Skukuza, Pretoriuskop and Satara. As more guests visited the park, more accommodation was added for their benefit while the former accommodation used for rangers was also converted into unique accommodation for guests.

Fees were never exorbitant and so the park became known as the People’s Park; a place where anyone could experience all that the conservation effort had to offer. 

If you have done your research about South Africa, and the Kruger Park in particular, you will know that the summers are exceptionally hot and humid. So you can sympathise with the park’s earliest overnight guests and their struggle to stay cool. 

In fact, staying over in the park, in one of the rondavels, was not a popular choice. Sure it was a novelty, but the heat was as unbearable as the mosquitoes, which could not be kept out. These days, rondavels have fans and some even have air-conditioning.

Kruger Park Flora and Fauna

While animals are what draws people to the park, the flora of the area is just as captivating as the fauna. The plants and trees of the Kruger are really diverse, and different flora can be seen in different areas of the park. The Kruger is divided into 4 distinct areas, each distinguishable based on the flora of the area.

Thorn trees and red bushwillow veld

In the west and more or less centre of the park, just south of the Olifants River, lies the red bushwillow trees as well as acacia (thorn) trees. The area also boasts plenty of marula trees. The acacia trees line the rivers and streams. Along with the Nwatimhiri Bush, the areas along the Sabie River are very dense with vegetation.

Knob thorn and marula veld

In the area south of the Olifants River, and to the east of the park, lies knob thorn and marula veld. This region provides plenty of grazing ground. Red grass and buffalo grass, as well as the knob thorn and marula trees, make this an important region of the park.

Red bushwillow and mopane veld

North of the Olifants River and to the west of the park, the red bushwillow trees and mopane trees mostly make up the vegetation.

Shrub mopane veld

Almost the entire northeastern area of the park is covered with mopane trees.

While these areas have more plants and trees than mentioned above, it is the abundance of these trees and bushes that contribute to the naming of the areas. Each region is exceptionally important for the survival of fauna.

Famous Fauna and the Effort to Conserve

The park is famously home to the Big 5, which consists of the lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo. 

These iconic animals are part of the allure of visiting the Kruger, but they are not the only incredible animals to have a home here.

In fact, there are more species in the Kruger than in any other park on the African continent! 

Overall, there are 147 species of animals in the park. Along with numerous predators and large species such as elephants, the park also has a host of antelope such as kudu, impala, nyala, and eland. The Kruger National Park is also home to various endangered as well as rare species, such as the wild dog.

Anti-Poaching Efforts

As the park has many endangered species, efforts to prevent poaching have been underway for many years. Anti-poaching units are equipped with the latest in prevention equipment such as night vision technology and advanced telescopes. Game rangers, the police and the army have been actively involved in the effort to stop poaching and while instances have been reduced, animals are under constant threat.

While elephants are occasionally hunted, it is the savage slaying of our precious rhinos that makes the headlines. Poachers sneak into the Kruger, often when the moon is full, and hunt rhinos for their horns. The horn is worth around $ 66 000 per kilogram and although there is a ban on the trade of the horn in most countries, the ban sadly has little effect.

Those who go on a Kruger Park safari drive are incredibly lucky to see a rhino.

Must Know Kruger National Park Rules

In the beginning, the rules for guests visiting the park were very relaxed and not widely enforced.

But as time has gone by, more rules have been added to the sheet given to guests upon entry. All of the rules are simple to understand and very easy to follow. If this is your first time going to the park, here’s what you need to know:

  • Guests are only allowed to drive in the park from sunrise to sunset. Before the evening comes, guests need to be out of the park or they need to be at the rest camp they are booked into. An exception is made when guests embark on a Kruger Park night drive but guests are not allowed to self-drive after dark, so you’ll need to make arrangements and bookings for such an experience.
  • Another important rule and one that applies greatly if you are going to be doing a self-drive through the Kruger is the speed limit. There is a strict speed limit in the park ; 50 km on tar roads and 40 km on gravel (dirt) roads.
  • It goes without saying, but indeed sometimes needs to be said, that guests are not allowed to leave the safety of their vehicles . There are also those rare cases of guests wanting to touch the animals, which is also forbidden. One of the major park rules is that people must remain in their vehicles.
  • Feeding or disturbing the animals is also very much against the rules . Littering goes in this category and it is also forbidden. Because all of the animals are wild, feeding them can do more harm than good. Animals also often mistake litter for feed and end up eating the litter and becoming ill or dying.
  • If you will be doing more than a Kruger Park day tour, then there are other rules that you will have to adhere to. Being booked into your camp before 14:00 pm and leaving by 10:00 am the following day is a must.
  • Another thing to take into consideration is the noise rule . Camps are generally quiet places. What keeps them quiet is the rule that states that guests must limit noise between the hours of 21:30 pm and 6:30 am. Cell phones are permitted in the camps, but minimal use is encouraged.
  • Only safari vehicles and private vehicles are granted access to the parks . Motorbikes are not allowed and roller-skates and skateboards are not permitted.
  • All of the rules and regulations are enforced by legislation (the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act of 2003). This means you can be charged or fined for breaking the rules. The rules and regulations are there for the safety of the guests while they can also make the trip more relaxed and enjoyable.

Reputable safari companies always adhere to the rules of the park.

The kruger’s 12 main camps.

There is a laundry list of reasons why you should visit the Kruger National Park.

And one of those reasons is the history and the hospitality you will find in every camp. If anything, the park is one really laid-back place to be. Even the busy main camps, of which there are 12, are in their own bubble, away from the modern world.

Berg-n-Dal is one of the few camps in the park set in a mountainous area and the natural environment and habitat have been well preserved within the camp. The camp has dry riverbeds on the southern and northern borders, along with very large trees. Some of the animals to see near the camp include the wild dog, the klipspringer, and the leopard. If you are staying over in the park, then you’ll be happy to know that there are a number of facilities available along with great accommodation.

Berg-en-Dal is one of the Kruger’s newest camps. The beautiful rocky region in which it has been built often makes it the perfect place to see cats while the camp also has an indigenous rock garden that guests can explore. The camp was originally built in 1984 but just before the camp was opened, it just about completely burned to the ground. Officials scrambled to get the facilities rebuilt, and somehow managed to get everything done in time for the opening.

The camp has been built on top of a prehistoric settlement and the area around the camp is filled with all kinds of examples of ancient life and it has a Bushman Trail which allows guests to view San Bushmen rock art. The bush walk is about 20 minutes and guests will see various ecological and geological sites when viewing the paintings.

There are a few archaeological sites close to the camp and pot shards and bone fragments have been unearthed here. Some of the latest evidence shows that those who lived in the area were from the Iron Age.

The camp is in the southern Kruger, a region of the park that is well-known for its abundant wildlife. The camp has all kinds of accommodation including camping, cottages, guesthouses and bungalows. It also has a big swimming pool, an internet cafe, a conference centre, and picnic areas for day tourists. Not many guided Kruger Park safaris stop here, but those that do enjoy a quieter setting than compared to Skukuza. The Kruger National Park accommodation at Berg-en-Dal is rustic but comfortable and affordable.

Crocodile Bridge

One of the smaller camps in the Kruger National Park, Crocodile Bridge gets its name from the Crocodile River, which flows close to the camp. Game viewing is excellent when you drive the Southern Circle which is near to the camp. In this area, lions are often spotted. Other animals known to prowl the area include kudus, giraffes, spotted hyenas and cheetahs. This camp has been time and again nominated as the best camp in the park.

Situated at the halfway point of the park, a perfect fit between north and south, is Letaba. The name means River of Sand and it is one of the best-known places to spot elephant. While a lot of areas in this sector of the park are already turning into grassland, Letaba is green and lush. And the night erupts with life. When you stay at Letaba, bats, owls, nightjars, frogs and cicadas keep the night alive. But there is more than the nightlife to keep you entertained. The areas surrounding Letaba are known for sightings of elephants and bushbuck.

Lower Sabie

Lower Sabie is situated along the banks of the Sabie River. The camp’s location gives it a laid back, calm atmosphere that guests can really unwind in. The camp is well known for having numerous, massive trees which makes it the ideal place to see leopards. Other animals you can see in the area includes hippo and lion, along with all of the usual antelope. A large number of other animals also visit the river to have a drink of water. At Lower Sabie, you will also have access to fantastic accommodation.

This is one of the camps in the park that is home to plenty of Mopani trees. But the most significant feature of the camp is the massive baobab tree that sits in the centre of the camp. Most of the camp’s vegetation is left to grow naturally. Some of the animals that you can spot in the area include hippo, waterbuck and tsessebe. The camp is on the border of the Pioneer Dam, so seeing animals late in the afternoon and early morning coming for a drink of water is the norm.

Olifants is well-known for the amazing views that it has on offer. The camp is situated high up on a hill, above the Olifants River. The camp is surrounded by viewing platforms, which offer a great way to spot the wildlife roaming near the water below. Some of the animals you can see here include crocodile, lion, elephant and hippo. Along with great accommodation, there is also a great picnic spot for day visitors.

With two satellite camps, Maroela and Tamboti, Orpen is well situated. The camp got its name from the Eileen Orpen who was owner of the land which was donated to the park and became the place where Orpen now is. This grassy area is a great place to spot grazing animals, while the wide open surrounding plans are home to many prides of lions. By night, the air is filled with the sounds of roaring lions, something that you will never forget. Orpen is well known for having a diverse array of wildlife, and some of the animals you will come across include rhino, buffalo, elephant, leopard and lion which make up the Big 5. Other animals include wildebeest and jackals.

Pretoriuskop

Pretoriuskop is a camp nestled between millions of years old outcrops of granite rocks. There are a number of interesting granite boulders in this south-western based camp. But the real attraction here is, of course, wildlife. Pretoriuskop is one of the park’s oldest camps and evidence of its age can be seen in the layout and style of the camp. The animals that are often spotted here include the Sable antelope, Lichtenstein’s Hartebeest, wild dog and kudu. Many people like to stay at this camp because it is quite close to one of the entry points to the park.

Punda Maria

Only those willing to brave the heat are brave enough to stay at Punda Maria during the intense summer months. And even in the midst of winter, this camp can get hot. Punda Maria is found in the north-most part of the park and because of the sandveld habitat, it is home to a number of interesting plants. Punda Maria is often called the botanical garden of the park. When travelling in this region you might come across nyala, wild dog and plenty of zebra herds. The drive is a long one when you are heading north. Often only those who will be spending more than a few days in the park will attempt a stay here.

Some of the first rondavels were built at Satara after more and more guests became interested in spending a night in the park. Today, Satara is a very busy camp and one known for its excellent game viewing opportunities. Satara is in a wooded area and the camp itself is considered to be rustic. If you are an avid bird watcher, this is definitely the place to go. And along with the birds you can see here, there is also a variety of animals such as lion, giraffe, wildebeest and the honey badger.

Another camp located in the northern region of the park, Shingwedzi is known for its wildlife sightings, such as nyala, waterbuck and elephant. To get to the camp, you will need to take the scenic route along the Shingwedzi River. This camp is also one that is considered to still be rustic, with a lot of the conveniences of modern living not found here, a factor that makes staying here a real break away. If it is tranquillity that you are seeking, you’ll find it here. Along with tranquillity, you will also find some interesting birds such as the Giant Eagle Owl and the Green Pigeon.

Of the plants that you can see here, there is Natal Mahogany, mopane scrub, brack thorn, sausage trees, and mustard trees. There is also a lot of bird life in the area.

As a northern camp, Shingwedzi is worlds away from the wet and humid sub-tropical southern areas of the park. Here the vegetation is sparser, which makes seeing wildlife a little easier. The further north you travel, the terrain changes from mountains and hills, to wide open plains and you can imagine cheetahs darting over the grassland. Shingwedzi is not on the day Kruger Park safari destination list because it is further away than most camps, but it is the ideal place to spend a holiday if you are looking for tranquillity.

Shingwedzi is famous for being home to some of the biggest elephants the park has ever seen. The Magnificent Seven once roamed the areas around the camp, and they became famous for having the biggest tusks ever recorded for elephants in the Kruger. An artist who learned of the elephants searched the area to find them and immortalise them in his artwork. Once the art became public, and more people learned about the elephants, guests from all over the world came to see them. The great tuskers lived in the area during the 1070s and 1980s, when the last of the tuskers died. The park has not seen the likes of these elephants again, and today, their tusks can be seen in various camps. The Shingwedzi River runs close to the camp, and it is one of the best places in the area to spot all kinds of wildlife. When the river comes down in flood, even more animals can be seen. Beyond the river lies an old alluvial plain which has a few trees and little vegetation.

Shingwedzi camp is a modern one with a touch of that rustic appeal that the Kruger has become so well known for. The camp has a restaurant and café, a swimming pool, a shop, a petrol station and a picnic area. For those who want to stay over in the camp, they are really spoiled for choice when it comes to their accommodation options. Shingwedzi has camping spots, huts, bungalows, and more luxury accommodation such as guest cottages and houses. The fixed Kruger National Park accommodation is kitted out beautifully and has fans and/or air conditioning for those intense northern Kruger summers. The camp is laid out perfectly for those wanting privacy while staying in the park and during the day, their Kruger National Park safaris offer unforgettable sightseeing.

Leaving the best for last, we have Skukuza. This camp is the capital of the park and when you are on a Kruger Park safari, this is the camp where you are sure to be stopping off for lunch. The camp is situated along the southern banks of the Sabie River and there are plenty of lookout points here. Guests stopping off for lunch can do so outside in a seating area as well as on benches that look out on the river. The camp is nice and shady, the perfect place to catch your breath, cool off and eat a snack. A few of the animals often spotted in the area include spotted hyena, bush baby and warthog.

Some wildlife comes into the camp, and day visitors enjoying a Kruger Park safari can get really up close to the wildlife. Monkeys and warthogs can be found roaming the camp in search of left over picnic snacks. Guests should be warned, however, as the monkeys can get very brazen and end up stealing food from your table or even your hand. Skukuza means “He who sweeps clean”, and it is named in honour of one of the camp’s most famous and beloved wardens, James Stevenson-Hamilton. The camp was originally called Sabie Bridge Camp, but upon the 30th anniversary of James Stevenson-Hamilton working in the park, it was renamed.

Serving as the camp’s administrative headquarters while also being the one place where all day visitors converge, Skukuza has a long and important history. As the “Capital City” of the Kruger National Park, all of the day to day administration and management of the park is done here. Well away from the prying eyes of the tourists, the park’s officials work around the clock to ensure that the park is running smoothly. Those who live and work in the park have made their homes in the quiet Skukuza Village, where there is also a school, a few shops and a weather station.

As far as Kruger National Park accommodation goes, there are all kinds of options to choose from. Camping and rondavels remain the most common and the most popular style of accommodation, although the camp does have more luxurious lodgings. There are plenty of things to do in the camp, for both day visitors and those staying over. The most luxury lodgings is the Kruger Shalati Train, which is to be built on the Sabie Bridge in 2019. The camp has a refreshing swimming pool, a golf course, and countless memorials and museums. Be sure to take a look at the dog memorial, which pays homage to the hounds that helped shape the park. You should also see the oldest hut in the Kruger, which is now a museum.

The camp has all kinds of modern conveniences, such as shops, ATMs, a classy restaurant, a café and ablution facilities. Guests staying over can look forward to air conditioned accommodation.

One of the best ways to spend your time in Skukuza, when you are on a day Kruger National Park safari is to set up a picnic while overlooking the Sabie River. You never quite know what you’ll see when you are in the camp.

Most Kruger National Park safaris will end up at Skukuza at some point in the day. We, for instance, enter the camp at around 10 am to give our guests some time to stretch their legs and grab a bite to eat.

In addition to these main camps, there are also a number of satellite camps, bushveld camps, overnight hides, bush lodges, luxury lodges and campsites.

Select your kruger park safari.

The biggest decision you need to make when planning a trip to the Kruger National Park is deciding what type of safari experience you would like to have. A quick online search brings up all sorts of safari packages, but the only way to narrow down the search is to know more or less what you want to get out of your Kruger National Park safari. It doesn’t help to book a Kruger Park day safari when what you really want is 10 days in the park.

Generally, the more time you spend in the park, the more animals you will see. The Kruger is home to hundreds of different animal species, including the Big 5. And the different regions of the park have unique habitats, meaning where you go in the park will be a deciding factor for what you see.

Kurt Safari offers guests a variety of safari packages, including 3, 4, and 5 day tours of the Kruger National Park as well as morning, afternoon and full day game drives and night drives.

Full and Half Day Safaris

To save time, and particularly if you are on a budget, opting for either a Kruger Park day tour or a half day tour is one of the easier ways to get a taste of the Kruger. Generally, we encourage visitors to spend more than a day in the park, in order to see everything. But when you are limited on either time or money, choosing a day or half a day in the park, can be a great introduction to this magnificent place.

We have Kruger Park Full Day Safaris, Afternoon Safaris , Morning Safaris and tours that combine the best of the Kruger, with a trip to the picturesque Panorama Route. 

Full day private Kruger Park safaris can offer you the best way to see the park, and you have the added benefit of enjoying the sights on your own or in the company of friends and family. We offer private morning and afternoon Kruger Park safaris as well as full day safaris. 

The other option is to have a full day Kruger National Park safari. Again, this private Kruger experience will give you just enough time to spot all sorts of animals. And the more time spent in the park, the more animals you are likely to see. A full day safari is also less likely to leave you feeling rushed. Along with taking you to the best places in the park, there is also the added opportunity that comes with being in the company of an experienced tour guide, who is sure to share a few stories of their time in the park.

Visiting the park during the morning or afternoon is often considered to be the best times, as the heat is not intense and the animals are likely to be grazing. During the peak heat times of the day, animals tend to seek out shade, leaving guests with a disappointing drive.

We depart on our safaris in the early morning and later afternoon, when the heat of the day has either not yet arrived or has cooled off, as these remain the best times of the day to see animals. Each of our Kruger Park Safari prices are affordable, and each will take you into the parts of the park best known for wildlife sightings.

Private 3, 4 and 5 day Kruger Park Budget Safaris

Within our selection of safari packages, we have something for every type of traveller, including those travelling as part of a small group. For these guests, we have created the 3, 4 and 5 day Kruger National Park safaris. Our tours are designed to include sophisticated,comfortable accommodation. 

  • The 3 day Kruger Park safari 

This tour includes 3 days and 2 nights. The days are spent on safari, while in the evening you will return to the beautiful Umbhaba Eco Lodge or an equally upmarket nearby lodge should Umbhaba lack capacity. Breakfast and dinner are included as well as your transfers. Along with days spent on safari, this tour package also includes a Kruger Park night drive. With the 3 day Kruger Park safari , you will certainly have plenty to see, especially as we travel to those areas best known for animal sightings.

  • The 4 day Kruger Park safari 

Much like the 3-day package, your evenings will be spent at either Umbhaba Eco Lodge or a similar nearby lodge. This package includes 4 days and 3 nights in the wild, with your days being spent on safari. The ideal tour package to give you ample time in the park, you are sure to see numerous animals while you are on this safari.

  • The 5 day Kruger Park safari 

Finally, the last budget safari that we have available is the 5 day Kruger Park safari. While this package is similar to the 3 and 4-day tours, you will have 5 days in the park . And with this extra time, seeing the Big 5 is very much a possibility. You will be accommodated in either Umbhaba Eco Lodge or another nearby lodge.

The 3, 4 and 5 Kruger Park Classic Safaris

If you are looking to have a truly relaxing safari experience, and you are not so tightly constrained by your budget, the 3, 4 or 5 day classic Kruger Park safaris are a must. Stylish accommodation in a 4 star hotel and just the right amount of time spent in the park, when you sign up for one of our classic safaris, you will be in for a treat.

  • The 3 day classic Kruger National Park Safari

Heading out early in the morning and late in the afternoon for a real Kruger experience, the 3 day classic safari is as comfortable as it is exciting. Your guide will be taking you to some of the best areas in the park, spending the day on the dusty Kruger roads looking for the Big 5 and all the other interesting park inhabitants. We offer guests transfers from Johannesburg and for the next 3 days you can sit back while we drive you through the Southern regions of the park. Breakfast and dinner are included.

  • The 4 day classic Kruger National Park Safari

With 4 days and 3 nights included as a part of this tour package, you will have plenty of time to relax and enjoy your Kruger trip. The day starts early with an exciting Kruger Park tour, while the afternoons are for relaxing until late afternoon, when guests go on another game drive. This tour package also includes a night drive, something that everyone should experience at least once in their lives.

  • The 5 day classic Kruger National Park Safari

The more time you spend in the park, the more opportunity you will have to see the Big 5. The 5 day classic Kruger National Park safari is a must for anyone who wants to take their time and have a truly memorable holiday. You will be accommodated in 4 star lodgings and breakfast and dinners are included. Much of this tour package is similar to the 3 and 4 day classic safaris, although you will have extra time in the park.

The 3, 4 and 5 day Kruger National Park Backpackers Safari

Not at all like the classic safari, and quite different to the budget option, the various Kruger National Park Backpackers safaris are designed for those who enjoy an on the move type of holiday. 

Regardless of the number of days you want to spend in the park, your accommodation will remain the same, as guests opting for the Kruger National Park Backpackers safari will be lodged at the Bushpackers Campsite and Accommodation. This accommodation includes meals and will give you that touch of rustic living that you might be after when visiting the Kruger. This is more than a backpacker’s safari, it is also ideal for students looking for an adventure!

