safari parc kruger

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]

Sub regions inside

Broader region.

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.

Apr 10, 2024

She made it so easy to book

She made it so easy to book - Leigh-Ann was great to deal with . She made it so easy and worked with the dates I gave her . I appreciate it so much and when I book my next safari - I hope to have the same experience - which was awesome !!!!

Botswana Experience

Anja, our agent, was very kind and helpful all the time to organize the perfect trip. She did it quickly and efficiently. The amount of days we spent in every place was perfect to really enjoy the hotels and the different activities they proposed (in general the hotels are very nice but we don’t have the time to really experience the place but here we did). Also the selections of hotels was very very nice. Nice infrastructure, excellent service (very professional) and outstanding places to visit (all the parks were great). We had a wonderful experience with the company in Botswana.

Thank you Heleen for great service and…

Thank you Heleen for great service and always very helpful with all the changes we made. highly recommended

Keith was extremely helpful during the…

Keith was extremely helpful during the booking process. He is the only reason I continued the booking process with your firm. There were issues with your website among other things that had me feeling uncomfortable. Keith has great energy which eased my concerns. I feel the package Keith put together is great and I expect to have a wonderful trip.

Apr 9, 2024

Creating a Trip of a Lifetime

Shann Shaw was extremely patient and very helpful with getting a trip of a lifetime put together. Thank you so much for making it possible!

Keith answered all of my questions…

Keith answered all of my questions without any issues. He addressed everything that I asked and was quite prompt in his responses.

Apr 6, 2024

great service

This is to thank Leigh-Ann for her wonderful help with my safari booking. She always answers my questions quickly and provide solutions. Although I finally didn't book the trip because of a few constraints on my side, I'm sure that she is a nice person and it was enjoyable to receive her service.

Apr 4, 2024

Heleen feedback

Heleen was an absolute pleasure to deal with and is the person that has made me pass on Safari as a have to use when booking trips and putting a plan together. Heleen has been super responsive, informative and was more than happy to change things as needed throughout the process. We are a large group so nothing was simple but Heleen ensured we got accommodation together (as much as possible) and provided options for set ups too. It has been a pleasure to deal with Heleen and she is has given the company a fantastic reputation! Thank you so much again Heleen!

Apr 3, 2024

Planning was spot on

Planning was spot on. Driver/guides were always waiting as scheduled. Experience in South Africa was great. Anja helped with all the details. Ngala safari exceeded our expectations. Randal our driver/guide in Cape Town was excellent.

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Kruger Safari Tours - Compare 381 Packages

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). This includes an estimated 13,000 elephants, 40,000 buffalo, 2,000 lions and more rhinos than any other protected area. Kruger is an ideal safari destination at both ends of the price and experiential spectrum. No other major African park is so well geared to budget-conscious self-drivers. Equally, some of the all-inclusive private and concession lodges associated with Kruger and its immediate surroundings (including MalaMala, Sabi Sabi and Londolozi) rank among the most exclusive, prestigious and costly in Africa.

4-Day Greater Kruger Safari with Marc's Treehouse

$809 pp (USD)

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

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

Indigo Safaris

4.8 /5  –  125 Reviews

7-Day Kruger, Panorama Route and Private Game Reserve

$2,966 pp (USD)

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

Elephant Herd Tours & Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.8 /5  –  86 Reviews

3-Day Kruger Park and Manyeleti Reserve Bongan Lodge

$695 pp (USD)

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

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Manyeleti GR (Greater Kruger) , Central Kruger, Johannesburg (End)

Bongan Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  18 Reviews

4-Day Ultra Budget Glamping Kruger Safari

$531 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Tented Bush Camp

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

MoAfrika Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  1100 Reviews

5-Day Sabi Sands and Kruger Safari

$3,034 to $3,175 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour 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  –  416 Reviews

4-Day Classic Kruger Park Safari

$992 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Lodge & Bungalow

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

Wildlife Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  257 Reviews

6-Day Tremisana/Tent Kruger Park Safari

$837 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 9 people per vehicle) Lodge & Tented Camp

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

Viva Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  260 Reviews

5-Day Halaal Safari with Panorama Route Tour

$1,617 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  –  62 Reviews

5-Day Kruger Park, Private Game Park & Canyon Explorer

$1,558 pp (USD)

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Hoedspruit (Town) , Central 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  –  63 Reviews

4-Day All Inclusive Fly-in Tour to Kruger's Imbali Lodge

$2,200 pp (USD)

Safari.com   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.7 /5  –  186 Reviews

3-Day Big 5 Budget Safari, Kruger National Park

$387 pp (USD)

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

Safari With Us   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  215 Reviews

3-Day Luxury Mdluli Game Lodge Kruger National Park

$538 pp (USD)

Gems of Africa Safari and Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  98 Reviews

3-Day Kruger Safari and Panorama Route - Midrange

$689 pp (USD)

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

Nhlalala Travel   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  31 Reviews

3-Day Camping Safari in Kruger National Park

$542 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Camping

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

Mbombela Experience Tours & Transfers   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  32 Reviews

4-Day & 3-Night Kruger National Park Budget Safari

$583 to $649 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 8 people per vehicle) Guest House

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

The Mzansi Experience   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.8 /5  –  62 Reviews

14-Day Beach to Bush, Cape Town to Kruger Eco-Adventure

$4,067 pp (USD)

South Africa: Self-drive Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Hermanus (Whales) , Knysna (Garden Route) , Tsitsikamma NP (Garden Route) , Johannesburg (City) , Kruger NP, Southern Kruger, Johannesburg (End)

5.0 /5  –  41 Reviews

5-Day Discover the Ultimate Escape Unlock Your Getaway

$1,750 to $2,322 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Tented Camp & Hotel

African Wildlife Plains   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  2 Reviews

5-Day Kruger Train on the Bridge Lodge Safari

$2,649 to $3,100 pp (USD)

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

5.0 /5  –  124 Reviews

4-Day Orpen Gate to Letaba Camp- Tented Bushcamp Stay

$1,043 pp (USD)

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

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

Wildlife Encounters   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  20 Reviews

4-Day Kruger Park Safari and Panorama Route Tour

$1,022 pp (USD)

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

Mmilo Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  121 Reviews

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8 Questions About Kruger National Park Safaris

Answered by

Philip briggs.

When is the best time to go on safari in Kruger?

“The best time for Kruger safaris is during the southern hemisphere winter months of May to September, with wildlife-viewing conditions improving throughout this period. Climatically, it is most pleasant during these dry winter months (warm by day, cool by night) and there are fewer mosquitoes, which reduces the risk of contracting malaria. Winter offers the most productive wildlife viewing. This is because the vegetation tends to be lower and thinner, allowing for better visibility, and the lack of rain causes wildlife to gather around permanent water sources. Bird-watchers may arrange their Kruger tours for summer, when large numbers of migrant birds arrive from Europe and many resident species display a colorful breeding plumage. If you don’t like crowds, avoid visiting Kruger during South African school holidays.”

What are the most popular areas in the park?

“Most Kruger safari packages focus on the park’s southern third. Partly this is because it’s the closest section to Johannesburg, and pretty much everywhere else in South Africa, which means it fits most comfortably into a countrywide itinerary. In addition, the south has denser wildlife populations than the north and wildlife tends to be more habituated to cars (and therefore easy to view). There is also a greater choice of rest camps and concession lodges. Probably the most productive and popular game drives in the south comprise a triangle of roads connecting Skukuza, Lower Sabie and Satara, and the two roads running south from Skukuza to Malelane and Lower Sabie to Crocodile Bridge Gate. The popularity of these roads means they can become congested during busy periods such as school holidays, which is when locals tend to visit Kruger.”

Is Kruger good for a self-drive trip?

“Yes, Kruger is arguably the best self-drive safari destination anywhere in Africa. This is due to its easy accessibility, combined with a network of good surfaced roads and well-equipped rest camps, and the ready availability of interpretative material such as maps and dedicated field guides. Self-drivers can either rent a car in Johannesburg or Pretoria and drive to Kruger, or they can fly to an airport within the park or just outside it and pick up a rental car there (by advance arrangement). Self-drivers should bear in mind that cars drive on the left side of the road (like the UK and many former British colonies, but unlike the USA and most of Europe and Asia). You should allow for average driving speeds of around 30km per hour within the park. The speed limit in Kruger is 50km per hour on surfaced roads and 40km per hour on dirt, but you also need to allow time for stops to look at wildlife. Another attraction for independent travelers is that prices for Kruger safaris tend to be very low compared to other major African parks.”

What animals can I expect to see on a Kruger safari?

“All the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo) are present in significant numbers. However, wildlife viewing in Kruger can be hit-and-miss, so those seeking a Big Five quick fix would be better heading to one of the private reserves that offer expertly guided all-inclusive safari packages. That said, those who allocate a couple of days to their Kruger safari can be confident of encountering large herds of buffalo and elephant, and also stand a good chance of seeing lion, white rhino and, to a lesser extent, leopard and black rhino. Other wildlife commonly seen on Kruger safari trips includes spotted hyena, black-backed jackal, southern giraffe, plains zebra, hippo, warthog, wildebeest, impala, greater kudu, common waterbuck, vervet monkey and chacma baboon. Sightings of cheetah and African wild dog are possible but rare. Birdlife is prolific, with more than 500 species recorded. The park is particularly good for colorful savannah dwellers such as the lilac-breasted roller, yellow-billed hornbill and white-fronted bee-eater. There is also a wide variety of eagles, vultures and other raptors, as well as hefty ground dwellers such as the southern ground hornbill, kori bustard and ostrich.”

How long is the drive to the park?

“Coming from Johannesburg or elsewhere in Gauteng, most of the southern gates lie between 400km/249mi and 500km/311mi to the east, a drive of up to five hours on good surfaced roads. Coming from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport outside Mbombela (Nelspruit), most of the southern gates lie between 40km/25mi and 100km/62mi away, so allow up to 90 minutes. The most remote gate from Johannesburg is Pafuri, which lies about 620km/385mi to the northeast, a seven- to eight-hour drive on roads that deteriorate as you approach the park. When planning your Kruger holidays in the context of a full South Africa tour, be aware that the park is an astonishing 1,800km/1,118mi from Cape Town using the most direct route, and almost 750km/466mi from Durban.”

What condition are the roads in within Kruger?

“An excellent network of surfaced roads suitable for 2WD cars connects all gates and rest camps in Kruger. This is supplemented by a secondary network of unsurfaced roads, most of which are also suitable for any 2WD car, though some might become problematic after heavy rain. A good map showing the full internal road network can be bought cheaply at any entrance or rest camp gate, and all junctions within the park are signposted for easy navigation. From a wildlife-viewing perspective, surfaced roads often follow busier routes, so taking quieter unsurfaced routes will probably enhance your Kruger vacation.”

Is the park fenced?

“Until a few years back, the entire park was fenced. Today, however, it shares open borders with a number of private reserves that run along the western border, though in most (if not all) cases, these private reserves are fenced along their outward boundary. Fences along the international boundaries with the other two components of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area (namely Limpopo National Park in Mozambique and Gonarezhou National Park in Zimbabwe) are no longer maintained. This allows wildlife some freedom of movement into these neighboring reserves.”

What lodges or camps do you recommend for a Kruger safari?

“For a short Kruger holiday (up to 3 nights), I would concentrate on the far south. My favorite camp there is Lower Sabie, which has a beautiful location on the Sabie River at the heart of several top-notch wildlife-viewing roads. Skukuza, the park’s largest rest camp, is a bit too busy for some, but it’s very well equipped (with everything from ATMs and car-rental outlets to a well-stocked supermarket and restaurant) and has a useful location for exploring some good wildlife-viewing roads. Those able to dedicate more time to a Kruger tour (4 or more nights) could head to the central plains. Satara Rest Camp lies in an area of open savannah where lion and cheetah are often seen. Olifants Camp has a stunning location on a wooded ridge overlooking the eponymous river, and tiny Balule Satellite Camp is ideal for those seeking a remote and super-affordable bush experience. An extended Kruger tour (ideally 7 to 10 days) might also take in the far north, where my favorite rest camps are riverside Shingwedzi and remote Punda Maria. For those seeking more exclusive safari packages, try one of the dozen or so upscale concession lodges scattered throughout the park. These lodges offer a luxurious all-inclusive guided experience similar to the legendary Sabi Sands block of private reserves along the park’s western border.”

Kruger Safari Reviews

Alan is a travel writer and author of over 20 Lonely Planet guidebooks, including the guides to Southern Africa and Zambia & Malawi.

Killing time in Kruger

The mothership of South Africa’s parks, Kruger is more organised and has more variety of accommodation than any other park. It also has a HUGE number of animals with the Big Five and every other kind of five you can think of rustling...

Full Review

Mike is an award-winning wildlife writer, former editor of Travel Zambia magazine and author of the Bradt Guide to Southern African Wildlife.

Africa’s Best DIY Safari

South Africa’s premier wildlife reserve divides opinion. Some who’ve visited supposedly ‘wilder’ parks argue that the Kruger’s developed infrastructure, complete with paved roads and large public camps, undermines the wilderness...

The parks we visited during our stay were varied. The first evening safari we didn’t see the animals we hoped. However the full day drive the following day made up for this. We saw everything we hoped to, mainly the Hippis and Giraffes....

It is everything that thousands of others have experienced. It is soo big that it would take weeks to discover each region, but we were thankful for seeing the best that we could in a limited timeframe.

Brilliant glamping experience. The safari tour guide was knowledgeable and we managed to spot the animals. The glamping staff were friendly and they kept the facilities clean. This was a girls trip and we felt safe throughout our stay....

Once in a life time unforgetable experiance . All staff members were very helpful +HIGHLY capiable.

Viva Safaris kept to their programme, Bushwalk, Great Kruger Safaris with very well trained, friendly guides, Sunrise and Sundown safaris (Bush Braai was unbelievable crowned with an Amarula Liquer Toast). The safari jeeps accomodated very...

Kruger National Park

Kruger is one of the world's greatest wildlife-watching destinations. All of Africa's iconic safari species – elephant, lion, leopard, cheetah, rhino, buffalo, giraffe, hippo and zebra – share the bushveld with a supporting cast of 137 other mammals and over 500 varieties of bird.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Kruger National Park. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Elephant Hall Museum

Even if you're not staying at Letaba Rest Camp, it's worth swinging by to check out this excellent museum. It has life-size skeletons and dozens of…

Sabi Sand Game Reserve

Within the borders of the large Sabi Sand Game Reserve are some of Southern Africa’s most luxurious safari lodges and the best wildlife watching on the…

Kapama Private Game Reserve

With four luxury lodges and the Big Five in residence (as well as occasional passing wild dogs and great birding), 13,000-hectare Kapama gets all of the…

Timbavati Private Nature Reserve

Timbavati abuts Kruger National Park's western boundary and has an excellent mix of wildlife, conservation and good accommodation. Its accommodation…

Crooks Corner

On the outskirts of a beautiful fever-tree forest, Crooks Corner marks not only the confluence of the Luvuvhu and Limpopo Rivers but also the historic…

Bobbejaankrans

This overlooks a section of the Timbavati River that animals often visit to slake their thirst. It's especially good early morning or late afternoon.

Renosterpan

This waterhole north of Berg-en-dal usually lives up to its name (renoster is rhino in Afrikaans). Late afternoon is best.

Klaserie Private Nature Reserve

A 600-sq-km (or 60,000 hectare) private wildlife reserve in the greater Kruger area, Klaserie has strong conservation credentials.

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Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

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Complete Guide to Safari in Kruger National Park, South Africa

A safari in Kruger National Park, South Africa is one of those once-in-lifetime experiences for most people. Renowned the world over for its jaw dropping landscapes, true African experience, and of course, the animals – a safari in Kruger National Park is a must visit for any traveller so South Africa.

I have just returned from the most incredible few days in Kruger National Park. It lived up and exceeded every expectation I had. The animals, the lodge, the game drives, the weather, the true sense of wilderness. It was truly incredible. But I must say, I found it hard to plan.

In the months prior to my Southern Africa adventure, I really struggled with planning a trip to Kruger National Park. Keeping in mind the whole park is the size of some European countries, it’s pretty difficult to know where to start.

It’s a funny thing, because many South Africans living in Johannesburg or Durban will head to Kruger multiple times a year, in the same way a Brit might plan a weekend break to the Cotswolds or the New Forest. They have their favourite lodges or camps, they tend to self-drive and they are fairly self-sufficient. But for Europeans or visitors from the US and the rest of the world, it definitely doesn’t seem that straight forward. Not least because there are some of the world’s most dangerous predators just freely roaming around!

So that’s why I’m writing this guide, in the hope that this will help guide you in your planning process and shape up an epic trip to Kruger National Park. It is aimed at those planning their first safari adventure to Kruger. Feel free to skip ahead to certain sections in the contents box below too, if easier!

Safari in Kruger National Park – Everything you need for planning a trip

Where is kruger national park.

