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Africa & Middle East

Kruger National Park Safari, Vacations & Wildlife Experiences

  • Lioness displays dangerous teeth during light rainstorm in Kruger National Park, but it makes for a great photograph on your South Africa safari.
  • Chacma baboons
  • A Leopard high up in tree is a great sight to see on all South Africa tours.
  • An African sunset in Kruger National Park is a sight to behold on all South African safaris.
  • A Nile crocodile is a common site on Kruger National Park safaris.
  • Lapped Faced vulture

Encompassing nearly two million hectares and fourteen different ecosystems, Kruger National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Africa and a highlight of a South Africa vacation. The park is located in the provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga in northeastern South Africa.

Although areas of Kruger (named for former South African Republic president Paul Kruger) have been protected since 1898, it officially became South Africa’s first national park in 1926. Today, Kruger is run by the South African National Parks (SANP) and is considered by many to be one of the best-managed national parks in Africa.

When is the best time to go on a Kruger National Park Safari?

There is no bad time to go on a safari. Kruger Park has seasonal variations. In summer, there is both sun and rain and it is a time when baby animals are born. In the fall, the land becomes parched and the rutting season begins. In winter, a lack of water forces animals to head to the waterholes. Spring is the height of the dry period and when the rains begin. This is when game viewing is at its best.

For more information on South African weather, click here

What to expect on a Kruger National Park Safari 

The main goals of Kruger National Park are wildlife conservation, education and tourism. To those on South Africa safaris, the park boasts “the Big Five”, the lion, the African elephant, the Cape buffalo, the leopard and the rhinoceros. The term “Big Five” was coined by big game hunters regarding the five most difficult animals in Africa to hunt on foot. Roughly 147 species of animals and 114 species of reptiles inhabit the park. There are cheetahs, hyenas, warthog, zebra, hippopotamus, crocodiles, giraffes, wildebeest and many species of antelope to be seen. Also, over 500 species of birds exist in Kruger and, of this number, around 250 are annual residents of the park. 

Offering a true African safari experience, Kruger is now part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park. This project is a peace park that links Kruger with Gonarezhou National Park in Zimbabwe and with Limpopo National Park in Mozambique. Fences within the park are coming down, allowing games to roam freely in the way they did before the human intervention.

Accommodation and Safari Vehicles

Public

Kruger National Park basically consists of two areas. There is the more public eastern section which offers, for the most part, basic accommodation plus a range of hotels outside the perimeter of the park from which game drives can be taken. In the public domain, game viewing is restricted to staying on the roads in the park.

Private

The other area involves the more upscale and in many cases, luxurious accommodation in outstanding lodges domiciled in their own territories. Examples are the private game reserves of Sabi Sands, Klaserie, Timbavati and Kapamana reserves. Your choices here are upscale lodge accommodation or luxury tented camps of which some are ultra-luxurious and others quite affordable. The lodges in these territories share their domain only with each other so the game drives can meander anywhere within this overall territory. On these private game reserves, safari vehicles are allowed to go off the road into the bush at any time, giving the visitor a much better game-viewing experience.

Book your Kruger National Park South Africa safari today and you will be amazed when you experience the largest concentration of game species on earth, and one of the best-developed infrastructures of all Africa's game parks!

South Africa Travel Information

At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to South Africa trips.

Learn about the history and culture of South Africa, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about South Africa's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering South Africa for yourself. Start exploring… book one of our South Africa tours today!

Extend Your Stay

After your South Africa vacation, why not consider one of Goway's Europe tours or Egypt tours en route from South Africa or perhaps a stopover in Dubai on one of our United Arab Emirates tours?

 

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FEATURED TRIP
  • A South African Safari in Kruger National Park is part of your trip to South Africa
  • Discover Mpumalanga during your next trip South Africa
  • Cape Town, South Africa's Mother City
  • Cango Caves, Oudtshoorn
  • The Franschhoek Valley is one of South Africa's premier wine producing regions
  • You will meet Zulu men during your next South Africa tours.
FEATURED TRIP

A World in One Country: Kruger, Hluhluwe, Cape Town & More

FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: Enjoy a tour of the best of South Africa, packed full of activities and ‘must-see’ areas from Kruger National Park to the Zulu Kingdom, ending in Cape Town, South Africa’s ‘Mother City’.