  • The 3 day backpackers Kruger National Park safari

With 3 days spent enjoying a safari , and accommodation provided by the Bushpackers Campsite and Accommodation, guests embarking on this safari package are in for a real treat! Days will start off and end with a Kruger Park safari.And as always, we take guests to the more exciting areas of the park, where animal sightings are frequent.

  • The 4 day backpackers Kruger National Park safari

Regardless of the package you select, always keep in mind that the more time you spend in the park, the more chances you have of seeing the animals you really want to see. Some guests have truly seen all they wanted to see in the 4 days that they have been on safari. We take guests to the Southern areas, as these are the most populated regions of the park.

  • The 5 day backpackers Kruger National Park safari

You cannot go wrong with any 5 day safari . Giving you more than enough time to see many of the park’s inhabitants, anyone embarking on a 5-day safari is in for a once in a lifetime trip. And when opting for the backpacker’s safari, you won’t be breaking the bank. This safari also includes a tour of the Panorama Route.

The Guided Group Open Vehicle Safaris

Experiencing the Kruger National Park in the comfort of an open safari vehicle remains one of the most popular ways to see the park. Guests are up close to nature, and even though you are in an open safari vehicle, you will still be kept safe. With fresh air blowing in your hair, and the unmistakable sounds of Africa filling up the vehicle, seeing the Kruger in an open vehicle will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. And they are also the perfect vehicle for capturing some incredible photographs.

At Kurt Safari, we offer some of the best priced Kruger National Park safaris. With private Kruger National Park tours and Kruger National Park day tours, guests have a number of different options to choose from when they are planning a visit to the park.

Book your tour today.

Why book a kruger national park safari with us.

safari africa kruger park

Affordable World-Class Safaris

With a range of safari options, which include all of the comforts you can expect as well as conservation fees, you can save money by booking one of our exciting Kruger Park safaris.

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SATSA Accredited

As a SATSA accredited company, we are dedicated to and bound by the rules and regulations as set out by the South African Tourism Services Association.

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Professional Services

From booking your accommodation, to planning your day trips into the Kruger National Park in the company of one of our tour guides, Kurt Safari will do it all for you.

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Constant Support

To ensure that your stay in Africa is the best possible experience, we strive to provide our guests with 24/7 support.

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We are passionate Africans

We love every part of the African wilderness that we are privileged enough to call home. Our guides, consultants and management team are all locals and we live close to the Kruger National Park.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Kruger National Park

Is a kruger safari the best african safari.

The Kruger National Park is a truly wonderful and famous tourist destination in South Africa. The animal conservancy is world known for its diverse range of animals, biomes and plant life. The park was founded all the way back in May 1926, by the hard working game warden James Stevenson-Hamilton and the late President Paul Kruger. The Kruger National Park came to be after  areas around it and the Sabi Sand Game Reserve merged together to form the Kruger National Park we know today. The Kruger National Park was built with the conservation of animals in the Lowveld in mind.

The Kruger National Park is home to an unbelievable number of animal, plant and bird species. The Kruger National Park hosts some of the largest and fastest animals known in the world. Animals like the African Elephant, Cape Buffalo, White and Black Rhinos and lions are some of the most popular animals in the Park and attract visitors from around the world. The Kruger Park’s location in the Lowveld provide a surprizing amount of different biomes. Each of these different biomes have stunning diversity when it comes to animals and plant life. Guests can find a sandy and dry area that hosts resilient plants, sparser landscape and lesser animals that are adapted to the hot and unique environment, while traveling a distance onwards and encountering a dense savannah bush with lush trees, lots of water and plants.

Because the Kruger National Park is such a sprawling and diverse place, every experience is different. One day guests will be able to see the Big 5 in a few hours while other days they only see zebras and impala and this is why the Kruger Park is such a well loved and visited place, for the random and exiting adventures that await. Safaris in the Kruger National Park are also great ways to experience the wonder and the beauty of the Park as guides can take guests to a variety of unique areas, provide helpful and interesting information, and they can enlighten and enrich the knowledge of the Guests. The guides are all well trained and they are living their passion, and that passion shines through with how well guests are treated on safaris.

Kurt Safari is the No.1 Rated Kruger National Park Safari Company, we offer quality and affordable 3-4-5 Day packages and day safaris with Leading guides. The sheer size coupled with the breath-taking scenery and unbelievable amount of different animal species is very inviting. The Kruger is filled with amazing history and great stories that will entice and entertain people of any age and inclination. Safaris in the Kruger are so memorable that many guests never forget their first ever time, leaving lasting memories of adventure in one of the wildest and most diverse places in South Africa.

With so many ways to explore and experience the Kruger National Park and the ease of applying for a safari, along with the friendliness and helpful ness of the guides, you can never go wrong with a Kruger Park Safari.

Is the Kruger Park Dangerous?

The Kruger National Park is world famous for its amazing animals, stunning scenery, and great history. Thousands of people visit the Kruger Park on a daily basis and want to experience all that the Park has to offer. There are plenty of great sights in the Kruger, from stunning hilltop camps overlooking the river, lookout points near a river or watering hole and even a beautiful clearing next to the road. Guests can interact with animals almost anywhere in the Kruger National Park which means there is always a risk of an altercation, with both animals and people.

Some of the “Big” dangers

One of the animals that can potentially cause problems and cause for concern when travelling in the Kruger Park is the African Elephant. These gentle giants are passive and don’t generally cause any problems unless a calf is present. Elephants have a strong maternal instinct and will protect its calf at all costs. Agitated Elephants can attack out of nowhere but will luckily provide warning before attacking. The Danger comes when you are separating the calf from the mother or when you are backed into a difficult position with little room to move. Luckily, Elephant attacks are not a common occurrence so guests can rest assured. Buffalo herds are more dangerous than an elephant herd as if you antagonize them, they attack without warning. Buffaloes are very social animals and often attack or defend in groups. When the herd is threatened by a vehicle, they will often charge or stampede to or away from the threat, causing complete chaos and providing a serious danger to all involved. Buffaloes have been known to damage cars and kill people.

The Hidden Dangers

Taking a break from the larger dangers in the Kruger, guests also face dangers when on foot in the Kruger. Some of the more hidden dangers guests can encounter when on foot, be it during a bush walk or walking around in the rest camps, are snakes and spiders. The Kruger Park is home to 152 different species of spider that range from the Crab Spider to the Baboon Spider, but out of all these, guests should avoid the Button Spider, Sac Spider and the Violin Spider as they are the three most dangerous species in the Park. Snakes have a tendency to seek shelter in a variety of places, from holes and bushes, to cracks in a wall and inside containers. Snakes are one of the biggest threats a guest can encounter while in a rest camp or bush walk as they are always well hidden and strike without warning when threatened.

The common treat

Some of the residents of the Kruger Park are extremely curious and will often be in closer interaction to humans, one of these residents is the Vervet Monkey. Vervet Monkeys are very clever animals that travel in large troops and are very common near rest camps where trash cans fresh food can be found. Vervets can enter people’s homes and cause havoc and will sometimes lash out and attack people when cornered or injured. Where there is one, there are plenty and many members of a troop can attack, causing a dangerous situation for both parties.

How much does a Kruger Park safari cost?

The Kruger National Park is the most popular tourist attraction in South Africa. The pure size of the reserve paired with the large amount of animal and plant species as well as stunning photography opportunities makes the Kruger a must visit when visiting South Africa. Many visitors to the Kruger National Park are international and are not as knowledgeable to what they can encounter and what they can expect everything to cost while they are staying here.

Your whole safari experience and the cost of it all depends greatly on what you want to do while in the Kruger. Entrance fees to the Kruger National Park vary, depending on where you are from. Guests with a South African ID will pay R200/adult and R50/child, while guests from outside SA will pay R400/adult and R200/child. Everyone international or not must pay conservation fees per day staying in the Kruger, with R400/adult and R200/child.

Guests can easily take part in a self drive safari, which means that guests are responsible for everything the whole safari, driving from place to place and making their own adventure. Self drive safaris are very popular among guests looking to experience the Kruger National Park at their own pace, spending time with family and friends without being on a tight schedule or rush. The Costs regarding a self drive safari are generally the entrance and conservation fees paid at the gate, fuel money, money for food and snacks for the long day ahead and money for souvenirs. Accommodation, should you wish to stay over are paid separately and can sometimes be pricey.

There are plenty of safari companies that can take guests on amazing safaris. There are a large variety of different tours that guests can take that will provide them with different experiences and that will cost differently. Many companies have a 3/4/5 day safari series that allow guests to experience the Kruger National Park in multiple days. Many of these 3/4/5 day safaris range from cheap budget safaris to expensive tours through the park and surrounding areas with meals included. Every safari company is different and its worth doing your homework. For the Guests that are planning on taking a 3/4/5 day safari will see that their accommodation costs are also included into the tour costs allowing guests to focus their minds on the experience and not where they are going to spend the night(s).

A Kruger Safari with a safari company allows guests to experience more of the Kruger National Park, they are driven around by an experienced tour guide that provides them with very interesting information about the park and the animals they will encounter along the way. Guides stay in the loop with animal sightings providing very reliable and exciting tours. Self drives are relaxing and cheaper alternatives to Guided Tours. Guests have the whole day to get where they need to do and make memories along the way with friends and family and isn’t a rushed affair. Newer guests to the Kruger Park are encouraged to take part in a guided tour as they are not always familiar with the landscape and the suurroundings.

Which Kruger Camps are the best?

The Kruger National Park is surrounded in a truly stunning landscape with a large variety of different biomes that house different plant life, climate and animals. The Kruger National Park is a very large conservation reserve and because of its large size, it needs to provide plenty of opportunity for guests to stretch their legs, enjoy some food, cool off and lay down their heads after a long day. The Kruger Park is littered with a variety of unique rest camps, tent camps and lodges to accommodate and meet any person’s expectations.

Luxury Living

There are so many amazing rest camps in the Kruger National Park, each providing something unique that other camps don’t have. If you are looking for central access to the Kruger National Park, great accommodation options, stunning scenery and plenty of amenities like a cinema, library and restaurants, Skukuza is the perfect place to visit. Satara is famous for its location, smack in the middle of Lion territory. Guests are guaranteed to encounter plenty of lion prides while visiting the area and staying at the camp. The Camp has a rustic appeal and isn’t as busy as Skukuza, meaning you will have the luxury of a Modern camp with the peace of a small rest camp.

Home of the Elephants

Elephants are always a huge attraction in the Kruger Park and is one of the most popular animals, which means an area that is known for their amazing elephant sightings will be an immediate hit. Olifants is built on the top of a hill that provides a view that is almost unrivalled. The camp is known for its stunning views and is also the home of Elephants. Olifants is often considered one of the best camps in the Kruger, because of its views, its peacefulness and because it is a hotspot for elephants, providing a truly unique experience as the accommodation options are also top notch.

Secretive and Relaxing

For those who prefer to live a little lighter, there are plenty of rest camps that provide great camping spots. Berg en Dal is one of the larger camps in the Kruger but its location in a hilly area surrounded by dry riverbeds, provides one of the most relaxing and chilled places to stay the night. Some of the best places to set up your tent is near the fences of the camp as you have a front row seat to the beauty of the Kruger and your views aren’t obstructed by buildings and trees. Located close to center of the Kruger Park, Balule is the second smallest camp in the Park. Though it is located close to Satara, many people who want some peace and quiet often flock to Balule. Balule is a satellite camp that has no electricity, with the kitchen run on gas, and has very spacious areas that mean less shade but more places to do stargazing. The camp is frequented by Hyenas and Elephants that patrol the low fence. Guests can truly feel close to nature while staying at Balule Satellite Camp.

Which animals can you see in the Kruger National Park?

The Kruger National Park is home to a large variety of different species of Mammals, Birds and Plants. Since the inception of the Kruger National Park back in May of 1926. Back then, before the founding of the Kruger, the Sabi Sand Reserve already focussed on the conservation of animals of the Lowveld. When the Kruger National Park was founded, it was declared that no animals are to be hunted as they were found on Conservational Ground. The Lowveld is known for a large variety of unique mammal species, many of which can only be found in the Lowveld. The Kruger Park is home to a surprising number of wild cats, the most common of the Kruger Wild Cats are the Lions. Lions are the 2nd largest species of cat in the world and largest in South Africa, only bested by the Tiger. Lions are very social animals that can live in large prides that consist of a dominant male, a number of juvenile males, many lionesses and their cubs. The most popular or sought-after cat is the Leopard , a solitary and secretive hunter that blends in perfectly into the savannah plant life. The Cheetah is the world’s fastest land animal and a true surprise for anyone on a Kruger Park Safari. The Cheetah has an appearance similar to the Leopard but is much less stocky and has smaller spots. The other cat species in the Kruger National Park are lesser known and much rarer than the Lion and Leopard. The Rooikat, Wild Cat , Serval and Caracal are very solitary animals and are much harder to encounter while on safari as many of them are nocturnal hunters.

Antelope make up a majority of the animals that can be encountered in the Kruger National Park and is probably the first animal you will encounter when entering the Park. The most common antelope in the Kruger is the Impala . These social animals can be found in large herds and are often in the vicinity of Zebra and Buffalo herds. Impala are known as the McDonalds of the Kruger as there are so many of them in the park and they are an easy catch for most predators. Some of the famous antelope in the Kruger Park include the Kudu , which is used as the face of the Kruger National Park, and the Eland , the largest species of antelope in the world. These stunning antelope are prized animals on hunting reserves but are luckily safe in confines of the Kruger National Park.

Though not belonging to the same species, the following animals are some of the largest animals in Africa. The African Elephant is the majestic and gentle giant of the Kruger National Park and is well known for its amazing herds and strong maternal instincts. The African Elephant is the largest and heaviest land animal in the world and one of only a few species of elephant in the world. The Black and White Rhinos are some of the most popular animals in the Kruger National Park, but unfortunately due to poaching their numbers have dropped dramatically and there are very few left in the wild. Some of the more common of these giants are the Cape Buffalo and the Blue Wildebeest . These animals are most commonly found near water sources and socializing with Zebra and Impala herds. These animals are mostly passive but can be very dangerous if provoked.

The variety of animals that can be encountered in the park is staggering. Zebras are always fun to see in the Park as they socialize with Impalas and interact uniquely with them. Wild Dogs , though rare are very popular animals and on many people’s wish list during safaris. Hyenas aren’t very common during the daytime but are quite active during the afternoon. You can often hear Hyenas long before you encounter one. Giraffes are great fun to encounter and can sometimes be tricky to spot amongst the trees. They travel in small herds, but you are almost guaranteed to encounter one on you adventure through the Kruger Park.

Which birds can be spotted in the Kruger National Park?

The Kruger National Park is mostly known for their large variety of mammal and reptile species and not many people give much attention to the large variety of bird species and the amazing bird watching opportunities the Park has to offer. The Kruger Park has a diverse and unique variety of bird species. Birdwatching in the Kruger National Park is a very popular activity that provides plenty of great sights and thrills. One of the most iconic and popular birds in the Kruger National Park is the Bateleur Eagle. This beautiful bird can often be seen perching in trees near more sandy parts of the Kruger. The Bateleur is a very sought-after bird by bird watchers and is a true blast to encounter while on a Kruger Park Safari. One of the most common birds you will likely see when stopping at a rest camp is the Greater Blue Eared Starling, that beautiful blue bird that often flies close to people in search of dropped food. The Kruger National Park is actually home to a number of different eagle and hawk species. Some species like the Bat Hawk , Hawk Eagle , Crested Eagle amongst the many. One of the most iconic birds in the Lowveld is the African Fish Eagle. This majestic raptor can more often than not be heard before you spot them circling in the skies. Its iconic whistle has become synonymous with the lowveld is often spotted near bodies of water that can sustain it. Their rather large nests are often seen near watering holes in the trees, with nest sizes averaging 2m in diameter and a meter deep. These birds often have more than one nest that they travel between when food is scarce in an area. A bird that, by many people, has become synonymous with the Kruger National Park is the humble Helmeted or Spotted Guinea Fowl. These little birds can often be seen in small flocks in rest camps, picnic areas and next to the road in the mornings. A common story that is known in the Lowveld is, Guinea Fowls can be eaten but only during months that do not contain an R in them like May, June, July, and August. There is a grouping of birds that were created to mirror the Big 5 of mammals. The big 6 consists of the Kori Bustard, known as the world’s heaviest flying bird, the Martial Eagle, that is strong enough to knock an adult man off his feet, the Leppetfaced Vulture, Africa’s Largest Vulture, The Pel’s Fishing Owl, known as the leopard of the group because of how rare it is, the Saddle-billed Stork, the most colourful of the group and the Southern Ground Hornbill. The Kruger Park also houses some of the more common birds that can be found around the lowveld. Birds like the Hadida, Hammerhead, Hoephoep, Kingfishers, Woodpeckers, and the Piet-my-Vrou are all common and can be found spread out through the park and provide a sense of familiarity for most people.

Explore Southern Africa

From rolling red desert sand dunes that shift in the afternoon breeze, to vibrant, natural green forests brimming with life, Southern Africa is as diverse as it is beautiful.

Those travelling to Southern Africa can enjoy a truly memorable journey to some of the most desired destinations such as Cape Town , the Garden Route and Namibia . Tours are carried out in groups, and in the company of a guide who knows the roads, the best attractions and those secret off the beaten track adventures.

Namibia tours, tours of Cape Town and Garden Route tours all include a slice of history, a dash of discovery and a whole lot of fun! Bring along your hiking boots and good camera, and prepare yourself for an unforgettable trip.

The featured tours include your accommodation, entry fees for the various attractions on the itinerary, comfortable transportation while on tour, and a few added extras. To get a more accurate idea of what to expect, be sure to read through each tour on offer.

With a wide selection of Southern Africa tours available, you can find and book a tour via our website. If you are having difficulty finding the right tour to meet your needs, you can always contact us directly and have a chat with a consultant.

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A 7-Day Ultimate Kruger Safari Itinerary | South Africa’s Best Trip

Matt Davison

The Kruger National Park is a picturesque location that captivates true African beauty. With boundless landscapes and spectacular wildlife sightings, it’s an adventurer’s dream destination. We’ve put together this 7-day ultimate Kruger itinerary for your next trip.

It is the perfect spot for those looking for a safari in South Africa. However, you will need a well-planned program because this world-renowned wildlife sanctuary comprises nearly two million hectares of land.

To help you plan your next adventure, we’ve created the ultimate 7-day African safari that’s perfect for exploring everything the park has to offer. It includes must-see experiences in the Kruger, fit for every budget.

Note: For more pricing information, check out the Kruger National Park safari prices .

kudu-kruger-national-park

Kruger National Park South Africa: What to Expect

The Kruger Park in South Africa is a top destination for safari-goers and one of the largest game reserves in Africa. It is located in northeastern South Africa across the Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces.

The Kruger was established in 1926. The combination of Sabi Game Reserve, Shingwedzi Game Reserve, and local farms created the first national park in South Africa. During your Kruger National Park tour, you’ll find remarkable ancient rock paintings with a history dating back far beyond its official opening as a park.

It boasts a spectacular diversity of wildlife with high densities of the admirable Big 5 (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and rhino). You’ll come across an abundance of animal species during this 7-day safari in South Africa – more than any other African wildlife sanctuary.

african-wild-dog

Kruger National Park Animals

The Kruger National Park is home to a breathtaking diversity of wildlife. From easy-to-spot elephant herds to rare black rhino sightings, it supports an abundance of species found in southern Africa. The biodiversity found in the Kruger includes:

  • 148 mammal species – Big Five animals, zebras, cheetah, spotted hyena, common warthog, greater kudu, mongoose, hippopotamus, and crocodiles
  • 35 amphibians – bushveld rain frog, striped stream frog, shovel-footed squeaker, and common platanna
  • 118 reptile species – black lined plated lizard, flap neck chameleon, rainbow skink, and southern tree agama
  • 53 fish species – tigerfish, catfish, African mottled eel, rainbow killifish, and squeaker species
  • 505 species of birds – hawk-eagle, bat hawk, sanderling, grey plover, grey-headed gull, and cape wagtail

One of the biggest attractions is the park’s large Big Five population. It supports the largest concentration of both leopards and critically endangered rhinos. Another endangered Kruger animal that you’ll find is the African-painted dog.

Tip: For the best sighting opportunities, check out our guide on Kruger National Park animals .

two-zebras-kruger-national-park

Kruger Park Size

How big is the Kruger National Park? It is the largest game reserve in South Africa, covering an area of 19,623 square kilometers. The National Park offers exceptional wildlife sighting opportunities and interactive experiences with unfenced infrastructure allowing animals to roam freely.

The Kruger’s network of game reserves includes:

  • Sabi Sand Game Reserve – the oldest privately owned reserve in the country
  • Timbavati Private Nature Reserve – you’ll find exceptional photographic opportunities
  • Klaserie Private Nature Reserve
  • Thornybush Private Game Reserve
  • Mala Mala Game Reserve – an internationally renowned location situated in Sabi Sand Game Reserve

antelope-herd-sunset

Kruger National Park Camps

Whether you’re looking for rustic bush accommodation or a 5-star luxury lodge, there is a Kruger camp well-suited for any trip to the Kruger National Park. To help you plan your South African safari, we’ve listed the best accommodation and main camp options below:

  • Bushveld Camps – Bataeleur, Shimuwini, Sirheni, Talamati, and Biyamiti
  • Overnight Hides – Sable and Shipandani
  • Luxury Lodges – Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge, Lion Sands Ivory Lodge, Singita Boulders, and Rattray’s on MalaMala
  • Satellite Camps – Balule, Tsendze, Moroela, and Tamboti
  • Bush Lodges – Pafuri Border, Boulders, and Roodewal
  • Main Rest Camps – Berg-en-Dal, Crocodile Bridge, Satara, Letaba, Lower Sabie, Olifants, Skukuza, Shingwedzi, and Orphen

7-Day Kruger National Park Itinerary – Safari Experiences & Excursions

Get ready to tick off items on your safari bucket list with an unforgettable adventure in the Kruger. This 7-day South African itinerary includes phenomenal experiences that attract adventurers from all around the world.

impala-kruger-national-park

7-Day Kruger Park Itinerary – Daily Game Drives, Excursions & Tours

Get ready for the ultimate South African safari. Here’s the best way to cover the entire park in just seven days.