Kruger National Park is located in the north-east of South Africa. Kruger extends nearly 220 miles from north to south, and is about 40 miles wide – a large portion of Kruger actually borders with Mozambique too. It’s around 20,000 sq km in size, and home to more than 200,000 mammals, together with hundreds of variety of birds, reptiles and interesting insects.

When is the time to visit Kruger National Park?

Kruger is an interesting place, as there isn’t really a bad time to go. Each season offers a unique experience, and different pros and cons.

May – September

The South Africa winter months are considered a great time to visit Kruger. This is by far the driest time of the year, which means the vegetation and the bush is less dense, and therefore it’s easier to spot animals. The low rainfall at this time of year means many rivers and waterholes are low or even dry, meaning the few that do have water are likely to have more animals at them. The temperature in the winter is warm during the day, but can be very chilly though the night. This may mean your sunrise or sunset game drives will be freezing!

This is the ‘high season’ and prices at hotels and lodges will be increased.

October – December

This is the South African spring and early summer months, which marks the start of the rainy season. The rivers may still be quite low, but flash rainfall is likely to mean the bush will be very green and quite thick. This makes it harder to spot animals. Daytime temperatures can push up to 40c and nighttime is cooler, but definitely not cold. Spring time is also a great time to see baby animals and newborns.

We went in November and experienced gloriously hot and sunny days, with cool and pleasant evenings. We also experienced an extreme tropical storm one evening that lasted about two hours and was easily some of the heaviest rain I’ve seen in my life.

January – April

Whilst the rest of South Africa is warming up and experiencing long and sunny days, Kruger is experiencing heavy rains. However, the landscape comes alive with stunning colours, from the vivid green of the bush to the deep blue of the rivers and lakes. Prices are lowest for lodges and camps at this time.

How many days to spend at Kruger?

Well, of course this comes down to what you’re looking for and the time you have. Some South Africans actually visit Kruger for two or three weeks at a time with their campervans and enjoy long slow days of animal spotting and braais (aka BBQs).

For most travellers from Europe or the US for example, it’s unlikely you’ll have this long to spare. Nor do you necessarily want to spend this long in a national park – there is such a thing as too much of a good time!

We spent three days in Kruger, which was great but I would have liked one extra day.

The animals are most active early morning and late in the evening, so sunrise and sunset drives are popular. However, this means early rises (in the summer months, this can be as early as 2.45am!) and late returns. As you can imagine, this can become quite exhausting.

Having three or four days for safari in Kruger National Park (or longer), really means you can make the most of the drives but also enjoy some much needed downtime. You’ll be surprised how much wildlife you see just from your poolside or your lodge/tent too!

How to get to Kruger National Park

Choosing the best option for getting to Kruger depends on where you’re coming from, how long you’re spending in Kruger and of course, your budget.

The most expensive and most convenient way is to fly into Kruger. Depending on where your lodge is within the park, it’s likely that one of the three main airports will work for you. These are: Nelspruit (the biggest airport by far), Hoedspruit and the tiny airstrip at Skukuza (my favourite airport ever). The main air route between these is from Johannesburg, however, if you happen to go to Livingstone in Zambia (for Victoria Falls), then you might find the route from here to Nelspruit very convenient!

SAA Airlink (part of South African Airlines) is the main operator.

The least expensive (and slowest way) is to drive from Johannesburg. Google Maps says the drive is around 5-6 hours to Kruger, but some people do find it takes longer. The road conditions aren’t excellent and there are often a lot of dangerous crashes or incidents. However, it does of course afford you a lot of flexibility if you drive yourself. You can also arrange a transfer with a local company,.

Which area in Kruger to visit?

For me, the was one of the hardest things to work out. My dreams of staying in a luxury lodge with a private pool were quickly dashed when I saw the prices. Many of these are located near Skukuza in the southern-central part of Kruger. When I realised there was a very convenient direct flight from Livingstone to Nelspruit, it made most sense to find a location to go in the southern part of Kruger. I spent hours trawling websites to work out where had the best sightings of animals and most reliable weather.

It wasn’t an easy task and I ended up picking an area called Marloth Park, near to the Crocodile Bridge gate entrance. We ended up loving this location and exploring the southern part of Kruger.

The southern region of Kruger is as mentioned, home to Skukuza airport and the Skukuza rest camp. This is the biggest camp in Kruger with a great number of activities and facilities, therefore making it a great base. Game viewing is also considered to be really good in the southern region.

The central region of Kruger is also known for excellent viewing and having several good camps, such as Satara and the beautiful Olifants camp, with its impressive clifftop location.

Up in the northern part of Kruger, game viewing is considered slightly less, but it’s quieter in general and makes for a very relaxing stay.

The other thing to factor is whether to stay in Kruger, or just outside of it. Where possible, I would recommend staying in Kruger or as close as possible to the gates.

For example, if you fly into Nelspruit and opt to stay in one of the towns near here like Hazyview or White River, not only are they a bit industrial and bland, but you’re not really sleeping amongst the wildlife. Instead, an area like Marloth Park is a little further to drive initially from the airport (1 hour), but so much closer to the gate to start your game drives and also, right in the heart of the wildlife.

Kruger National Park really varies from north to south, from weather and wildlife, to flora and fauna.

Whilst it is often acknowledged that the southern portion of Kruger has the best chance of seeing the Big 5, if you visit the northern portion, you can also do the epic Blyde River Canyon drive.

Book a Blyde River Canyon panoramic drive and Kruger visit here

Entrance/exit times for Kruger National Park

Assuming you’re doing your drives with a ranger, you’re unlikely to have to be too concerned about gate entrance opening and closing times. But it’s worth noting that each gate opens just before sunrise and closes around sunset. Whilst they don’t physically lock you inside the park if you’re late to go back to the gate, you can be given a hefty fine.

Night drives cannot be done independently and you have to go in with an official SANpark game ranger.

Entry fees for Kruger

Again, if you do drives in the park with official SANpark game rangers, the entry fees will be included in the cost of your drive.

If you join an independent guide for a drive, or self-drive, you’ll have to pay the Kruger Park entrance fees.

As of January 2020, these are:

International visitors: R400 per adult per day, and R200 per child per day. This is about £20/USD27 per day, or £10/USD14 per day.

South African Citizens and Residents (must take ID): R100 per adult, per day and R50 per child per day.

You can buy these at the gate by visiting the small adjacent hut and filling in some forms. The SANParks site here has further information on entry fees and other formalities.

As you can see, a safari in Kruger National Park can add up over several days – but it is so worth it!

Public Game Reserves vs Public Game Reserves

Kruger is a national park, run by government organisation SANparks. Animals are completely wild and run freely in Kruger.

A private game reserve is located on land owned privately, and often have fenced boundaries. The private reserves have all the same animals, but they’ve been brought into the area. The numbers of animals in a private reserve are typically far less, but as the ground surface area is less, you can actually have a higher chance of seeing animals. For example, at Sabi Sands, famous for its close-up leopard sightings, you may actually see less packs or herds of animals moving around. So this definitely comes to personal preference and what you’re looking for. In a private game reserves, all drives are guided, but in Kruger NP it’s both self-driving and guided drives.

When you go to a private game reserve, you’re not technically in Kruger. You’re in the area considered as Greater Kruger National Park, which is the title given to all the reserves adjacent to the national park, as well as the ones within.

Private game reserves often only have high end accommodation lodges, but public game reserves will have a variety to cater to a wider range of visitors.

Deciding Where to Stay in Kruger National Park

Generally, there are main accommodation types to choose from:

• SANpark owned and run ‘rest camps’ within the park
• High-end private lodges within the park
• Hotels located near to the entry gates (or further afield)

These are the government run camping grounds located with fenced off areas within Kruger Park. These are popular with South African families, groups or couples looking for a budget-friendly accommodation option in the heart of the action.

I would say less foreign tourists stay in these, partly due to the fact that you’d mostly need your own car to get to them or to arrange a transfer.

One such camp is Lower Sabie Rest Camp , for example. This is one of the bigger rest camps with Kruger, offering camping spots, spaces for caravans and motorhomes, safari tents, and small rondavels (a type of hut), with varying amenities. These range from around £15/$20 from a camping spot, to ensuite cottages/huts for around £120/$160 a night.

There are around 10 or so of these camps throughout Kruger. They all have electricity, a first-aid centre, a supplies shop, braai-ing areas (BBQs) and communal kitchen facilities. There is often a laundromat/laundry and a restaurant and a cafeteria. You might also find a petrol station.

It’s good to know also that many of these cater to disabled tourists too.

You can book stays at official rest camps through the SANparks website here . In the high season, you might want to book your stay well in advance to guarantee it.

High end private lodges

By far the most expensive option, staying in a private lodge is the most luxurious way to stay in Kruger. It is definitely the bucket list-worthy option, for sure!

These lodges give you the full and complete safari experience. Not only are the lodges themselves beautiful, often with thatched roofs and private pools, but you’re also likely to stay on a full board basis. This means three fine meals a day, and your game drives included. You can expect fancy linen and toiletries, air conditioning, butlers, luxury open air showers and even gyms. Some even have beautiful spas too. And with this, you can often expect to pay in excess of £1,000 per night.

I’ve listed some of the best private lodges in Kruger below, all of which are stunning luxury places to stay:

• Lion Sands – Tinga Lodge
• Thornybush Simbambili Lodge
• Inyati Game Lodge
• Leopard Hills Lodge
• Idube Game Reserve

Lodges and hotels outside of Kruger

So the final option is to stay in a far more affordable lodge or hotel outside of Kruger. These are often located near the gates or within a 20-30 minute drive. Then to be on a B&B basis, with lunch, dinner and other activities all arranged as add-ons. These kinds of hotels and lodges generally offer the best value for money, and still a wonderful authentic safari experience.

Here’s a few suggestions:

• Protea Hotel by Marriott Kruger Gate
• Jock Safari Lodge
• Maqueda Lodge
• Grand Kruger Lodge & Spa
• Needles Lodge

Needles Lodge, Marloth Park – Our Experience

After much research and deliberation, we decided upon Needles Lodge located by the southernmost gate of Kruger. This area was called Marloth Park.

Location wise, the lodge was just 1 hour from Nelspruit airport, and around 3 hours from Skukuza airport. From the lodge to the nearest gate (Crocodile Bridge), it was around a 25 minute drive.

Our lodge was absolutely beautiful, like staying at a large family home. Animals such as zebra, ostrich and mongoose just wondered freely through the property, even right on up to edge of the raised dining area.

There was a delightful pool, sunloungers, a telescope, a huge lounge area with a TV, books and boardgames and lots of spaces to relax in. We also loved our room, which was huge with beautiful art and wooden furniture. I couldn’t recommend staying here more, especially for a more affordable stay.

We also found the food to be excellent, and included lunch and dinner in our stay. The team cooked us up some wonderful dishes which we ate alongside our fellow lodgers. Just fantastic!

Check rates for Needles Lodge here

Other facilities in Kruger

Inside the park, there are many services and facilities to help tourists. After all, some people come here for weeks at a time!

Petrol stations: Inside the park, you’ll find several petrol/gas stations. There are also some at the entry gates.

ATM/Banks: There are only a couple of ATMs inside, and mostly at the larger rest camps like Skukuza or Letaba.

Shops: There are many shops throughout the park selling Kruger themed gifts and things like carved animals etc. You can also find braai–ing equipment, food, drinks and essentials like suntan lotion or toiletries inside.

What to wear and what to take to Kruger

Dressing for safari is definitely a thing. If you do any kind of walking safari, you absolutely must dress in sand/khaki colours and your guides probably won’t let you go in any kind of bright colours at all.

If you’re doing guided drives, it matters less what colour you wear as you’re strictly not allowed to get out the jeep. However, I definitely felt more the part wearing my cream, khaki and sand coloured clothes!

For a safari in Kruger National Park, you may need several layers if you’re starting your game drive early in the morning, especially in the winter months (May-September). A large jacket and long trousers, and lighter clothes to peel off to as the temperature rises. For evening game drives (or night drives), you’ll definitely need long sleeves to protect yourself against bugs. The jeeps are opened sided so you are exposed to the elements, and the insects!

Most jeeps or lodges will have warm ponchos or blankets to wrap around yourself too. When the jeep gets going, the wind can really whip up and surprise you with how chilly it can feel!

In terms of other things to take on safari, I’d definitely recommend a good camera with a good zoom if you want to capture good animal shots. iPhones are unlikely to always cut it, especially if the animal is quite far away.

You could bring your own binoculars but your lodge or driver may have these, as well as high beam torches.

Otherwise, you actually don’t need to take too much else!

Malaria and other health risks in Kruger

There is a risk of malaria whilst on safari in Kruger National Park, and it is advisable to take malaria tablets for any length trip. Bite prevention is highly recommend, and most lodges have mosquito nets too. Bring lots of bug spray!

Self-drive or guided game drives?

For most overseas travellers to Kruger, it is most likely you’ll want a guided game drive. This means not only do you not have to worry about the driving part, and can fully focus your energy on spotting wildlife, but you’ll also enjoy the benefit of an experienced and highly knowledgeable guide.

Of course, some people will still prefer to pick up their own hire car and self drive Kruger National Park. If you do this, my top tips for self-driving in Kruger are:

• Arrive to the gate really early, especially on weekends or public holidays as the queues grow quickly
• There are also only so many vehicles permitted per day
• Bring thermos and snacks in the car
• Note on the map your nearest petrol stations, and if you pass one, always fill up, just to be on the safe side
• Ask passing cars about sightings – 99% of people will be keen to help
• Remember to not get out your vehicle unless in designated parking areas
• Stay on the marked roads and don’t exceed 50kmh
• Do not litter – this should be obvious! Bring a litter bag

Booking a safari or game drives in Kruger National Park

As I’ve mentioned above, your lodge will be able to arrange game drives for you. These might be included in your ‘full board’ stay, or you may have an activities booklet to choose these from.

If you’re after something a little more bespoke for your safari in Kruger National Park, then another idea is to contact a local company. There are hundreds to pick from, which again can seem a little daunting. I came across Chasin’ Africa through TripAdvisor and couldn’t recommend the company more.

Not only did the team at Chasin’ Africa completely understand my request (a 7 hour game drive finishing at Skukuza airport and therefore taking our luggage), but it was arranged with such ease. I paid in advance through their payment portal and it was all very straightforward. I spoke to Leanne at Chasin’ Africa and she was happy to answer all of my hundreds of questions too!

We had already decided upon accommodation, but Chasin’ can also help you with this too. You can also check their amazing TripAdvisor reviews here too.

One thing I’d keep in mind when arranging your game drives is that it is definitely better having less people in the jeep. More so than you could expect.

So there you have guide to a safari in Kruger National Park, South Africa.

I think a safari experience at Kruger is truly one of the best experiences to be had. South Africa too is one of the best countries I have ever been to, and if you’re doing a longer trip around the country do check out my other posts. I’ve got a comprehensive guide to the Garden Route and an article detailing the best beaches in SA .

I’ve written Cape Town itineraries , as well as a guide to the  best places to eat in Cape Town , day trips from Cape Town and a complete guide to day trips from Cape Town .

Feel free to drop me a line if you would like any advice or further recommendations for planning your safari in Kruger National Park. If you’ve enjoyed this guide to Kruger, then please do share using the below links!

Wanna see more? Check my Instagram  here , my Facebook  here  or my Twitter  here !

Disclaimer: This visit to Kruger National Park was entirely paid for by myself, and there was no involvement from the tourism board or a hotel. This is an independent guide.

Enjoyed my guide to a Kruger National Park safari? Pin it!

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I have been dying to do a safari in South Africa, this looks incredible. Thank you for sharing

Omg this looks amazing, especially the lodge with the zebra! This is a bucket list item for me – we’re going to do a safari for our honeymoon, although I think we’ll go to the Serengeti rather than Kruger. But Kruger looks really amazing too!

Sounds like this was an amazing experience! I can’t wait to go on safari one day

thanks for sharing! there is so much confusing info out there so this was super helpful!

Thanks for the info. .I am planning for 2 nights in Krugger. .1st I am driving from Johannesburg to Marloth Park and stying there. .2nd day going for full day self drive safari. . and will stay at Crocodile rest camp. .next morning will do sunrise safari (govt.one /Sanparks)and after noon we will head back to blyde river canyon.plz suggest any better plan if required. .or is it right?? Does SANPARKS safari start from only Crocodile rest camps?

Hi Rajdeep, that sounds like a good plan but quite busy for a 2night trip! The SANPARKS organised safaris also start from other rest camps in Kruger though- hope that helps!

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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.

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.

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.

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.

Constant Support

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

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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Kruger National Park: Everything You Need To Know Before You Visit

Heide Brandes

• Activities and Interests
• Africa National Parks
• Destinations
• National Parks
• South Africa

Heading down the dusty roads of Kruger National Park in far northeastern South Africa, our safari vehicle slowed to a halt as yet another herd of elephants began stomping across the road like giant wise guardians. Just minutes before, a pod of lanky giraffes caused our vehicle to stop for a while, and a wary group of water buffalo, with their meaty bodies and curling horns, watched us as we passed. Somewhere in the distance, a lion roared.

