Kruger National Park
The most accessible big-five park in Africa.
About this place
Kruger covers nearly 20,000 km² along South Africa's eastern border and offers both budget self-drive options (rest camps, your own car, your own pace) and ultra-premium private concessions on its western edge (Sabi Sand, Timbavati). It is the easiest first big-five safari in Africa for travellers who want control and value, and the easiest premium safari for travellers who want top-tier guiding without flying small planes.
What to do
Self-drive game viewing (camp at Skukuza, Olifants, Lower Sabie)
Guided morning and night drives from rest camps
Private concession game drives (off-road, no other vehicles)
Walking safaris from rest camps and trails
Bush braais (open-fire dinners)
Practical information
Self-drive: enter via one of nine gates, book accommodation through SANParks. Private concessions: book a lodge package and they handle access. Closest international airport is Hoedspruit (HDS) or Kruger Mpumalanga (MQP); also drivable from Johannesburg (~5 hours).
Combine with
Cape Town
Garden Route
Mozambique beach extension
Frequently asked questions
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