Day 1: Arrive in Kruger & Night Game Drive

The National Park is home to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport. It is a 50-minute drive (42.6 km) from southern Kruger’s Numbi Gate.

Most visitors travel from O.R. Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) or Cape Town International Airport with connecting flights to one of the following locations:

  • Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (southern section)
  • Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport (central and northern parts)
  • Phalaborwa (northern area)

combi-on-road-to-kruger

After you’ve arrived at your chosen accommodation, it’s time to unwind and take in the fresh African air. Get comfortable, grab a bite, and relax after a long day of traveling.

Once you’re well-rested, head on either an afternoon game drive or a night game drive and explore the spectacular surroundings and wildlife in the park. An excellent opportunity to view the park’s popular nocturnal animals – keep an eye out for a hunting predator.

Day 2: Kruger Tablets & Wildlife Sightings

On your second day, head to the southern section of Kruger Park, where you’ll find the largest lion population in the entire park. With around 1,600 lions in the Kruger, you’re likely to spot them in several locations. For the best sightings, visit the Kruger Tablets situated in the Nkayeni Region.

The Kruger Tablets commemorate the park’s founder, President Paul Kruger. It is a lion haven, perfect for viewing these big cats as they laze around on rock formations.

Visiting the tablets is a free activity. However, facilities such as restaurants, picnic tables, and restrooms are not available. If you’ve built up a lion’s appetite on the drive back, why not enjoy a delicious bush braai (South Africa’s famous barbeque).

lions-at-play

Day 3-4: Explore the Kruger Park

It’s time to get your boots dirty for the next two days. Get ready for an early morning wake-up and explore the park’s breathtaking beauty on foot. A sunrise wilderness walk or tackling an early morning hiking trail is a splendid way to start your day.

Kruger National Park safari tours include guided walking safaris that are ideal for exploring the fascinating fauna and flora. Don’t worry; you won’t have to spend all day on your feet. Book a few 4×4 game drives on open safari vehicles for an exhilarating adventure with Kruger Park’s experienced guides.

Tip: Book a full-day private safari from Hazyview (if you’re not staying in the park) to get the most out of what the Kruger National Park offers.

Game viewing opportunities may vary with sunrise, sunset, and night drives. So, signing up for several game drives is beneficial. Wildlife sightings that are common on Kruger Park tours and game drives include impala, zebras, giraffes, elephants, buffalo, and lions.

giraffe-in-kruger-beside-tree

Day 5: Visit The Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Center

On day five of this African safari itinerary, make your way to the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Hoedspruit. It is situated at the base of the Drakensberg mountains – an estimated 47-minute drive.

The rehabilitation center cares for injured and abandoned animals in southern Africa. They focus on creating awareness of endangered animal species around the world.

When visiting, you can engage in educational programs and guided tours in a relaxed environment. You’ll find various birdlife and mammals such as wild dogs, leopards, and lions. After an eventful day as part of your South African safari itinerary, spend time stargazing and relaxing before calling it at night.

birds-in-tree

Day 6: Take a Trip To The Hippo Pool

The last full day of your Kruger park vacation calls for a visit to the Hippo Pool. Head over to the Crocodile bridge gate in the park’s Marula region. You’ll find the Hippo Pool just 8 kilometers away.

As its name suggests, you’ll find hundreds of grunting, sloshing hippos with a spectacular view of the Crocodile River on this bush walk. Although there are crocodiles around the river, they’re usually harder to spot.

Keep an eye out for other animals roaming the river, including mighty elephants and buffalo.

After returning to your accommodation or lodge facilities, spend a few hours relaxing and tuck into a mouth-watering meal.

Enjoy a guided river or bush walk to appreciate the striking scenery in your last hours. Don’t forget to grab your camera to capture those memorable moments.

hippopotami-swimming-in-river

Day 7: Departure From The Kruger National Park

As you prepare to leave one of the best South African safari parks, take a minute to enjoy the splendid views of the Kruger Park around you for one last time – until your next safari vacation.

If you have a few hours before departing, book a spa treatment to leave the park feeling revitalized and refreshed.

Then it’s time to pack your bags, put on your shoes, and head to the airport. You’ll then catch your connecting flight and make your way home.

elephant-herd-safari

Final Thoughts on a Kruger Safari – The Ultimate South African Itinerary for 7 Days

Whether you’re a nature lover or thrill-seeker, a Kruger South Africa safari ticks all the boxes. From waking up to the melodies of diverse birdlife to viewing a hunting lioness after dark during a game drive, visiting the Kruger National Park will not disappoint.

Ready for a week of spectacular wilderness and wildlife viewing in Africa? Book the tickets and pack your bags – your African adventure awaits.

If a safari vacation seems to cost you a pretty penny at first glance, why not consider an all-inclusive package? Check out our guide on all-inclusive safari vacations in Africa .

A 7-Day Ultimate Kruger Safari Itinerary | South Africa’s Best Trip

Best Camps in Kruger National Park | A North to South Campsite Guide

A 7-Day Ultimate Kruger Safari Itinerary | South Africa’s Best Trip

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Kruger National Park: An Essential Guide to Africa’s Most Iconic Safari Park

Covering an area of almost 2 million hectares, Kruger National Park is one of the largest national parks in the world. It is one of the most popular and famous African safari wildlife parks , and also one of the oldest. Founded in 1898, Kruger is world famous for its incredible wildlife, with hundreds of mammals, birds, and reptiles inhabiting the park.

In this ultimate guide to Kruger National Park, you’ll learn everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable experience. With insider tips on how to visit Kruger National Park and where to stay to the diverse wildlife you’ll find in this iconic national park, you’ll find everything you need to prepare for your ultimate stay.

Kruger National Park

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our  disclosure policy .

Kruger National Park

Established in 1898 by President Paul Kruger, Kruger National Park in northeastern South Africa is the oldest conservation park in Africa. Now home to an incredible diversity of wildlife including the Big Five animals of Africa , it remains one of the most iconic and well-known safari parks in all of Africa.

Before becoming a national park, Kruger was a popular game reserve owned by the Dutch government. After its initial creation as a national park in 1898, it was expanded between 1903 and 1934 so that it has now covered almost 2 million hectares. The first road to enter Kruger National Park was built in 1927, making it easier for visitors to explore this vast wilderness area.

Today, over 1 million tourists from around the world visit Kruger National Park each year to see its incredible wildlife. Part of the incredible wildlife diversity in the park is due to its six unique ecosystems: grasslands, acacia savanna, thornveld, mopane woodland, miombo woodlands, and riverine forest. These unique features and microclimates allow for a variety of flora and fauna to thrive here.

Besides its diverse animal life, the park is also known for its sustainable tourism practices and outreach efforts, which benefit local communities near the park.

Greater Kruger National Park

In addition to the bounds of Kruger National Park, the area is surrounded by a number of unfenced private game reserves that share the same wildlife and many of the same geographic features as Kruger National Park. Together with Kruger, these game reserves form what is known as Greater Kruger National Park.

Game reserves that form Greater Kruger include the following:

  • Sabi Sands Game Reserve ,
  • Makuya Nature Reserve,
  • Letaba Ranch Game Reserve,
  • Timbavati Private Nature Reserve,
  • Manyeleti Game Reserve,
  • Balule Nature Reserve,
  • Klaserie Private Nature Reserve,
  • Umbabat Private Nature Reserve.

Another famous South Africa safari destination , Mala Mala Game Reserve, shares a large unfenced border with Kruger National Park , though it’s technically part of Sabi Sands Game Reserve. Kapama Private Game Reserve is another reserve in the area, though it remains fenced off from Kruger.

Kruger National Park Map

The Kruger National Park is located around the Limpopo River, though not all of its boundaries are defined by geographical features. The park covers a total area of 19,455 square kilometers, making it one of the largest game reserves in Africa!

This Kruger National Park map identifies the extension of the park and the surrounding game reserves and nature reserves that form part of Greater Kruger National Park. Feel free to click around or even download this map for your travels.

Why is Kruger National Park Famous?

Kruger National Park is a world-renowned African safari destination in South Africa , famous for its incredible diversity of wildlife and unmatched safari experience. The park covers an area of nearly 2 million hectares and is home to lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinoceroses, leopards, and many other animals. Home to the Big Five of Africa as well as 147 mammal species and 114 reptile species, it is a great place for nature lovers to visit.

There are numerous archaeological sites and historical places to visit inside the Kruger National Park. This region of South Africa was inhabited by some of the the world’s earliest civilizations , and their mark can still be found in the park today. So if you’re interested in history as well as wildlife, then be sure to visit this amazing national park!

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kruger national park wildlife

Kruger National Park Wildlife

As one of the most revered safari destinations in Africa , it’s no surprise that the wildlife at Kruger National Park is unrivaled. Known as being a great destination to see the famous Big Five of Africa (lion, elephant, Cape buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros), you’ll have an incredible chance to see all this and much more.

While the national park is filled with far too many animals to name, here are a handful of the animals that make the biggest impression among travelers visiting the park:

  • Big Cats: Cats like the lion, cheetah, leopard, and caracal are all big cats you’ll see within the park. Though some species are harder to spot than others, with some luck you can spot them all/
  • World’s Largest Animals: The savannah elephant, black and white rhinoceros, Cape buffalo, hippopotamus, zebra, and Southern African giraffe are among the world’s largest animals.
  • Africa’s Dogs: African painted dogs, black-backed jackals, and spotted hyenas are also present in Kruger; while African wild dogs are rare, much more commonly sighted in Sabi Sands Game Reserve , you’ll have a much better chance of seeing hyenas.
  • Hooved Mammals: Blue wildebeest, kudu, impala, sable, nyala, bushbuck, and the exquisite small steenbok are all present in Kruger among the ungulates and antelopes.
  • Strange and Exotic Species: Though smaller, the aardwolf, aardvark, pangolin, and stripped polecat are all among some of the park’s most fascinating smaller creatures.

The best place for seeing wildlife in the Kruger National Park is at the Nature’s Valley campsite, where you can spot nocturnal animals like leopards and hyenas. However, if you’re hoping to see the Big Five, your best bet is at one of the larger campsites like Skukuza or Lower Sabie.

If it’s an adventure you are looking for, Kruger National Park has it all. For starters, go on a game drive at the Phalaborwa gate. Try the Wolhuter Wilderness Trail. Another great option is the Tshokwane Picnic Site.

If you’re looking for something more challenging, check out the Napi Wilderness Trail or Olifants Wilderness Trail. And finally, if you really want to push yourself, consider doing the Sweni Wilderness Trail.

Kruger National Park Big Five

Many travelers in Kruger National Park, particularly first-time safari travelers, want to make sure to see all of the Big Five of Africa while visiting the park. While sighting all five of these animals isn’t guaranteed, you’ll have an excellent shot! These are the Big Five animals in Kruger, and the most up-to-date details about the frequency of their sightings by travelers.

Read More: What Are the Big Five of Africa? + How To Spot Them

Lions in Kruger National Park

Lions are quite common in Kruger, and you’ll likely encounter multiple over the course of your South Africa safari, especially in this iconic national park. There are an estimated 1,600 lions in the park, quite a healthy number for a park of this size.

While you can see lions throughout the park, Camp Shawu with its dam is an area that is known for its abundant lion sightings.

Leopards in Kruger National Park

While leopards are much more elusive than lions in this national park, there is a decently-sized population of leopards, giving you a good chance to see them during your safari. Leopards tend to be more solitary and sneaky than lions, making them harder to spot, though Kruger is a great place for it.

Elephants in Kruger National Park

Elephants are incredibly abundant in Kruger National Park and throughout the Greater Kruger area, making them a mainstay on safaris here. While elephants are one of the Big Five species you’ll most frequently encounter in the park, you’ll still savor the special moments with these gentle yet fearsome giants.

Buffalo in Kruger National Park

Like elephants, buffalo are plentiful in Kruger National Park. Large herds call this national park home, making them incredibly easy to spot , and likely to be a daily fixture on your game drives.

Rhinos in Kruger National Park

While black rhinos are traditionally the rhino species associated with the Big Five animals, Kruger is home to significantly more white rhinos than black rhinos. A frequent target of poachers, black rhinos now only number to a few hundred in Kruger, while several thousand white rhinos still remain in the park.

Best Sabi Sands Lodges

  • Elephant Plains Game Lodge  ($$ – $$$)
  • Lion Sands River Lodge  ($$$)
  • Inyati Game Lodge  ($$$)
  • Cheetah Plains Lodge  ($$$$)

Kruger National Park Safaris

If you’re looking for an African safari adventure , look no further than Kruger National Park, regardless of your budget. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious lodge or a budget-friendly experience in the bush, you’re sure to find it in Kruger.

Choose from a variety of different safaris to suit your interests and budget, including group or private tours with flexible options for driving yourself or having a guide take you around.

Self-Driving Safaris in Kruger National Park

One of the aspects of Kruger National Park that makes it so affordable is that, as a national park, visitors can drive themselves through the park. That means no guides are needed – just plan for the cost of your rental car! This is a great way to save money if you don’t have the budget for an expensive lodge with game drives included.

Of course, self-driving safaris aren’t for everyone. Many safari travelers prefer exploring with trained guides. However, they’re a great option to consider for budget-friendly travel or if you’re looking for the independence to plan your own days.

Keep in mind that you can’t venture off the roads on self-driving safaris, as you can when experiencing a guided game drive on the private game reserves surrounding Kruger National Park. This can make it harder to see wildlife at times – come prepared with binoculars to get the best view!

Kruger National Park Guided Tours

Travelers looking for savings but who would like a guided drive rather than a self-driving experience can book one-day guided drives through Kruger National Park . These are quite economical and can really enhance the experience!

Alternatively, you can also find inclusive multi-day safari tours through Kruger National Park, with transportation included for a totally hassle-free guided experience through the park.

If you’d prefer the experience of guided game drives as part of a stay at a safari lodge, plan to stay at one of the private concessions located within Kruger National Park. Among the best are the Singita Lebombo and Singita Sweni lodges along Kruger’s border with Mozambique ; Singita’s impressive conservation efforts make these ecolodges Earth-positive among this protected terrain.

best sabi sands lodges

Where to Stay in Kruger National Park

No matter your budget, you’ll find an incredible array of options to choose from when deciding where to stay in Kruger National Park. From luxury lodges to basic rest camps and even campsites for tent camping, you’ll be able to choose the option that’s right for you, one of the major benefits of choosing this South Africa safari destination .

If you’re interested in camping, there are campsites throughout the park; set up your tent and enjoy nature at its finest. There are also several lodges located on private concessions inside the park, offering a more comfortable experience while still giving you the opportunity to photograph wildlife. These are some of the best places to stay in Kruger!

Jock Safari Lodge

The first private lodge built in Kruger National Park, Jock Safari Lodge offers a feeling of an earlier time. Perched along the banks of the Mitomeni and Biyamiti rivers in the Bushveld Concession Area, Jock Safari Lodge enjoys a privileged spot in a region known as one of the greatest in the Kruger National Park.

In addition to impressive and comfortable furnishings, Jock Safari Lodge is known for its incredible and unique safari experiences. To view the area’s rich wildlife, visitors may take daily game drives in open safari vehicles. Walk into the neighboring bush to observe historic Bushmen artwork.

During the rainy season, go on a frog safari to observe the many species frogs that live in the region and learn about the stories told by the stars.

Bateleur BushVeld Camp

Bateleur Camp , known as “Family Cottages,” was constructed in the late 1980s and has seven completely furnished chalets. Each accommodation is air-conditioned or has a ceiling fan, and many of the bedrooms have en-suite bathrooms. At Bateleur Camp, all lodging spaces are serviced daily and furnished with linens, towels, and soap.

A game-watching hide that looks out over a waterhole is one of the numerous attractions at Bateleur Camp . In the presence of knowledgeable drivers and trackers, night drives give you the chance to partake in the nocturnal animal inhabitants of Kruger Park’s nighttime act ivities.

Shimuwini Bushveld Camp

Shimuwini Bushveld Camp offers basic accommodations but its secluded, picturesque location along the banks of the Letaba River is unforgettable. Offering stunning river vistas and almost guaranteed wildlife encounters year-round , you’ll enjoy easy access to excellent elephant and buffalo country.

Activities at the camp are morning drives, night drives, and guided bush walks, all led by knowledgeable guides and trackers. Offering a great safari experience at an affordable price, it’s a hidden gem within Kruger National Park.

Singita Sweni Lodge

Located on Singita’s impressive private concession within Kruger National Park, Singita Sweni Lodge is an impressive luxury lodge located on the lush banks of the Sweni River. Just a few miles from the border of Mozambique, this impressive lodge features just seven private suites nestled among trees for a secluded and romantic safari experience you won’t forget.

No expense is spared at Singita Sweni in even the smallest detail of the guest experience. Expansive open-concept rooms feature gorgeous furnishings and private indoor/outdoor spaces with pool and outdoor shower included! The riverside location is perfect for animal and bird encounters even before you head out on incredible game drives.

  • The Best Safari Parks (For Every Traveler)

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Kruger National Park – FAQ

Where is kruger national park.

The Kruger National Park is located in the northeast corner of South Africa, bordering Mozambique to the east and Zimbabwe to the north. The park covers an area of 19,485 square kilometers (7,523 sq mi), making it one of the largest national parks in Africa.

The Kruger National Park is located in two provinces: Mpumalanga and Limpopo. The park covers an area of about 19,485 square kilometers (7,523 sq mi), making it one of the largest game reserves in South Africa .

How Big is Kruger National Park?

Kruger National Park is one of the largest and most popular safari parks in Africa . It covers an impressive 19,485 square kilometers of land, which is larger than almost 60 countries! This makes it a must-see destination for tourists from all over the world, certainly a bucket list destination you won’t want to miss.

When Did The Park Open?

1927 is when the gates opened at Kruger National Park for the first time. At that time, just three cars were permitted into the park each year! Needless to say, things have changed a lot since then.

Today, Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s most popular tourist destinations. More than one million people visit every year , and the park continues to grow in popularity. There’s something for everyone here from lions and elephants to bird-watching and hiking. So if you’re looking for an amazing African safari experience, be sure to add Kruger National Park to your list!

How Many Animals are in Kruger National Park?

Kruger National Park is home to a very large variety of animals, including the Big Five of Africa . In fact, it is estimated that the park has between 120 and 240 African wild dogs, up to 13,100 blue wildebeest, 35,300 plains zebras, 120 cheetahs, 4,420 Nile crocodiles, 500 bushbucks, and 37,130 African buffalo . There are also 460 eland present in the park, as well as 3,100 hippopotamuses.

How Many Tourists Visit the Park Each Year?

Kruger National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Africa and receives an estimated one million visitors or more every year. Safari vehicles are a great way to see the park without getting too close to any animal interactions. The park is divided into five regions, each with its own unique attractions and landscapes.