This is Kruger National Park , 7,580 miles of wild lands that are home to 500 bird species and 145 mammal species, including elephants, black and white rhinos, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, hippopotamuses, and lions. Located in the heart of the Lowveld, the entire park is a wildlife reserve and is bigger than the country of Israel. For many, Kruger National Park is a bucket-list destination, a glimpse of wild Africa.

Kruger National Park, originally known as the Sabi Game Reserve, was founded in 1898 by Paul Kruger, who wanted to protect the animals of the game reserve. On May 31, 1926, Kruger’s dream came true when the National Parks Act was passed. The Sabi Game Reserve and the neighboring Shingwedzi Game Reserve were combined to create Kruger National Park.

Today, roughly 950,000 people visit Kruger National Park every year, and the majority of the visitors — a whopping 80 percent — are South Africans. The park boasts more than 1,500 miles of all-weather roads that allow visitors to explore the park in their own vehicles, but safari guides are readily available as well.

Whether you decide to tour Kruger on your own or sign up for a safari, we have everything you need to know to get the most out of your visit to this important, awe-inspiring, and massive park.

When To Go To Kruger National Park

The dry winter months between May and September are generally the best times of year to visit Kruger National Park because the bush thins out a bit, making the animals easier to spot. September is a popular month, since the night and morning are less chilly.

The wet season between October and April has its advantages, however. The land turns green and lush, and many of the animals start having babies. Migratory birds are also plentiful around this time of year, but the days can be muggy and humid. The bugs are also out in force, so this is the time to take antimalarial medication, just in case.

How To Get To Kruger National Park

Flying into South Africa is by far the easiest way for international tourists to visit the park. There are four airports that serve the park: the Hendrik Van Eck Airport in Phalaborwa in northern Kruger, Hoedspruit Airport in the central region, the newly opened Skukuza Airport , and the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport in the southern area.

That being said, most international visitors fly into the Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International Airport , where daily flights are offered between Johannesburg and many of the regional airstrips surrounding Kruger. The flights take about 90 minutes and can drop you off at the airstrip in the park closest to the lodge where you are staying.

Daily flights also operate to Skukuza from Cape Town . The Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport also operates daily flights from Durban and Cape Town, and another flight is available from Cape Town to Hoedspruit. Many of the lodges offer transport to and from the regional airports.

You can also rent a car and drive from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park, especially if you plan to take a self-guided tour of the park. The drive is approximately 5 to 7 hours, but it will give you the freedom to stop at other attractions along the way.

Where To Stay In Kruger National Park

Where you decide to stay depends on what kind of Kruger experience you want.

Kruger National Park has camp-run accommodations , and each camp has its own unique offerings, ranging from basic camping to the quintessential safari tents to luxury lodges. Kruger has 10 luxury safari lodges you can book, and the surrounding private game reserves offer luxury accommodations, meals, and highly trained personnel. The private lodges include Londolozi Founders Camp , Mala Mala Main Camp , Londolozi Varty Camp , and Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge . You may also consider the newly built Skukuza Safari Lodge in Kruger.

The average length of stay for a safari in Kruger is a minimum of two nights up to a week. If you plan to stay for more than four days, consider choosing two separate lodges so that you can enjoy a nice variety of experiences, animals, and foods.

Pro Tip: If you do opt for a private game reserve, know that these reserves are not fenced off from predators. Lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, and zebras can wander through the camp, so exercise extreme caution and never walk around unaccompanied after dark.

Should I Explore The Park On My Own Or Take A Guided Safari?

When I visited Kruger National Park, the group I was traveling with opted for a self-guided tour of the game reserve. Luckily, our driver was well versed in how to spot animals in the park, but having a true safari experience is worth the cost and consideration as well.

If you opt for a game drive , you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Morning drives, sunset drives, and even nighttime drives can be booked at the park, and an experienced and knowledgeable guide will point out wildlife and information you likely wouldn’t notice on your own. Most lodges and private lodges offer their own driving and walking safaris as well.

If you choose to explore the park on your own, maps will be your best friend. A great list of maps can be found here .

If you want the best of both worlds, Kruger offers a Park & Ride program. Just park at a select gate and hop on a safari ride through the park to see the Big Five and more.

Pro Tip: Kruger also offers safari adventures for the disabled .

How To Prepare For A Safari Bush Drive

You wake up in your safari tent or in your luxury lodge room excited for the day and the chance to see the famous wildlife of Africa. The golden hours of safari are typically the early morning, sunset, and nighttime, so try to book your drives during those hours, when the animals are more active.

To have a good Kruger experience, plan to bring items like binoculars, insect repellent, a camera, a map, plenty of bottled water and snacks, and a hat and sunscreen to protect against the African sun. You’ll also want to pack a couple of light T-shirts, a few long-sleeved shirts for the chilly nights, a rain jacket if you’re visiting during the rainy season, good walking shoes, shorts and long pants, and a hat.

Avoid wearing white, which makes you very visible to the animals. Red attracts some animals, and bright blue can attract biting flies. Stick with neutral colors like sand, brown, and muted green.

Remember, you are in the wild. Never approach wild animals, and do not get out of your vehicle unless you are in a designated “hide” area. Every year, there are fatalities because a careless tourist got out of their vehicle to take a closer look at an elephant or lion. Also, keep your windows up when possible. Baboons can be pretty aggressive about snatching food out of vehicles.

Don’t swim in the rivers and lakes in Kruger. Hippos are the most dangerous of all the big animals, are very territorial, and run faster than humans do. Crocodiles can also ruin your day if you get too close.

Always listen to your guide, if you have one. If they say not to run, then don’t run. If they say to move away, then move away. Your guide’s job is to keep you safe in one of the world’s last true wildernesses, so trust that they know what is best for you.

Pro Tip: Your guides and spotters work hard, so expect to tip each of them anywhere from 50 to 150 rands per day. If you have the same guide each day, err on the side of tipping well. If you don’t know how much to tip the guides or staff, ask the tour operator or the concierge at your lodge. While most tips are in the South African rand, American dollars are appreciated as well.

Medical Tips And Advice

No one wants to get sick or injured while on an epic safari, but if something does happen, South Africa has plenty of clinics, hospitals, and medical personnel. That being said, you should have medical insurance or travel medical insurance. If you do an internet search for “travel medical insurance,” you’ll find plenty of affordable options.

While South Africa is mostly malaria free, Kruger National Park does have some areas where the malarial mosquito is found. Antimalarial drugs are available at pharmacies in South Africa and by prescription from your doctor.

The water is safe to drink in South Africa and at Kruger National Park, and many of the lodges and hotels provide bottled water as well.

Be aware that HIV is still a concern in Africa, so avoid contact with bodily fluids and do not have unprotected sex.

Other Activities In Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park isn’t just about game drives and safari walks.

Golfing enthusiasts will be thrilled with the Skukuza Golf Course , which was built in 1972. The course is designed for golfers of all levels, but again, you may have a few run-ins with the local wildlife, since the golf course isn’t fenced in.

Mountain biking , group backpacking with a trail leader , and birding are also popular activities at Kruger National Park. The 4×4 Adventure Trails , which get you off the beaten track to areas of park that are rarely seen, are also worth checking out.

Many of the luxury lodges offer spa experiences as well as swimming pools, chef-inspired meals, full bars, and all the bells and whistles. You will not get bored — trust me!

And speaking of meals, a bush braai is a not-to-be-missed experience. A braai (barbecue) around the boma (outdoor enclosure with a fireplace) is available at most of the camps in Kruger, and it usually includes a choice of three grilled meats, salads, breads, drinks, and desserts. If you book a night game drive, you can also book a braai in the middle of the Kruger bush under the night sky. Available at all rest camps, this 3-hour experience requires booking in advance.

Pro Tip: Bring a good book or two. During the high heat of the day, when the animals are hunkered down and being lazy, you’ll want to take advantage of the down time to relax, read under some shade, and just appreciate the experience of being in Africa.

Heide Brandes is an award-winning journalist and travel writer based in Oklahoma. She loves outdoor adventures, exploring different cultures, and finding off-the-wall, bizarre, and wondrous experiences to enjoy. Heide writes for numerous national and international publications and is an award-winning member of the Society for Professional Journalists, North American Travel Journalists Association, and Society of American Travel Writers. Besides traveling and writing, Heide is also a professional Bellydancer, a medieval re-enactor, and a quirky chick who lives in Oklahoma City.

Your Kruger Park Safari by Siyabona

Experience Kruger National Park with Siyabona Africa's exclusive collection of safari packages, from high-end luxury to standard classic safari tours. Whether you are looking for a romantic honeymoon escape, or a spot for the annual family holiday, you are bound to discover just what you need, right here.

With a Kruger Park Safari, combined with the variety of accommodation types that we offer, you can look forward to lodge living in perfect luxuriousness, or comfortable, tented chalets with the closer-to-nature feel.

Either way, you are set for a great Kruger Park Safari adventure. Morning and early evening game drives, bush walks for the more strenuous and ample opportunities for wildlife photography. All of this conducted by experienced safari guides, game rangers and trackers.

Popular Kruger Park Safaris

This selection of our most popular Kruger Park safari holiday packages promises an unrivalled abundance of game viewing opportunities.

Classic Lodge Safari

These Kruger Park classic lodge safari packages are about being close to nature and wilderness whilst living in the style that reflects the essence of the traditional safari experience.

Kruger Park Family Safari

Kruger Park family safari packages are all about getting together for a shared experience with those nearest and dearest to you. Family gatherings have a special place in our hearts.

Guided Kruger Park Safaris

Our fully guided Kruger Park safari packages are one of the best ways to enjoy a Classic Safari in the Kruger National Park. Led by an experienced safari expert guide and tracker.

Premier Safari Packages

Only The Best - This Premier Kruger Safari Collection represents the prestige that is reserved for those whose refined taste and passion lead them to expect the very best.

Romantic Safaris

These selected Kruger Park honeymoon packages and romantic safaris each offer something different. Indulge in spa treatments, champagne baths or fireside romance.

Tented Camp Safari

Tented camps in Kruger National Park range from basic comfort to exceptional stylish luxury. See a selection of Tented Camp Safari Packages in Kruger National Park

Self-Drive Safaris

Whether you self-drive in your own vehicle or rent-a-car, these Kruger Park self-drive safari packages offer you the freedom and flexibility of driving at your own pace.

Speciality Safari

This Speciality Safari  experiences collection presents a range of safari packages selected for their complete individuality. Experiences include walking safaris, cultural interaction or spa treatments.

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Safari in Kruger National Park

The best safaris in kruger national park.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kruger safari FAQs

Your questions, our expert answers, can you recommend any mid-luxury accommodation in kruger we don't need top luxury but happy to splurge a bit..

Most of the accommodation actually within Kruger National Park is run by the park authorities - great locations, but the accommodations are fairly basic and very busy. If you want to splash out, this is probably not what you're looking for.

Consider instead one of the private reserves (conservancies) that sit alongside Kruger - they have much the same wildlife, but way more choice when it comes to accommodation, and fewer visitors and vehicles. I've always enjoyed Timbavati Nature Reserve and Shindzela - I saw all the big five in one afternoon here!

The best safaris in Sabi Sands

About the author.

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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Matador Original Series

6 Things to Know Before Planning Your Kruger National Park Safari

K ruger National Park is probably the most popular tourist destination in South Africa. The sprawling national park is certainly the most popular safari destinations in South Africa, and potentially the world, thanks to its resident “Big Five” species. It’s a bucket-list destination for many wildlife photographers, but even a novice shutterbug is likely to get fantastic photos of herds of animals like giraffes, elephants, and other iconic species roaming the grassy landscape.

Established in 1898, Kruger National Park holds the distinction of being one of the oldest national parks or protected areas in Africa. Over the years, the park has weathered numerous challenges, from encroachment by humans to the devastating impacts of poaching to overtourism and a COVID-spurred lack of tourism — but it’s continued to thrive, as have the tens of thousands of animals in its care.

For travelers from the US, the park is extremely popular. That’s probably because how easy it is to reach. It’s not far from Johannesburg, which has many direct flights from cities in the US. It also has multiple entrances, hundreds of options for hotels and Kruger National Park safari packages, and a well-developed park and road infrastructure. Because of that, it can be surprisingly affordable, with local hotel starting at under $100 a night year-round.

Scroll down for the basics of planning a Kruger National Park safari, including when to go, the best affordable and luxury Kruger National Park lodges, how much to budget, and how to get there.

We hope you love the hotels and activities we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay or book a tour through one of our affiliate partners. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Where is Kruger National Park?

• Kruger National Park map
• Kruger weather and when to go
• Booking a Kruger National Park safari
• Wildlife in Kruger
• The best Kruger National Park lodges, starting at $55

Photo: Robert Wedderburn /Shutterstock

Kruger National Park is in northeastern South Africa, bordering Mozambique and Zimbabwe. It covers more than 7,523 square miles, making it larger than many US states — and many countries.

The park’s landscapes vary from dense forests and rugged mountains in the south to open savannas and arid grasslands further north. It’s the largest national park in South Africa, unless you count the combined lands of Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, which straddles both South Africa and Botswana. Only a few other national parks on the continent are larger, such as Namibia’s otherworldly Namib-Naukluft National Park and Tanzania’s Selous Game Reserve, both of which are about 19,000 square miles.

Kruger National Park map and getting there

That’s why most people visiting the park fly to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, about 50 minutes from the park’s Numbi Gate. You can fly there from Zambia, Mozambique, and Zambia, as of July 2023. From either airport, you have several options for getting to the park: you can rent a car and drive yourself, ask your hotel to arrange an airport pickup, or book a travel package that includes your transportation from either airport. Or you can book a shuttle company like Kruger Transfers to take you from any area airport to your lodge or hotel of choice.

That’s right — any area airport. There are actually two other Kruger National Park airports: Hoedspruit, for the central park of the park, and Skukuza, if you’re heading to some of the private reserves that border the park. Both fly only to Cape Town and Johannesburg.  Phalaborwa airport used to serve the northern park of the park, but it closed in 2020.

Kruger National Park weather

The rainy season can have its perks, too. Photo: JONATHAN PLEDGER /Shutterstock

Kruger National Park’s weather is pretty simple, with a dry season and a wet season.

Most people consider the dry season (May to September) as the best time to go to Kruger National Park. While there can be a bit of rain in May or September, most of this season is dry and mild, with daytime temps between the mid-60s and mid-70s Fahrenheit. Evenings can be in the 50s F, so wear an extra layer for early morning or night safaris. Another perk of the dry season is that guides usually have a good idea of where animals will be, since they tend to congregate around water sources. It can also be a bit easier to spot animals from afar as there’s less foliage for them to hide behind.

During the wet season, from October to April, it’s warmer and wetter, especially in January and February. It can be anywhere from the high 70s to the high 90 degrees Fahrenheit, and heavy rain is common. The bonus is that the park is extremely lush, spring brings a better chance for seeing baby animals, and it’s less crowded and usually cheaper to visit. And having fewer people nearby to scare off wildlife is always a plus. Do an online search for photos of busy roads in Kruger, and you may decide that the wet season is actually the best season.

Kruger National Park safaris

Photo: PACO COMO /Shutterstock

Nearly all visitors head to the park for the same reason: going on a Kruger National Park safari, the park’s most famous activity. Visitors have lots, and lots, and lots of options for booking a Kruger safari. In addition to game drives and walking safaris, you can book everything from hot-air balloon safaris to a guided Kruger National Park safari via mountain bike .

Option 1: Book directly with the park

The park offers several different types of safaris, called game drives, which you can book online directly through the park website . Your options include a 3-hour sunrise or sunset drive (r490, or about $25 USD), 2-hour night and late night drives (around $20), or a morning or river walking safari (r760, or about $40). The park doesn’t offer a bookable all-day drive, but you can contact the park in advance to ask about availability of safari cars if you’d like to arrange a private one. Hotels and lodges can also help arrange this.

You can also rent a car and drive yourself through the park as long as you pay the r460 ($24) per person entrance fee. Here’s a link to more than a dozen excellent self-drive routes in Kruger. Just remember that someone is going to have to drive, which is the least fun role when the rest of your party gets to search for wildlife.

Option 2: Book a safari through a tour operator

Because private vehicles are allowed into the park, you can also book a Kruger National Park safari through a private company. There are hundreds of options. Siyabona Africa offers private all-day game drives starting at r4.,653, or about $250 per vehicle (not per person). You can also opt for a shared full-day drive at r2,200 ($116) per person. And if you don’t mind an early start, Elephant Herd Tours offers a 5:30 AM start with hotel pickups before that for around $97 per person — which could be worth it to be among the first in the park that day.Alternatively, you could ask your lodge or hotel to arrange a private driver for you, if safaris aren’t already including in your lodging.