More Details

Kruger National Park

  • Cape, Wine and Safari: Cape Town, Stellenbosch & Kruger

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: This 12 day South Africa trip will have you experiencing both the Western Cape and the thrill of an African Safari. Beginning in Cape Town, you’ll have plenty of time to take in not only the beautiful Mother City, but also its surrounds with your 5 nights stay. Next up, its off to the Winelands. Enjoy a private food and beverage tour through the streets of Stellenbosch as well as wine tasting of course. Lastly, its off to Karongwe Game Reserve for your exciting African Safari as you search out all the animals that call this area home.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,599
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • South African Safari Duo: Johannesburg, Amazulu Private Game Reserve & Greater Kruger

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Embark on an epic safari adventure in not just one, but two of South Africa's magnificent private game reserves. Encounter majestic wildlife up close and revel in the luxury comforts of Amazulu Private Game Reserve and Kapama Private Game Reserve. With two nights in Johannesburg and another two nights on the beaches of Umhlanga in addition to your safari, this vacation promises to be an unforgettable journey.
    Duration:
    11 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,345
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Spectacular South Africa: Cape Town, Knysna, Kapama Private Game Reserve & More

    FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: This comprehensive South Africa tour offers a taste of all that makes the country such a great destination, including its wine regions, natural beauty, abundant wildlife, national parks, and rich native culture.
    Duration:
    15 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,850
    Trip Type:
    Small Group Touring
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Signature South Africa: Cape Town, Rovos Rail, Kruger & More

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Discover the magic and splendour of Southern Africa on this 12-day luxury journey of South Africa. Starting in Cape Town, you’ll venture to the Cape Winelands, Johannesburg, and Kruger National Park. Recapture the romance and atmosphere of a by-gone era with 2 nights spent on-board the elegant Rovos Rail train.
    Duration:
    13 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 8,478
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Luxury and Beyond, Private Experiences, Rail Travel Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Magic of Africa: Cape Town, Sabi Sands, Victoria Falls & More

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Discover the magic and splendour of Southern Africa on this 12-day luxury journey from South Africa to Botswana. Starting in Cape Town, you’ll venture to the Cape Winelands, Kruger National Park, majestic Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, and the waters of the Chobe River in Botswana.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 8,735
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Luxury and Beyond, Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • A World in One Country: Kruger, Hluhluwe, Cape Town & More

    FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: Enjoy a tour of the best of South Africa, packed full of activities and ‘must-see’ areas from Kruger National Park to the Zulu Kingdom, ending in Cape Town, South Africa’s ‘Mother City’.
    Duration:
    14 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,944
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Savanna in Style: Cape Town, Franschhoek and Sabi Sands Game Reserve

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: One of the most beautiful nations on Earth, South Africa boasts the spectacular Cape region, some of the world’s finest wines and unparalleled game viewing in its national parks. After enjoying three days in the ‘Mother City’, head to Franschhoek to enjoy some fine South African wine and take in the stunning scenery. Last but certainly not least, head on your African safari in the famous Sabi Sands as you search out the Big 5.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,465
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Romance on the Rails: Cape Town, Kruger National Park & Victoria Falls

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Experience the splendour and romance of Southern Africa on this 14-day luxury journey. Starting in Cape Town, you’ll then venture to Kruger National Park before your elegant train journey with Rovos Rail. A stay in Victoria Falls rounds out a truly unforgettable vacation.
    Duration:
    14 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 8,700
    Trip Type:
    Bucket List Travel Ideas, Luxury and Beyond, Rail Travel Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Luxury Cape and Kruger Safari: Grootbos, Cape Town & Sabi Sands

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Experience the beauty and charm of South Africa on this luxury package. Begin with a stay in an eco-reserve tucked between mountains, forest and sea - followed by elegant atmosphere in Cape Town. Finally, head to a sanctuary symbolizing a new era in lodging in the greater Kruger for your African safari.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 8,950
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Luxury and Beyond, Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Wonders of South Africa Super Special