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Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual New York-based travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Explorers Away and Home to Havana. Carley is an expert on all things Latin America, the Caribbean, and Cuba, having lived and worked in four different countries in the region. Her writing has appeared on the Associated Press wires and in Travel + Leisure, Yahoo, MSN, Euronews, The Weather Channel, and more. When she's not writing about her travels, find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

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5-Day Kruger Safari Tours

5-Day Kruger Train on the Bridge Lodge Safari

5-Day Kruger Train on the Bridge Lodge Safari

$2,635 to $3,083 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 9 people per vehicle) Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Johannesburg (End)

The Kruger Safari Co.   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  121 Reviews

5-Day Kruger Park and Manyeleti Bongan African Lodge

5-Day Kruger Park and Manyeleti Bongan African Lodge

$866 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Budget Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Manyeleti GR (Greater Kruger) , Central Kruger, Blyde River Canyon (Panorama Route) , Kruger NP, Johannesburg (End)

Bongan Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  16 Reviews

5-Day Tremisana/Treehouse Kruger Park Safari

5-Day Tremisana/Treehouse Kruger Park Safari

$921 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 9 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Balule NR (Greater Kruger) , Kruger NP, Blyde River Canyon (Panorama Route) , Johannesburg (End)

Viva Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  253 Reviews

5-Day Halaal Safari with Panorama Route Tour

5-Day Halaal Safari with Panorama Route Tour

$1,613 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Mid-range Bungalow & Self Catering Accommodation

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Panorama Route (Highlight) , Tshukudu GR, Kruger NP, Johannesburg (End)

Khalanga Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  60 Reviews

safari africa kruger park

5-Day Complete Kruger Park and Panoramic Tour Experience

$1,076 pp (USD)

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Southern Kruger, Blyde River Canyon (Panorama Route) , O.R. Tambo Airport (Johannesburg) , Johannesburg (End)

Shinzelle Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  62 Reviews

safari africa kruger park

5-Day Kruger Express

$1,675 to $1,840 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Mid-range Chalet & Bungalow

Wild Planet Safari   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  204 Reviews

safari africa kruger park

5-Day Kruger National Park Budget Camping Safari

$707 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 15 people per vehicle) Budget Lodge & Tented Camp

MoAfrika Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  979 Reviews

safari africa kruger park

5-Day Luxury Kruger Park and Sabi Sand Safari

$2,921 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Chalet

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Sabi Sands (Greater Kruger) , Johannesburg (End)

Safari.com   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.7 /5  –  186 Reviews

safari africa kruger park

5-Day Kruger NP Deluxe Safari Incl Panorama Route

$1,106 to $1,217 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 8 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Southern Kruger, Panorama Route (Highlight) , Johannesburg Airport (End)

The Mzansi Experience   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.8 /5  –  62 Reviews

safari africa kruger park

5-Day The Best of Both Worlds-National and Private Parks

$1,820 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 8 people per vehicle) Luxury Tented Camp

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Balule NR (Greater Kruger) , Kruger NP, Johannesburg (End)

Wildlife Encounters   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  20 Reviews

safari africa kruger park

5-Day Ultimate Kruger Park Safari Inside the Reserve

$1,702 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Budget Chalet & Bungalow

Endless Summer Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  64 Reviews

safari africa kruger park

5-Day Sabi Sands and Kruger Safari

$3,017 to $3,228 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Sabi Sands (Greater Kruger) , Kruger NP, Johannesburg Airport (End)

Discover Africa Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  408 Reviews

safari africa kruger park

5-Day Kruger and Greater Kruger Semi-Exclusive Safari

$1,262 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Budget Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Panorama Route (Highlight) , Sabi Sands (Greater Kruger) , Johannesburg (End)

Safari With Us   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  214 Reviews

safari africa kruger park

5-Day 4 Star Panorama Route & Greater Kruger Park Safari

$1,924 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Panorama Route (Highlight) , Greater Kruger, Kruger NP, Johannesburg (End)

Mmilo Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

safari africa kruger park

5-Day Kruger Park, Private Lodge & Panorama Route

$1,401 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Balule NR (Greater Kruger) , Hazyview (Town) , Johannesburg (End)

Wildlife Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

safari africa kruger park

5-Day Kruger Safari Package Bush and Lions

$1,889 pp (USD)

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Olifants West NR (Greater Kruger) , Kruger NP, Panorama Route (Highlight) , Johannesburg Airport (End)

Ku Sungula Safari Lodge   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  10 Reviews

safari africa kruger park

5-Day Tented Camp Kruger Safari

$1,370 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 9 people per vehicle) Mid-range Tented Camp

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Johannesburg Airport (End)

Socioolite Travel and Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  16 Reviews

safari africa kruger park

5-Day Lodge-Treehouse Safari in Greater Kruger

$912 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Greater Kruger, Kruger NP, Johannesburg (End)

SafariLife   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  15 Reviews

safari africa kruger park

5-Day Kruger, Private Reserve and Panorama Tour

$1,925 to $2,145 pp (USD)

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Hoedspruit Airport (Hoedspruit) , Kruger NP, Blyde River Canyon (Panorama Route) , Pridelands Conservancy, Johannesburg Airport (End)

Safari Reinhardt   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  8 Reviews

safari africa kruger park

5-Day Kruger Park Bucketlist Safari

$1,255 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Self Catering Accommodation

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Greater Kruger, Panorama Route (Highlight) , Kruger NP, Johannesburg (End)

Junglers Adventure Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  9 Reviews

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4 Day Kruger Park Safaris

4-day kruger park safari.

A safari is a thrilling and adventurous journey done by travellers to explore the African continent’s culture, geography, landscape, and wildlife.

What Is a 4-Day Kruger Park Safari?

This 4-day Kruger Park safari is one of the best ways to experience that “genuine Africa,” as it allows guests to experience a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat.

A safari excursion allows you to get up close and personal with the terrain and landscapes and can be custom-built from elite, luxury private safaris to more economical, traditional group or individual safaris.

Classic safaris can still offer great wildlife encounters while staying in Kruger National Park’s comfortable safari accommodation, whilst a private luxury safari will provide an opulent experience in a more refined safari refuge with creature comforts and luxury facilities.

The ultimate Kruger Park safari would, of course, be a combination of the two, so a 4-day safari will provide an excellent introduction to both – travelling along routes noted for wildlife populations and spending the night in a luxurious chalet or tented accommodation.

In short, a four-day safari in the Kruger Park is the ideal getaway.

Brief overview of the Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park is a 2 million-hectare national reserve in South Africa’s north-eastern portion. SANParks manages Kruger National Park, which has many big rest camps, a few bush camps and lodges, and private camps in privately managed concessions inside the park’s limits.

Greater Kruger is an extra region of approximately 180 000 hectares of private protected wilderness properties on the western edge of the national park.

Although Kruger National Park is state-owned, tourism is the primary source of funding, and some private concessions inside the national park contribute significantly to revenue generation.

They are popular with guests who want the type of luxury provided in a private game reserve but prefer to stay inside the park itself.

Many Kruger Park safaris provide such lodgings in four to five star accommodation and with open vehicle safari drives. Others make use of more modest accommodation, including optional self-catering and the option of self-driving or guided game drives.

What Should I Pack for My Safari

To make the best of your safari and be prepared for minor crises, pack the following:

  • Passports, travel insurance docs itinerary, and etickets
  • Prescription Medication as well as a basic first aid kit with hand sanitizer, antihistamine), eye drops, and anti-malarial tablets.
  • Sunglasses, hat, sunblock, lip balm, and mosquito repellent
  • Binoculars, camera, and lenses
  • Comfortable clothes, bandanna or cotton scarf, walking shoes, sandals, swimsuit, and a rain jacket
  • Phone, tablet or Laptop
  • A good flashlight or headlight
  • A good book and t travel diary or journal 

Best Time to Go on Safari

South Africa is a huge and diversified country with a diverse climate that differs by location. Summer generally lasts from roughly December to March, followed by winter from June to August.

From May through October is the finest season to visit the Kruger National Park and surrounds for a safari. 

The animals are concentrated around water sources and are easier to identify in the dry season’s thinned-out foliage, making these months ideal for game.

3 Best 4-Day / 3-Night Kruger Park Packages

A private 4-day/3-night safari at Lukimbi Safari Lodge inside the Southern Kruger National Park is the best one can indulge in.

Bounded by three major river systems, the lodge offers a diverse habitat of grasslands, wooded areas, and riverine thickets. You will go out on sunrise and sunset safaris every day when the animals are most active. 

Game drives take place on exclusive private roads and off-road driving is permitted to get you close up to the “Big Five”.

This tour starts and ends at Kruger Mpumalanga Airport near Nelspruit in Nelspruit and a transfer from and back to the airport is included.

On this classic 4-day tour by Kruger Safari Company Tours, guests are transported from OR Tambo for a stay at a Game Lodge in the Balule Game Reserve next to the Kruger Park. They can enjoy the Orpen, Satara, and Nwanedzi regions of the park with sunrise and sunset game drives, and a thrilling bush walk. A visit to the Blyde River Canyon and a traditional Bush Braai at the Marula Tree Boma is also included.

Kruger Safari Company also offers a 4-day tour from OR Tambo International Airport, with accommodation at a lodge near Hazyview and Phabeni Gate.

The 4-day itinerary includes a sunset / night safari on day 1, a full-day open vehicle safari on day 2, a full-day Panorama Route on day 3 and a morning safari in Kruger National Park on day 4.

You will experience a variety of eco zones in the Kruger National Park, each zone with its own set of wildlife as well as the famous attractions of the Panorama Route.

Pros and Cons of a 4-Day/ 3-Night Safari 

Kruger National Park has the greatest diversity of wildlife in South Africa, and you could spend up to a week enjoying safari and nature walks here. The pros and cons of a 4-day safari is summarised below:

5 Tips for Going on Safari

  • Go late in the dry season because in the wet season, the vegetation is thick and animals hide in the bushy shade. The later in the dry season you go, the drier the land and the easier it is to spot animals through the vegetation.
  • Don’t sleep late, you need to be up early to catch predators, especially the big cats, who hunt during the night when the temperatures are cooler. The gates of the Kruger camps open between 4:30 and 6:00 already.
  • Dress in layers. It might be very chilly when you start out on a morning drive, but temperatures may soar during midday.
  • Get a decent map and wildlife book or app to help you plan your day and identify unfamiliar sightings.
  • Be careful when approaching dangerous animals.  You can get into trouble when getting too close to an elephant herd with small ones.

Luxury vs Budget Safaris Explained

When you go on a luxury safari, you can expect luxury accommodations – either extravagant lodges or lavish tented camps set in fabulous spots of the park, where you can experience exclusivity. 

You will sleep in comfortable beds adorned with plush linens, have access to an en-suite bathroom with a hot shower and bathtub; some vanities and a private veranda that overlooks the African bush. You will enjoy round-the-clock electricity and even Wi-Fi connection. 

Game drives in open safari vehicles will be done with expert guides who will track animals and beautiful sights.

A budget safari suggests budget accommodation, lower-priced and smaller rooms with basic facilities. 

For a budget safari, you will probably stay in one of the rest camps in Kruger National Park itself. You will only be required to pay the daily conservation fees and will be free to drive around yourself or go on a pre-organised guided morning, sunset or night drive.

Optional Activities on Your 4-Day Safari

There are a lot of activities you can enjoy during your safari, including eco trails, backpacking, day walks, wilderness trails, mountain biking, golf and birding.

Types of Accommodation to Choose From

If you’re searching for self-catering lodgings in Kruger National Park that aren’t too expensive, the rest camps provide a wide range of options, including campsites, huts, bungalows, cottages, rondavels, safari tents, and guest homes.

Restaurants, supermarkets, and gas stations are available at the camps. These rest camps are ideal for a self-drive safari, but guided game safaris can also be arranged.

During the busiest holiday seasons, travellers sometimes complain about the hordes of tourists in the Kruger National Park rest camps and the “queuing to observe” animal sightings. If this is the case for you, staying at a luxury lodge on a private concession on some nights of your 4-day safari may provide you with a more intimate and personalised experience.

Several parts within the Kruger National Park’s limits have been leased out for private use.

Private concessions operate separately from the rest of Kruger National Park. The property is managed by the operator, and the private lodge on the site is exclusively accessible to booked guests. Although the concessions are located within the main Kruger Park, only staying guests are granted access to the concessions, adding to the uniqueness of your safari experience.

FAQ’s

Can you do a 4-day safari from johannesburg.

Yes, several tour operators offer 4-day safaris from Johannesburg. The Kruger within a 6-hour drive from the city and international airport

How Many Days Do You Need in Kruger National Park?

Four to five days in the Kruger National Park will give you ample time to experience its diversity of wildlife.

Which Month Is Best for Kruger National Park?

The best month to visit the Kruger National Park is between May and October when vegetation is sparse and animals easier to spot and track.

Do I Need Malaria Tablets for Kruger National Park?

Visitors on a Kruger safari holiday should take anti-malaria tablets and other precautions to prevent being bitten by mosquitos.

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Safari in Kruger National Park

The best safaris in kruger national park.

Stuart Butler

Stuart Butler

  • In this guide

Kruger National Park

  • Sabi Sands Game Reserve
  • Kwazulu-Natal
  • Parks of the North West Province
  • Safari in the Eastern Cape
  • Safari in the Western Cape
  • Where to stay
  • Need to know
  • Where to go

The showpiece of South African safari , Kruger National Park is one of the world’s most famous protected areas, and for good reason.

This huge (19,485 sq km) park in the far northeast of South Africa is home to tens of thousands of mammals and birds including large numbers of all your African favourites.

The scenery is classic Africa, with the diversity of safari activities the equal of anywhere and there are endless accommodation options and safari styles available, from tented camps to luxury lodges. The park is readily accessible and, thanks to an impressive road system, easy to travel around.

Here's my rundown on the best safaris in Kruger National Park.

Kruger's best safari reserves, lodges and camps

Thornybush Game Reserve

Thornybush Game Reserve

Best for: Luxury lodges and the Big Five

For many years, Thornybush was a fenced reserve which meant the management could guarantee the presence of many large mammals, but it also prevented the wildlife from moving freely between the reserve and Kruger itself. It also meant that the reserve lacked a little of the wilderness feel. The good news is that the fences have come down and, with its top-end lodges, acclaimed guides and a better than average chance of seeing cheetah (as well as many other flagship animals), Thornybush can now rightly hold its head up high as one of the best of the Kruger area’s private reserves.

Timbavati Game Reserve

Timbavati Game Reserve

Best for: The Big Five and photography

This magical private reserve borders the main Kruger park and, with no fences to block access, it hosts all the main mammal and bird species that Kruger is famed for. What really puts Timbavati on the map is its very rare population of naturally white lions. Lions with such a genetic mutation can only be found in one or two other places in Africa. In 2017, the last white lion in the region died. However, in March 2018, a cub was born with the pigmentation, meaning the legend lives on.

Timbavati is known for its high-quality guides, wide range of safari activities, and superb, high-end lodges with a heavy dose of romance.

Balule Nature Reserve

Balule Nature Reserve

Best for: The Big Five and luxury lodges

Sprawling across 250 sq km, the unfenced Balule Nature Reserve sits on the edge of the greater Kruger ecosystem with the Drakensberg escarpment as a memorable backdrop. The reserve is home to the Big Five as well as large numbers of hippo. There is also excellent birding with more than 260 recorded species including hobby falcon and harlequin doves. There are several quality lodges in different price ranges and activities include guided game drives and walking safaris, fishing, wine tasting and visits to a wildlife rehabilitation centre.

Kapama Game Reserve

Kapama Game Reserve

Best for: Family friendly holidays and birdwatching

Kapama makes for a good first-time safari destination in the greater Kruger region. A few years ago, the fences that had for so long separated it from Kruger and the surrounding (unfenced) private reserves were taken down. This has done a lot to increase the wilderness feel of the place. There is a good range of safari activities on offer and it’s child-friendly (as child-friendly as anywhere with wild lions can be). One unique feature of a safari here is the reserve’s elephant experience. The reserve has a number of elephants (rescued from elephant-back safaris) and the elephant interaction experience allows you to get close to these not-so gentle giants while a guide explains elephant biology and conservation.

Manyeleti Game Reserve

Manyeleti Game Reserve

Best for: The Big Five and family friendly safari

Covering 230 sq km and with an unfenced border with Kruger, Manyeleti, which means Place of the Stars in the local Shangaan language, was the only wildlife reserve that black people were permitted to visit during the apartheid era. Today it welcomes everyone, yet retains an exclusive atmosphere thanks to having only four excellent lodges and camps with accommodation suitable for budget, mid-range and luxury travellers. The reserve hosts all the so-called Big Five and a whole range of Kruger’s other stars.

Klaserie Nature Reserve

Klaserie Nature Reserve

Best for: Luxury lodges and photography

Covering some 60,000 hectares, the spectacular Klaserie Nature Reserve is one of the largest privately-owned nature reserves in South Africa. The reserve is also deeply committed to environmental education for local children and supports a number of long-term scientific studies. For the tourist, Klaserie combines memorably diverse scenery, including glittering waterways, and an impressive range of wildlife such as rhinos, elephants, lions, hippos and some massive buffalo. The birdlife is equally impressive and one of the scientific projects the reserve supports focuses on the prehistoric-looking ground hornbill. There’s a wide selection of accommodation within Klaserie, all of it very luxurious and intimate in scale, and the sheer size of the reserve means that Klaserie never feels busy — except with wildlife.

Karongwe Game Reserve

Karongwe Game Reserve

Best for: Birdwatching and the Big Five

Known for offering some of the highest chances of spotting the elusive leopard, Karongwe is a moderately-sized private game reserve hemmed in between four rivers with views of the Drakensberg Mountains. This gives it an unusually lush, green landscape, in contrast to some of Kruger’s drier regions. Other highlights are the superb guided bush walks and exceptional birdwatching (again, thank those rivers). Since there are just five unashamedly luxurious and very small camps, crowds are never an issue here and the quality of the guiding and accommodation is almost unsurpassed in the Kruger area.

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Safari in kruger national park: need to know, everything you wish you'd known before you booked.

This is safari made easy — perhaps too easy. A park as good and easy to visit as Kruger attracts a lot of visitors and in high season main routes can be busy. The park’s highly-developed infrastructure also means that it doesn’t always feel all that wild. If this sounds off-putting, fear not.

The park is surrounded by a number of superb private reserves with limited numbers and no self-drives allowed, which means that wild Africa comes growling right up to you. Taking all this into account, whatever sort of safari you’re looking for, Kruger usually comes out on top.

Where to go in Kruger National Park

There’s a massive amount of accommodation in and around Kruger National Park. The park itself caters to all budgets, from hardcore bush campers to lodges with a luxury royal seal (and a price tag to match). In general, the finest accommodation and best safari guides can be found in the exclusive private reserves bordering Kruger itself. The prices quoted by such places might appear steep but keep in mind that they generally include all activities including guided safaris in state-of-the-art vehicles, meals and most drinks, plus the conservation fees that help maintain such wilderness areas.

Some suggested top-end places include Singita Lebombo Lodge and the Rzoyal Malewane, both of which are in the Kruger National Park itself. You can’t really go wrong with any of the accommodation in the private reserves but some worth building your safari around include Thornybush Waterside Lodge in the Thornybush Game Reserve, Kapama River Lodge in the Kapama Game Reserve, and the Klaserie Sands River Camp and Makumu Private Game Lodge, both in Klaserie.

Safari by foot

For the ultimate in Kruger adventures, try a short bush walk led by an expert walking safari guide in one of the private reserves or, for something even more thrilling, set out to hike one of the multi-day wilderness trails established by park authorities. There’s no better way to get to know wild Africa than by walking, which gives you the ability to touch, smell, taste, hear and sense the African bush in a way that’s never possible in a vehicle safari.

Kruger wildlife

One of the great parks of Africa, Kruger and the surrounding private reserves are home to all of southern Africa’s iconic mammal species including the famed Big Five — buffalo, elephant, lion, leopard and rhino. This is also a great park for giraffe, zebra, cheetah and even wild dogs. The sheer quantity of animals seen on a safari trip here can be mind-boggling.

There are tens of thousands of impala and blue wildebeest and, despite sustained recent poaching, there are still thousands of white rhino (plus some black rhino). The lion population is somewhere around thousand and elephants are doing exceptionally well, with some 13,000 present (which is about double the park’s real carrying capacity). In total, some 140 mammal species are known to live in and around the Kruger eco-systems, which makes it one of the most mammal-rich parks in the world.

The diverse habitats, which include thorn tree woodlands and shrub mopane veld, river valleys lined by tropical forest and searing granite kopjes (hills), supports an even more impressive array of birdlife. More than 500 different species of birds have been recorded in Kruger.

Kruger's hidden gems

Anthony Ham

Anthony Ham

Kruger may be busy, but it’s so big that you can still spend time alone with a lone leopard wandering along a quiet riverside track. As a general rule, I enjoy Kruger the further north I go: in the wild north, I’d happily live out my safari days looking for birds and lions that still seem surprised to see a vehicle.

When to visit Kruger National Park

Key wildlife viewing times are between June and September when the drier winter weather causes animals to congregate around water sources, and the March to May rutting season when male wildebeest, impala and other antelope butt heads over the ladies. Overall, June is probably the best month to visit. Wildlife activity is intense, but with school holidays yet to begin, human activity remains light and accommodation is cheaper.

When to go on safari in South Africa

When to go on safari in South Africa

Blessed with incredible geographical diversity, South Africa is truly a year-round destination…

The best safaris in Sabi Sands

About the author.

Safari in Kruger National Park

Stuart is an award-winning travel journalist covering safari, trekking and conservation in Africa for the Lonely Planet, Rough Guides, BBC, Bradt Travel Guides, amongst many others. He is the author of Walking With The Maasai , a journey through some of Kenya's lesser-visited Maasai lands.

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safari africa kruger park

  • Kruger National Park Safari
  • Planning your Kruger Park Safari
  • What to Bring on Safari
  • What to Expect on Safari
  • Kruger Park Safari General Information
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Viva Safaris Company Profile
  • Meet The Viva Safaris Staff
  • Tremsisana Lodge and Marc’s Treehouse Lodge Compared
  • Viva Safaris Newsletters
  • Kruger Park Safari Enquiries
  • Kruger National Park Safari Reviews
  • Safari Video Gallery
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Introduction
  • Tremisana Lodge in the Media
  • Accommodation
  • Game Viewing
  • History of Balule Game Reserve
  • Safaris Staying at Tremisana Lodge
  • Camera Trap Gallery
  • Marc’s Treehouse Lodge in the Media
  • Safaris Staying at Marc’s Treehouse Lodge
  • Katekani Introduction
  • Safaris Staying at Katekani Tented Lodge
  • Masango Camp Introduction
  • Safaris Staying at Masango Camp
  • Safaris Staying at Luxury Lodges
  • Special Kruger Park Safari Packages
  • All Kruger Park Safari Packages
  • Make a Reservation
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Elephant crosses in front of Viva Safaris clients

Kruger Park Safaris

See africa's mighty big 5.

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Viva Safaris

Sharing our passion for wildlife for 30+ years.

safari africa kruger park

Value-for-money Safaris to Kruger Park

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Kruger Park Safari Experiences with Viva Safaris

From humble beginnings in 1991, Viva Safaris has grown to become the most sought after tour operator servicing the Kruger National Park region. Our diversity of Kruger Park safari experiences easily beat those of any competitor.