Option 3: Book a Kruger safari package

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The most budget way to find a package will be to book one with a local operator when you arrive in either Jo-burg or one of the park’s gateway towns. You’ll find plenty of on-the-ground, local guiding companies willing to sell budget safari packages around $400-$500 for a two-night trip. For a mid-range trip you can book in advance online, expect to spend anywhere between $700 for a 4-day trip in homestays with a shared vehicle ( Elephant Herd Safaris ) to $1,200-ish for a five-day private tour with daily safaris through Amatungulu Tours. Luxury tours can range from a few thousand for a private multi-day tour to $10,000 or more with companies like Niarra Travel or andBeyond , where you’ll spend two or more weeks in the lap of luxury.

Your last option is to book a package through your hotel. Kruger National Park lodges like Jock Safari Lodge and Lion Sands Tinga Lodge include twice-daily game drives in the accommodation cost. More budget hotels, like Crocodile Kruger , are room-only, but the staff can assist with add-ons like daily safari drives.

Kruger National Park animals

Kruger National Park offers the chance to see both giant herds of animals in sprawling grasslands, and tight interactions with single animals hidden in trees or hiding behind rocks. The park is so big that it offers pretty much every type of African wildlife sighting you can imagine, which is likely why it’s so popular with tourists.

The park is home to the famous “African Big Five”: lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos, and rhinos.

Lions are usually in the central part of the park in open savannas and on rocky ridgelines. Look around areas of the park like the Satara, Orpen, and Lower Sabie. For leopards, look on tree branches and in densely vegetated areas. Like lions, you’ll want to look for them around the Satara, Orpen, and Lower Sabie areas, plus around the Sand River.

The park has anywhere between 1,500 and 7,000 elephants; in fact, they’re starting to throw the food web out of balance. While that’s not a good thing, the large population size does mean you’re almost guaranteed to see them. It doesn’t matter so much where in the park you are, but they’re usually found around water sources or along roads in areas where they’re too big to move through the brush comfortably. Water buffalo are also more or less everywhere, often in the same area as elephants.

Photo: Ondrej Prosicky /Shutterstock // Photo: JMX Images /Shutterstock

The hardest of the Big Five to spot are rhinos. The park has both black and white rhinos, but not in large numbers; poaching has made both species extremely endangered. The southern region (between Skukuza and Lower Sabie) is a good place to start, but it requires a blend of luck and patience. Schedule a few extra days in the park if spotting rhinos is essential to you.

Aside from the Big Five, the park has species like cheetahs (also quite hard to spot), African wild dogs, giraffes (not so hard to spot), baboons, zebras, hippos, and hundreds of bird species. Kruger has one of the largest concentrations of large animal species in the world, so while you may not see the exact species you want to see on every drive, you’re bound to see something amazing.

Kruger National Park lodges

Photo: Expedia

Perhaps no safari destination in the world has more options for places to stay than Kruger National Park. The park is huge, and each entrance has dozens of hotels both inside and outside the park gates. Kruger is also one of the most popular safari destinations in the world, and hospitality companies have realized this. So there are hundreds of options, from five-star luxury hotels beloved by celebrities to budget stays owned by locals where you can sleep near the park for less than $80 a night.

However, most hotels falls somewhere in the middle — affordable stays with a touch of what’s best describes as open-air, safari chic: rooms with balconies or decks, outdoor communal spaces with firepits and couches, and amenities like infinity pools and stargazing showers.

When booking, be sure to check what’s included in your selected room or package. Some hotels include all food and drink, but not safaris; some include safaris, but nothing else; some include all your activities and your room; and some include only the room — but you can add on activities à la carte. And some offer all of the above. The details are usually front and center on the booking platforms, and if you book via Expedia, Booking.com, or similar, it will list what is included on the booking page.

Note that there’s only one downside to staying outside the park (aside from a short drive to get in every day): occasionally, the park will reach capacity just from guests staying in the park, and no outside guests will be allowed for that day. However, that’s very rare, and usually only happens once in a while on public holidays in the busy season. It’s possible, but not likely.

Crocodile Kruger Safari Lodge

See more photos

Crocodile Kruger Safari Lodge is probably the best of affordable Kruger National Park lodges. It sits just outside the park on the aptly named Crocodile River, and rooms range from standard hotel rooms with patios overlooking the gardens and river to a full three-bedroom cottage with a private pool and kitchen. Rates start around $50 per person per night with breakfast, or $53 per person per night for full board — it’s a steal. Amenities include Wi-Fi, a pool, and an on-site bar. Activities are not included in the price, but the hotel can assist with booking anything you’d like to do in the area.

Lion Tree Top Lodge

Lion Tree Top Lodge hits the sweet spot between posh boutique hotel and affordable Kruger National Park lodge. All “rooms” are actually fully furnished safari tents on raised platforms in the bush. Rooms have outdoor showers and relaxation decks, which means you may be able to spot wildlife from your room.

Safaris and other activities are not included in the fee, which gives you the freedom to book whatever local operator you’d like based in nearby Hoedspruit. You can also add on safaris when you book your room if you’d rather not deal with extra planning. Rooms start at a reasonable $106 per person, per night.

Jock Safari Lodge

Jock Safari Lodge is inside Kruger National Park but owned and operated by a private company. It offers two places to stay: the Main Jock Lodge, or a private villa called Fitzpatrick’s at Jocks. The hotel sits on 600,000 acres just for hotel guests, which essentially amounts to private safari access within that space. Each safari-themed cabin has an outdoor daybed and private pool, and twice-a-day game drives are included in the cost of a stay. Rooms start around $887 a night — which seems pricey, but remember: it includes full days of game drives every day.

Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge

Hoyo Hoyo is another high-end Kruger National Park safari lodge, but it’s not quite as expensive as Jock Safari Lodge — rooms at Hoyo Hoyo start around $700 per night . It’s an all-inclusive Kruger resort (including twice-daily safaris and all food and drink) with a traditional style. Rooms have earthy decor with thatched roofs and natural materials, and the buildings sit naturally in a break in the tree-covered landscape.

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15 Best Safari Lodges In Kruger National Park

When it comes to exceptional game viewing, there is nothing that can compare to the Kruger National Park. It is not uncommon to witness the majestic Big 5, including the elusive leopard, powerful lion, formidable buffalo, magnificent rhino, and majestic elephant, all in one day. Additionally, you may also have the privilege of spotting rare species like the cheetah and wild dog. This park is not only one of Africa’s oldest conservation areas, but it also boasts the widest range of wildlife in South Africa. However, you may be wondering which part of the park is the best and where you should choose to stay.

To avoid the crowds and experience a truly remarkable safari, we recommend heading straight for Kruger’s private game reserves. These reserves, driven by conservation efforts, are among the finest safari locations in the park and are home to some of the most exceptional safari lodges on the entire continent. Whether you are a couple, honeymooners, or a family, these 5-star lodges offer a luxury safari experience that is unparalleled. From exquisite cuisine and impeccable service to serene health spas, fully-equipped gyms, and even your very own private butler, these lodges have it all. Moreover, with Africa’s top trackers and guides, you can expect outstanding off-road game viewing, thrilling night game drives (which are not accessible in the public park), and a luxury safari vacation that will leave a lasting impression. In our comprehensive guide, we have compiled the top 15 lodges in Greater Kruger, which encompasses the vast Kruger National Park and a collection of neighboring private reserves. It is widely regarded as one of the best destinations for wildlife viewing in Africa.

While the national park offers accommodation in well-equipped government rest camps that are perfect for self-drive safaris and budget package tours, the private reserves provide a more lavish experience. Within Kruger, there are several private concessions that function as private game reserves. These reserves are home to small, exclusive safari lodges that offer all-inclusive packages. The Big Five viewing opportunities in Greater Kruger are exceptional, and the private reserves and concessions are unmatched when it comes to regular, up-close encounters with these magnificent creatures.

If you are seeking an exclusive luxury safari experience, you may be wondering where to stay.

Sabi Sand Game Reserve

Nestled within the prestigious Sabi Sand Reserve l ies the renowned Sabi Sabi group of opulent safari lodges. Boasting a century of safari expertise and distinctive camps, these lodges exude a warm hospitality, tradition, and style that caters to the diverse preferences of wildlife enthusiasts. Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge, a recipient of numerous accolades, offers an unparalleled safari accommodation experience for couples seeking to commemorate a special occasion. Combining rustic charm with contemporary elegance, this extraordinary lodge stands as one of Kruger’s most exceptional safari retreats. Its generously proportioned suites, nestled within a private concession in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, feature secluded plunge pools and bespoke furnishings that seamlessly blend with the natural surroundings. Prepare to embark on a luxury safari adventure unlike any other, as this lodge harmoniously incorporates its environment and elements for an unforgettable experience. 

If you’re searching for the ultimate private game reserve in South Africa, look no further than the Sabi Sand Game Reserve . Renowned as the finest in the country, Sabi Sand boasts an expansive 65,000 hectares of untouched wilderness in the Mpumalanga region. What sets it apart is its unfenced border with the famous Kruger National Park, spanning an impressive 50 km (30 miles). Within this remarkable reserve, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the complete African Big 5, including lions, rhinoceroses, buffalos, leopards, and elephants. However, it is the majestic leopards that truly steal the show in Sabi Sands.

For those seeking a luxurious and romantic getaway, the game reserve is an ideal choice. The exclusive Lion Sands Ivory Lodge offers eight elegantly luxurious villas, each with its own deck and plunge pool. Here, you can indulge in spa services and relish in private dining experiences. To enhance the romance, consider booking a night in the remote Chalkley Treehouse, where you can sleep under the twinkling stars. Sabi Sands caters to a range of budgets and preferences when it comes to accommodation. From the more affordable Umkumbe Safari Lodge to the opulent Sabi Sabi camps and the two Singita lodges, there is something for everyone. To truly immerse yourself in the wildlife experience, take advantage of the guided wildlife drives and exhilarating walking safaris available. If you’re wondering when the best time to visit is, October is highly recommended. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the wildlife sightings are abundant. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve.

Best Suited For – Couples 

Buy Now – SABI SANDS

Mala Mala Safari Lodge 

Situated strategically between the Sabi Sand Game Reserve and Kruger National Park, MalaMala Game Reserve offers an extraordinary opportunity to witness the majestic Big Five in a vast and exclusive wilderness area. Among the top-notch lodges in the Greater Kruger National Park, MalaMala Sable Camp stands out, providing luxurious accommodation for a maximum of 20 guests in seven opulent suites. The safari deck made of wood offers a breathtaking view of the Sand River, a natural corridor for wildlife. The photographic opportunities are truly out of this world, with leopards stealing the spotlight as the star attraction.

Rattray’s at MalaMala transports you back to the golden era of safaris, capturing the essence of a bygone time. As the largest private conservation area in the region, MalaMala Game Reserve is not shared with any other Kruger safari lodges, ensuring that you have exclusive access to uncrowded animal sightings and abundant game. Another advantage is that MalaMala encompasses a significant portion of the life-giving Sand River. The highlights of Rattray’s on MalaMala include personalized butler service, extraordinary leopard sightings, spacious suites with private heated plunge pools, a maximum of four guests per vehicle, and a stunning location on the banks of the Sand River.

Some of the popular activities at Rattray’s on MalaMala include guided walks, night drives, stargazing, and game drives. Drawing inspiration from the glorious era of safari, Rattray’s at MalaMala transports you to a time long gone. As the largest private conservation area in the region, the MalaMala Game Reserve stands alone, without any other Kruger safari lodges to share its vast expanse. This exclusive setting ensures that your Kruger National Park safari experience will be unparalleled – with uncrowded animal sightings and an abundance of game, all to be enjoyed in solitude. The reserve’s vastness is enhanced by the presence of the life-giving Sand River, which further enriches the wildlife encounters.

Nestled on the banks of the Sabi Sand River, amidst towering trees and sprawling lawns, MalaMala Camp is a true sanctuary of safari bliss. The camp boasts ten luxurious suites, eight opulent rooms, and a single room, each equipped with air conditioning and an outdoor deck that offers uninterrupted and breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness.

The camp’s amenities include an indoor dining room, a cozy lounge, a library complete with satellite television, a historic bar, complimentary internet access, and a spacious wooden safari deck that provides an exceptional vantage point for observing the wildlife that frequents the river for a drink. Additional features include a grand infinity pool overlooking the river, a safari boutique, a well-equipped gym, and a rejuvenating massage service. Expert rangers, brimming with an astonishing knowledge of the wilderness, lead twice-daily game drives that promise unforgettable adventures. For those seeking a more immersive experience, embark on a walking safari, guided by a professional expert, to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of the bush.

Perfectly Suited To:

BUY NOW – MALA MALA GAME RESERVE

Imbali Safari Lodge

Located in central Kruger, the Imbali Safari Lodge is situated on a private concession spanning 100km2/40mi2. This exclusive lodge offers 12 spacious suites, providing a luxurious experience amidst the tranquil African bush. While mornings and afternoons are dedicated to wildlife exploration, the lodge invites you to unwind and relax during the heat of the day. Take a refreshing dip in your private plunge pool while savoring a cocktail, or indulge in a soothing massage on your deck, surrounded by the harmonious melody of birdsong.

The rooms feature large French doors that stretch the length of the space, allowing you to immerse yourself in the breathtaking wilderness at your leisure. An expansive deck overlooks either the N’waswitsontso River or the savannah grasslands, complemented by an outdoor pool to enhance your leisurely bush experience. Lounge on a sunbed with a captivating book, or let the bubbles of the pool soothe your tired muscles, while the enchanting chorus of weavers, thrushes, and kingfishers provides a magical soundtrack for your relaxation. Each suite includes a complimentary mini-bar stocked with selected beverages, as well as a tea/coffee facility for your convenience.

The spacious stone and marble bathroom boasts a Victorian-style bathtub and a walk-in shower, complete with signature bath amenities, a hairdryer, and plush bathrobes. Immerse yourself in the peace of the Kruger bush as you soak away the stresses of modern life with natural bath salts. When it’s time to rest your soul, sink into the comfortable king-size bed for a rejuvenating siesta or a peaceful night’s sleep after your safari adventure. A mosquito net envelops the entire bed in the evening, ensuring you are cocooned in utmost comfort. Expect a bedtime story on your pillow or a delightful treat to savor before retiring for the night. Mluwati Concession, a private area within Kruger National Park, is comprised of three lodges – I mbali Safari Lodge , Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge, and Hamiltons Tented Camp. Its establishment was driven by the desire to ensure the long-term sustainability of this renowned National Park. Being one of the pioneering private concessions in Kruger, Mluwati has dedicated immense efforts to preserve the integrity of this pristine wilderness, which has served as a haven for a diverse range of wildlife for over a century. With over 114 reptile species, 34 amphibians, and 147 mammals, including the iconic Big Five of Africa, this sanctuary has captivated nature enthusiasts from around the world.

Bird enthusiasts will be enthralled by the plethora of avian species that inhabit Kruger. With over 500 species, many of which can be found in Mluwati Concession, birdwatchers can spot magnificent creatures like the Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill, Crested Barbet, and Burchell’s Glossy Starling. Within the Mluwati Concession, guests will be treated to breathtaking landscapes, a remarkable array of wildlife, vibrant birdlife, and flourishing plant life. Each safari experience is guaranteed to be unique and unforgettable. During your stay at Imbali Safari Lodge, indulge in morning and evening safaris. Witness the exhilaration brought by the first rains, observe terrapins frolicking in river pools, listen to the melodious calls of the Pied Kingfisher, and delight in the harmonious chirping of sociable tree frogs. Immerse yourself in the aromatic scents of the bush, be serenaded by the shrill cries of the Magpie Shrike, and behold the graceful dance of the wind through the feather grass that adorns the savannah plains. An expedition at Imbali will introduce you to new fragrances, intriguing sounds, and the captivating beauty of an extraordinary African landscape that will awaken and enchant your senses.

Best Suited – Couples 

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Londolozi Game Reserve 

Experience the epitome of luxury and royalty at the renowned Londolozi Pioneer Camp, the oldest and arguably the most prestigious safari lodge in Kruger. Located in the privately-owned Sabi Sand Game Reserve, this African pilgrimage offers a serene and contemplative wilderness encounter. The camp, nestled in seclusion, comprises three interconnected opulent suites and a charming bush homestead, accommodating groups of up to 12 individuals. Indulge in the lavish amenities, including an “explorer lounge,” interactive kitchen, lookout deck, breakfast balcony, and a refreshing lap pool. The decor seamlessly blends Ralph Lauren sophistication with the rustic charm of a safari homestead, adorned with exquisite memorabilia, leather accents, and sparkling crystal, exuding timeless elegance.

Highly skilled rangers will curate personalized game drives and bush walks tailored to your preferences, whether you seek a family-oriented safari or a focus on botany, tracking, or birding. Immerse yourself in the untamed wilderness, relishing champagne sunsets or savoring delectable bush dinners under the enchanting glow of the full moon. Discover the essence of self-discovery, social development, and conservation through the transformative Londolozi experience. Embark on a luxurious wellness safari and retreat, guided by renowned wellness experts, life coaches, wisdom keepers, and shamans. Alternatively, embark on a photographic big cat safari, supported by a professional photographic studio, or engage in community development projects within a visionary African village.

