Kruger National Park: 7 Unforgettable Safaris

If you’re looking to plan a trip to Kruger National Park, you’ve come to the right place. Kruger is a massive park, covering more than 7,500 square miles. It’s home to an incredible diversity of wildlife and vegetation, including some of Earth’s last remaining wild elephants. Once you arrive, we’ll help you get there and let you know what to do.

The park attracts millions of tourists annually to see this wildlife in its natural habitat. If you’re planning to visit the park, there are some things you should know. We’ve put together this guide to help answer your questions and make your experience in Kruger as enjoyable as possible.

How to Get There?

To get to Kruger, you must fly into Johannesburg or Cape Town. If you’re flying into Johannesburg, catching a flight from OR Tambo International Airport is the easiest way to get to Kruger. From Johannesburg, the journey is two hours from Cape Town; it’s four hours.

If you’re flying into Cape Town, direct flights from Cape Town International Airport (CPT) will get you there in just over an hour. You can take the Gautrain train straight to Pretoria and Skukuza. From Durban, it’s also easy – a five-hour bus journey will take you directly from King Shaka International Airport (DUR).

Once you arrive, it’s a short drive from the airport (or train station), and there are many options for getting around in Kruger National Park. Driving through the park is one of the most popular ways. The best way to see Kruger is by hiring a car.

You can also select a safari tour from a range of Kruger National Park safari tour operators or guided nature walks. Enough accommodation places are available in Kruger National Park – from luxury lodges to family cottages to primary rest camps sites.

Where to Stay

There are lodges in Kruger National Park that can be booked online. These include Crocodile Bridge, Sabi Sands, Game Lodges, and Timbavati Game Reserve. We recommend booking one of these places if you want an affordable stay. The best ones are outside the park but still within driving distance; you’ll get a taste of what’s happening inside the game reserve without travelling there. 

The lodges mentioned above offer luxury accommodations with all-inclusive meals included in their rates, along with amazing views of wildlife. The clubs also have a private game reserve.

Suitable Time to Visit Kruger National Park

The best time of year to visit Kruger Park is from October to April. You’ll want to ensure you see it during this time because it’s when most animals, including elephants, lions, and buffalo, are out and about. If you visit during the dry season, from May to September, you will see the animals, but they will be less active.

Suppose you’re looking for an opportunity to see a rhino in Kruger National Park. In that case, it’s best not to visit between July and September because their numbers have been reduced due to drought conditions in Southern Africa at this time of year. There’s a higher chance of elephants heading out to new territories with their young ones as there is less chance of rainfall from May to September.

What to Carry Along

If you plan to visit Kruger National Park, a few things will make your trip more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A camera—this is a must! You want to be able to capture all of the beauty of this park as well as any wildlife that may be around.

• Plenty of drinking water—you’ll want to stay hydrated while exploring the park, so carry enough drinking water with you on your trip. Also, bring snacks if possible because it can get hot here, and having something tasty might help you fight your hunger until you find an excellent place to eat. 

• Sunglasses—the sun can be very bright in Kruger, so you’ll want to wear sunglasses. It will help protect your eyes from the UV rays that can cause vision problems later in life. It also makes things look cooler!

• Sunscreen—Kruger is very sunny, and you’ll want to ensure you wear sunscreen. It will help protect your skin from getting burned or irritated by the sun’s rays, which can cause severe skin problems later in life.

• Some people don’t like how sunscreen feels on their skin, but many different kinds available today don’t feel as sticky or greasy. You can also keep your lips from burning by applying lip balm with SPF 15 or higher.

What to Avoid in the Park

• Avoid going to the park in January. The weather is cold and wet, with temperatures dipping below freezing on some mornings.

• Avoid going to the park in February. You will often snow on the ground during this time of year, making it difficult to travel anywhere outside your vehicle (and even then, there’s still a chance you’ll get stuck!). If you want excellent adventure, visit Kruger Park this month—but don’t plan your trip around visiting any specific sights or attractions!

• Avoid going to the park in March. Although temperatures are improving, there’s still a chance of rain and snow in some areas.

Do Not Forget About the Weather

Weather can be unpredictable, and there are times when you’ll need to be prepared for cold or rain. Bring warm clothes, rain gear, sunscreen and mosquito repellent (if applicable), a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes. If you’re planning to hike, bring plenty of water and snacks.

Take a look at the forecast before setting out on your trip. The park is open 24 hours a day, so if you plan to stay overnight, bring a sleeping bag and enough food for several days. If you forget anything, shops in the nearby towns of Skukuza and Lower Sabie sell basic supplies.

Games At Kruger National Park

Fun activities and games at Kruger National Park include rhino tracking, elephant back safaris, game drives, and game reserve. The park has over 1,200 bird species seen while walking through the bushveld. There are also many other animal sightings, like giraffes and zebras.