Get up close to the Big 5 in Kruger National Park safari in one of our open game viewers!

Get up close to the Big 5 in the Kruger Park with one of our open game viewers!

safari africa kruger park

Viva Safaris is consistently rated amongst the top 10 tour operators in South Africa!

I would like to, once again, congratulate all the Viva Safaris staff on another year of outstanding work. Your energy, enthusiasm and excellence have been fundamental in our success story. The fact that we have had departures from Johannesburg EVERY SINGLE DAY this year is both remarkable and enviable. We shall complete the year in the same manner, resulting in 365 departures for 2023. Take a bow, every single one of you. The quality of reviews posted by previous guests plays a big part in helping tourists decide to choose one of our packages. Without exception, these reviews bear testimony to the passion and energy that our happy staff bring to their workplace.  Well done to all !!!!

Kruger National Park Safari Packages and Tours

We are completely self-sufficient and highly experienced….we own our lodges; we have a fleet of air conditioned mini busses that will bring you from your location in Johannesburg right to the bush; we have our own fleet of game viewing vehicles; our own rangers and trackers; our own chefs and lodge management staff and of course a range of 30 different Kruger Park safaris that vary from cost effective on night/two day safaris to combined Kruger Park and Private Reserve safaris where you can experience the thrill of walking in the bush amongst the Big Five of Africa – of course for those who demand the luxurious, our Fly In safaris and Luxury Lodge safaris are legendary !!!

Book with Confidence: Postponing your safari (Covid-19)

Book your safari with confidence knowing that if you have future concerns about the Covid-19 (“Corona Virus”) or any other bona fide reason, you need not cancel your safari and forfeit your deposit. Unlike almost all of our competitors, Viva Safaris owns all its own accommodation and will happily postpone your booking for either your use or that of your friends/family with no penalty or fee , crediting your existing deposit to a future booking of your choice.

Click here to view our new operating procedures for Covid-19

The beautiful Marula Tree Boma under the African night sky

The beautiful Marula Tree Boma under the African night sky

Bongani leads group of guests along Olifants River

Armed ranger leads group of guests along Olifants River

  Click play below to see a brief video overview of what you may experience on a safari to the Kruger National Park with Viva Safaris:

Young bull elephant keeping a close eye on us in the Kruger

Young bull elephant keeping a close eye on us in the Kruger

Viva Safaris was established in 1991 by people that love wildlife. Family-owned and wholly South African, our aim has always been to enthusiastically share that love and passion with the thousands of satisfied tourists that have been through our hands. We do not aim for exclusivity – we have made our Kruger Park safari packages accessible to a wide range of pockets.

Guests being shown wildlife during bush walk on safaris to Kruger Park

Guests being shown wildlife during bushwalk

We are aware that current tourists are a lot smarter, more price-conscious and have high expectations for their money. If one compares our tariffs to other Kruger National Park safari operators, it is evident that our safaris are not only eminently affordable but also offer our guests a value-filled product with a personal touch . There can be no doubt that our safari products constitute the very best value for money safaris to the Kruger National Park .

Relaxed Motlala leopard looking at Jordan and guests

Relaxed Motlala leopard looking at Jordan and guests

Mindful of our guests’ need to share their wonderful wildlife experiences with friends and family at home, we have introduced  FREE 24hr WIFI at all our lodges.

Dining room overlooking Breakfast Dam at Marc's Camp

Dining room overlooking Breakfast Dam at Marc’s Camp

Kruger Park Safari Lodges

Viva Safaris is in the unique position of owning its own accommodation establishments. We are thus able to guarantee levels of excellence expected by our valued international guests. We offer a wide spectrum of products that are affordable to backpacker and bush connoisseur alike.

TREMISANA GAME LODGE is our flagship establishment and is relatively upmarket. It is the largest and leading Big Five game lodge in the Balule Section of the Greater Kruger National Park . We have 15 chalets as well as a 2-bedroom guesthouse. All units are en suite and airconditioned. The exquisite luxuriant gardens and water features make this camp a veritable oasis. Guests at Tremisana enjoy the best of both types of safaris : the traditional lodge operation includes a 4 hour bush walk and 4 hour sunset game drive on open Landcruisers including an unforgettable Bush Braai (BBQ) in the middle of wildest Africa while our guests will also enjoy full day open vehicle   Kruger National Park safaris .

Tremisana chalet, Kruger Park safari lodge

Tremisana chalet

safari africa kruger park

The water feature and lush gardens at Tremisana Game Lodge, Kruger National Park

The wildlife viewing at the Tremisana Game Lodge waterhole is unbelievably good. We have sightings of all the Big Five on our property.

MARC’S TREEHOUSE LODGE  is a unique lodge beautifully positioned along the banks of the perennial Klaserie River. It is situated in the Motlala Game Reserve which has 3 of the Big 5 : Black and White Rhino, Buffalo and Leopard. The rustic treehouses are romantic and restful and blend perfectly into the bush.

safari africa kruger park

One of the treehouses at Marc’s Treehouse Lodge

KATEKANI TENTED LODGE  comprises of eight beautifully appointed Tented Chalets  with bathtub, indoor and outdoor showers, splash pool and deck. Each chalet has a thatched roof and is elevated so as to allow for spectacular views of the bushveld.

safari africa kruger park

Katekani Tented Lodge

Katekani Tented Lodge Bed

Katekani Tented Lodge Bed

MASANGO CAMP  is named after the late Ronald Masango, Viva Safaris’ and the whole region’s first ever black Camp Manager, and is extremely popular with budget-conscious travellers. The camp comprises 8 en suite chalets and each chalet has an overhead fan, electric lights and power points and all the comfortable beds are covered by mosquito nets. The camp has a good-sized swimming pool and an open BBQ Boma. The central common room has a bar, a breakfast nook, a lounge as well as indoor dining facilities.

Chalet interior

Masango Camp Chalet interior

The pool at Masango Camp

The pool at Masango Camp

All our lodges have 24 hour WIFI available to all our guests

The Kruger National Park

One of South Africa’s most popular tourist destinations , the Kruger National Park is famous the world over.  It is the oldest Park in Africa and also one of the largest.

In 1898, then president of the Transvaal republic, Paul Kruger established The Kruger National Park – then called the Sabie Game Reserve.  Paul Kruger recognised the need to protect the wildlife of the Lowveld region and created an area where no hunting was allowed. 

In 1902 when Scotting-born James Stevenson-Hamilton was appointed as the first Warden of the park it was still known as the Sabie Game Reserve.  Finally, in 1926 Paul Kruger’s vision was realised and the national parks act was brought into effect, following this in 1927 the Sabie Game Reserve & Shingwedzi Game reserves were amalgamated and merged to become the Kruger National Park. (Named for the efforts and drive of the honourable Paul Kruger) When the park first opened to the public Game enthusiasts and motorists were allowed entry into the Kruger National Park at the cost of one pound.

The Kruger National Park stretches across the vast tract of land between the Sabie & Crocodile Rivers. The Kruger National Park is similar in length to England and is about 65% of the area of England.

  • Kruger is approx 350km long and 60km wide and covers an area of 19,485 square kilometres
  • The Kruger National Park is located in the north-eastern provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga in South Africa, and borders Mozambique and Zimbabwe to the east and north respectively.
  • It was first protected by the then Transvaal Republic in 1898 and known as Sabi Game Reserve
  • In 1926 it became South Africa’s first national park , when Sabi Game Reserve was combined with the adjacent Shingedzi Game Reserve and farms and given the name Kruger National Park
  • The Kruger Park is named after the President of the Transvaal, President Paul Kruger (1825 – 1904) who was responsible for creating the original protected area of Sabi Game Reserve in 1898
  • The Kruger Park is home to all of the “Big Five” (lion, rhino, buffalo, elephant and leopard), as well as more large mammals than any other game reserve in Africa (147 species in total).
  • An amazing 517 species of birds can be found in the Kruger Park.
  • In 2000, a multinational agreement between South Africa, Zimbabwe and Mozambique lead to fences coming down between Kruger National Park, Limpopo National Park in Mozambique and Gonarezhou National Park, Manjinji Pan Sanctuary and Malipati Safari Area in Zimbabwe.  This new combined area is called The Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park , and is the first phase of a larger conservation area that is planned to measure almost 100,000 square kilometres when complete!
  • Over 300 archeological sites of Stone Age man have been found in the park, containing cultural artefacts from 100,000 to 30,000 years ago.
  • There is also numerous evidence of San and Iron Age people from around 1500 years ago in the park, with San Art found throughout.

KRUGER NATIONAL PARK – A BRIEF HISTORY

The mastermind and animal lover behind the development of the Kruger National Park was then president of the Transvaal Republic, Paul Kruger. He was not a well-educated man, with only three formal months of education spent in a rural farm school, but he grew up in the wild frontiers of the old country and had an enduring love of nature and wildlife.

At the urging of early conservationists who were alarmed at the scale of unchecked hunting in the Lowveld region, he made an indelible mark in history by proclaiming an expansive area would be allocated for the protection of South Africa’s wild animals.

Paul Kruger was born on a rural farm in 1825.  When the Great Trek started in 1836, his father uprooted the entire family and moved them to what was known as the Transvaal, where they settled in a town called Rustenburg.

At the age of 16, Paul Kruger was allowed to choose his own farm and chose to settle on a property at the base of the Magaliesberg Mountains. Kruger married in 1842 and shortly thereafter moved to the Eastern Transvaal where he lost his wife and young infant son to what was suspected to be malaria and re-married a woman who bore seven daughters and nine sons, although many of his children died in infancy.

Kruger showed strong leadership qualities and eventually became Commandant-General of the then South African Republic, later known as the Transvaal. His leadership skills became more prominent when he was appointed member of a commission of the Volksraad, the Transvaal Republican Parliament who were tasked with drawing up a constitution.

He resigned as Commandant-General, in 1873 and retired to his farm, Boekenhoutfontein. His retirement was short-lived and he was elected to the Executive Council. Shortly after that he became Vice-President.  Paul Kruger led a resistance movement and became leader of a deputation. The first Anglo Boer war was 1880 and the British forces were defeated in a battle at Majuba in 1881. Paul Kruger was instrumental in negotiations with the British at this time, which later led to the restoration of Transvaal as an independent state under British rule.

Paul Kruger was elected as president of the Transvaal in1882 at the age of 57. He left for England in 1883 to revise the Pretoria Convention of 1881, an agreement which was reached between the Boers and the British that ended the first Anglo Boer War. During this time in Europe Paul Kruger acquired many allies. Paul also attended an imperial banquet in Germany at which he was presented to Emperor Wilhelm I, and spoke at length with the renowned Bismarck.

The political climate of the Transvaal changed with the discovery of gold in the Witwatersrand basin. It spurred a gold rush and immigrants from around the world descended on the gold fields in search of fortunes.  Paul Kruger’s leadership was put to the test at the end of 1895 when the failed Jameson Raid, led by Doctor Starr Jameson, brought about a breakdown in relations between the British and the Boers. It ultimately led to the second Anglo Boer War, known as the South African war.

Kruger was known as a fierce protector of the Afrikaner nation and on being elected as President of South Africa in 1883, he tirelessly campaigned for South Africa’s complete independence from Britain and the abolition of British supervision.

The South African war broke out in 1899 and Kruger, now 74, remained in Pretoria due to ill health until 1900. When the war swung in favour of the British army, Kruger was forced to flee the capital just days before Lord Roberts occupied the city. He boarded a Dutch warship at Lorenço Marques (Maputo) and left for Europe, where he lived out his remaining years in exile. He died of heart failure at the age of 79 years while still living in Switzerland.

Kruger made allies of the European sovereignty and arch enemies of the British and was regarded as a fierce politician and military man. However, Paul Kruger’s legacy will always be the creation and the formation of the Kruger National Park.

UNDER THREAT

The Kruger National Park had a precarious start with numerous factions threatening its survival. Hunters wanted access to the Park; soldiers returning from the First World War expected land for sheep farming; prospectors wanted access to the land to search for gold, copper and coal; and South Africa’s veterinarians were campaigning for a mass slaughter of wildlife to contain the spread of tsetse fly disease.

South African Railways (SAR) that incidentally saved the Kruger National Park when they opened a new route from Pretoria to Lorenço Marques (now Maputo in Mozambique). The train stopped within the reserve and travellers were allowed to explore the surrounding bush with a game ranger on hand.

Awareness of the Park and growing interest in it empowered conservation lobbyists to secure the future of the Kruger National Park as a tourist destination that would generate revenue for it to be self-sustainable.

The Kruger Park finally received international acclaim when Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret visited as part of their royal tour of South Africa and stayed in one of the first luxury lodges built in the reserve. By 1955, over 100 000 people were visiting the Park each year.

The Kruger National Park grew in size when the game fences between the private reserves on Kruger’s western border came down in 1994. In 2001, the fences were removed between South Africa, Mozambique on its eastern border and Zimbabwe on its northern border. This created the multinational Greater Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area.

Now called a Peace Park, it incorporates Parque Nacional do Limpopo in Mozambique and Gonarezhou National Park in Zimbabwe, making it the largest conservation reserve in Africa. The Peace Park is part of the Kruger to Canyons Biosphere, an area designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO ) as an International Man and Biosphere Reserve.

THE FIRST WARDEN – KRUGER PARK

Scottish-born James Stevenson-Hamilton was appointed as initial warden of the Park in 1902 whilst it was still called the Sabie Game Reserve. The reserve was later united with Shinwedzi Game Reserve in 1927 and transformed into the Kruger national park. His journals are housed within the Memorial Library in Skukuza and make for fascinating reading.  He came to South Africa in 1888 as a member of the 6th Enniskillen Dragoons. This is the first time he came across wild game in the bush and he immediately fell in love with the country.

He returned to South Africa during the second Boer War, as a major in the British army. He did not want to return to England at the end of the war and secured the position of Warden of the Sabi Game Reserve. There was no clear instruction on what to do in the position except to make himself “thoroughly disagreeable to everyone”. Stevenson-Hamilton took his job seriously and when he caught two policemen poaching game he had them arrested and convicted. This incident earned him quite a reputation. Amongst other tasks, he stopped the movement of cattle through the Park and stopped all prospecting for coal and minerals.

In 1914, Stevenson-Hamilton joined the forces at the start of the First World War. He left the management of the Park in the hands of a ranger who ultimately let the administration slide. On his return to the Park, Stevenson-Hamilton found his beloved Park was in a shambles. He fought tooth-and-nail to save the Kruger National Park, as the war had stimulated greedy development of the land for agricultural purposes.

The Selati Railway Line was established and this saved the Kruger Park. A 9-day tour of Mozambique and the Lowveld included a one-night stop at what is present-day Skukuza. Stevenson-Hamilton invited members of the Provincial Council to visit the reserve which helped these influential members of government to understand the value and importance of the proclaimed Park.

Stevenson-Hamilton was called Skukuza by his staff, a Shangaan name meaning either “he who sweeps clean” or “he who turns everything upside down. Skukuza, roughly interpreted, is taken from the Zulu word for “broom”. However, it wasn’t a positive term as the Tsonga tribe was bitter at being deprived of their historical land. The main rest camp at Sabie Bridge was called Skukuza in Stevenson-Hamilton’s honour.

Stevenson-Hamilton remained with the Park until he retired in 1945, on the eve of his 80th birthday.

WILDERNESS TRAILS

In 1957 the first wilderness trails were pioneered by a Natal Parks Board game ranger named Ian Player (brother of legendary South African golfer Gary Player) and his friend and mentor Magquba Ntombela. Dr Player is well-known for his work in environmental fields and international involvement in wildlife conservation.

The wilderness trails established by Dr Player, as well as the walking safaris, were pioneered in South Africa in the 1950s and 1960s by visionary South African conservationists and forward-thinking individuals which has partly resulted in the Kruger National Park we know and love today.

Dr Player is probably one of South Africa’s most highly regarded environmentalists and a conservationist who led efforts to rescue the southern white rhino from extinction.

He was instrumental in developing the first wilderness trails in 1957 in the Kruger National Park.

Player was a game ranger on the Umfolozi Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal, the oldest nature reserve in Africa. When it was established in 1897, there were only about 50 southern white rhinos left in the world and all of them were on the reserve. The rhino faced extinction as vast numbers of Zulus that were displaced by the government’s land policy had settled on the borders of the reserve and poaching was out of control. There was also the threat of an anthrax breakout from stray infected cattle that wondered into the reserve.

By the 1960s the Umfolozi’s population of white rhino had grown to 600; however, Player realised the danger of keeping an entire subspecies restricted to one small Park and started a campaign that eventually allow him permission to move a small herd of rhino to the Kruger National Park. This would ensure the survival of the rhino by establishing a gene pool in other regions of the country.

By this stage, veterinarian Toni Haarthoorn had pioneered a “dope darting” technique that was used in Operation Rhino, one of the most successful wildlife translocation programmes that included moving rhino to other parts and to overseas reserves.

PRE-HISTORIC MAN 

Ample evidence shows that prehistoric man (Homo Erectus) roamed the Kruger National Park Area between 500 000 and 100 000 years ago. The Kruger National Park boasts 254 cultural heritage sites in the Kruger National Park, including nearly 130 recorded rock art sites. Over 300 archaeological sites of Stone Age man have been discovered dating back 100 000 to 30 000 years ago. There is evidence of Bushman tribes (San people) and Iron Age inhabitants dating back 1500 years ago and Nguni people as well as European explorers throughout the Kruger National Park area.

Significant archeological finds have been at Thulamela and Masorini where there are numerous examples of San art.  San art can be found throughout The Kruger National Park Reserve.

THE FIRST TOURISTS

In 1927, when the Kruger National Park Was proclaimed a national park in south africa under the national parks act of 1926, the value of tourism from game reserves as a major source of revenue was already well established and The Kruger National Park had been identified as a main destination by that time. Stevenson-Hamilton, Warden of the Kruger National Park at the time had been arranging  excursions and overnight stays in the Kruger National Park. There were, however, no facilities for the tourists who usually slept on the train that had brought them to the Kruger National Park from Witwatersrand.

Roads and small routes through the Kruger National Park were built with the hopes of attracting more tourists, the idea being that paying tourists would be accompanied by a guide.  The media of the time were invited to visit and write about the Kruger National Park and share their wildlife adventures in Kruger – over time the Kruger National Park became rather renowned and gained international repute.  There was still a problem with the lack of accommodation and facilities so, the South African Railways (SAR) approached the board of the Kruger National Park in 1927 with a request to erect quarters that the Park could rent to visitors. This  partnership between the Kruger National Park and South African Railways led to the development of the necessary infrastructure and roads. Facilities for guides and game rangers were erected throughout Kruger National Park and facilities and infrastructure abound.  In exchange for use of these facilities for their paying tourists, South African Railways undertook to provide all transport, by rail and road, and launched an advertising campaign, set up catering services and paid the board a percentage of the income received.

Four two-track roads were built initially; from Crocodile Bridge to Lower Sabie, from Acornhoek to the Mozambique border, from Gravelote to Makubas Kraal (near Letaba) and from White River to Pretoriuskop.

The Pretoriuskop area was opened to tourists in 1927 but only on the issue of a permit from the secretary of the board in Pretoria and the game warden on duty at Pretoriuskop. This arrangement was restrictive and confusing and eventually the board appointed an agency in 1931 to issue permits at Numbi Gate.

There were still no overnight facilities built at that time and the general public had to leave the Park before the gates closed in the evening. Hunting by this stage had been strictly prohibited but visitors could carry a revolver on them for their personal protection.

SAR received permission from the board to open the railway bridges over the Crocodile, Sabie and Olifants Rivers for motor vehicles, and to run a train service on the Selati Railway for tourists. The number of visitors to the Kruger National Park steadily grew as it became more accessible and convenient.

MODERN TOURISM IN THE KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

The board of Kruger National Park committed in 1928, to extensive plans to boost tourism to the reserve. A total of three new rest huts were built at Satara, Pretoriuskop and Skukuza. A year later, two rondavels (round houses) were built at Skukuza, and two were built at Satara. there were plans submitted to build more rondavels at other camps were the and older ranger quarters were restored and made available for tourists. The Kruger National Park was set to start attracting overnight stays.

Originally the design of the original rondavels was in the “Selby” style, named after an American mine engineer, Paul Selby, that was on the board at the time. There was a gap between the wall and the roof for ventilation, and there was a hole in the door that was used as a peephole to see if there were dangerous animals outside the hut. The rest camps were not fenced and animals roamed freely in and out of the designated visitors’ area.

The original rondavels weren’t well-liked as they were stiflingly hot in summer and mosquitoes came in through the open gaps. From 1931, new rondavels were designed that were closed to the thatch roof and had windows in them. The board extended any developments including tented rest camps and ancient huts created type wattle and native cement.

The first ablution blocks went up at Skukuza in 1932, with four baths and four showers. The rest camps were also finally fenced at the same time. more modern and improved designs were introduced and the Kruger National Park took on a more uniform look overall, as it was previously quite haphazard. Facilities focused on the comfort and needs of tourists, as well as their safety.

Hot water for bathing was a luxury in those early days. Eventually the board relented and provided hot running water to the camps on the condition tourists paid one shilling per bath.

Demand for accommodation had increased so much by the mid 1930’s that the Kruger National Park board asked the government for additional funding of £50,000 and additional beds and rest camps were made available for some 200 visitors.

Kruger National Park received even more fiscal support from the government. Money was spent on luxuries such as mosquito nets, septic tanks and hot showers, the park also invested heavily in game management programmes.