Designed to enhance spaciousness, luminosity, and privacy, Londolozi Private Granite Suites offers unparalleled relaxation. Delight in invigorating massages, rejuvenating yoga classes, or take a refreshing dip in your private plunge pool. Simply unwind with a drink in hand and marvel at the breathtaking vistas of colossal granite boulders and the captivatingly wild scenery, creating an indelible memory of your extraordinary Kruger National Park safari vacation. At Londolozi Private Granite Suites, prepare to immerse yourself in the epitome of relaxation. Whether it’s through invigorating yoga sessions, rejuvenating massages, or simply unwinding in your own secluded plunge pool, this sanctuary offers an unparalleled level of tranquility. Embrace the untamed beauty of the surroundings as you admire the majestic granite boulders, savoring a refreshing drink in hand. Every element of this opulent retreat has been meticulously crafted to enhance the essence of light, space, and seclusion, ensuring an unrivaled luxury experience.

Key Features:

• Exceptional private concession within Sabi
• Captivating vistas of unique and untamed landscapes
• Intimate camp, catering to a maximum of six guests
• Unparalleled bespoke service
• Extraordinary Big 5 game viewing opportunities

Best Suited For:

• Honeymooners

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Malayenti Game Reserve 

If you have a penchant for venturing off the well-trodden path, the Manyeleti Game Reserve is an exceptional choice for an exclusive and private safari experience. Nestled deep within the safari heartland of Mpumalanga, this reserve shares unfenced borders with the renowned Timbavati and Sabi Sands private reserves, as well as the iconic Kruger National Park. Despite its remarkable location, Manyeleti remains relatively unknown compared to its famous neighbors, resulting in fewer visitors. As a result, you’ll practically have the entire park to yourself, with only three lodges scattered across a vast expanse of 56,800 acres of breathtaking wilderness.

One of the most captivating aspects of Manyeleti is its serene and untouched ambiance. With no crowds, noise, or light pollution, you can truly immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of nature. In fact, the name Manyeleti, which means “Place of the Stars” in Shangaan, perfectly encapsulates the pristine night skies that adorn this remarkable reserve.

For an authentic Hemingway-style safari experience, consider staying at one of the Honeyguide Tented Camps. Alternatively, if you seek five-star luxury reminiscent of colonial times, Tintswalo Safari Lodge is an excellent choice. Both options offer guided walking tours and wildlife drives, allowing you to fully explore and appreciate the incredible biodiversity that Manyeleti has to offer.

The best time to visit Manyeleti i s from May to September. Situated along the banks of a shimmering seasonal river and surrounded by vast plains, Tintswalo Safari Lodge offers unparalleled luxury bush accommodation. This remarkable destination is located within the Manyeleti Game Reserve, which serves as a gateway to the Big Five and an array of other captivating wildlife. From wild dogs and hyenas to cheetahs, leopards, and various antelope species, Manyeleti is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Additionally, zebras, giraffes, wildebeest, white rhinos, warthogs, and large herds of buffalo can also be spotted within the reserve.

At Tintswalo Safari Lodge, guests can embark on exhilarating game drives led by expert trackers and professional rangers. These thrilling excursions take place in open-topped 4×4 safari vehicles, allowing for an immersive and unforgettable wilderness experience.

Whether you’re a couple seeking a romantic getaway, a family in search of adventure, or a solo explorer yearning for a luxurious Big Five safari, Tintswalo Safari Lodge is the ultimate destination to fulfill your desires.

Best Suited for – Families 

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Kapama Game Reserve 

Kapama Game Reserve, situated in South Africa, stands as one of the most extraordinary and picturesque reserves across the African continent. With its awe-inspiring wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and expansive savannas, this reserve is truly a haven for adventurers. Spanning 15,000 hectares of untouched African bush, Kapama provides the perfect sanctuary for a diverse range of species. Housing an impressive 350 bird species and over 40 different types of mammals, including the renowned Big 5, which includes elephants, lions, leopards, African buffalos, and rhinoceroses, this reserve allows these magnificent creatures to thrive in their natural habitats. Guests are granted the rare opportunity to witness these incredible animals in their wild surroundings through guided game drives and bush walks, offered twice a day after breakfast. Immerse yourself fully in the African bush experience.

For the ultimate safari experience, the best time to visit Kapama Game Reserve is from May to September. Visitors can choose from four luxurious lodges, each offering an exceptional stay. The accommodation options include Buffalo Camp, Southern Camp, River Resort, and Kapama Karula.

Nestled between the verdant Blyde River Canyon and the vast Kruger National Park lies the expansive Kapama Private Game Reserve. This remarkable reserve boasts an abundance of wildlife, including the renowned “Big Five” – elephants, buffalos, lions, leopards, and rhinoceroses – thriving in its unspoiled bushland. The undulating hills, valleys, and streams that grace the reserve create a distinctive natural scenery. The vegetation predominantly consists of grasslands, thickets, and woods, providing a rich habitat for both small and large species. The reserve also offers various cottages and resorts, providing accommodation and a range of activities, such as walking safaris and game drives. Overall, Kapama Private Game Reserve is a beloved destination for nature enthusiasts, offering a remarkable opportunity to witness the splendor and diversity of African flora and fauna. The reserve features four premium lodges and luxurious sleep-out tent accommodations, some of which are located along the banks of the Klaserie and Kapama rivers. The best time to visit this remarkable reserve is from May to September.

Best Suited For – Families 

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Timbavati Nature Reserve

The Timbavati National Reserve, a renowned private reserve connected to Kruger National Park, stands as the closest competitor to Sabi Sand Game Reserve. While these two reserves may appear similar, the safari experience in Timbavati feels more authentic and in tune with nature. Within the Timbavati Nature Reserve, a vast array of animals and birds thrive in abundance. Known as the “Magnificent 7,” the lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, African wild dog, buffalo, and cheetah all call this place home. One of the reserve’s most exceptional and rare features is the presence of white lions, which have been observed here since 1938 and have become a symbol of Timbavati’s wildlife legacy.

For those planning a visit, the best time to explore Timbavati is from May to September. Within the private nature reserve, Kings Camp offers a glimpse into the charm and romance of a bygone era. The nine suites, inspired by colonial aesthetics, overlook the vast savannah dotted with acacia trees and a waterhole frequented by a diverse range of animals throughout the day and night. Each suite is equipped with air conditioning and boasts a Victorian-style ball-and-claw bath, as well as both indoor and outdoor showers.

Best Suited For – Couples and Families 

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Lukimbi Safari Lodge

Lukimbi, spanning an impressive 150km2/60mi2, stands as one of the largest private concessions in Kruger. The lodge itself boasts 16 cozy suites, nestled alongside the enchanting Lwakahle River. Elevated on stilts, the buildings are interconnected by wooden walkways, meandering through ancient trees. And of course, one mustn’t forget the glistening pool that grants a breathtaking view of the river. Who knows what captivating sights await as you cool off amidst the scorching heat of the day?

At Lukimbi Safari Lodge, prepare to indulge in exclusive game-viewing and a level of luxury that surpasses all expectations. This intimate lodge, tucked away within Kruger National Park, ensures uninterrupted private safaris and an abundance of personalized attention. Crafted from natural materials and harmoniously nestled beneath the shelter of ancient trees, this vibrant and eccentric lodge seamlessly blends with the surrounding African landscape. Each space within the lodge offers awe-inspiring vistas that will leave you in awe. Immerse yourself in the captivating artisanal décor and artwork, luxuriate in a stone bathtub overlooking the river, find solace on your private deck, or take a refreshing dip in your very own plunge pool.

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable encounter with wildlife. Accompanied by professional guides, embark on off-road adventures to spot the illustrious Big Five. Keep your eyes peeled for rare wild dogs and peculiar creatures like wildebeest (gnu) and hyenas. Allow yourself to be enchanted by the presence of over 300 bird species, lizards, snakes, and the iconic dung beetle during a guided bush walk. Witness buffalo herds from the comfort of your deck, take a dip in the pool while observing hippos leisurely basking in the river. Indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments and make use of the gym facilities, or simply revel in the art of doing nothing. For parents seeking respite, the lodge offers a diverse Kids’ Programme, Safari Playroom, and reliable babysitters.

Delight in the exquisite cuisine presented in the dining room, where imaginative dishes are meticulously crafted from fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. Immerse yourself in the traditional African experience by savoring a braai (barbecue) within the boma. Complement your meal with award-winning South African wines, while the guides regale you with captivating tales of the bush.

Suited for – Everyone 

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Royal Malewane

Once the holiday home of the Biden family, The Lodge at Royal Malewane is a traditional and elegant bush-style lodge. Exuding an air of old-world charm, it was designed and adorned to provide a serene sanctuary amidst the African wilderness. Royal Malewane lives up to its name effortlessly, ensuring that you feel like royalty during your stay at this luxurious lodge. Nestled in Thornybush Private Game Reserve, adjacent to the renowned Kruger National Park, the lodge offers breathtaking vistas of untouched nature. Take a refreshing dip in the pool, indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment, or get your heart pumping at the exclusive gym in one of the most sought-after safari destinations in the park

With a remarkable staff-to-guest ratio of four to one, you will undoubtedly feel like royalty at Malewane. If you seek an exceptionally exclusive safari experience in Kruger National Park, this is the perfect choice. Take a revitalizing plunge in the swimming pool, work up a sweat at the gym, or pamper yourself with a treatment from an internationally qualified therapist at the spa. Royal Malewane, situated in Thornybush Private Game Reserve alongside Kruger National Park, offers awe-inspiring panoramic views of unspoiled natural beauty.

Highlights:

• Opulent suites designed with meticulous attention to privacy
• Personal butler service and a dedicated chef
• Unforgettable culinary experiences
• The finest safari spa in South Africa
• Game drives in a private reserve
• Expansive private decks with pristine pools provide the ideal setting to unwind and let go as elephants gracefully pass by.

Boasting uninterrupted views of the surrounding bushveld, the six luxury suites epitomize opulence, while the Africa House and Royal Suites offer exclusive services where your every need is attended to with utmost discretion. Immerse yourself in Africa’s abundant wildlife during twice-daily game drives led by the most qualified guiding team on the continent, or embark on an immersive bush walk that will awaken all your senses. Visiting the local community is an inspiring, humbling, and educational experience.

Consider the Royal Malewane Lodge in the Thornybush Private Game Reserve, located on the boundary of Kruger National Park, if you desire a luxurious and exclusive experience. This enchanting lodge captures the allure of a bygone era, drawing inspiration from Mombasa, Persia, and ancient civilizations to create an atmosphere of opulence and exoticism. The lodge offers a selection of accommodation options, including six lavish suites, two regal suites, and the magnificent Africa House with its six bedrooms. Each unit boasts its own private deck, pool, and personalized services, providing an intimate and secluded retreat amidst the untamed wilderness, offering breathtaking views.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to witness the Big Five, guided by the most knowledgeable experts in Africa. Engage in a thrilling game drive or a guided bushwalk, immersing yourself in the intricate ecosystem, from the tiniest insects to the magnificent birds. For bird enthusiasts, a specialized bird safari awaits, while photography enthusiasts can partake in a dedicated photographic safari. After basking in the warm African sun, pamper your senses with a rejuvenating treatment utilizing indigenous ingredients, or unwind by the serene courtyard pool. Alternatively, take advantage of the state-of-the-art gym, heated pool, and steam room for a complete wellness experience.

Indulge in exquisite dining experiences that epitomize quality and create lasting memories. Savor a delectable meal under the vast African sky, overlooking the majestic Malewane River, accompanied by the harmonious melodies of the bushveld and the enchanting voices of a local choir. Whether you desire a tailored menu for an intimate dining experience or a sumptuous six-course feast for your esteemed guests, the lodge’s culinary team will cater to your every need. Moreover, for those with specific dietary requirements, the lodge offers meals prepared in a kosher-compliant kitchen, ensuring everyone’s preferences are met.

• Gourmets / Foodies

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Lion Sands Game Reserve

Experience an unforgettable safari at Lion Sands, where you can witness the majestic big 5 in their natural and untouched habitat in the Sabi Sands. Lion Sands stands out as the only private sanctuary that extends across both the Sabi Sand Game Reserve and Kruger National Park, connected by the Sabie River. This unique feature allows wildlife to roam freely between the two sides, offering an unparalleled opportunity to witness a remarkable variety of species. All rates at Lion Sands include two daily game drives or bush walks, and upon request, private vehicles and bush walks can be arranged.

In addition to the thrilling safari experiences, Lion Sands offers a range of other activities to indulge in. Immerse yourself in the enchanting night sky with stargazing sessions, or pamper yourself with a selection of spa treatments. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, helicopter flights and hot air balloon rides can also be organized. Nature seamlessly blends with luxury at Lion Sands, where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the river. This private game reserve boasts four luxurious safari lodges situated in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve and Kruger National Park. Located on the edge of the perennial Sabie River, Lion Sands provides exclusive access to a rich and diverse array of wildlife. Among the lodges, River Lodge stands as the heart and soul of the Lion Sands area.

The design of Lion Sands River Lodge is characterized by its open and spacious layout, providing guests with the perfect opportunity to unwind in one of Africa’s most renowned game areas. Embark on thrilling safari adventures during morning and afternoon game drives, expertly guided by experienced professionals. Take a refreshing dip in the pool, gather around the open firepit to share captivating stories, and marvel at the wildlife from the comfort of your private wooden viewing deck. At Lion Sands, your safari dreams will come true, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

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Dulini Lodge

Dulini provides a captivating and intimate safari experience in Kruger. Nestled in the heart of the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, one of the most exceptional locations in Kruger National Park, Dulini is a haven for honeymooners. The lodge boasts six exquisitely adorned suites, offering ample living space for guests. Find solace beneath the ancient jackalberry tree, a perfect vantage point for bird enthusiasts. Noteworthy features include private game-viewing decks with heated plunge pools, a fully equipped gym, delectable cuisine, a temperature-controlled wine cellar, and a secluded location within a private concession.

Situated at the core of the magnificent Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, Dulini epitomizes an intimate and enchanting safari experience in Kruger. A paradise for honeymooners, this intimate lodge comprises six lavishly decorated suites, providing generous living areas. Unwind beneath the shade of the lodge’s ancient jackalberry tree, indulging in the pleasure of bird watching. Dulini Moya offers guests a serene and unpretentious retreat in the heart of the African wilderness. The Dulini Game Reserve is renowned for its thriving leopard population, majestic prides of lions, wild dogs, cheetahs, rhinos, elephants, and herds of buffalo. Embark on exhilarating dawn and dusk game drives in specially equipped 4×4 safari vehicles to explore the surrounding untamed landscapes, and be prepared to be captivated by the remarkable photographic opportunities. Additionally, guided bush walks are available for those seeking a closer encounter with the flora, fauna, and hidden wonders of the bush that may be missed during game drives.

While children aged eight and above are welcome at Dulini Moya, younger children are also permitted if the lodge is booked exclusively. The destination boasts six suites, each featuring an en-suite bathroom, indoor and outdoor showers, a lounge area with a cozy fireplace, a viewing deck, and a refreshing plunge pool.

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Ulusaba Cliff Lodge

Perched atop a rugged cliff, this exquisite Kruger safari lodge offers unparalleled vistas of the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve. It is an idyllic haven for families or a close-knit group of friends seeking an exclusive and secluded safari experience. The suites, spread across different levels and interconnected by stairs, ensure that the breathtaking views are accessible at all times. Indulge in ultimate relaxation with rejuvenating spa treatments at the renowned Aroma Boma.

Key features include:

• A personal chef and a private safari vehicle
• Guided walking safaris
• Unrivaled views of Sabi
• Twice-daily game drives
• An exclusive Kruger safari retreat with only two suites

This magnificent Kruger safari lodge perches atop a rocky outcrop, providing an intimate getaway for two families or a group of friends seeking a private safari vacation in Kruger National Park. The suites are strategically positioned on different levels, connected by stairs, offering awe-inspiring views of the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve. Pamper yourself with a range of revitalizing spa treatments at the renowned Aroma Boma. Ulusaba Private Game Reserve, owned by Sir Richard Branson, is home to a collection of exquisite lodges. Nestled beneath ancient trees on the edge of a dry riverbed in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, you’ll find the prestigious Ulusaba Safari Lodge. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, the lodge exudes a warm ambiance, capturing the essence of the bush and providing elegant accommodations.

The lodge facilities include a lounge area, dining area, swimming pool, two tennis courts, a bush observatory, gym, outdoor boma, spa treatment room, gift shop, and wine cellar. With internationally renowned chefs creating an Africa-inspired menu, guests can anticipate exceptional dining experiences in the boma, on the deck, in the dining area, or even under the African sky. Immerse yourself in the wonders of the African wilderness with twice-daily open-vehicle guided game drives, unforgettable bush walks, scenic helicopter flights, and visits to local villages.