Some of the facilities offered by the Kruger National Park are mentioned below.

• Game drives – Experienced Kruger National Park Safari Guides provide informative and captivating wildlife game drives, available at Private Lodges or scheduled for Day Visitors.

• Swimming pool at N’waswitshaka and Satara rest camps

• Birds – There are more than 400 different species of birds available in Kruger National Park. 

• Elephant back safaris are great for spotting games and getting close to the animals. You’ll also learn about elephants and their behaviour from your guide.

• The lion walks: If you’re lucky enough to see a pride of lions in Kruger National Park, you shouldn’t miss this experience. You’ll need a special permit, so ask one of the rangers for more information.

Plains Game drives are when you drive around the park in open vehicles to look for animals in their natural habitat. You’ll have a ranger who can help identify animal species you see from afar and explain some of their behaviours.

Kruger National Park also has the world’s most giant hot air balloon, which takes off every morning at sunrise. You can see the balloon from most spots in the park, so be sure not to miss this unique experience.

If you’re lucky, you’ll see wild animals, elephants or giraffes grazing nearby while waiting for a hot air balloon ride.

Species and Wildlife

Species and wildlife at Kruger National Park include elephants, rhinos, lions, and leopards. Over 500 birds are in the park, including the white-backed vulture. The reserve also protects many mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Watch for buffalo herds and zebras on your drive through the park.

Birdwatchers will find more than 950 species of birds in the park. Giraffes are common in the park’s northern section; zebras can be seen throughout Kruger. Predators include hyenas, jackals, and wild dogs. Inside the park, you can see lions, leopards, rhinos, hippos, animals, and several birds, including vultures, ostriches, hornbills, and eagles.

Kruger National Park also has many species of reptiles and amphibians, including snakes and crocodiles. The park’s reserves cover various habitats, from dry savannas to dense forests. You’ll likely see other animals in Kruger, including baboons and antelope. The park has more than 9,000 plants, including some rare and endangered species.

Olifants River

Olifants River is a popular place for swimming, canoeing, and tubing. Bring a life jacket if you’re planning to do any water activities. You can rent the necessary equipment at one of the park’s many campsites.

It is a great place to go swimming, but don’t go into the river if you aren’t confident in your swimming abilities. The current is strong, and there are crocodiles in the river, so be aware that they may come up to look at you when you’re in the water.

The Best Kruger National Park Safari

Along with the abovementioned things, Kruger National Park also offers many safari options. It is heaven on earth for people who are fond of jungle safaris. You will find a lot of jungle safari lodges here that need to be booked online.

Let us discuss some of the famous and exciting safaris of the iconic Kruger National Park.

1. 5-Star Service in Kruger and Cape Town

The duration of this safari is nine days. You can book a luxury lodge or set up safari tents on the way if you want to.

The destinations covered by this safari are mentioned below.

• Cape Town, South Africa

• Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands, South Africa

Buckle up and be a part of the fantastic vacation in the middle of South Africa’s Mother City. Book this safari as a part of the experience of the beautiful service, hospitality, and mouthwatering food, and do not forget the tremendous natural beauty.

The highlights of the trip are also mentioned here.

• Luxurious accommodation with fantastic service

• Tours of Cape Winelands and Table Mountain

• Five Big Encounters in Kruger

• Exceptional cuisine and wine dining at Singita Lebombo

Best Suited For

• Honeymooners

• Couples

2. Amazing Bush-to-Beach Gateway

The duration of this safari is 14 days. The destinations covered by this safari are mentioned below.

• Victoria Falls

• Johannesburg, South Africa

• Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands, South Africa

• Denis Islands, Seychelles

• Eden Islands, Seychelles

It is one of the best safaris offered by Kruger National Park. It also has a private coral island that the Indian Ocean surrounds. Along with all the other facilities, this safari also provides excellent sightseeing.

The highlights are mentioned below.

• Boat cruises on the Zambezi River

• Lion Sands Ivory Lodge, which is an award-winning stay and one of the most luxurious lodges in Kruger National Park

• Barefoot Luxury Lodge on Denis Private Island

• Guided tours of the Victoria Falls

Best Suited For

• Couples

• Honeymooners

3. Private Game Reserved and South Africa’s Best Cities

The duration of this safari is 15 days. The destinations covered by this safari are mentioned below.

• Johannesburg, South Africa

• Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands, South Africa

• Cape Town, South Africa

• Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, South Africa

Suppose you are lucky enough to be a part of this safari. In that case, you will be able to experience some of the luxury lodges and safari lodges of South Africa, including the Dulini River Lodge.

Along with exceptional accommodations, this safari ensures that all the guest houses are well maintained, hygienic, and have more facilities.

All the hotels, lodges, and guest houses provide mouthwatering food and many drink options. They provide world-class service to all the guests who participate in this safari.