The board of Kruger National Park started charging a fee to visit the Park for the first time in 1928 to raise much-needed revenue. Five shillings for day visitors and a nominal charge per car was implemented. Visitors could hire a game ranger to escort them through the Park for an added fee, they were also charged to cross the rivers in their cars on pontoons that were set up.

The board also outsourced the management of the rest camps and refreshment stops for Skukuza and Satara to independent contractors and providers when tourist traffic increased to a point that the Park staff could no longer manage the demand.

These contractors were responsible for the issuing of permits, supervision at the camps and catering services. The rest camps were only equipped with wood and ‘riempie’ beds and visitors could hire mattresses and linen from the camp supervisors.

The board eventually employed their own management staff to run the rest camps because of the number of complaints from the tourists. The board took over all trade activities and employed the first tourism manager in the mid-1940s. In the 1960s, the first liquor license was issued.

The rules and regulations for the Kruger National Park when it first opened to visitors were pretty relaxed, except that firearms were strictly prohibited. Tourists had pretty much free range and did not even have to return to the rest camps at night. However, the first list of regulations was published in the 1930s when poor behaviour started causing problems.

Tourists were limited to driving through the Park between sunrise and sunset, and were made to return to their rest camp for the evening. A strict speed limit was implemented and littering was prohibited. The board appointed the Automobile Association (AA) to run a service where patrol cars would monitor traffic on the Park roads.

The only mode of transport when the Park was first proclaimed was the Selati railway line, ox wagons, buggy carts, pack donkeys and horses. There were no roads and no vehicles in the Park in those days.

Bush clearing started in earnest in 1927 and the first roads were put in to create more convenient routes between the ranger’s posts within the Kruger National Park. The construction of roads within the Kruger National Park for tourists followed a few years later. Three pontoons were built on the main rivers and a new causeway was built over the Sand River and the Letaba River.

The impressive road network that had developed by 1946 was a massive achievement, considering how remote the Kruger National Park was, and the fact that the Kruger National Park was in serious financial trouble, had a shortage of equipment and lacked manpower.

Requests to tar the roads were vehemently opposed, with the thinking that it would turn the reserve into a “glorified Park” and it would lose its natural appeal. Stevenson-Hamilton was strongly opposed to tarring the roads, saying it would result in speeding incidents and the death of animals.

Permission to tar the roads was only granted in 1965 and only for the main strip between Pretoriuskop and Skukuza. Today there are more than 850 kilometres of tarred roads in the Park.

THE TOPOGRAPHY AND GEOGRAPHY OF THE KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

The Kruger Park is in the north-east of South Africa on the confluence of the Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces. The Luvuvhu and Limpopo Rivers converge at Crookes Corner in the Pafuri triangle at the most northerly point of the Park and if you stand in the river bed, you have Mozambique on your right, Zimbabwe straight ahead and South Africa on your left.

The Lebombo Mountains towards the eastern region of the Park separates Kruger Park from Mozambique. The Limpopo and the Crocodile Rivers act as its natural boundaries on the north and south of the park.

The Kruger National Park’s topography varies and altitude ranges between 200 metres (660 feet) in the east and 840 metres ( 2 760 feet) in the south-west near Berg-en-Dal. The highest point in the Kruger Park is a hill called Khandzalive.

Several rivers run through the park including the Sabie River, Olifants River, Crocodile River, Letaba River, Luvuvhu River and Limpopo River.

A NEW FRONTIER: THE GREAT LIMPOPO TRANSFRONTIER PARK

In the year 2000 a vision to create Peace Park came to fruition when a multi-national agreement led to the fences being brought down between the Limpopo National Park in Mozambique, the Kruger National Park, and Makuleke region in South Africa, and Gonarezhou National Park, Manjinji Pan Sanctuary and Malipati Safari Area in Zimbabwe.

The fences were removed based on a Memorandum of Understanding that did away with political boundaries that restricted the free movement of animals along old migratory routes. In 2001 the first 40 elephants were relocated from Kruger Park to Limpopo National Park (including 3 breeding herds of a planned 1 000 elephants).

The aim of these transfrontier parks is to preserve traditional animal migration patterns, and ensure there are sufficient food and water sources as the population of animals increase. Peace Parks also encourage tourism and economic development that is mutually beneficial for all parties. It is entirely reliant on the goodwill and integrity of the frontier countries.

SEASONS AND CLIMATES FOR KRUGER PARK SAFARI

The Kruger National Park is in the Lowveld region and is part of a subtropical zone where summer days are hot and humid (temperatures often reaching the 40°C (100°F) mark.)

Rainfall mainly occurs in the summer months, with showers expected from September until May. Early September to October are considered the best game viewing months as the grass is thin short due to the preceding drier months making for excellent game viewing. The winter months from are popular because the mosquitos are less active in the cooler months and there is less chance of contracting malaria if you are not taking prophylactics. The game also conveniently stay close to the watering holes in the drier winter months and this attracts the predators which makes it an ideal time of the year for game viewing.

KRUGER NATIONAL PARK FLORA

The Kruger National Park is has four main bushveld regions that each boast their own distinctive appeal:

  • Thorn trees and red bush-willow veld Between the western boundary and roughly the centre of the Park south of the  Olifants River. Combretums, like the red bush-willow (Combretum apiculatum) and  Acacia species dominate while there vast numbers of marula trees (Sclerocarya  caffra). There are many Acacias along the rivers and streams.
  • Knob-thorn and marula veld South of the Olifants River in the eastern half of the Park, this area provides the most  important land for grazing. Species such as red grass (Themeda triandra) and buffalo  grass (Panicum maximum) predominate while the knob-thorn (Acacia nigrescens),  leadwood (Combretum imberbe) and marula (Sclerocarya caffra) trees are the main  tree species.
  • Red bushwillow and mopane veld This area lies in the western half of the Park, north of the Olifants River. The two  most prominent species here are the red bushwillow (Combretum apiculatum) and  the mopane tree (Colophospermum mopane).
  • Shrub mopane veld Shrub mopane covers almost the entire north-eastern part of the Park. There are a  number of smaller areas in the Park which carry distinctive vegetation such as  Pretoriuskop where the sickle bush and the silver cluster-leaf (Terminalia sericea) are  prominent. The sandveld communities near Punda Maria are equally definitive, with  a wide variety of unique species.

KRUGER NATIONAL PARK BIRDING

The Kruger National Park is a birder’s paradise boasting 517 species of birds; 253 are residents, 117 non-breeding migrants and 147 nomads.

Locally called the Big 6, there are six large species that are mostly restricted to the Park’s conservation areas. They are the lappet-faced vulture, martial eagle, saddle-billed stork, kori bustard, ground hornbill and the reclusive Pel’s fishing owl, which is localized and seldom seen.

There are between 25 and 30 breeding pairs of saddle-billed storks in the Kruger National Park, besides a handful of non-breeding individuals. In 2012 178 family groups of ground hornbills roamed the Park and 78 nests were known, of which 50% were active.

Pafuri and Punda Maria in the far north of the Park are regarded as one of the birding hotspots of the world. There are a number of species in the Kruger National Park that are not found anywhere else in the world.

The rest camps in the Park are where birds often see some of the best birds, particularly those bushveld camps that are situated on one of the main rivers. The comical hornbills and glossy starlings have made the rest camps their home, with easy pickings from picnic scraps and family barbeques.

The many dams scattered around the Kruger National Park are excellent birding spots, with the African Fish Eagle being a prize sighting. Its signature call is an absolute delight.

Let us take a look at the few bird routes in the Kruger National Park that attract avid birders to the region.

  • Lowveld Mpumalanga Birding Route This is a popular birding route in the southern part of the Park which is a sub-tropical area with a lot of open bushland. Typical species of trees in the area include the acacia, leadwood, marula and tamboti trees. Common species found in the area include the African scops-owl, bateleur, crested francolin, lilac-breasted roller, southern ground hornbill and white-crested helmet shrike. Some of the sought-after and rare birds found in this route include the martial eagle, narina trogon and southern bald ibis.
  • Soutpansberg-Limpopo birding route This route falls within the northern region of the Kruger National Park and is part of the Greater Limpopo birding route which extends beyond the borders of the Park through Mapungubwe National Park, the Soutpansberg mountain range and Venda. Punda Maria is known for sightings of the crowned hornbill, eastern (yellow-spotted) nicator and mosque swallow. The mopani bush and woodland areas attract the Arnott’s chat, black coucal, little bittern, racket-tailed roller and white-breasted cuckooshrike. Along the banks of the Levuvhu River, look out for the Böhm’s spinetail, Dickinson’s kestrel, lemon-breasted canary, mottled spinetail, river warbler and sooty falcon.
  • Kruger to Canyons Biosphere birding route This route incorporates parts of northern Kruger National Park and big sections of the central region. It begins outside the park in Graskop, moves along the Blyde River Canyon, down to Hoedspruit and on to the Kruger National Park via Phalaborwa. Popular sightings include the African barred owlet, collared (red-winged) pratincole, Pel’s fishing-owl, white-crowned lapwing (plover) and yellow-billed oxpecker.

THE GREAT BIG 5

The Big 5 was a collective term used for the most difficult animals to hunt, namely Leopard, Rhino, Elephant, Transvaal Lion & Cape Buffalo. This term takes on a much more gentle form today, and refers to spotting the “Big Five” out in the wild and NOT shooting them!  All five species are endangered to some extent and under threat of extinction from poaching that continues despite earnest anti-poaching programmes.

  • Buffalo’s primary predator is the lion. Buffalo will try to rescue another member who has been caught. They have been observed killing a lion after it has killed a member of the group.
  • Leopards are excellent at climbing trees. They’ll often safeguard their kill in a tree to prevent lions and hyenas from stealing it. They are also strong swimmers and occasionally eat fish and crabs.
  • African elephants communicate across large distances at a low frequency that cannot be heard by humans.
  • Rhinos have poor vision and will sometimes attack trees and rocks by accident. However, their hearing and sense of smell are excellent, thus often making up for their poor eyesight.
  • The African or Cape buffalo is not believed to be closely related to the water buffalo even though they superficially resemble each other. And unlike the water buffalo, the dangerous African buffalo has never been domesticated.
  • The rhino is the most endangered species of the Big Five. Rhino poaching worldwide hit a 15-year high in 2009. The illegal trade is being driven by an Asian demand for horns, made worse by increasingly sophisticated poachers who are now using veterinary drugs, poison, cross bows and high caliber weapons to kill rhinos. Very few rhinos now survive outside national parks and reserves.
  • Typically, the darker a lion’s mane, the older he is.
  • The leopard is nocturnal, solitary and secretive, staying hidden during the day. They are the least seen of the Big Five.
  • Many plant species have evolved seeds that are dependent on passing through an elephant’s digestive tract before they can germinate. At least one third of tree species in West African forests rely on elephants in this way for dissemination.
  • White rhinos aren’t white, but slate gray to yellowish brown in color. The species name actually takes its root from Dutch, “weit” (wide), in reference to the animal’s wide muzzle.

What to look out for at the Kruger National Park

There is so much more to the Kruger National Park than the Big 5.  Birders and animal enthusiasts can enjoy an abundance of game both big and small in the Kruger National Park.

The Little Five: Buffalo Weaver, Elephant Shrew, Leopard Tortoise, Ant Lion and Rhino Beetle Birding Big 6:  Ground Hornbill, Kori Bustard, Lappet-faced Vulture, Martial Eagle, Pel’s Fishing Owl and Saddle-billed Stork Five Trees:  Baobab, Fever Tree, Knob Thorn, Marula and Mopane Tree

KRUGER NATIONAL PARK REST CAMPS

Main Rest Camps:

  • Berg-en-Dal (with satellite Malelane)
  • Crocodile Bridge
  • Lower Sabie
  • Mopani (with satellite Tsendze)
  • Olifants (with satellite Balule)
  • Orpen (with satellites Maroela and Tamboti)
  • Pretoriuskop
  • Punda Maria

In addition to the 12 main rest camps that are popular destinations for overnight visitors, the Kruger National Park has an array of bush camps and private lodges for those wanting a more exclusive experience.

  • Private lodges:
  • Camp Shonga
  • Hamiltons Tented Camp
  • Hoyo Hoyo Tsonga Lodge
  • Imbali Safari Lodge
  • Jocks Safari Lodge & Spa
  • Lukimbi Safari Lodge
  • Pafuri Camp
  • Plains Camp
  • Rhino Post Camp
  • Shishangeni Lodge
  • Singita Lebombo Lodge
  • Singita Sweni Lodge
  • The Outpost Lodge
  • Tinga Game Lodges

ENTRANCE GATES

The Kruger National Park has 9 gates:

  • Crocodile Bridge Gate, near Komatipoort
  • Malelane Gate, near Malelane
  • Numbi Gate, near Hazyview
  • Phabeni Gate, near Hazyview
  • Paul Kruger Gate, near Hazyview
  • Orpen Gate, near Klaserie
  • Phalaborwa Gate, near Phalaborwa
  • Punda Maria Gate, near Thohoyandou
  • Pafuri Gate, near Musina

DAY VISITORS

Day visitors to the Kruger National Park are welcomed and encouraged. All the main rest camps have areas allocated for day visitors and there are a few picnic spots dotted around the Park where visitors can enjoy a mid-day break.

The Park manages the volume of traffic on its roads by imposing a maximum number of vehicles allowed in each day and during high-peak season it’s important that visitors book beforehand to ensure they will be able to enter the Park.

The Kruger National Park recently introduced a “Park and Ride” facility which is available at the Numbi, Phabeni and Kruger gates.

CULTURAL SITES

Most visitors head off into the bush for morning and evening game drives. The time in-between can be spent at one of the natural or cultural features in the Park:

Letaba Elephant Museum

The museum covers elephant evolution, biology, behaviour, ecology and research. It also showcases the ivory of eight of Kruger’s greatest tuskers (including six of the Magnificent Seven). This site introduces you to these, and some of Kruger’s other big tuskers. It also has fun and games for kids and information for schools and educators.

Albasini Ruins

The Albasini Ruins are located at the Phabeni Gate and are the remains of the 19th century trading post of the famous Portuguese trader, Joao Albasini.

Albasini arrived in the then Portuguese-occupied port of Lourenco Marques (now Maputo, Mozambique) in the early 1800s and set up a trading business. He set up an extensive network of trading routes that reached inland as far as the Lowveld. By 1845, Albasini had established a vital trading post at Magashula’s Kraal (now the site of the Albasini Ruins) which was positioned along two of the most active trading routes.

Legend has it that Magashula’s Kraal was the first European settlement, where traders sought refuge from the disease-ridden Lowveld. Albasini and fellow intrepid traders lived under difficult conditions of poor trade and the threat of deadly diseases such as malaria and tsetse fly. Magashula’s Kraal was renowned for its fine white bread, which was made from grain grown at the trading post.

Evidence of early man from the late Iron Age can be found at a site on a prominent hill just 12 kilometres from the Phalaborwa gate on the tar road to Letaba rest camp. The site was inhabited by the Sotho-speaking BaPhalaborwa during the 1800s, who developed advanced methods of mining, smelting iron ore and trading in these iron products.

Dome-shaped clay furnaces used to smelt the iron ore are found at the Masorini site, which has been reconstructed as closely as possible to the original iron works. This living museum can be explored with a field guide.

Thulamela archaeological sites

Thulamela is a stone-walled site located in the northern region of the Park, and dates back to between 450-500 years. It comprises evidence of the Zimbabwe culture and is linked to the world-famous Mapungubwe Ruins.

When Great Zimbabwe was abandoned, several groups moved south across the Limpopo River into the north-eastern regions of South Africa (including northern Kruger). They established smaller chiefdoms such as Thulamela and started farming subsistence crops such as sorghum and millet. The grain was ground and used to make porridge and beer.

There is evidence of clay spindle wheels which would suggest that the people also grew cotton. There are remains of pots of various shapes and sizes, some decorated, which were used for cooking, eating and drinking.

Stevenson-Hamilton Memorial Library

The knowledge resource centre is located at Skukuza, the largest rest camp in the Kruger National Park. It consists of a library and a museum and holds many fascinating artefacts, books and valuable documents depicting the life and times of James Stevenson-Hamilton who was the first Warden of the Sabie Game Reserve, now the Kruger National Park.

The rest camp was named Skukuza as it was the nickname given to Stevenson-Hamilton by the Shangaan people. It was his job to stop poaching and to create a safe haven for wild animals that were being ruthlessly hunted. His nickname means “he who sweeps clean” or “he who turns everything upside down”. It has a more negative connotation as Stevenson-Hamilton was responsible for the relocation programme that move the native people out of the area when it was proclaimed a national park.

One of the most popular attractions at the museum is the knife that belonged to Harry Wolhuter, a ranger who killed a lion that had him firmly in his jaws and was dragging him through the bush.

There is also a small “Heroes’ Acre” outside the museum where the loyal pets who served their masters and played a role in protecting the park are remembered. Some died of old age and some in the line of duty.

PARK REGULATIONS

Visitors are expected to adhere to strict rules and regulations that govern gate and rest camp opening/closure times. Plan your arrival/departure times and game viewing around these times as fines are imposed on late arrivals or you may be turned away from the entrance gates if you arrive too late. You have to factor in the time it will take you to drive from the entrance gate to your overnight rest camp, driving at the enforced speed limit.

Speeding is a prosecutable infringement and strictly monitored. Drive slowly for the sake of the animals.

Visitors may only get out of their vehicles at designated picnic spots or look-out points, and you will face a hefty fine if caught with heads and bodies out of the car. There is an online app that encourages visitors to post photos of badly behaved visitors and if they catch your license plate on camera, the driver may be banned from visiting the Park.

A list of the Park’s rules and regulations are provided on entry into the Park and visitors are expected to adhere to them or face the consequences.

The use of drones inside (and just outside) all national Parks is strictly prohibited in line with anti-poaching measures.

Visitors can occupy their accommodation from 14h00 and must vacate the premises by 10h00.

Late arrivals are only permitted in cases of emergency (proof and a valid reason is required) until 21h00 for guests with pre-booked accommodation at certain camps within 10kms from the entry gates. A late arrival fee of up to R500 will be charged. No late arrivals are allowed at Pafuri, Phalaborwa and Phabeni gates or any other gates where the rest camps are more than 10kms away.

KRUGER NATIONAL PARK FOR LITTLE ONES

Long game drives with small kids are not recommended, as most parents know. It is important then that you choose to stay in one of the main rest camps that cater for children. These rest camps have swimming pools and open space that is fenced and safe for children to run around in.

Berg en Dal in southern Kruger is a spacious camp with a stunning viewing area overlooking the Matjulu Dam. There is a well-kept walking path around the perimeter of the camp that is suitable for kids.

Skukuza in southern Kruger has a beautiful dining and viewing area overlooking the Sabie River. Children can be taken through the Stevenson-Hamilton library and museum to learn about the history of the Park. Skukuza has a large, well-stocked shop with something for everyone.

Satara in central Kruger is located in what is known as “cat country”, where you are fairly guaranteed to see one or all of the big cats such as lion, cheetah and leopard.

There is a jungle gym and kids’ play area at the swimming pool.

Letaba in central Kruger is where you will find the Elephant Museum which is a must-see attraction for the whole family. Children can learn more about the past and current “Tuskers” and there are various wildlife displays, diagrams, models and pictures. The camp restaurant overlooks the Letaba River.

Punda in northern Kruger is remote and far from the maddening crowds. However, it is a long drive to the northern regions of the Park and not ideal for small children as it is a malaria area. Older children who have an interest in birding will enjoy Punda as it is renowned as the best birding area in the Park.

The main rest camps are fenced and you are safe within its boundaries, except for the odd encounter with a greedy baboon at your braai. However, small rodents, bats, insects and snakes will find their way into the rest camps and you must always be aware of your surroundings.

Rodents and other hungry critters are lured to the rest camps for easy pickings in the litter bins or food left out. Take care to put leftover food away in cupboards or fridges and don’t throw meat bones in the nearby bushes.

To avoid stepping on a spider, scorpion or snake; firstly always wear closed shoes walking around the camp and don’t go anywhere without a torch after the sun goes down.

If you see snake in your path or near your accommodation, alert a camp supervisor. Don’t poke or prod it, and definitely don’t try to pick it up. Snakes are usually more scared of you than you are of them, and will slither away quickly.

Bats are your friends as they eat literally hundreds of mosquitoes a night but if one flies into your room, do not panic. Calmly place a towel over the bat and release it outside. Call a camp supervisor for assistance if you’re not up to the task.

You will see signs all over the camps warning visitors not to feed the monkeys, baboons and tame bushbuck. They might look cute but they can become very aggressive and then they have to be destroyed. Pack away any edible foodstuff and close doors and windows when you leave your cottage. Monkeys and baboons are so clever they have learnt to open fridges and cupboards.

Kruger Park Safari Packages

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14 Day Scheduled Volunteer Safari Program

Elephant Bull with Mbuzo and guests in the background

2 Day Blitz Overland Safari

Rhino spotted on Kruger Park gamedrive

2 Day Fly-in Safari

safari africa kruger park

3 Day Budget Tented Safari

Male lion - King of Balule!

3 Day Fly-in Safari

Leopards spotted in a tree

3 Day Tremisana Lodge Safari

safari africa kruger park

3 Day Tremisana/Masango Safari

Cheetah in Kruger Park

3 Day Tremisana/Treehouse Safari

Brilliant sighting of Leopard

4 Day Fly-in Safari

Katekani Tented Lodge

4 Day Katekani Tented Lodge Safari

safari africa kruger park

4 Day Luxury Lodge Safari

Elephant spotted in Kruger Park

4 Day Tremisana Lodge Safari

4 day tremisana/masango safari.