• Families with children over 12 years

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Singita Sweni Lodge

Nestled amidst the lush canopy of the Sweni River lies Singita Sweni Lodge, the enchanting sibling of Singita Lebombo. While Singita Lebombo boasts expansive vistas, Singita Sweni exudes an intimate charm. Its seven open-plan suites, perched on stilts, seamlessly blend into the surrounding trees. The lavish decor, adorned with vibrant hues that beautifully complement natural elements, creates an opulent ambiance.

Drawing inspiration from the dwellings of local wildlife, the architecture of Sweni Lodge effortlessly melds with the banks of the Sweni river. The riverside suites, elevated on stilts, feature floor-to-ceiling glass windows that blur the boundaries between your accommodation and the captivating Kruger landscape. Indulge in the exquisite flavors of rare South African wines, refine your archery skills, pamper yourself with rejuvenating spa treatments, or embark on a culinary adventure at the renowned Singita Community Culinary School.

Notable highlights of this extraordinary sanctuary include private terraces adorned with day beds, elevated suites boasting floor-to-ceiling glass panels, exquisite dining experiences paired with boutique wine tastings, and a breathtaking riverside location within a private concession. As one of the most intimate Kruger safari lodges, Singita Sweni Lodge accommodates a mere 12 guests, ensuring an exclusive and personalized experience.

With its architecture inspired by the abodes of local animals, Sweni Lodge harmoniously blends into the verdant banks of the Sweni River. The awe-inspiring riverside suites, elevated on stilts, feature floor-to-ceiling glass that accentuates a seamless fusion between the interiors and the captivating Kruger landscape. Immerse yourself in the art of archery, indulge in luxurious spa treatments, savor the rarest South African wines, or embark on a gourmet safari experience at the renowned Singita Community Culinary School. Situated in a remote wilderness area renowned for its majestic lion prides, Singita Sweni Lodge nestles along the meandering Sweni River. The lodge’s dark wood structures and shades of green effortlessly blend with the natural surroundings.

Six luxurious suites, adorned with full-length glass walls, offer breathtaking views of the riverine forest. Each suite boasts an en-suite bathroom with an outdoor shower, a comfortable living area, and an elevated viewing deck complete with a daybed.

The lodge’s facilities include a dining area, bar, swimming pool, wine cellar, laundry service, and an open-sided lounge with a cozy fireplace. Guests can expect the ultimate safari experience, with a plethora of wildlife, including the renowned Big Five, and over 500 species of birds. Activities offered include twice-daily open-vehicle game drives led by expert trackers, guided walking safaris, and stargazing.

• Foodies /Gourmets
• Discerning travellers

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Singita Boulders

Nestled within a private concession spanning 130km2/50mi2, Singita Lebombo Lodge perches high on a cliff, providing a breathtaking view of Kruger. While exuding a contemporary elegance, the suites with their glass walls seamlessly blend into the natural surroundings. Wine enthusiasts will be delighted by Singita’s extensive cellar, which boasts a premium selection of wines that can be enjoyed during personalized wine tastings and meals.

Situated in the serene Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, Singita Boulders Lodge has been meticulously designed to maximize its tranquil setting. It stands as one of the most exceptional 5-star lodges in the Kruger, offering impeccable service, extraordinary culinary experiences, and consistently remarkable Big 5 game viewing. For an exclusive and luxurious safari adventure in Kruger National Park, Singita Boulders is an unparalleled choice.

Notable highlights of this lodge include the opportunity for up-close encounters with the Big 5, indulgent spa treatments, an unmatched reputation for leopard sightings, an exceptional wine cellar, and the breathtaking views provided by the front-facing glass walls.

With a sensitive design that enhances its peaceful ambiance within the pristine Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, Boulders Lodge stands as one of the premier 5-star lodges in Kruger. It promises a safari experience in Kruger National Park that is unparalleled in luxury and exclusivity. The service is attentive and discreet, the culinary experiences are beyond compare, and the sightings of the Big 5 are among the most dependable in all of Africa.

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Balule Nature Reserve

Balule Nature Reserve, situated in South Africa’s North West Province, is a vast protected area that shares open borders with Kruger National Park. In an effort to provide ample space for animals and prevent overgrazing, numerous farmers in the 1990s dismantled their fences, transforming Balule into the premier private game reserve in the country. Nestled in the captivating Waterberg region, this conservation area is renowned for its abundant and diverse wildlife, encompassing a myriad of animals, birds, reptiles, and insects. Within its borders, one can encounter the highly endangered African wild dog, African leopard, rhinoceros, South African cheetah, lion, and of course, the majestic African elephant, which serves as a popular attraction for tourists. Moreover, Balule Nature Reserve boasts awe-inspiring natural landscapes, characterized by towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, meandering rivers, and a vibrant array of fauna. However, the most captivating feature of this enchanting sanctuary is the picturesque Olifants Elephant River, where during the dry season, large herds of elephants and buffalo gather, creating a truly mesmerizing spectacle.

Best Suited For – Everyone 

Q1: What are some of the best safari lodges in Kruger National Park?

Some of the best safari lodges in Kruger National Park include Singita Lebombo Lodge, Lion Sands Ivory Lodge, and Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge.

Q2: What makes these safari lodges stand out among others in Kruger National Park?

These safari lodges stand out due to their exceptional luxury accommodations, stunning locations within the park, exclusive wildlife viewing opportunities, and top-notch service and amenities. They offer a unique and unforgettable safari experience for visitors.

Q3.Which safari lodge in Kruger National Park is renowned for its eco-friendly practices?

Singita Sweni Lodge is recognized for its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices, making it a top choice for environmentally conscious travelers.

Q4. What distinguishes Lion Sands Ivory Lodge from other lodges in terms of accommodation?

Lion Sands Ivory Lodge is known for its ultra-luxurious treehouse-style villas, offering guests a unique and intimate experience with the African wilderness.

Q5. Which Kruger National Park lodge is celebrated for its wildlife photography opportunities?

Londolozi Private Game Reserve, with lodges like Londolozi Founders Camp, is renowned for its exceptional wildlife photography opportunities, attracting enthusiasts from around the world.

Q6. What types of activities can guests enjoy at Ulusaba Private Game Reserve?

Guests at Ulusaba Private Game Reserve can enjoy a range of activities, including game drives, guided walks, and even hot air balloon safaris, providing diverse ways to experience the wildlife.

Q7. How does Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge contribute to a sustainable safari experience?

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge is committed to sustainability, implementing eco-friendly practices and supporting local communities, making it a choice for travelers seeking responsible tourism.

Q8. Are there budget-friendly safari lodges in Kruger National Park, and if so, which ones are recommended?

Yes, there are budget-friendly options in Kruger National Park such as Satara Rest Camp and Lower Sabie Rest Camp, providing more affordable accommodations while still offering an authentic safari experience.

It’s time for you to take the decision!! Kruger National Park with its rich wildlife is waiting for you!! 

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Exclusive private guided kruger national park safaris.

The Kruger Safari Co is dedicated to offer private safaris to one of the finest safari destinations in Africa, the iconic Kruger Park and the world-renowned private reserves of Greater Kruger. We offer a range of exclusive private guided Kruger safari packages.

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3 Day Private Luxury Kruger Hotel Safari

Experience the ultimate wildlife adventure with a 3-day safari at the Kruger Gate Hotel. From the moment you arrive in Johannesburg, your journey begins with a private transfer to the hotel, ensuring a seamless and comfortable start to your safari experience.

Upon reaching the Kruger Gate Hotel, you’ll be warmly welcomed and check-in to your comfortable accommodation. Take some time to unwind and settle in before embarking on your first private safari drive in the afternoon. With your knowledgeable safari guide by your side, you’ll explore the vast expanses of the renowned Kruger National Park, home to a diverse range of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for sightings of elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalos, collectively known as the Big Five.

The second day promises a full day of thrilling wildlife encounters. After a hearty breakfast, you’ll embark on a private full-day safari drive, covering different areas of the park. Your expert guide will lead you deeper into the wilderness, sharing fascinating insights about the animals, their behavior, and the surrounding ecosystem. Capture memorable moments and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the awe-inspiring landscapes.

On the final day, rise early for a private morning safari drive. The African bush awakens with a symphony of sounds and the golden hues of the sunrise. This is your chance to witness the magic of the wilderness in its most vibrant moments. Spot elusive predators on the prowl and catch glimpses of the park’s abundant birdlife. After the morning drive, return to the hotel, savor a delicious group meal, and bid farewell to the Kruger Gate Hotel.

To conclude your safari experience, a private transfer will take you back to Johannesburg, ensuring a comfortable and convenient journey. Reflect on the incredible wildlife encounters, the natural beauty of the Kruger National Park, and the memories created during your unforgettable safari adventure.

Throughout your stay, you will enjoy group meals at the hotel’s restaurant, offering a chance to share stories and experiences with fellow safari enthusiasts. The Kruger Gate Hotel provides a comfortable and welcoming environment, complemented by exceptional service, allowing you to relax and recharge after each exhilarating day in the wilderness.

• Collection from OR Tambo Airport Bus Terminals by 07:00am

ZAR On Request

4 Day Private Luxury Kruger Hotel Safari

Embark on an unforgettable 4-day safari adventure at the Kruger Gate Hotel, where you’ll discover the wonders of the Kruger National Park. From the moment you step off your private transfer from Johannesburg, you’ll be immersed in the beauty and thrill of the African wilderness.

Upon arrival at the Kruger Gate Hotel, you’ll be greeted warmly and settle into your comfortable accommodation. Get ready to embark on an afternoon private safari drive, guided by an experienced safari expert. As you traverse the park, be prepared to encounter the majestic Big Five and an array of other wildlife species. Your guide will share their knowledge about the animals, plants, and ecosystems, ensuring a rich and educational safari experience.

The following 2 days brings a full day of safari exploration. After a delicious group breakfast, set off on an extended private safari drive, covering different areas of the Kruger National Park. Marvel at the vast landscapes, spot elusive creatures, and capture stunning photographs. Take a break for a picnic lunch in the heart of the wilderness, surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature.

For your final day, you have the option to embark on an additional private safari drive or choose from various activities available at the hotel. Indulge in a spa treatment, take a dip in the pool, or simply relax amidst the natural beauty surrounding you. Reflect on the incredible wildlife encounters and unforgettable moments you’ve experienced throughout your safari.

As your safari draws to a close, a private transfer will take you back to Johannesburg, allowing you to reminisce about your extraordinary journey. The group meals provided at the hotel’s restaurant create an opportunity to bond with fellow travelers, sharing stories and experiences from your safari expeditions.

5 Day Private Luxury Kruger Hotel Safari

Embark on an unforgettable 5-day safari adventure at the Kruger Gate Hotel, where you’ll discover the wonders of the Kruger National Park. From the moment you step off your private transfer from Johannesburg, you’ll be immersed in the beauty and thrill of the African wilderness.

The following 3 days brings a full day of safari exploration. After a delicious group breakfast, set off on an extended private safari drive, covering different areas of the Kruger National Park. Marvel at the vast landscapes, spot elusive creatures, and capture stunning photographs. Take a break for a picnic lunch in the heart of the wilderness, surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature.

These destinations offer the best of South Africa’s famous safari excursions, dedicated client care and 24/7 support and travel advise at the best prices.

With decades of combined experience in the safari industry, we can guarantee outstanding accommodation to suit all different budgets as well as an exciting collection of tours, including private customised tours.

Kruger Park is a 2 million-hectare reserve in the north-eastern corner of South Africa. Greater Kruger is an additional 180 000 hectares of protected wilderness on the Park’s western border. The Kruger region is the largest and one of the best safari destinations in southern Africa when taken as a whole.

If you are thinking about going on a private safari trip in South Africa, you might be wondering whether you should stay in Kruger National Park or one of the private reserves that surround it.

Kruger National Park is South Africa’s flagship national park and one of the most famous safari destinations in Africa. The Kruger region’s magical mix of spectacular scenery, incredible animal sightings, and rich cultural heritage is of the most biologically diverse in the world, stretching across the Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces with shared boundaries with Mozambique and Zimbabwe. Kruger Park is divided into four tourism eco-zones, each of which offers something different to wildlife and nature enthusiasts.

Kruger Park has 5 private concessions and 15 luxury safari lodges to choose from, each as beautiful and perfect as the next. Where you stay is determined by your interests in wildlife and nature, but you can rest assured that each luxury safari lodge promises you the safari trip of your dreams.

The five concessions which allow for private travel are:

Singita Private Concession at the confluence of two rivers close to the Mozambique boundary and home to the ultra-luxury Singita Lebombo and Singita Sweni safari lodges; Imbali Private Concession in central Kruger Park and home to Imbali Safari Lodge and Hamilton’s Tented Camp; Jock of the Bushveld Private Concession where the Mitomeni and Biyamiti rivers meet in southern Kruger Park, and home to Jock Safari Lodge and Fitzpatrick’s at Jock; Lukimbi Private Concession bordered by three rivers in southern Kruger and home to Lukimbi Safari Lodge; and the Tinga Private Concession, also in southern Kruger with the Sand and Sabie rivers passing through. The concession is home to the exclusive Tina Narina and Tinga Legends Lodges.

Greater Kruger National Park is comprised of seven unfenced protected nature reserves as well as several private game reserves.

Greater Park’s luxury lodges offer visitors an exclusive safari excursion that includes daily guided game drives in open safari vehicles with a professional ranger, luxurious accommodation, and world-class service.

There are no crowds at the lodges, nor are there any traffic jams during animal sightings. The accommodations are immaculate, the service is excellent, and the safari experience is unforgettable.

The benefits of an exclusive private safari

The Kruger region is easily accessible by private our vehicle from Johannesburg. Kruger Park or Greater Kruger is a scenic 5- to 6-hour drive from Johannesburg.

Guests have exclusive access to private land and are taken on daily guided game drives in open safari vehicles accompanied by a dedicated ranger and tracker.

Professional game rangers and trackers employed by private reserves and concessions are among the best in southern Africa. Their knowledge of the bushveld is extensive, their approach to client care and safety is flawless, and because the safari lodges are small, your ranger will usually spend time with you in camp. You can also join a ranger on a guided walk through the surrounding bushveld.

Animal sightings are guaranteed because rangers and trackers communicate with one another via radio and go out of their way to find the best animal sightings.

Most luxury safari lodges are located on riverbanks, overlooking a large waterhole, or on an escarpment overlooking the vast savanna plains, which provides excellent ‘sofa game viewing.’ Other areas concentrate on guided wilderness walking trails in outlying areas.

These safari lodges typically employ award-winning chefs, and the food and wine are frequently as memorable as the animal encounters. Many of them are known for their unique South African cuisine.

The luxury lodge rates are typically ‘all-inclusive,’ which means you can expect three delicious meals per day, delectable pastries for High Tea, and unique South African snacks for sundowners. Many have their own cellars stocked with a fine selection of local wines, gins, craft beers, and spirits.

The majority of Kruger luxury lodges have their own spa and, in some cases, a fully-equipped gym. In between daily game drives, you can pamper yourself with a wonderful pampering session by skilled therapists and masseuses.

Types of private guided Kruger safaris

Budget kruger safaris.

Several private 3 to 9 Day Budget Safaris can be arranged into then Kruger National Park, making use of the standard accommodation offered.

Mid-range Kruger Safaris

Mid-range Kruger Safaris provide excellent value for money for budget-conscious travellers. We chose quality 3 to 4 star accommodations and included more meals and activities without overburdening the tour.

Luxury Kruger Safaris

Luxury Kruger Park Safaris provide fully-inclusive packages for the discerning traveller, with accommodations ranging from four to five star establishments that provide exclusive and personalised service. Our luxury private Kruger Park Safaris include return road transfers from Johannesburg, meals, and open vehicle safari drives.

Kruger National Park private 3 to 5 Day Safaris comprises the following:

• Hamiltons Tented Lodge Safaris
• Imbali Lodge Safaris
• Hoyo Hoyo Lodge Safaris
• Other Kruger Park Lodge Safaris

Sabi Sands Game Reserve private safaris comprises the following:

• Sabi Sabi Safaris
• Londolozi Safaris
• MalaMala Safaris
• Other Sabi Sands Safaris

Kapama Private Reserve private safaris comprises the following:

• Kapama River Lodge Safaris
• Kapama Southern Camp Safaris
• Kapama Buffalo Camp Safaris
• Kapama Karula Safaris

Thornybush Game Reserve private safaris comprises the following:

• Saseka Tented Lodge
• Thornybush River Lodge
• Thornybush Game Lodge
• Jakkalberry Game Lodge

Timbavati Game Reserve private safaris comprises the following:

• Kambaku River Sands
• Kambaku Safari Lodge
• Tunda Tula Safari Lodge
• Umlani Bush Camp

Klaserie Game Reserve private safaris comprises the following:

• Senalala Safari Lodge
• Baobab Ridge Safari Lodge
• Klaserie Camps – coming soon
• Other Klaserie Lodges – coming soon

Balule Game Reserve private safaris comprises the following:

• Greenfire Game Lodge
• Pondoro Game Lodge
• Tremisana Lodge

Manyeleti Game Reserve private safaris comprises the following:

• Tintswalo Safari Lodge
• Khoka Moya Tented Safari lodge
• Mantobeni Tented Safari Lodge

What is a typical day like when staying at a luxury lodge?

