Kruger National Park Safaris
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Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park Safaris

The Kruger National Park is located in the Mpumulanga Province, a 6 hour drive from Johannesburg or a 1 hour flight to one of the 3 main airports servicing the park.

The Greater Kruger National Park refers to the Kruger National Park itself as well as the Private Game Reserves on the Western border of the Kruger National Park such as the Sabi Sand, Timbavati, Klaserie and MalaMala. There are no fences between the National Park and the private reserves so the animals flow freely and game viewing is amongst the best in Africa.

Private Reserves

The private reserves are home to some of Africa’s most exclusive lodges and premier game viewing areas. We cannot recommend them highly enough, and we find that most of our clients choose to stay there rather than within the park itself. We do find, though, that there’s an incredible wealth of wildlife to see in the private areas, and most guests opt to stay within their concession to enjoy the more intimate encounters on offer.

Kruger National Park Highlights

Up close and personal regular Big 5 sightings all year round ( lion, leopard , elephant and buffalo and rhino )

Some of the best trackers and guides at the various lodges work together to make game drives as exciting as possible.

Limited amount of vehicles per sighting
Free flow of animals between the various reserves

Frequently Asked Questions

When Is the best time to visit ?

Kruger National Park safaris are a year round destination with each season offering something unique.

November to January

The hot and humid summer season with season rains. Many newborn animals are around, most notably the impala lambs, which are beautiful but vulnerable to predators.

February to April

Usually starts to get drier but still with very hot days.

May to August

The cooler and drier winter period. Vegetation starts to change from lush green to browns and trees start losing their leaves. During this time, large herds of elephants are very mobile, increasing your chances of spotting them en route! Warm clothing is recommended on your early morning and late evening game drives.

September to October

The beginning of spring with the first rain starting towards the end of October. The low water in the rivers and dams makes for excellent game viewing along the few sources of water for the animals.

Why should I visit a private lodge ?

We highly recommend staying at a private lodge either in the National Park or in a private concession sharing a unfenced border with the Kruger.

A safari, for may , is a once in a lifetime experience and you want to make the absolute best of your stay. The lodges on private concessions offer a more exclusive safari experience. Game viewing is in open vehicles with expert guides and trackers. Sightings are restricted in the number of vehicles allowed and the rangers are allowed to drive off-road to view animals. No day visitors are allowed in the private concessions so they are far less crowded then the National Park.

How much does a fully inclusive safari cost?

Safari Budget

We would recommend at least a two night stay at a fully inclusive lodge in a private concession and rates start at $ 180 to $ 3000 per person per night at one of the more exclusive lodges. The fully inclusive rate generally includes a early morning and late afternoon game drive, all meals and a selection of drinks. Most lodges also include a guided walking safari.

We also have a selection of guided tours of the Kruger visiting different reserves and lodges.

What does a typical day on safari look like?

05h00 early morning wake followed by light refreshments with your guide and tracker before departing on your game drive.
06h00 Depart for the morning game drive
09h00 Start heading back to camp
10h00 Sit down for a full breakfast at camp
11h00 If your lodges offers game walks you can now depart with your guide on a exciting bush experience.
13h00 Enjoy lunch and some leisure time at your lodge.
16h00 Meet your guide for refreshments before departing on your afternoon game drive.
18h00 Sundowner drinks are served while watching a incredible sunset in the African bush.
19h30 return to your lodge to freshen up before your evening dinner.

How do I get to the Kruger ?

Kruger Accessibility

There are various ways to get to the Kruger. The most convenient is a short one hour flight from Johannesburg to one of the 3 main airports serving the park or a charter flight to your lodge. There are also flights to the park from Cape Town.

Driving from Johannesburg can take from 5 to 7 hours depending on where your lodge is located in the park.

Kruger National Park safaris Popular Safari Lodges

Kruger National Park and the Greater Kruger area offer an incredible variety of safari lodges, catering to every budget, style, and travel desire. From rustic bush camps to luxurious five-star resorts, the perfect base for your African adventure awaits.