Four man tent exterior

4 Day Tremisana/Tent Safari

Elephants in the Kruger Park

4 Day Tremisana/Treehouse Safari

Great shot of a cheetah

5 Day Fly-in Safari

Katekani Tented Lodge

5 Day Katekani Tented Lodge Safari

Luxury lodges

5 Day Luxury Lodge Safari

Lions spotted on gamedrive in Kruger National Park

5 Day Tremisana Lodge Safari

5 day tremisana/masango safari.

Tent exterior

5 Day Tremisana/Tent Safari

View from treehouse balcony

5 Day Tremisana/Treehouse Safari

Katekani Tented Lodge

6 Day Katekani Tented Lodge Safari

Black Rhino and youngster seen on Bushwalk

6 Day Luxury Lodge Safari

Clients get up close to a lion on a gamedrive in the Kruger Park

6 Day Tremisana Lodge Safari

6 day tremisana/masango safari.

Tent exterior

6 Day Tremisana/Tent Safari

Treehouse at Marc's Treehouse Lodge

6 Day Tremisana/Treehouse Safari

Great leopard sighting

7 Day Tremisana Lodge Safari

safari africa kruger park

7 Day Tremisana/Pumusa Kruger Hluhluwe and St Lucia Safari

Read our latest kruger park safari newsletters.

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February 2024

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December 2023 / January 2024

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November 2023

At Nsemana Dam in KNP, this leopard crossed right in front of us, heading south.

October 2023

Hippo in Olifants River on Rome 1 property

September 2023

Elephant on Tremisana property

August 2023

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Viva Safaris Pic of the Week!

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Black Rhino on Balule Nature Reserve

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Male Lion attacked and killed wild dog

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Happy guests up close

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New white lion cub seen near Orpen

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Lion greeting at Tremisana Lodge

On H7 about 5km from Orpen Camp reception in Kruger Park

On H7 about 5km from Orpen Camp reception in Kruger Park

Elephant at Tremisana Lodge car park

Elephant at Tremisana Lodge car park

Lionesses, Tremisana property

Lionesses, Tremisana property

Close up to feeding elephant near Tremisana Dam

Close up to feeding elephant near Tremisana Dam

Spotted hyena crossing Olifants road heading north to Campfire, Balule Nature Reserve

Spotted hyena crossing Olifants road heading north to Campfire, Balule Nature Reserve

Baby Impala, Marula Road, Balule Nature Reserve

Baby Impala, Marula Road, Balule Nature Reserve

Male lion on Campfire property, sundowner drive.

Male lion on Campfire property, sundowner drive.

Hippo Bull showing his teeth, Olifants River. Balule

Hippo Bull showing his teeth, Olifants River. Balule

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Nyalas having a drink at breakfeast dam – Marc’s Camp

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Lions on hippo carcass at Tremisana Dam

Elephant at tremisana lodge.

safari africa kruger park

This little baboon spider joined us for dinner one night at Katekani

Newborn Nyala at Marc's Camp

Newborn Nyala at Marc’s Camp

Lion pride on giraffe kill at Billy’s Lodge

Lion pride on giraffe kill at Billy’s Lodge

Leopard sighting on Olifants main road, the Leopard jumped out of the tree trying to catch one of the Impalas that was roaming underneath the marula tree but was unfortunately unsuccessful 

Leopard sighting on Olifants main road

Wonderful recent reviews.

July 2023: Awesome 5 day safari. This was my first visit to South Africa and experiencing a safari.

My whole stay was just amazing. I saw so many animals that I only saw on TV till now. Saw the Big 5 but also saw zebras,giraffes, rhinos, warthugs,monkeys,different colourful birds,vultures …😊😊😊😊😊 The sunset drive and dinner in the African Bush was just a great experience on the first night there at the Tremisana Lodge.

Then we had the morning bush walk the next day which was amazing too.

Both accommodations were great but the 4 nights at the Treehouse was awesome. You can hear the animals at night (hyenas,leopard,water buffalos). My treehouse was perfect.i loved it. loved walking to it especially at night😃.under the stars and hearing the animals.

The view and sounds in the morning when you wake up …wowwww!!connected to nature.And when walking to the breakfast area, impalas walking next to you, kudus grazing away…

Awesome staff and guides as well and great cooking.The food was delicious.

Fabulous stay ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️🦁🐆🦌🐃🦓🐗🐘🦒🦅🦜🦦🐾🐾

March 2023: Perfection

I am going to try to answer all the questions I had before booking my first Safari of my life. I randomly found this company online along with many others. This company is literally one of the best experiences I’ve had with any company in any field ever. The people are fantastic. The prices are great. They pick you up and drop you off. Absolutely anywhere to get you to and from the Safari. They are on time. The food is great. These are the most happy and kind people I’ve ever met at a place of business. They go the extra mile over and over again to make sure you are happy and comfortable and get the best viewings of wildlife. I have absolutely zero complaints. Trust me, if you’re interested in seeing lions and the big five, etc., you should take my advice and just book with this company.

February 2022: Best experience at Viva Safaris!

It’s been a couple of weeks we left Tremisana Lodge and we still think of it with goosebumps. Everything was perfect: the lodge, the food, the organisation of the day. What made the experience so special though were the team and the game drives. The excitement to spot animals with no guarantee (because there is no fence between Kruger and the reserve), the “chase” of the big 5 as soon as the guide received a signal at the radio, holding yourself in the car because we were on gravel roads and off roads, it made everything so real and fun. I don’t think you can have a better game reserve experience. We tried another one after, and we were so disappointed because we were expecting something similar to Viva Safaris, but it wasn’t.

During the 5 day safari it was my birthday and guides George and Rocky made my day with a beautiful surprise and a speech. 🥰 I can totally recommend you to book with Viva Safaris, really fair price and each day is different. Thank you thank you !!! ❤️

December 2022: Can’t Wait to Return!

As an avid nature and animal lover, I came to Viva Safaris Tremisana lodge to experience the African Bush and to view it’s wildlife. And that we did! We saw more animals than I can count… So many elephants, lions, impala, giraffes, zebra, hippos and many more. For my family, we were just one animal short of the big five, the elusive leopard. But we saw mating lions, mere feet from us, so that more than made up for it. Witnessing the creation of life in the wilderness was powerful and brought tears to my eyes. We have photographs and videos and memories that will last a lifetime. But what I wasn’t expecting to enjoy the most, was the human experience. The other guests become instant friends and comrades and the entire staff at Tremisana was warm and welcoming. Our guides were friendly, knowledgeable, and went beyond to make sure our views and lighting were just right for photos. If you have the pleasure of riding with Smiley, consider yourself lucky! His optimism and smile were infectious and his determination to find us our animals were bar none. Thank you Smiley (Halala!) and Rocky! Mama D and her staff cooked us amazing and comforting meals, never once leaving us hungry or unpleased. Thank you Mama D, and I still want your recipes! The accommodations were clean and the grounds were meticulous. Just walking around camp was a joy. Cannot recommend enough!

November 2022: From world travelers, BEST experience we’ve ever had!!!!!!! Highly recommend!!!!!!!

I don’t even know where to start! My partner and I travel often, several times a year and travel all over the world, so we try to make the most out of our vacations. Having flexibly is very important since “packages” don’t always fit want we want in our time frame. Well, this was not a problem for viva safari!!!! Talk about accommodating, customer service!!!!! Wow! From the first contact with the proprietor, Piero (an amazingly kind, intelligent, sweet person, but more on that later) we felt like our needs were being heard. He put us in touch with Rei, the property manager who called us in the middle of the night (her middle of the night, daytime for us) and answered all our questions and concerns and made us feel comfortable with our choice, seeing how this was our first experience in South Africa and we didn’t know what exactly we wanted/needed. So, before we even got into the country, we had personal contacts with actual people we later met on the property.

We were picked up from our hotel in jo-burg and taken to the first of the viva safari lodges we stayed at, tremisama. What an amazing place! It is exactly what you picture a safari lodge to be. Rustic, yet clean and quite and beautiful. Looks like Hemingway would be writing his books from our patio looking into the bush or at the desk in our room. Just lovely. Beautiful lagoon like pool; nice bar and lounge area where the staff and guests spend time eating dinner and hanging cocktails together in the evenings. The safaris themselves were just wonderful. You can’t be sure you’ll see anything because animals are animals but we did! And what viva doesn’t tell you is how skilled and trained their safari guides are!! These men aren’t just your guides; they’re highly skilled and trained men who have gone through rigorous arms training for safety and who are extremely knowledgeable in wildlife and all the vegetation. They also have a passion for what they do and where they live that just can’t be learned. We spent time with one of the guides, Rocky, who talked about being what it is to be a “tracker ” (following animal tracks) and his experience in the bush and his life in his country and his passion for what he does. In fact, all of the staff, like Rei, who I wish I had more time to spend with, talked about their lives and how it is to live on the property. You can feel their love for the bush and their jobs. Pierro, the proprietor, met us the first night we were there and made sure we were satisfied with our accommodations and did so throughout our trip. The last night we were there before we moved to another property, we had a wonderful dinner with everyone on the patio of our room (where we watched elephants eat the trees right from our room!!!). I can’t say enough about the staff. Amazing!

And then we left with the most amazing amazing guide there ever was charl, to Pimusa Bush Lodge. The 7 hour trip there felt like nothing because the road trip with Charl was part of the fun! We learned more about the bush, the country, and his absolute love and passion for his country and his job during that trip. We know we’d be friends for life. When we arrived at the lodge, Andre, our host made us feel like family arriving home. What a host!!!!! And every meal he tailor made to our tastes . And, again, the wildlife experiences were outstanding. Just outstanding. We were fortunate to see Pierro and his wife again and spend time with them, and what a pleasure that was. You can tell when someone puts their heart into something. Pierro’s love for the bush and his lodges shines through in the properties as well as his staff and customer experience, and we can’t say enough how much we appreciate everyone there. We miss you all.We have spend 5x as much money at top resorts and they can’t hold a candle to what we experienced with viva safari. We highly recommend.

Gallery of Viva Safaris vehicles close to wildlife

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  • Family Safari in the Kruger National Park

Africa's best authentic tailor-made safaris

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By Adelle Belle

Safari Travel Planner

The Kruger National Park sits right at the top of family-friendly safari destinations in South Africa. The park prides itself on being accessible to young and old alike, and many South Africans will confess to cultivating a life-long love for the African bush from an early age in the Kruger.

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A family holiday in the Kruger is best done in one of two ways; either self-driving or choosing an all-inclusive package at a private lodge. Both options have their own unique appeal depending on the type of holiday experience you’re after.

Long hours in the car are always a concern when traveling with children, but the Kruger is only an easy five-hour drive from the nearest international airport in Johannesburg. All major car rental companies have counters here and offer vehicles suited to families. Alternatively, you might opt for a shuttle service when staying at an all-inclusive luxury lodge.

En route to the Kruger National Park, whether self-driving or by lodge transfer, there are plenty of rest stops, and you can even turn it into a scenic road trip of sorts by including some of the sights on the stunning Panorama Route. Once inside the park, the vast network of good tar and gravel roads makes getting from one place to another equally comfortable.

Exploring the park in your own vehicle means your family stays together, and you can plan outings according to personal preference. If you’re traveling with toddlers, this is the only way you can take them on game drives in the reserve, as children under the age of 6 are not allowed on the game drives in open 4×4 vehicles (for safety reasons) provided by the park. Similarly, only children over 12 may join guided bush walks .

The southern and central regions of the park are more family-friendly than the far north since distances between rest areas are not so spread out, the landscape is more varied, and animals are more abundant. Skukuza, Satara, Lower Sabie, Letaba, and Berg en Dal camps are superb family-oriented accommodation options since they offer restaurants, shops, swimming pools, child-friendly activities, museums, and movie screenings.

Although staying at a luxury lodge is naturally more costly, the experience is more personal with offerings such as private family villas, your own guide in an open 4×4 game viewing vehicle, and special activities for children.

Travel Tips for Family Safari in the Kruger National Park

  • Rent an SUV or a 4×4 with good ground clearance for your visit to the park. The additional vehicle height makes for better game viewing, and the extra space will come in handy for luggage and make the time spent in the back seat more comfortable for the youngsters.
  • Some rental companies offer fully kitted camping vehicles with enough equipment and tents for the whole family. This is a great all-inclusive option if you plan on camping in the Kruger. The kids might not like getting up early on holiday, but it’s worth it in the Kruger. The early mornings are best for game viewing, not to mention cooler than during the day. The same goes for late afternoon game drives.
  • Grab a park map at an entrance gate or a camp shop. You’ll need it to navigate the park when self-driving.
  • When traveling with small children, bring some games, puzzles, and books to entertain them during leisure time in camp or long drives in the car.
  • All the main camps have restaurants with reasonable prices and small shops for self-catering, so there’s no need to over-pack your car with food supplies.

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With over 20 years of experience, our team will help you choose the perfect african safari for your adventure., 24/7 support, personalized, popular kruger national park safaris, these recommended tours for kruger national park can be tailor-made to match your budget..

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I went on a budget and a luxury safari in Africa. Here's how they compare — and the one thing you really need to look for when booking.

  • I have been on two glamping safari trips in Africa on two very different budgets.
  • My all-inclusive stay was great but my cheaper glamping experience was fine, too. 
  • Private game reserves are actually the most important thing to splurge on, not accommodations. 

Insider Today

I've been on two African safari trips . Both involved glamping but on completely different budgets.

My first more affordable trip, a lodge in South Africa with separate safari excursions, cost me about $1,100. My second, an all-inclusive lodge in Tanzania, cost me about $4,000 after a 50% off deal.

Here's how the two compare and what I think you should look for before you plan an African safari .

My affordable safari experience was at Jackalberry Ridge, where some tents cost $80 a night.

safari africa kruger park

The first time I went on a safari, I went to Kruger National Park in South Africa. I didn't book a tour package, instead opting to stay at affordable lodging and book safari day trips to the park.

I stayed five nights near Kruger and one night in Johannesburg before my flight home. I spent around $1,100 for lodging, safari tours, a rental car, and food (not including flights).

After landing in Johannesburg, I rented a car ($130 for five days) to drive to my lodging in Marloth Park, a town bordering the edge of Kruger National Park.

I was staying at Jackalberry Ridge , a self-catering accommodation with no on-site restaurant, no room service, and limited housekeeping.

The one-bedroom tents at Jackalberry Ridge go for as low as $80 a night, and two-bedroom tents go for $135.

When I checked in late, there was no one at the reception desk — just an envelope with my name on it containing my keys and a map.

My main tent felt pretty spacious, with a king bed and a living-room area.

safari africa kruger park

I had booked a two-bedroom unit (two tents), but my friend couldn't come at the last minute. Since I couldn't change the reservation, I still stayed in the two-bedroom unit and my friend paid her share.

The campsite came with a small pool to dip in, but it was covered as the weather was pretty cold.

Each unit had a private bathroom and kitchen in a building separate from the tents, so I needed to leave my tent to use the bathroom at night.

The bathroom was standard, with a tub, shower, and toilet.

safari africa kruger park

This is glamping, so I had access to running water and a flushing toilet. I had hot water, but I found it went from scalding hot to cold in a few seconds.

I ended up taking quick showers and just washing my hair with cold water, which wasn't ideal since it was a little chilly in the morning.

It's also worth noting that Jackalberry Ridge was renovated recently, so the issue I had with hot water may have been fixed now.

I also had access to a kitchen in the same building as the bathroom.

safari africa kruger park

The kitchen was well-equipped with things like pots, a microwave, and a sink, so I could cook meals or heat up leftovers.

I signed up for a couple of day safaris and did one at night.

safari africa kruger park

Although I had a rental car and could've done a self-drive safari around Kruger, I didn't trust myself to spot animals while focusing on the roads.

Instead, I signed up for a couple of day safaris and one night safari. The safari tour prices often don't include the park entrance fee (about $25 per person per day), which I paid when I got to the entrance.

My three safari trips and park fees came to around $280.

I got to see zebras, giraffes, and more.

safari africa kruger park

I saw a lot on the safari, including zebras, impalas, kudus, and giraffes. I saw lions and a leopard, although only from afar with binoculars. I even got a glimpse of the elusive rhinoceros.

I also spent one day taking another popular day trip in the area, the Panorama Route. This scenic road goes past Lisbon Falls and the beautiful Blyde River Canyon. The guided tour was $110.

As far as my very first safari trip goes, it was great. I got to see the Big Five , even though some of them were pretty far away.

For my next safari trip, I leveled up.

safari africa kruger park

I saw a Travelzoo deal for an all-inclusive safari at Taasa Lodge , a five-star luxury safari in Tanzania.

The deal was $6,000 for two people for a whole week — the lodge is usually $12,950 for two for seven nights. It was still a splurge, but I'd be saving more than 50% on a bucket-list experience.

The package came with seven nights of lodging, two safari activities a day, three daily meals, and drinks.

Still, we spent more than the original advertised price. There are obligatory "daily government park fees" and "daily concession fees" that added about $893 per person to our bill.

We also had to take a regional flight to get to Taasa, which was more expensive than my rental car in South Africa.

To redeem the Travelzoo deal, we had to complete our booking through a specific travel agency.

We ended up opting for an all-inclusive add-on package which includes the $893 fees above, domestic airfares from Arusha to Taasa (which would already cost around $600), and our agency arranging our Tanzanian tourist visa and airport transfers. The add-on also included extra activities at the resort (more on that later).

Overall, we paid $1,715 per person on top of the $3,000 each for the lodge stay.

I hadn't anticipated paying so many extras, but it was nice to have someone take care of the logistics of getting to the resort.

My tent was luxurious and equipped with a comfortable king bed and a large living room.

safari africa kruger park

When I arrived at the lodge, the staff greeted me with a glass of juice and a wet towel to refresh myself.

My tent was quite spacious. I especially liked that it had a desk and plenty of outlets I could use to charge my electronics. Our bathroom was behind our bed, and I was glad it was inside the tent this time.

We also got a butler who kept track of our schedules and made sure we had what we needed.

The bathroom felt spacious, with two sinks and a shower.

safari africa kruger park

The shower's hot water was great and we had double sinks we could get ready at.

Another perk of the lodge is that we could have staff do our laundry every day, which meant we could pack less clothing.

There's a main lodge with a communal living room, dining area, and bar.

safari africa kruger park

We got breakfast at the buffet in the main lodge unless we were going on a morning safari.

Most people ate dinner in the dining room, but we could've requested to have food brought to our tent.

We also passed a small pool next to the main lodge.

safari africa kruger park

The pool was on the small side, but certainly had great views.

I didn't end up using it as my afternoons were filled with safari, and the mornings and evenings were chilly.

On the mornings with an early safari, we had a simple breakfast next to our Land Cruiser.

safari africa kruger park

Safari breakfasts consisted of hard-boiled eggs, yogurt, doughnuts, bacon and sausage, fruits, and orange juice. Staff also made French-press coffee, which we could spike with cream liqueur.

Our Land Cruiser had a cooler of beers and sodas in the back, too.

At the private game reserve, we got pretty close to wildlife.

safari africa kruger park

Taasa is located inside a private game reserve, which means staff can pretty much drive anywhere within it. This was a huge leg up from my day trips in Kruger National Park on my last safari.

Inside national parks like Kruger or Serengeti, you're only allowed to drive on designated roads for safety reasons (both for the tourists and the animals).

But in a private reserve, guides can drive offroad. Plus, the guides communicate with each other when they find something special.

We saw a bunch of animals in the private reserve and Serengeti.

safari africa kruger park

We also left the reserve to spend a couple of days going into Serengeti National Park, as there were things you could only find there instead of within the private reserve.

For example, I'd planned my trip to take place during the Great Migration, and I wanted to see wildebeests crossing the Mara River.

We also went to Serengeti to find rhinoceros and hippopotamus.

Every dinner at the resort consisted of three courses: soup, an entrée, and a dessert.

safari africa kruger park

The main course was usually some type of Western food, and there was always a vegetarian option.

It would've been nice to be offered more typical Tanzanian dishes, though. For me, part of the fun of traveling is learning about different countries' cuisines.

I also had access to an open bar in the main lodge. Staff could make simple cocktails, and there was lots of beer and wine. The drinks were all included with the price of the stay (except for fancy Champagnes and select wines).

One morning, we had a special breakfast on the plains.

safari africa kruger park

On one day of the trip, we had a special bush breakfast. It was one of the extra activities we got with that special add-on package.

Instead of our usual safari breakfast, we had freshly prepared omelets in the wild.

We also got another special treat in the bush that morning — a toilet!

safari africa kruger park

When you're offroading looking for wild animals, you can end up pretty far from a proper toilet.

On most safari days, the car stops (when guides think it's safe), and people go behind the car to do their business.

This was the only time we had this portable toilet while out on a safari. On my budget safari day trips at Kruger, we'd have to wait until we reached a rest-stop facility.

Again, we spent a lot of time watching lions.

safari africa kruger park

After breakfast, we were back in safari mode.

We found a family of lions, and as we were in the private reserve, we were able to stay and watch the cubs play for quite a while.

At Kruger, when lions are spotted, traffic starts backing up on the road as all the safari cruisers stop to look, so you can't stay too long.

Here, we knew no one else would be coming.

On a different morning, our guide got a tip that another car had found a leopard sleeping.

safari africa kruger park

The communication between guides in the private reserve paid off when one spotted a sleeping leopard.