At a luxury safari lodge in Kruger, every day is different, but also refreshingly similar. The predictable soothing routine of bushveld retreats allows you to completely relax and shake off your city stress. Here’s what you can expect:

The earlier you get up and start your game drive, the better. There will be time before leaving for a good cup of coffee and rusks, South Africa’s favourite breakfast snack.

The bushveld comes alive with sound and activity as the sun rises. Early mornings in the bushveld are magical, with the soft glow of the sunrise glistening off morning dew, the soft call of waking birds, and the fresh scent of a new day.

The early morning game drive lasts about three hours, depending on what you see. You might end up spending more time watching a majestic leopard in a tree or a pride of lions on a kill.

Daily game drives are conducted in an open safari vehicle accompanied by a ranger and tracker. Self-drive safari tours are not permitted at the Kruger luxury safari lodges.

The guided morning drive is interrupted for snacks and drinks at a stunning vantage point where everyone is allowed to get out of the vehicle. As the day progresses, the animals retreat deeper into the dense bush, and it is time to return to the lodge.

When guests return to the lodge, a hearty breakfast awaits. Enjoy it on the deck, which usually has a beautiful view of a waterhole or river. You then have a few hours to unwind in your luxury suite, around the pool, or by joining a guided bush walk with your guide.

Delicious meals and tables laden with pastries are just as important as the wildlife and scenery on your Africa safari excursion. Lunch is usually served on the deck, and High Tea is served before everyone departs for sundowner game drives.

Back in the open safari vehicles, you set off in search of new animal sightings and to explore different areas of the private reserve.

Your ranger will take you to a beautiful overlook for sundowners and snacks. As the heat subsides and the nocturnal animals begin to awaken, sip crisp wine or G&Ts and soak up the peace and tranquillity of the beautiful bushveld surroundings. In the dark, take a leisurely drive back to the lodge and experience the bushveld at night.

Dinner under the stars around a roaring fire pit has to be one of the best parts of a Kruger safari tour. Allow the sounds of the bushveld night to soothe you while you enjoy the company of your fellow guests, sharing sighting stories and feasting on a delicious meal.

You might also like our  Kruger Park Self Drive Safari  or  Kruger National Park Couples Packages.

Package Safaris:

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© 2024 Krugerpark.travel | All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions The Kruger Safari Co. is a destination management company (DMC) and is not an entity of the South African National Parks Board (SANparks).

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Safari : comment arpenter le Parc Kruger sur la piste des «Big Five» comme un Sud-Africain

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Éléphants, lions, buffles, léopards, rhinocéros... À une nuit d'avion de la France, nos conseils pour sillonner le triangle d'or en quatre jours, au sud du parc, en liberté et sans se ruiner. Gueuletons comme un vrai Sud-Africain en prime.

Découvrir le parc national Kruger

Étape 1 : berg-en-dal à skukuza, étape 2 : skukuza, étape 3 : vers crocodile bridge.

Sanctuaire des grands mammifères, biosphère des merveilles minuscules, arche de Noé sous l'arc-en-ciel, festin à ciel ouvert pour les prédateurs lâchés derrière 170 000 antilopes, le « Kruger » demeure un privilège sud-africain. Moins de 20% d'étrangers sur son million de visiteurs annuels, un territoire à la sauvagerie intelligemment préservée par une organisation quasi militaire, 20.000 km² – plus de deux fois la Corse - à sillonner patiemment à 25 km/h, des bungalows aux lits bien faits, l'atmosphère surannée autour des barbecues du soir, quand grillent les filets de koudous, nous sommes bien chez les gens d'ici. Survie plutôt facile pour un safari : savoir conduire, allumer un feu. Tout le reste se règle en sans contact à la boutique.

• Croisière partenaire Afrique du Sud | 16 jours | De l’océan Atlantique à l'océan Indien

Frontalier du Mozambique, desservi par trois aéroports, offrant une vingtaine de camps de nuit, de restaurants et de boutiques, le parc national Kruger s'achemine fièrement vers son centenaire en 2026. On parcourt librement un réseau carrossable, mi-goudron, mi-piste, de 3500 km, donnant accès à seulement 1,5% de ses paysages. Essentiel : disposer d'une carte de la réserve et, un peu comme à la bataille navale, pouvoir s'orienter en suivant la nomenclature routière H1, H2…, S1, S2. Le GPS en ligne droite n'étant d'aucun bénéfice pour croiser les 2000 lions, les 10.000 girafes, les 15.000 éléphants. Accès par la porte de Malelane, sortie par Crocodile Bridge.

NOTRE ROAD TRIP POUR DÉCOUVRIR LE SUD DU PARC KRUGER EN 4 JOURS/3 NUITS

• Étape 1 : Berg-en-Dal à Skukuza (1 jour).
• Étape 2 : Skukuza (2 jours).
• Étape 3 : Vers Crocodile Bridge (1 jour).

Notre road-trip débute le matin tôt au camp de Berg-en-Dal . On aura réservé la nuit de la veille sur place et les suivantes via le site sanparks.org , goûté les emblématiques bobotie et melktert au restaurant et bien dormi. Sans oublier un plein d'essence chez le pétrolier français qui a l'exclusivité du parc, le téléphone chargé et des bouteilles d'eau.

1 JOUR – L'AXE DES PIONNIERS / 110 KM – 5H.

Premier café et au volant à 6h15, cap plein nord. Des berges de la Crocodile à celles de la Sabie, une immersion broussarde par les pistes des premiers explorateurs de la fin du XIXe siècle. Votre co-pilote tient la carte en main : S110, S114, S25, S119, S118, H3 nord, S113, S23 sud, S114 nord, S112, S22, S114 nord, H1-1 .

Guetter les assoiffés matinaux au point d'observation près du Matjulu (674 m), et songer au jeune ranger qui se fit croquer par un léopard sous les yeux de ses hôtes en 1998.

Observer les oiseaux, peut-être les rhinocéros, depuis l'affût de Gardenia, une cuvette argileuse et remonter la rivière Mlambane bordée d'arbres majestueux jusqu'au point d'eau d'Ampie .

Faire une pause au site d'Afsaal 2h après le départ : le temps d'un petit déjeuner de saucisse boerwors à la cafétéria, en surveillant d'un œil les singes voleurs. Alentours, savane ouverte giboyeuse grâce aux plantes nutritives sur les affleurements de gabbro.

Suivre le cours de la Biyamiti par la piste sauvage qui serpente entre blocs de granit et termitières. Sortez les jumelles pour apercevoir les animaux dans les taillis. Instants de beauté brute.

Croiser la trace du chemin de fer Selati qui, au début du XXe siècle, prit le relais des chars à bœufs. Vers Renosterkoppies , saluer la mémoire du chercheur d'or français Auguste Robert et du trafiquant Eugène Oppenheim, né à Pigalle. Aventuriers-brigands, ces pionniers sans vergogne fondèrent la légende du bush, avant que ne survienne le «père» de la réserve, James Stevenson-Hamilton, dit « Skukuza », qui repose là, sur le dôme de Shirimantanga .

Sacrifier au rituel d'un beau braai à la mode locale devant le bungalow. Au coucher du soleil, on fait claquer les cannettes mousseuses en alimentant le feu de bois aux veines rouges. Bientôt le moment de faire dorer ces côtes d'agneau du Karoo aux herbes amères, et de lever le fruit mûr d'un pinotage (le cépage endémique) vers la Croix du sud, magie totale.

JOUR 1 – LE TRIANGLE D'OR / 116 KM – 4H45.

Profiter en matinée de l'offre très diversifiée de Skukuza , la «capitale» du Kruger. Piscine, spa, golf 9 trous, cinéma, charmant musée, bistrots sur le quai aménagé de la Selati, ancienne gare de la Franco-Belge du chemin de fer. Provision de divers biltongs , bœuf, autruche, springbok pour la piste plus tard. Quitter le camp vers 12h30 pour cette boucle renommée : H1-2, H12, S30, S29, H10 nord, H1-2 .

Admirer la diversité des éco zones sur les 43 premiers kms, au bord de la Sand , de la Sabie puis sur la Salitjie , une piste de toute beauté qui file vers la terre à lions, du granit au basalte.

Observer les monts Lebombo à l'horizon droit, tout au vertige de cette savane des commencements du monde à la forte densité animalière. Arrêt-émotion au point panoramique de Nkumbe .

Garder du temps en chemin retour pour les sites Leepan-Olifantdrinkgat-Mantimahle , un festin botanique porté par des roches marines du Gondwana, bien repéré par les bêtes.

Se retaper au resto en dînant d'un filet de gnou saucé au shiraz du Cedarberg suivi de l'addictif Malva Pudding , qu'appréciait déjà, fin XVIIIe siècle, François Levaillant, le grand ornithologue français du Cap.

JOUR 2 – EDEN DE LA SABIE / 46 KM – 3H.

À la pizzeria, on se commande une phacochère-avocat et une koudou-bolognaise pour bruncher sur l' aire de Nkuhlu et on attrape un souvenir local à la boutique, par exemple un couteau Honey Badger, du nougat de Tzaneen aux noix de macadamia et des mangues séchées du Limpopo. En route pour les Champs-Élysées du Kruger un soir de victoire, la très empruntée H4-1 . Tous les animaux du parc semblent avoir l'adresse.

Partir vers 10h et faire un stop sous les frondaisons acajou des Mahogany au pique-nique populaire de Nkuhlu , en tête à tête avec la rivière. Un peu de chaleur humaine sur la piste fauve.

Observer « l'étiquette » Kruger quand ça embouteille. On ne double pas, on ne sort pas la tête par la fenêtre pour selfiser une lionne nerveuse, on ne taquine pas l'éléphant car il sait soulever votre voiture.

S'installer au camp historique de Lower Sabie (1930), si vous avez réservé des mois à l'avance, et faire une marche guidée avec les rangers du Kruger en milieu d'après-midi. Gin tonic d'au revoir sur la terrasse panoramique, entrecôtes à la braise, liqueur de Marula sur glace.

1 JOUR – SAVANE DE LAPORTE / 35 KM – 1H30.

On lève le camp en fonction de la suite du voyage, par la route vers Johannesbourg ou en avion. Les téméraires auront fait une bush walk ultra-matinale avec le bureau des rangers. Vers le sud et le poste-frontière du Mozambique, on dévale la H4-2 créée il y a plus d'un siècle par le broussard Cecil de Laporte au cœur du domaine réservé des croqueurs, léopards et autres félins.

Songer à ceux qui, en 1725 comme le Hollandais François de Cuiper, en 1846 comme le Portugais Joao Albasini, en 1880 comme le Britannique Percy FitzPatrick flanqué de son Staffordshire Bull Terrier «Jock», osaient arpenter les parages à pied en quête de richesses rapides. Rude est la mémoire, mais des plaques subsistent autour de Gomondwane , dévorées par le temps.

Imprimer, avant de retrouver le monde des Hommes, cette géographie des origines où figuiers et acacias, tenant en respect les plaines herbeuses, ourlent les eaux mortelles de la Crocodile , gavées d'hippopotames.

Lire le dossier Safari : guide de voyage, infos et conseils du Figaro

• Où partir pour un premier safari en famille avec les enfants ?
• En Afrique du Sud, le premier safari au monde accessible aux fauteuils roulants
• Buffle, éléphants ou impalas : au Mozambique, la renaissance du parc national de Gorongosa
• En Tanzanie, la grande épopée de la migration des gnous
• Afrique du Sud

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Top 10 des plus beaux châteaux à visiter près de Paris

Si celui de Versailles est le plus célèbre, d’autres châteaux impressionnants sont à visiter autour de Paris. Nous en avons sélectionné dix, qui nous font voyager dans le temps.

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The Comprehensive Guide to Moscow Nightlife

• Posted on April 14, 2018 July 26, 2018
• by Kings of Russia
• 8 minute read

Moscow’s nightlife scene is thriving, and arguably one of the best the world has to offer – top-notch Russian women, coupled with a never-ending list of venues, Moscow has a little bit of something for everyone’s taste. Moscow nightlife is not for the faint of heart – and if you’re coming, you better be ready to go Friday and Saturday night into the early morning.

This comprehensive guide to Moscow nightlife will run you through the nuts and bolts of all you need to know about Moscow’s nightclubs and give you a solid blueprint to operate with during your time in Moscow.

What you need to know before hitting Moscow nightclubs

Prices in moscow nightlife.

Before you head out and start gaming all the sexy Moscow girls , we have to talk money first. Bring plenty because in Moscow you can never bring a big enough bankroll. Remember, you’re the man so making a fuzz of not paying a drink here or there will not go down well.

Luckily most Moscow clubs don’t do cover fees. Some electro clubs will charge 15-20$, depending on their lineup. There’s the odd club with a minimum spend of 20-30$, which you’ll drop on drinks easily. By and large, you can scope out the venues for free, which is a big plus.

Bottle service is a great deal in Moscow. At top-tier clubs, it starts at 1,000$. That’ll go a long way with premium vodka at 250$, especially if you have three or four guys chipping in. Not to mention that it’s a massive status boost for getting girls, especially at high-end clubs.

Without bottle service, you should estimate a budget of 100-150$ per night. That is if you drink a lot and hit the top clubs with the hottest girls. Scale down for less alcohol and more basic places.

Dress code & Face control

Door policy in Moscow is called “face control” and it’s always the guy behind the two gorillas that gives the green light if you’re in or out.

In Moscow nightlife there’s only one rule when it comes to dress codes:

You can never be underdressed.

People dress A LOT sharper than, say, in the US and that goes for both sexes. For high-end clubs, you definitely want to roll with a sharp blazer and a pocket square, not to mention dress shoes in tip-top condition. Those are the minimum requirements to level the playing field vis a vis with other sharply dressed guys that have a lot more money than you do. Unless you plan to hit explicit electro or underground clubs, which have their own dress code, you are always on the money with that style.

Getting in a Moscow club isn’t as hard as it seems: dress sharp, speak English at the door and look like you’re in the mood to spend all that money that you supposedly have (even if you don’t). That will open almost any door in Moscow’s nightlife for you.

Types of Moscow Nightclubs

In Moscow there are four types of clubs with the accompanying female clientele:

High-end clubs:

These are often crossovers between restaurants and clubs with lots of tables and very little space to dance. Heavy accent on bottle service most of the time but you can work the room from the bar as well. The hottest and most expensive girls in Moscow go there. Bring deep pockets and lots of self-confidence and you have a shot at swooping them.

Regular Mid-level clubs:

They probably resemble more what you’re used to in a nightclub: big dancefloors, stages and more space to roam around. Bottle service will make you stand out more but you can also do well without. You can find all types of girls but most will be in the 6-8 range. Your targets should always be the girls drinking and ideally in pairs. It’s impossible not to swoop if your game is at least half-decent.

Basic clubs/dive bars:

Usually spots with very cheap booze and lax face control. If you’re dressed too sharp and speak no Russian, you might attract the wrong type of attention so be vigilant. If you know the local scene you can swoop 6s and 7s almost at will. Usually students and girls from the suburbs.

Electro/underground clubs:

Home of the hipsters and creatives. Parties there don’t mean meeting girls and getting drunk but doing pills and spacing out to the music. Lots of attractive hipster girls if that is your niche. That is its own scene with a different dress code as well.

What time to go out in Moscow

Moscow nightlife starts late. Don’t show up at bars and preparty spots before 11pm because you’ll feel fairly alone. Peak time is between 1am and 3am. That is also the time of Moscow nightlife’s biggest nuisance: concerts by artists you won’t know and who only distract your girls from drinking and being gamed. From 4am to 6am the regular clubs are emptying out but plenty of people, women included, still hit up one of the many afterparty clubs. Those last till well past 10am.

As far as days go: Fridays and Saturdays are peak days. Thursday is an OK day, all other days are fairly weak and you have to know the right venues.

The Ultimate Moscow Nightclub List

Short disclaimer: I didn’t add basic and electro clubs since you’re coming for the girls, not for the music. This list will give you more options than you’ll be able to handle on a weekend.

Preparty – start here at 11PM

Classic restaurant club with lots of tables and a smallish bar and dancefloor. Come here between 11pm and 12am when the concert is over and they start with the actual party. Even early in the night tons of sexy women here, who lean slightly older (25 and up).

The second floor of the Ugolek restaurant is an extra bar with dim lights and house music tunes. Very small and cozy with a slight hipster vibe but generally draws plenty of attractive women too. A bit slower vibe than Valenok.

Very cool, spread-out venue that has a modern library theme. Not always full with people but when it is, it’s brimming with top-tier women. Slow vibe here and better for grabbing contacts and moving on.

High-end: err on the side of being too early rather than too late because of face control.

