Live Your Best Lives
Kruger National Park offers excellent game drives, where visitors can spot the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros). Guided walking safaris, birdwatching, and overnight stays in various camps provide additional ways to immerse yourself in the wildlife. There are also cultural heritage experiences, like visiting local villages or learning about conservation efforts.
Kruger National Park, located at the junction of Mpumalanga Province , Northern Province and Mozambique, is the largest wildlife reserve in South Africa.
Spanning 400 kilometers from north to south and 70 kilometers from east to west, Kruger National Park covers an area roughly the size of Wales, totaling 20,000 square kilometers. Nestled against majestic mountain peaks and facing vast savannah, Kruger National Park is dotted with patches of forest and shrubland unique to this region.
Kruger National Park is synonymous with " safari . " Home to 500 bird species, 100 reptile species, and nearly 150 mammal species, it's home to numerous prehistoric remains and a rich variety of trees and flowers. Explore the park by four-wheel drive, hike through the bush, or take in the stunning scenery from a hot air balloon.
There is bright sunshine all year round, and the temperature is above 25 degrees Celsius most of the time. There are different scenery in each season.
The best season to see animals is the dry winter when the grass grows lower and it is easier to find animals.
The weather is hot and humid in summer, and the grass is very dense. It is difficult to find animals, and because it is too hot, animals may not be very active during the day. However, the scenery is beautiful, and there are many newborn animals and birds.
A three- day or longer trip to Kruger is recommended. The area is so vast that a round trip could easily take up two days. A one- or two-day trip won't allow you to see many animals. A five- day trip is ideal, as this will allow you to see most of the animals you want to see. If time is truly limited, you'll need to plan your accommodations and itinerary based on the animals you most want to see.
South African citizens and residents : R93 , SADC nationals : R186 , foreign visitors : R372
Prices valid until October 31 , 2019
6:00-17:30
Kruger National Park, established in 1898, is one of Africa’s largest game reserves and plays a vital role in wildlife conservation. It is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including endangered species, and offers one of the best safari experiences in the world.
Kruger National Park is located in the northeastern part of South Africa, in Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces. The closest major cities are Nelspruit and Johannesburg. You can reach the park by car, with several entrance gates offering access. Flights are available to airports near the park, such as Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport.
The park is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to September) when wildlife is easier to spot, and the weather is cooler. The wet season (October to April) offers lush landscapes and birdwatching opportunities but can be more challenging for game viewing due to thick vegetation.
Entrance fees vary depending on the time of year and the entrance gate. You can purchase tickets at the park’s gates, or in advance online via the official SANParks website. Prices generally range from ZAR 100 to ZAR 400 for adults, with discounts for children and residents.
It is recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak season (June to August). However, entrance tickets can be purchased at the gate, though it’s advised to book for certain camps or activities in advance, especially guided safaris.
To fully explore Kruger National Park, a minimum of 3-4 days is recommended. This allows time for multiple game drives, visiting different areas of the park, and staying overnight at one or more of the camps.
Highlights include the central regions (Skukuza and Lower Sabie), known for abundant wildlife; the southern section (Crocodile Bridge) for excellent predator sightings; and the northern area (Punda Maria) for its remote feel and birdwatching opportunities. The park’s various waterholes and the Sabi River offer great photo ops.
Guided tours are available, including game drives and walking safaris. Tours are primarily in English, but some guides may offer services in other languages, such as German or French, depending on availability. Audio guides are not typically available, but tour guides provide rich insights.
Some of the best photography spots include the waterholes at Satara and Lower Sabie, where wildlife frequently gathers. The scenic drives along the Sabi and Crocodile Rivers also offer opportunities for great shots of animals and landscapes.
A recommended route starts with the southern section near the Kruger Gate, moving through Skukuza to Lower Sabie. From there, head east to the scenic Sabi River and explore the central and northern regions for a mix of habitats, offering a variety of wildlife sightings.
Night drives are available and are a highlight for those wanting to spot nocturnal animals like leopards and hyenas. These are guided experiences, as the park closes after sunset. There are no light shows, but some camps offer cultural performances or stargazing events.
The park can get crowded during peak times (July to September and school holidays). The least crowded times are during the off-season (November to February), though some areas may be less accessible due to the rains.
Kruger National Park has a variety of facilities, including rest camps with shops, restaurants, and toilets. Water stations are available, but it’s advisable to carry your own supplies, especially in more remote areas. Some camps offer accommodation with full amenities.
Kruger National Park is accessible to all visitors. The main roads and several camps have facilities for the elderly and disabled, though walking safaris and certain rugged areas may not be suitable. Families with children can enjoy the park with appropriate accommodations and guided tours.
Cash is accepted at the park’s gates and some shops, but cards and mobile payments are widely accepted at the main camps and accommodation facilities. It’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases.
There are several restaurants and cafes inside Kruger National Park, with options for both casual and more formal dining at camps such as Skukuza and Lower Sabie. Nearby towns like Hazyview also offer a range of restaurants.
Most camps offer vegetarian and vegan options, with menus that cater to various dietary preferences. Halal options may be available at certain camps upon request, though availability can vary.
Within Kruger, there are several accommodation options ranging from luxury lodges to self-catering chalets in various camps. Nearby towns like Hazyview, Nelspruit, and Sabie also offer a range of hotels and guesthouses.
Nearby attractions include the Panorama Route with stunning views of Blyde River Canyon, and the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, known for its luxurious lodges and excellent safari experiences. The Blyde River Canyon offers hiking, boat rides, and scenic viewpoints.
There are souvenir shops in most camps selling wildlife-themed merchandise, local crafts, and clothing. Popular souvenirs include wooden carvings, beaded jewelry, and traditional African artwork.
After visiting Kruger, you can continue your trip by car to nearby attractions like the Panorama Route or other national parks. Nelspruit and Hazyview are well connected by road and offer transport options to airports or bus stations for onward travel.