When our group arrived, the leopard was napping on the tree next to his catch. Eventually, it came down, and we got a better look.

Our trip ended with a great happy hour and outdoor dinner.

safari africa kruger park

Other activities that were part of our add-on package included a visit to a Maasai village in Kenya and a special happy hour and barbecue dinner.

And, for our journey home, the travel agency took care of everything, including transfers, until we boarded our international flight.

My big takeaway is that it's really worth paying to be inside a private reserve.

safari africa kruger park

In my opinion, the difference between these two safari trips that's the most worth paying for is being in a private reserve.

After all, the main reason I fly to Africa is for the safari, not the glamping.

I much preferred my lodging at Taasa, mostly because of the bathroom. But if I hadn't had the 50% off deal, I'm not sure the full price would've been worth it.

Still, it was a wonderful experience, and if I had more money, I may feel differently. Even so, the budget glamping was pretty comfortable and just fine for a week.

But again, as far as the safari experience goes, the private reserve is hard to beat. Being able to go offroading and get closer to the animals is quite the experience.

And if luxurious lodges are out of the question, private reserves can also be visited more affordably. Some lodges inside private reserves, like Shindzela or Rhino River Lodge, can cost around $250 per person per night.

safari africa kruger park

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Animals Around the Globe

Animals Around the Globe

10 Best African Countries for Safari

Posted: December 19, 2023 | Last updated: December 19, 2023

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#1 Botswana

Recommended Tours:

Thus, poachers are seen as enemies of the people. As a result, Botswana has come into view as Africa's most sought-after ecotourism destination. Starting from the Chobe National Park to the Moremi Nature Reserve, you'll be able to witness numerous gems all around the country.

Back in 2014, Botswana widely banned the hunting of wild animals and implemented strict laws which are still in practice. The country resumes its zero-tolerance for poaching and their very own environmental minister, Tshekedi Khama, has even launched a shoot-to-kill policy for poachers.

Botswana, with its wildlife conservation and natural parks, is a haven for nature lovers. It is currently in the top 5, as its approach to the protection and conservation of wildlife is worth the praise. As a country, it is very forward-thinking, some may even call it aggressively forward-thinking when it comes to its preservation and anti-poaching laws.

<p><strong>Recommended Tours:</strong></p> <p>Its fertile land provides a safe and comforting home to around 200 <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="https://www.animalsaroundtheglobe.com/mammals/" title="mammal">mammal</a> species. This includes elephants, hippos, monkeys and so much more. Along with 650 bird species and 5,500 plants. Even though the country is still underdeveloped and most of the population live in rural households, its national parks, and sight-seeing destinations are on the top 10 of our lists.</p> <p>Even though many would face some difficulties in locating Malawi on a map, given how tiny it is, the country is home to the world-renowned Lake Malawi National Park. This is practically one-third of the country and is the most biodiverse lake in the world.</p>

Its fertile land provides a safe and comforting home to around 200 mammal species. This includes elephants, hippos, monkeys and so much more. Along with 650 bird species and 5,500 plants. Even though the country is still underdeveloped and most of the population live in rural households, its national parks, and sight-seeing destinations are on the top 10 of our lists.

Even though many would face some difficulties in locating Malawi on a map, given how tiny it is, the country is home to the world-renowned Lake Malawi National Park. This is practically one-third of the country and is the most biodiverse lake in the world.

safari africa kruger park

Most of the land in Namibia is occupied by the Kalahari and Namib Deserts. Along with that, the country also has 12 national parks and many other areas which are protected. So, if you go there for a safari, you'll have many rich areas to see and explore.

When it comes to countries with the least amount of population, Namibia is one of them. Which proves to be a good thing for nature. This is because most of the land in Namibia is still unspoiled by human filth or any sort of development, giving nature a chance to breathe.

safari africa kruger park

In the country's Volcanoes National Park, you'll find 10 habituated gorilla families. Groups of 8 trekkers can visit them for one hour per day. But that's enough to get the best African safari experience. And as a nature lover, you'll enjoy the experience to the max.

If you've been around for some time, you'll be familiar with Rwanda's mountain gorillas. They were famously broadcasted and their fight for survival was shown on  National Geographic . This was all thanks to the late  Dian Fossey  back in the 1970s who advocated for the rights of these mountain gorillas throughout her life.

Considering the tragic history surrounding the mass genocide of the people of Rwanda back in 1994, it's truly a blessing what the country has achieved in the past 25 years. There have been countless investments in infrastructure. This has resulted in the country being a very fast-growing destination for ecotourism.

safari africa kruger park

#6 South Africa

But given all the advantages, it's safe to conclude that South Africa also suffers from over-tourism. I mean, if you have so many great attractions, people will flock towards it. Chances are that you'll find yourself in the middle of dozens of unruly visitors who are not too keen on obeying the rules. This occurs mostly during the peak seasons.

Annually, the country has one million visitors. Its biggest attraction is the Kruger National Park with its enrichment in biodiversity. Visitors there also have the liberty to self-drive, thus, getting a first-person private but superb experience. 

For some time now, South Africa has been climbing the charts to become one of the most popular destinations for African safaris. Given its location, South Africa is a very convenient and cheap destination for people from the United States. Besides that, the country also boasts a well-developed infrastructure which makes it perfect for luxury travelers as well.

safari africa kruger park

#7 Tanzania

One of the most popular locations would be the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The country is also a haven for 1100 different bird species. It's no wonder that Tanzania gets this much rep. Especially when the country boasts so many wonders.

We talked about Kenya being the top destination for Safari. Now Tanzania here takes second place in being the continent's most popular safari destination. And why shouldn't it? The country has 16 national parks and an extraordinary amount of wealth and wildlife wonders for the people to witness.

safari africa kruger park

Some of its natural attractions include housing the highest mountain range in Africa. It also has the world's largest free-standing volcano and the second-largest freshwater lake. With its 30 national parks and other wildlife reserves, Uganda boasts many more sanctuaries which are worth the visit. Especially if you're a lover of nature and wildlife.

Often called "The Pearl of Africa", Uganda is certainly a great pick for an African safari. Its reputation as being one of the best ecotourism destinations comes from the country's natural attractions and wildlife.

<p><strong>Recommended Tours:</strong></p> <p>Out of its 20 national parks, the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is home to many wildlife animals such as African elephants, Angolan giraffes, Cape buffalo, etc. Other than that, there are many private ownerships of National parks, notably the Kasanka National Park which is near the basin of Lake Bangweulu. It's a safe place where visitors can see 400 different avian species.</p> <p>Zambia may be a bit far down the list of popular destinations for your African safari, but many consider it to be a destination for diversified and immersive safari experiences, and making a notable feature on our 10 Best African Countries for Safari guide. The country is steadily focusing on conservation as their president has shown a keen interest and is working on building the nation's economy as well as the infrastructure.</p>

Out of its 20 national parks, the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is home to many wildlife animals such as African elephants, Angolan giraffes, Cape buffalo, etc. Other than that, there are many private ownerships of National parks, notably the Kasanka National Park which is near the basin of Lake Bangweulu. It's a safe place where visitors can see 400 different avian species.

Zambia may be a bit far down the list of popular destinations for your African safari, but many consider it to be a destination for diversified and immersive safari experiences, and making a notable feature on our 10 Best African Countries for Safari guide. The country is steadily focusing on conservation as their president has shown a keen interest and is working on building the nation's economy as well as the infrastructure.

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safari africa kruger park

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Largest indoor theme park for Moscow

The Russian capital intends to open ‘Dream Island’ in 2018.

The Russian capital intends to open ‘Dream Island’ in 2018.

Generations of Muscovites have dreamed of having a Disneyland of their own. Former mayor Yury Luzhkov actually promised to build one in the Russian capital, but failed to find investors.

Sergei Sobyanin, the current mayor, has been lucky: he has managed to attract Regions Group, among the country’s largest real estate developers, which plans to invest at least $1.5 billion of its own and borrowed funds in the project.

The park, to be built on an allocated site of around 100 hectares in the Nagatinskaya Floodplain to the south of Moscow, will begin operating as early as 2018, the developers have said. The preparatory work is underway, and construction is due to begin in March.

Mickey is freezing

The main obstacle to building a licensed Disneyland was the climate. In Moscow, it is only possible for an open park to function during four months of the year. The authorities therefore chose the theme design for an indoor park (one-volume, 35-metre-tall building), which people can visit throughout the year.

The developers expect around four to six million visitors to the park annually. The authorities and the investors rely on the internal flow of tourists, but also hope that the park will lure foreign tourists, who spend no more than three or four days on average in Moscow, to stay longer in the capital city.

Visiting Cheburashka

The visual representation of Dream Island is reminiscent of ‘Cinderella’s Castle’ in Disneyland, but the project authorities and designers insist that it is not a stylization, but a completely original design. The architectural concept of the park has been developed by the British company Chapman Taylor, while the Italian company Land Milano was in charge of landscape design.

Leading criminals from Russian literature

"All castles have similarities, so such comparisons cannot be avoided," says Amiran Mutsoyev, a member of Regions' board of directors. "The principal difference is that Disneyland is aimed at children, while The (Dream) Island is designed for visitors of all ages. Our park will focus on the characters from Russian fairy tales and cartoons, for example Cheburashka, and Gena the Crocodile."

More than 60 percent of the space in the park will be dedicated to Russian cartoon characters, and the rest to international characters. The company has signed licensing agreements with three major studios, including DreamWorks Animation, on the use of their cartoon characters.

The thematic areas will have not only the characters, but also the scenery from famous cartoons. For example, a mild rainforest climate will be recreated in the area of dinosaurs, while the Snow Queen area will have the winter sky and snow.

In addition to thematic pavilions, the park will have about 40 rides, including a roller coaster with a vertical loop. The park will also have a sailing school, concert hall and a three-star, 410-room Accor hotel, as well as shops and restaurants.

Visit Siberia: push your limits

Visit Siberia: push your limits

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Things to Do in Elektrostal, Russia - Elektrostal Attractions

Things to do in elektrostal.

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  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

safari africa kruger park

1. Electrostal History and Art Museum

safari africa kruger park

2. Statue of Lenin

safari africa kruger park

3. Park of Culture and Leisure

4. museum and exhibition center.

safari africa kruger park

5. Museum of Labor Glory

safari africa kruger park

7. Galereya Kino

8. viki cinema, 9. smokygrove.

safari africa kruger park

10. Gandikap

11. papa lounge bar, 12. karaoke bar.

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Festivals/Events

White nights festival - russia's biggest celebration.

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World festivals mark global events that are a must-see for any dedicated traveler. Although lesser known than major global favorites like Carnival or Burning Man , the White Nights Festival in Russia is a collision of culture, arts and music that provides one of the richest experience around.

Every May through July, the streets of St. Petersburg, Russia, come alive with colorful celebrations and performances by some of the world's most talented artists. The White Nights Festival is an international arts festival that takes place during the season of the midnight sun, when the Northern Light shines at both dawn and dusk, allowing the millions of festival-goers that visit each year the opportunity to celebrate all day and all night long.

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A Cultural Celebration of Music and Arts

The festival celebrates the arts of opera, ballet, and classical music and is kicked off with the "Stars of the White Nights" at the world famous Mariinsky Theatre. The program presents the company's most exceptional productions, with performances by leading Russian and international artists, and combines famous historical productions along with new premieres and contemporary pieces. This year's program kicks off on May 27th and has featured nationally renowned productions like Swan Lake in the past. During the festival there are daily evening performances of either ballet or opera at the theatre and classical or opera musical performances at the Mariinsky Concert Hall. The series of performances always features some of the biggest names in the arts world, including famed Spanish tenor Placido Domingo, Russian operatic soprano Anna Netrebko , and Los Angeles Opera conductor James Conlon. Ballet performances have included revivals of Russian choreographer George Balanchine's classics, as well as contemporary dance versions of The Nutcracker and Cinderella. The performances are all widely attended and visitors' best bet would be to purchase tickets online in advance.

Carnivals - Fun for the Whole Family

Carnivals also occur during the White Nights Festival and allow both children and adults to delight in traditional games and fine food. The largest carnival is held in the suburb of Peterhof, where historical figures and events are reinterpreted by costumed actors. Carnivals at the Catherine Palace and in the Pavlovsk suburb of St. Petersburg are also known for their highly artistic reproductions of the historic events that took place at those palaces. For music lovers, St. Petersburg's Palace Square becomes home to some of the international music world's biggest stars during the festival. The large square has been used for official military parades and massive demonstrations, and has also been the site of recent concerts by legendary musicians like Paul McCartney and The Rolling Stones.

Fireworks and Finales

The culminating event of the festival is the Scarlet Sails celebration, which is a massive event to celebrate the end of the school year that is known for its spectacular fireworks display and a water show that features boats full of pirates battling on the Neva River. Musical acts and motorboat and rowing races are also highlights of the celebration. The tradition began in St. Petersburg after the end of WWII, when several schools in Leningrad united to celebrate the ending of a school year in connection with symbolism of the popular children's book "Scarlet Sails" by Alexander Grin. At the first celebration a boat with scarlet sails sailed along the English Embankment and the Admiralty Embankment towards the Winter Palace.

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  1. Sudáfrica: guía completa del Parque Nacional Kruger

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  2. Complete Guide to Safari in Kruger National Park, South Africa

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  3. The Kruger National Park

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  4. Why Is Kruger The Best Safari Destination In South Africa?

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  5. Why You Should Go on a Kruger Park Safari

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  6. The Remarkable Kruger National Park in South Africa

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COMMENTS

  1. THE 10 BEST Kruger National Park Safaris

    We offer you daily Safaris onto The Kruger National Park in a luxury and comfortable Open Safari Vehicle with a qualified…. Free cancellation. Recommended by 93% of travelers. from. $52. per adult. Reserve. 4. Full-Day Kruger Park Safari from Nelspruit, Whiteriver or Hazyview.

  2. 365 Kruger Safari Tours (Offered by 45 Tour Operators)

    South Africa's premier safari destination, Kruger National Park throws up some staggering statistics. Established in 1898, it extends over some 19,000km²/7,335mi² and supports a total of 147 mammal species (the most of any African national park).

  3. Kruger National Park

    Luxury Lodge Safari in Kruger National Park. This selection of the finest luxury accommodation and lodging in Kruger Park is where you will discover a way to appreciate the African wild and do it in comfort - with exceptional cuisine, magnificent wildlife experiences and great hospitality. Our South African safari and game lodges range from artistically elegant to super luxurious with en-suite ...

  4. Kruger National Park Safaris

    The northern reserves are often referred to as the Greater Kruger National Park. Home to the famous Big 5: lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo, and the highest number of large mammal species on any African reserve, the Kruger offers a rewarding safari experience and an array of accommodation options including luxury lodges and self ...

  5. 10 Best Luxury Kruger National Park Safaris

    Cape Town, South Africa. Stellenbosch, Cape Winelands, South Africa. Timbavati Game Reserve, Kruger National Park, South Africa. Phinda Private Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Spend 13 days journeying from one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature to South Africa's first World Heritage Site, with a premier Big 5 safari in between.

  6. Kruger Park Safaris

    Classic Kruger Safari. 2 to 7 Day safaris from R10 900 per person. As the name states, this is the classic way of going on safari in the Kruger National Park. On a Classic safaris, you will stay in en-suite chalets in the heart of the National Park with open vehicle safari drives. View Our Classic Safaris.

  7. Top 20 Best Kruger Safaris

    5-Day Kruger Park and Manyeleti Bongan African Lodge. $865 pp (USD) South Africa: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Budget Lodge. You Visit: Johannesburg (Start), Manyeleti GR (Greater Kruger), Central Kruger, Blyde River Canyon (Panorama Route), Kruger NP, Johannesburg (End) Bongan Safaris. 4.9 /5 - 16 Reviews. Top Rated Operator.

  8. 4-Day Kruger Safaris (105 Tours by 29 Tour Operators)

    4-Day Safari to Kruger National Park via Panorama Route. $986 pp (USD) South Africa: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge & Bungalow. You Visit: Johannesburg (Start), Kruger NP, Johannesburg (End) Wildlife Safaris. 5.0 /5 - 251 Reviews. Best Seller.

  9. Kruger Park Safari

    We offer some of the very best 3, 4 and 5 Day Kruger Park Safari Packages, as well as an array of Day Safari options. A place of untouched African landscapes, the Kruger National Park is a true haven for those seeking adventure in a place that is home to a rich and diverse wildlife and plantlife. It's a place made for the more adventurous spirit.

  10. 3-Day Kruger Safaris (94 Tours by 29 Tour Operators)

    3-Day Ultimate Kruger Park Open Safari Vehicle Tour. $618 pp (USD) South Africa: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Mid-range Guest House. You Visit: Johannesburg (Start), Elephant Whispers (Elephant Sanctuary), Kruger NP, Nelspruit (End) Elephant Herd Tours & Safaris. 4.8 /5 - 80 Reviews.

  11. A 7-Day Ultimate Kruger Safari Itinerary

    The Kruger was established in 1926. The combination of Sabi Game Reserve, Shingwedzi Game Reserve, and local farms created the first national park in South Africa. During your Kruger National Park tour, you'll find remarkable ancient rock paintings with a history dating back far beyond its official opening as a park.

  12. Kruger National Park: Ultimate Guide To Africa's Iconic Park

    Kruger National Park: An Essential Guide to Africa's Most Iconic Safari Park. Covering an area of almost 2 million hectares, Kruger National Park is one of the largest national parks in the world. It is one of the most popular and famous African safari wildlife parks, and also one of the oldest. Founded in 1898, Kruger is world famous for its ...

  13. 5-Day Kruger Safaris (95 Tours by 28 Tour Operators)

    5-Day Tremisana Lodge Kruger Park Safari. $1,031 pp (USD) South Africa: Shared tour (max 9 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge. You Visit: Johannesburg (Start), Balule NR (Greater Kruger), Greater Kruger, Kruger NP, Blyde River Canyon (Panorama Route), Johannesburg (End) Viva Safaris. 4.9 /5 - 252 Reviews.

  14. 4 Day Kruger Park Safaris

    A private 4-day/3-night safari at Lukimbi Safari Lodge inside the Southern Kruger National Park is the best one can indulge in. Bounded by three major river systems, the lodge offers a diverse habitat of grasslands, wooded areas, and riverine thickets. You will go out on sunrise and sunset safaris every day when the animals are most active.

  15. Kruger National Park Safari Tour

    Spot wildlife on early morning bushwalks and open-vehicle safaris, and visit a local school in Johannesburg on a 7-day Kruger National Park safari. 7 Days / 6 Nights

  16. Safari in Kruger National Park

    The showpiece of South African safari, Kruger National Park is one of the world's most famous protected areas, and for good reason. This huge (19,485 sq km) park in the far northeast of South Africa is home to tens of thousands of mammals and birds including large numbers of all your African favourites.

  17. Kruger National Park

    Established in 1898 to protect the wildlife of the South African Lowveld, this national park is unrivalled in the diversity of its life forms and a world leader in advanced environmental management techniques and policies. Kruger is home to an impressive number of species: 336 trees, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds and 147 mammals.

  18. Viva Safaris

    The Kruger National Park. One of South Africa's most popular tourist destinations, the Kruger National Park is famous the world over. It is the oldest Park in Africa and also one of the largest. In 1898, then president of the Transvaal republic, Paul Kruger established The Kruger National Park - then called the Sabie Game Reserve.

  19. Family Safari in the Kruger National Park

    The Kruger National Park sits right at the top of family-friendly safari destinations in South Africa. The park prides itself on being accessible to young and old alike, and many South Africans will confess to cultivating a life-long love for the African bush from an early age in the Kruger. A family holiday in the Kruger is best done in one of ...

  20. I Went on a Budget and a Luxury Safari in Africa, Comparison + Winner

    The first time I went on a safari, I went to Kruger National Park in South Africa. I didn't book a tour package, instead opting to stay at affordable lodging and book safari day trips to the park.

  21. Reservations for 4 Day Tantalizing Kruger Safari Trip for 30th of June 2024

    Reservation for 4 Day Tantalizing Kruger Safari. I have read, understood and accepted the Terms and Conditions. All last minute reservations (less then 31 days prior to arrival date) are payable within 48 hours after receiving a confirmed provisional reservation via e-mail. As accommodation availability changes from day to day all enquiries ...

  22. 10 Best African Countries for Safari

    The post 10 Best African Countries for Safari appeared first on Animals Around The Globe. ... Its biggest attraction is the Kruger National Park with its enrichment in biodiversity. Visitors there ...

  23. Safari Expo 2015 Spring

    Safari Expo takes place two times a year, each time extending exposition and attracting new participants and visitors. For long time of its running the pro. Safari Expo 2015 Spring is held in Moscow, Russia, from 3/10/2015 to 3/10/2015 in Crocus Expo IEC.

  24. Largest indoor theme park for Moscow

    The park, to be built on an allocated site of around 100 hectares in the Nagatinskaya Floodplain to the south of Moscow, will begin operating as early as 2018, the developers have said.

  25. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Elektrostal

    1. Electrostal History and Art Museum. 2. Statue of Lenin. 3. Park of Culture and Leisure. 4. Museum and Exhibition Center. 5.

  26. White Nights Festival

    Every May through July, the streets of St. Petersburg, Russia, come alive with colorful celebrations and performances by some of the world's most talented artists. The White Nights Festival is an international arts festival that takes place during the season of the midnight sun, when the Northern Light shines at both dawn and dusk, allowing the ...