Kruger National Park Safari, Vacations & Wildlife Experiences
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 Africa 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 cheetah, hyena, warthog, zebra, hippopotamus, crocodile, giraffe, 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 game 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 games 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.
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 DetailsKruger National Park
-
- Sort by:
- Most Popular
- Duration
- Price
-
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$ 1,549
- Trip Type:
- Escorted Coach Touring, Single Friendly
See Trip Details
-
A Tale of Two Safaris
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$ 2,725
- Trip Type:
- Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide
See Trip Details
-
A World In One Country Super Special
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$ 2,649
- Trip Type:
- Classics (Bestsellers), Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
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$ 8,139
- Trip Type:
- Classics (Bestsellers), Luxury and Beyond, Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
See Trip Details
-
Kruger to Falls Adventure from Johannesburg
Spend two weeks immersed in nature at its grandest on this Africa safari. Experience three of the continent’s most dynamic countries, including a South Africa safari, Zimbabwe, and Botswana.- Duration:
- 15 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 4,674
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Escorted Coach Touring, Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly
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$ 1,746
- Trip Type:
- Escorted Coach Touring
See Trip Details
-
Splendours Of Southern Africa: Holiday of a Lifetime
This Holiday of a Lifetime captures the essence of this remarkable region of Africa, taking you from world-famous game reserves in South Africa and Botswana to the iconic beauty of Cape Town and the majesty of Victoria Falls. This African vacation combines the best of Southern Africa in one convenient and unforgettable experience.- Duration:
- 12 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ On Request
- Trip Type:
- Bucket List Travel Ideas, Escorted Coach Touring, Holidays of a Lifetime, Small Group Touring
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$ 2,558
- Trip Type:
- Classics (Bestsellers), Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
See Trip Details
-
A World In One Country: Kruger & The Kingdoms
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 Durban.- Duration:
- 7 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,278
- Trip Type:
- Escorted Coach Touring
See Trip Details
-
Adventures in Nature
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$ 1,409
- Trip Type:
- Family Vacations, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
See Trip Details
-
Africa On Foot
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:
- 4-5 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,018
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly
See Trip Details
-
Arathusa Safari Lodge
Arathusa is located within the world renowned Sabi Sand Private reserve adjacent to the un-fenced Kruger National Park. It is perfect for the nature enthusiast who seeks an affordable intimate environment and warm hospitality on their African Safari.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,840
- Trip Type:
- Luxury and Beyond, Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide
See Trip Details
-
Cape & Kruger Escape
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$ 1,743
- Trip Type:
- Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
See Trip Details
-
Hamilton's Tented Camp
Named after Colonel Stephenson Hamilton who was instrumental in establishing the world famous Kruger National Park, Hamilton's Tentend Camp reflects a safari adventure of the early 20th century.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,184
- Trip Type:
- Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide
See Trip Details
-
Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge
Situated on the banks of the Mluwati River, in the Kruger National Park, Hoyo-Hoyo Safari Lodge boasts a breath-taking blend of luxury, encompassing both warmth, and style.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,721
- Trip Type:
- Safaris Worldwide
See Trip Details
-
Imbali Safari Lodge
Escape on safari to the world-famous savannah of Kruger National Park. Search for the Big Five on your guided safari before relaxing in your suite’s private plunge pool and enjoying gourmet cuisine beneath the stars at Imbali Safari Lodge.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,801
- Trip Type:
- Safaris Worldwide
See Trip Details
-
Jock Safari Lodge
Situated in a private concession within the Kruger National Park, magnificent trees and an abundance of bird life surround Jock Safari Lodge. The Lodge incorporates the romance and elegance of the past, while reflecting in its style the indigenous Zulu and Shangaan cultures.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,247
- Trip Type:
- Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide
See Trip Details
-
Kambaku River Sands
Experience the beauty of the Timbavati Game Reserve on a safari stay at Kambaku River Sands in Greater Kruger National Park. Enjoy luxury accommodations on an open safari property and head on two daily game drives to search for the Big Five and enjoy the beauty of the bush.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,932
- Trip Type:
- Safaris Worldwide
See Trip Details
-
Kambaku Safari Lodge
Experience eco-friendly luxury with a stay at Kambaku Safari Lodge in the Timbavati Game Reserve in Greater Kruger National Park. Enjoy pristine accommodations on a secluded safari property and head on two daily game drives in search of the Big Five and other fascinating African wildlife.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,377
- Trip Type:
- Family Vacations, Safaris Worldwide
See Trip Details
-
Kapama Buffalo Camp
Go on safari to an affordable and charming safari lodge in South Africa. Track down the Big Five alongside professional rangers before feeding elephants and dining on gourmet African cuisine beside a roaring fire at Kapama Buffalo Camp.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,001
- Trip Type:
- Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide
See Trip Details
-
Kapama River Lodge
Kapama Private Game Reserve occupies a vast area between the northern Drakensberg mountains and the Greater Kruger National Park. Kapama River Lodge features 40 spacious air-conditioned suites, 20 Spa suites, and 2 Royal Suites.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,311
- Trip Type:
- Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide
See Trip Details
-
Leopard Hills Private Game Reserve
This luxury lodge, with fine dining, outstanding cuisine and extensive wine cellar, is situated on a Hilltop Sanctuary overlooking a natural waterhole. Accommodation is spacious and luxurious, every little detail has been looked after and you will feel pampered throughout your stay.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 4,223
- Trip Type:
- Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide
See Trip Details
-
Lion Sands Ivory Lodge
Unparalleled and extraordinarily beautiful in its simplicity and texture is how Ivory Lodge has been described, and it has been recognized with various international awards. Experience the African Bushveld in lavish comfort and style.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 5,478
- Trip Type:
- Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide
See Trip Details
-
Lion Sands Narina Lodge
You will be surprised at how a visit to Lion Sands Narina Lodge can completely restore ones energy. When you’re right on the Sabie River, watching the animals, surrounded by bush and sky, you really feel like you’ve escaped from the world.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 3,151
- Trip Type:
- Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide
See Trip Details
-
Lion Sands River Lodge
Lion Sands River Lodge offers you one of the warmest welcomes you could hope to encounter on your travels and you will be pampered from the moment you arrive. Where the quiet luxury of the rooms provides a place of repose after a day of overwhelming and enriching adventure.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 3,122
- Trip Type:
- Luxury and Beyond, Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide
See Trip Details