The highlights of this trip are mentioned below.

• Service And Cuisine at Dulini River Lodge

• Exceptional Dining at the Saxon Boutique Hotel

• Big Five game viewing in Sabi Sands, Kruger National Park

• Bush walks and star gazing.

• Tours of Table Mountains

• Tours of Cape Winelands

• Exemplary Dining and fantastic service at Cape Grace

• Various game drives

• Hot air balloons in Kalahari

• Private game reserves

• Private guided bush walks and tours of Johannesburg city centre

Best Suited For

• Honeymooners

• Couples

• Discerning Travellers

• Wildlife enthusiasts

4. Bush and Beach Family Vacation

The duration of this safari is 12 days. The destinations covered in this safari are mentioned below.

• Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands, South Africa

• Cape Town, South Africa

• Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique

In this safari, you can not only enjoy yourself with your loved ones, but you can bring in your family as well. You and your family will experience all the amazing cities in South Africa. Not only that, but this family safari also provides the facility of barefoot luxury on the tropical islands.

The highlights of this trip are mentioned below.

• Private game reserves at Big 5 territory

• A visit to Benguerra islands, which is home to 140 different kinds of bird species.

• Tour at Cape Wineland’s ad Cape Peninsula

• Scuba diving at Two Mile Reef

Best Suited For

• Groups

• Families

5. Big 5, Whales and Wine

The total duration of this safari is 13 days.

The destinations covered in this safari are mentioned below.

• Cape Town, South Africa

• Hermanus, Cape Whale Coast, South Africa

• Cape Winelands, South Africa

• Thornbush Private Game Reserves, Kruger National Park, South Africa

This safari will take you through the culture and heritage of South Africa. You will be able to witness the amazing beauty of Cape Town and admire the beautiful places.

The highlights of this trip are mentioned below.

• Visit Cape Town’s beaches.

• Games drive at Thornbush Private Game Reserves.

• Land-based whale watching experience.

• Taste the world-famous wine and amazing cuisine at Franschhoek.

• The dramatic cliff-side setting at Birkenhead House

• Visiting one of the most prestigious enclaves of Cape Town, Kensington Place

Best Suited For

• Honeymooners

• Gourmets

• Couples

6. A Romantic Vacation in Kruger, Cape Town and KwaZulu-Natal

The duration of this safari is 13 days.

The destinations covered by this trip are mentioned below.

• Cape Town, South Africa

• Timbavati Game Reserve, Kruger National Park, South Africa

• Cape Winelands, South Africa

• Phinda Private Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal

In these 13 days, you will see this place’s world heritage site and the New Seven Wonders of Nature. You will begin your safari by staying at the fantastic lodge of Table Mountain. The lodge overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and provides some of the most breathtaking views in that area.

During this trip, you will also have a great wildlife experience in various places.

The main highlights of this trip are mentioned below.

• Various facilities and pamper sessions are available at Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa.

• Fantastic river views from Ngala Tented Camp

• Night gaming and private game reserves

• The fantastic views and fine dining at Azure

• Rhino tracking and guided walks from Phinda Forest Lodge

Best Suited For

• Honeymooners

• Couples

7. Private Adventure from Kruger to Zambia

The duration of this safari is 12 days.

The destinations covered in this safari are mentioned below.

• South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

• Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands, South Africa

• Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Zambia

The safari is one of the best ways to spend time with your family. Even if you want to book this tour for you and your partner for a lovely honeymoon, this is the perfect trip.

You will be able to encounter a lot of wildlife on your journey. Along with nature, you will also experience some world-class and luxurious facilities in South Africa’s world-renowned places.

You will also be a part of one of the best-guided walking safaris. You will be allowed to roam freely in the wild along with your guides.

The main highlights of this trip are mentioned below.

• Predator sightings at Sabi Sands, Kruger National Park, South Africa

• Spot-lit night drives and guided walking safaris at Kruger Park

• Sunset boat cruises on the Zambezi River

• Big game viewing in South Luangwa National Park

• Amazing riverside sightseeing

• Staying at a luxury lodge that offers fantastic views

Best Suited For

• Couples

• Families

• Adventurous travellers

Visiting the Kruger National Park

So, when should you go to Kruger National Park? Well, that depends on what you want out of your trip. If you’re hoping to see rhinos and elephants in their natural habitat, the best time is spring or fall when it’s cooler but not cold (which can stress animals). But seeing them doesn’t necessarily make up for hours spent in a car driving around Africa trying to find them! Then summer would also be an option.

To visit Africa, you must know what season to go to. There are many other variables also involved here; exactly will we stay? How long will our visit last? And what about food? It would help if you answered all these questions before deciding about visiting this fantastic place.

Make sure to choose the proper timing before planning to get a fruitful result. We are confident you will enjoy and have a great time in Kruger National Park.