    MODERATE | ESCORTED COACH: Spend two weeks discovering all that makes South Africa one of the world’s most diverse and colourful destinations. Take in natural sights such as Blyde River Canyon, explore the historic lands of the Zulus and Swazis, follow the magnificent South African coastline, and immerse yourself in the beauty, wine, and culture of the Cape. On this tour, a maximum of 40 guests are escorted by a local professional tourist guide. All departures are guaranteed with a minimum of 2 guests. Transportation is in air-conditioned luxury vehicles and tours are only conducted in English.
    Duration:
    15 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,097
    Trip Type:
    Escorted Coach Touring, Single Friendly
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Cape & Kruger Escape: Cape Town & Greater Kruger National Park

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Explore the most beautiful regions of South Africa on this adventure. Explore the Western Cape before embarking on an African safari through a private game reserve in Kruger National Park.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,288
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Rovos Rail: Pretoria to Victoria Falls (or v.v.)

    DELUXE | RAIL: This journey takes guests from Pretoria westward to Botswana before crossing the border into Zimbabwe and on to the mighty Victoria Falls. This tour also operates in reverse.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,414
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Rail Travel Ideas, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Wonders of South Africa: Kruger, Garden Route, Cape Town & More

    MODERATE | ESCORTED COACH: Spend two weeks discovering all that makes South Africa one of the world’s most diverse and colourful destinations. Take in natural sights such as Blyde River Canyon, explore the historic lands of the Zulus and Swazis, follow the magnificent South African coastline, and immerse yourself in the beauty, wine, and culture of the Cape. On this tour, a maximum of 40 guests are escorted by a local professional tourist guide. All departures are guaranteed with a minimum of 2 guests. Transportation is in air-conditioned luxury vehicles and tours are only conducted in English.
    Duration:
    15 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,937
    Trip Type:
    Escorted Coach Touring
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Kruger Spectacular

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Experience two spectacular locations in South Africa on this luxury safari vacation. Start at Kings Camp in the Timbavati Game Reserve before connecting to Dulini Lodge in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, spending several days on game drives in both pristine reserves.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 7,882
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • A Tale of Two Safaris: Amazulu Private Game Reserve, Umhlanga & Greater Kruger

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Head on safari in not one, but two of the country’s finest private game reserves. On this South African vacation, you’ll enjoy superb game viewing and luxury accommodations in Amazulu Private Game Reserve and Thornybush Private Game Reserve. You’ll also enjoy two nights on the beaches of Umhlanga in between.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,794
    Trip Type:
    Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Winelands & Wildlife: Cape Town, Stellenbosch & Sabi Sands Game Reserve

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Explore vibrant Cape Town and see the sights of the Cape Peninsula. Visit picturesque Stellenbosch, the heart of the Winelands before a ‘Big 5’ encounter at Kruger National Park.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 5,335
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Rovos Rail Golf Safari: Pretoria to Pretoria

    DELUXE | RAIL: Play at the world-renowned Leopard Creek golf course, plus superb courses in Swaziland, Durban, the Drakensburg and Sun City. Enjoy game viewing in Kruger Park, Mkhaya and Hluhluwe Reserves.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 5,121
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Rail Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Africa On Foot: Klaserie Private Nature Reserve

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: A true wildlife experience in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve combining walking and vehicle safaris through Big Five territory in one of the largest privately owned game reserves in South Africa.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,097
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Signature Madikwe & Kruger Safari: Madikwe, Johannesburg & The Sabi Sands

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Explore two of the best game reserves in South Africa, as well as Johannesburg. Start in Madikwe Hills Game Reserve, where you’ll head on game drives along the northern border. Next, explore the history of apartheid and liberation in Johannesburg. End your journey in The Sabi Sands Game Reserve for more game drives in a beautiful environment.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 9,888
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Savanna Private Game Reserve: Greater Kruger National Park

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Savanna Private Game Reserve is an exclusive 5-star lodge situated in the internationally famous Sabi Sand Reserve. It offers outstanding game viewing, personalised service and luxurious accommodation to a limited number of discerning guests.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,155
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Adventures in Nature: Cape Town & Karongwe Game Reserve

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Venture through South Africa as a family to have unforgettable wildlife encounters. This family vacation takes you from Cape Town to Greater Kruger to see South Africa’s famous animals like lions and cheetahs, and incorporates kids programs for stress-free family travel.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,445
    Trip Type:
    Family Vacations, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details
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