Secret Room

Probably the top venue at the moment in Moscow . Very small but wildly popular club, which is crammed with tables but always packed. They do parties on Thursdays and Sundays as well. This club has a hip-hop/high-end theme, meaning most girls are gold diggers, IG models, and tattooed hip hop chicks. Very unfavorable logistics because there is almost no room no move inside the club but the party vibe makes it worth it. Strict face control.

Close to Secret Room and with a much more favorable and spacious three-part layout. This place attracts very hot women but also lots of ball busters and fakes that will leave you blue-balled. Come early because after 4am it starts getting empty fast. Electronic music.

A slightly kitsch restaurant club that plays Russian pop and is full of gold diggers, semi-pros, and men from the Caucasus republics. Thursday is the strongest night but that dynamic might be changing since Secret Room opened its doors. You can swoop here but it will be a struggle.

Mid-level: your sweet spot in terms of ease and attractiveness of girls for an average budget.

Started going downwards in 2018 due to lax face control and this might get even worse with the World Cup. In terms of layout one of the best Moscow nightclubs because it’s very big and bottle service gives you a good edge here. Still attracts lots of cute girls with loose morals but plenty of provincial girls (and guys) as well. Swooping is fairly easy here.

I haven’t been at this place in over a year, ever since it started becoming ground zero for drunken teenagers. Similar clientele to Icon but less chic, younger and drunker. Decent mainstream music that attracts plenty of tourists. Girls are easy here as well.

Sort of a Coyote Ugly (the real one in Moscow sucks) with party music and lots of drunken people licking each others’ faces. Very entertaining with the right amount of alcohol and very easy to pull in there. Don’t think about staying sober in here, you’ll hate it.

Artel Bessonitsa/Shakti Terrace

Electronic music club that is sort of a high-end place with an underground clientele and located between the teenager clubs Icon and Gipsy. Very good music but a bit all over the place with their vibe and their branding. You can swoop almost any type of girl here from high-heeled beauty to coked-up hipsters, provided they’re not too sober.

Afterparty: if by 5AM  you haven’t pulled, it’s time to move here.

Best afterparty spot in terms of trying to get girls. Pretty much no one is sober in there and savage gorilla game goes a long way. Lots of very hot and slutty-looking girls but it can be hard to tell apart who is looking for dick and who is just on drugs but not interested. If by 9-10am you haven’t pulled, it is probably better to surrender.

The hipster alternative for afterparties, where even more drugs are in play. Plenty of attractive girls there but you have to know how to work this type of club. A nicer atmosphere and better music but if you’re desperate to pull, you’ll probably go to Miks.

Weekday jokers: if you’re on the hunt for some sexy Russian girls during the week, here are two tips to make your life easier.

Chesterfield

Ladies night on Wednesdays means this place gets pretty packed with smashed teenagers and 6s and 7s. Don’t pull out the three-piece suit in here because it’s a “simpler” crowd. Definitely your best shot on Wednesdays.

If you haven’t pulled at Chesterfield, you can throw a Hail Mary and hit up Garage’s Black Music Wednesdays. Fills up really late but there are some cute Black Music groupies in here. Very small club. Thursday through Saturday they do afterparties and you have an excellent shot and swooping girls that are probably high.

Shishas Sferum

This is pretty much your only shot on Mondays and Tuesdays because they offer free or almost free drinks for women. A fairly low-class club where you should watch your drinks. As always the case in Moscow, there will be cute girls here on any day of the week but it’s nowhere near as good as on the weekend.

In a nutshell, that is all you need to know about where to meet Moscow girls in nightlife. There are tons of options, and it all depends on what best fits your style, based on the type of girls that you’re looking for.

Related Topics

• moscow girls
• moscow nightlife

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Get the most of your stay in Moscow

TOP-11 Moscow Parks to Visit

I have chosen the best 11 Moscow parks to visit and spend a beautiful time for you. Do not miss and choose one that you like the most – cycling, festivals, flowers, panoramic views and many other things are waiting for you!

Gorky Park (The Central Park of Culture and Leisure) – The main one of the Moscow Parks

In my opinion this park could be called the main park of the city. Why? Because of its huge territory, the central location and the amount of people visiting the park daily.  It was founded in 1928 and in 2011 it was totally reconstructed. Now it pleases visitors with modern objects and soft green lawns.

• Oktybrskaya or Park Kultuty metro station, Krimsky Val, 9

The Gorky park is a the right choice for everyone! The youth will like a free WiFi, bicycles, skateboards and other rentals; the couples will enjoy spending time near the river, watching a sunset; parents will appreciate colorful playgrounds and a room for mother and child. Everyone can find something for themselves: from yoga classes  to watching movies in a cozy summer cinema, from dance classes to volleyball playground. Gorky Park is also the venue for all kinds of exhibitions, festivals, events for children and adults. During the winter there is one of the biggest skating rinks in the park.

Museon Art Park – A Second Gorky they say

“Museon” is located on the opposite side of Krimsky Val street. And right now some people believe that Gorky and Museon together is a one space sharing the same beauty.

• Oktybrskaya or Park Kultuty metro station, Krimsky Val, 2

The Park of Arts was named this way because there is the largest composition of open-air sculptures in Russia. In its territory there are already more than 1000 unique exhibits: from monuments of the socialist realism era to various kinds of contemporary art. But this is not all the attractions of the park. In recent years, “Museon” has become an important cultural site of the city. The park regularly hold many different concerts, festivals, educational projects in the field of art and design. There is a Central House of the Artist, a comfortable summer cinema and other attractions on territory. Be sure to stroll pedestrian Crimean embankment, which looks like a modern park.

Neskuchny Garden – True Russian Nature is Here

Neskuchny garden is located on the right bank of the Moscow River. Today it is also seen as a part of the Gorky Park. This landscape park is one of the oldest in the city and is protected by the state. Its name was received from the Neskuchnoye Estate of  Prince Trubetskoi which is still located in the park.

• Leninsky Prospekt metro station, Leninsky Prospect, 30

This park is famous mostly for its location close to the Gorky park. It is a quite place with true nature, lots of trees and squirrels and also ancient architecture. As in every park, there are sports and playgrounds, cafes and even a football field.

Zaryadye Park – 5 Steps Away From The Red Square

The area of this brand new park was opened only in September 2017 and located in the very heart of Moscow – right near the Red Square.

• Open from 10AM to 10PM
• Teatralnaya, Okhotnyi ryad, Ploschad Revolutsii

The park has 4 zones, each of them represent different parts of Russian landscapes. Above the river there is a floating bridge from where you get to see one of the best panoramic views on Moscow. Other attractions of the park are 5D cinema where you can take a flight above Moscow, few cafes and restaurants, pretty lakes with fishes and old preserved churches. In addition there is still being built a  philharmonic hall, covered with a huge dome and an Ice cage where the temperature will always stay below zero degrees.

When you are on the Red Square do not miss it!

All-Russia Exhibition Center (VDNKh) – The Soviet Style Moscow Park

Park VDNKh – one of the most famous parks in Moscow. This park is one of the sights of the city as it hasn’t changed much since the Soviet era.

• VDNKh metro station, Prospect Mira, 119

The symbol of VDNKh is a fountain with 16 women symbolizing the friendship of the nations of the USSR. Around this fountain there are all the pavilions representing 16 republics. Now inside the pavilions you find various shops, cafes and exhibitions. If you go deep inside the park you will find a rocket Vostok and and an aircraft. What is funny the inside of the aircraft there is actually a photo exhibition. Near the northern entrance you there is a famous sculpture “Worker and Kolkhoz Woman”. It is extremely famous among Russians as all the movies by Mosfilm corporation used to start with the picture of this statue. But if you go further inside the park you will reach a very calm area. A lake is there, forest and birds singing. Since the park occupies a large area I suggest you to rent a bicycle.

Sokolniki Park – A Place For A Hunt Or For Leisure?

The park got its name because of the royal falconry, which took place there in the past when there was a dense forest. (Sokol means a falcon.) In 2011 it was significantly transformed: updated lawns, landscaped ponds and picnic areas, restored summer cinema and theater, a large rose garden, sports grounds, bicycle paths and other things.

• Sokolniki metro station, Sokolnichesky Val, 1, p. 1

From the main entrance along the alley you can walk to the Sokolniki circle, where 8 alleys form 9 sectors, in each of them you will find trees of the same breed.  The park is famous for its rosary, as well as flower decoration. On the territory of the park there are concert halls, a library, amusement zone, dances zone and many many other attractions. In winter the park has a skating rink (a free of charge one) and ski runs. During the warm season you can rent a bicycle.

Tsaritsino Park – A Different World Inside Moscow

Here you can walk for hours, admiring the most beautiful nature and magnificent architecture.

• Open from 6AM to 12AM
• Tsaritsyno metro station, Dolsky, 1

The most amazing part of the park is the lake with a light and musical fountain. Every evening the fountain starts the show. Lights and music combined make you feel like you are not in Moscow but in a fairy tale. The park is also well equipped for sports lovers and healthy lifestyle. There are volleyball and basketball courts, a tennis court, sports facilities for acrobatics, bodybuilding equipment.

What I personally like about this park is the atmosphere. This place is actually far from the city center but I love going there anyway. Whenever I go there I feel like I left Moscow with all its hectic lifestyle. It is the place where I relax, enjoy myself or a company of my friends and feel kind of different. By the way totally suggested for a date!

Kolomenskoye Park – Combination Of Reserve and Architecture

The Kolomenskoye park is actually a Museum-Reserve. It is a former residence of Russian tsars and one of the most scenic places in Moscow.

• May to September – open from 8AM to 12AM, October to April – from 8AM to 9PM
• Kolomenskoye metro station, Andropov Ave, 39

 Alike with Tsaritsino park Kolomenskoye park has its own special atmosphere with all the architecture, trees, ponds and even a river bank. The park regularly hosts various folk festivals and different fairs. In summer time you can play with kites or rent a bicycle and ride around the huge area of the park.

I love the view that you get on the city from one of the hills near the river. I love the apple trees alleys and the beautiful churches. It is also a bit far from the city center but yet worth going there. One of my best friends even celebrated her wedding there.

Aptekarsky Garden or Botanical garden of the Moscow State University – The Best Botanical Garden in The World

Aptekar in Russian language means a pharmacist so basically it is a pharmacist’s garden. It was founded in 1706 by Peter The Great for growing medicinal plants for the royal family. But later they moved it from under the walls of the Kremlin to the current location.

• Open from 10AM to 8PM
• Prospect Mira metro station, Prospekt Mira, 26

In the botanical garden there are no attractions and noisy crowds of tourists. The area of the garden is not as big as any other park in Moscow. And the entrance is not free. But this exactly what makes this park one of the most comfortable in the city. In the Aptekarsky garden they grow thousands of different plants, flowers and trees. Some of the trees are more than 300 years old. They held different festivals there: flowers festivals, sand and ice sculptures expositions.

For me it is one of the most beautiful parks not only in Moscow but in the world. I have never seen so many different flowers and plants anywhere else. And trust me I am a real park lover. And what is more the staff really takes care about every single tree or plant there, some of the trees have names and stories. I love it there and I think the price is really worth what you get.

Victory Park – A Park That Makes Us Remember The War

The park is located on the Poklonnaya Hill and it has one of the world’s largest memorial complexes dedicated to the World War II. The park was opened for the 50th anniversary of the Victory on May 9, 1995. It is also one of the main venues in the city for holding a variety of mass events.

• Park Pobedy metro station, Brothers Fonchenko, 7

On the main avenue of the park there are with 1418 fountains – exactly as long as the war lasted. Fountains make five water terraces, symbolizing five years of military operations. And in the center of the park there is the Museum of the Great Patriotic War. If you are interested in the history of the war do not miss it. The Poklonnaya Hill is a part of the park and from the hill you get one of the best views on the city of Moscow. And I could say this is the best place for watching the fireworks during the mass celebrations. But be aware it gets too crowded then. As in most of the other big parks you can rent a bicycle or rollers there.

Izmailovsky Park – A Mix of a Big Forest and Attractions

Izmaylovsky Park occupies a huge green territory, making up a large part of the Izmailovo district. The park consists of two parts: Izmaylovsky Park of Culture and Rest and the forest park of Izmailovo. First part is full of attractions and restaurants while the second one is like a real forest with pine trees, birch groves, beautiful clearings and ponds.

• Izmaylovskaya, Shosse Entuziastov or Partizanskaya metro stations, Izmaylovsky Park

It is easy to spend there a whole day. A large landscaped area and a lot of various entertainments for children and adults will help you not to get bored. An observation wheel, a boat station, children’s playgrounds, a dance floor, sports grounds, a skate park – all this is only a small part of the possible leisure activities. In the park there are bike paths and a rental services.

I don’t go there often to be honest. But the park is very very close whenever to a souvenir market on Partizanskaya metro station. And whenever the weather is nice and I have enough of free time I stroll through the alleys of the park and enjoy the nature. So if you are going to the souvenir market too and you have enough free time then do go to the park too.

5 thoughts on “TOP-11 Moscow Parks to Visit”

Pingback: Places to visit in Moscow – Sheran Bhattacharyya

Yes, sure 🙂 This is my top list 🙂

Yes, sure. These are my favorites!

I like this blog very much. Please keep sharing it in future too.

Thanks for sharing.

Thank you! 🙂

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A Guide to the Most Beautiful Green Spaces in Moscow

Home to more parks than any other city in Russia , Moscow offers a cornucopia of choice when it comes to green spaces. From innovative wild urbanism to 18th-century royal estates, here are the best places to escape from the city buzz in Russia’s capital.

Spread over a territory of almost 300 acres, Gorky Park is Moscow’s most popular green space. Opened in 1928, it was designed as ‘a city inside a city’ with its own telegraph, police unit and a doctor’s office. Some 90 years later, Gorky Park offers everything from segway rides to an open-air movie theatre, through to illuminating lectures and fantastic dining spots.

9 Krimsky Val, Moscow, Russia , +7 495 995 00 20

As the name implies, Muzeon is perfect for art lovers. The park plays host to art fairs, exhibitions, music festivals and video performances. But even if you don’t care for art, Muzeon has a lot to offer: from an elegant boardwalk to hip coffee shops to an in-ground fountain, where you can actually cool off in summer.

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2 Krimsky Val, Moscow, Russia , +7 985 382 27 32

Hermitage Garden

Opened in 1894, the Hermitage garden is a lovely compact park, nestled between high rise buildings in Moscow center. Home to theaters New Opera, Hermitage and Sphera, the garden is predictably crowded, with theatre-goers along with office workers from the business centres in Tverskaya – all flock here for a green respite.

3 Karetnyy Ryad, Moscow, Russia , +7 495 699 04 32

Sokolniki Park

An open-air cinema, a rope course, amusement park, bike rentals and more – Sokolniki is 1,275 acres of fun. In winter the whole park turns into one of Moscow’s most famous skating rinks. Sokolniki gradually blends into Losiny Ostrov National Park – the world’s third largest forest in a city.

1 Sokol’nicheskiy Val, bld. 1, Moscow, Russia , +7 499 393 92 22

Izmailovsky Park

Moscow’s biggest park, Izmailovsky stretches for almost 3,800 acres. Particularly favored by hikers and cyclists, the forest-like park is a popular family spot, equipped with a ferris wheel, outdoor gyms and all kinds of places to eat.

7 Alleya Bol’shogo Kruga, Moscow, Russia , +7 499 166 61 19

Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno estate is a perfectly reconstructed specimen of 18th century architecture set amid a lush green forested area. The only park in Moscow that boasts a light and music fountain, Tsaritsyno draws crowds with spectacular night water shows.

1 Dol’skaya Ulitsa, Moscow, Russia , +7 499 725 72 87

Severnoye Tushino Park

Despite a rather remote location, this park is definitely worth a visit. A half-a-century old apple garden, serene views on Khimkinskoye reservoir and a dry-docked submarine housing a Museum of Submarine Navy will definitely make up for the ride from the city centre.

Ulitsa Svobody, Moscow, Russia , +7 495 640 73 55

Kolomenskoye

Kolomenskoye Park is not merely a tranquil green space, but a celebrated museum reserve, where nature and historically significant architecture blend together. Here you can see one of Moscow’s oldest churches Church of the Ascension and a former residence of the Tsar Aleksey Mikhailovich Romanov, the father of Peter the Great. It’s also perfect for romantic walks along the Moskva river.

39 Andropova Ave, Moscow, Russia , +7 499 782 89 17

In this park you’re guaranteed to encounter some ducks, woodpeckers, squirrels, hares and urban wildlife. The park is also famous for its beautiful boardwalk, open-air cinema, ropes course Panda Park, gallery of retro cars and a variety of places to eat.

22/1 Ulitsa Bol’shaya Filevskaya, Moscow, Russia , +7 499 145 45 05

The former estate of the Sheremetev family, Kuskovo is a fascinating piece of 18th-century Russia. Home to 20 unique architectural monuments, it is Moscow’s only historical park with a French formal garden, decorated with green walkways, marble statue and state-of-the art pavilions.

44/2 3-Ya Muzeynaya Ulitsa, Moscow, Russia

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