Safaris in the Kruger National Park
Set in the far north-eastern corner of the country, South Africa offers an African Safari adventure of a lifetime at the Kruger National Park. The nearly 2 million hectares of land is known for having the highest population density of the Big 5 in South Africa with ample opportunity to see lion, elephant, rhino, leopard and African buffalo. Divided into no fewer than six ecosystems the Kruger National Park boasts untouched African landscapes with a mixed terrain from wild bushveld, sandveld, and mixed acacia thickets to rivers and riverine forest. The main park is open for self-drive excursions to the public and can get crowded. However, for a truly extraordinary African safari experience, we recommend embracing the unique offerings of the Kruger’s private reserves. These game reserves are privately owned and managed and offer exclusive-use conservation areas where you are guaranteed Big 5 sightings. Expert guides assist in tracking the animals and offer additional guided walking safaris.
The exclusive game reserves in the Kruger are home to some of the best luxury safari accommodation in the world, striving to create a unique and luxuriously comforting adventure for each guest. Besides game viewing the area is an activity-rich hub for adventure and solitude seekers alike. From hot air ballooning to golf, cultural village visits, kids’ activities, and spa treatments to romantic bushveld dinners under the stars, there is something for everyone.
Malaria:
The Kruger National Park is a malaria area.
Location:
The Kruger National Park lies in the north-eastern corner of South Africa.
Getting there:
By Road
The reserve is a 5- to 6-hour drive from Johannesburg along the N12 and N4 highways. Road transfers to the reserves from Hoedspruit Airport range between 30 and 90 minutes.
Flying
Fly from major centres in South Africa to Hoedspruit Airport. Private charters can be arranged to selected reserves.
Flight Duration
- Johannesburg to Hoedspruit: 55 minutes
- Cape Town to Hoedspruit 2 hours 30 minutes
Wildlife:
Highest population density of the Big 5 in South Africa with ample opportunity to see lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, and African buffalo among an abundance of wildlife.
Highlights:
- Exclusive private game reserves are home to award-winning safari accommodation and are well renowned for spectacular Big 5 game drives with some of the best game rangers and trackers on the continent.
- Night game drives, guided bush walks, and off-road game drives.
Reason to go:
- Ideal for families, groups of friends, and honeymooners, as well as conservation activists and keen photographers.
- Authentic remote African safaris with incredible wildlife and Big 5 sightings.
- World-class luxury accommodation and luxury safari tents.
- Great year-round weather for safari holidays.
Up to 50% Off
Balule - Mohlabetsi Safari Lodge
- From : R4500/night
The Balule Nature Reserve private territory forms part of the expansive Greater Kruger National Park, making for spectacular Big 5 sightings in an exclusive, uncrowded setting. Mohlabetsi Safari Lodge offers 8 intimately luxurious thatch rondawels including a family suite and superior Impala Lily Suite with its own pool… The lodge offers magnificent views over a waterhole, wildlife photography opportunities, night game drives, a large communal swimming pool, and hammock garden.
Up to 50% Off
Thornybush – The River Lodge
- From : R15609/night
Five luxurious villa-style suites, each with a private pool and viewing deck, overlook the 14000-hectare private reserve sharing unfenced borders with the Kruger National Park. With views over the Timbavati River, the setting is perfect for viewing herds of elephant, antelope, leopards, zebra, giraffe, and birdlife… This luxury setting, ideal for couples, honeymooners, and families, is known for premium Big 5 game viewing in South Africa with expert guides and uncrowded sightings.
Up to 50% Off
Timbavati – Kambuka Safari Lodge
- From : R5950/night
Located on the western end of the Kruger National Park, Timbavati’s 10 000 hectares of private unspoiled, Big 5 territory is one of the only areas in Africa where the White Lion can be found. The family-friendly Kambuka Safari Lodge features 8 thatch chalets set around a waterhole ideal for wildlife viewing… . The intimate eco-friendly lodge is powered by solar power and offers photographic and art safaris as well as exclusive kids safari activities.
Up to 50% Off
Kapama - Kapama Southern Camp
- From : R8000/night
Kapama Private Game Reserve lies in the Kruger National Park offering exceptional Big 5 sightings and romantic treehouse sleep-outs. Southern Camp offers 15 Standard Suites with private viewing decks, 7 Luxury Villas with private pools and 3 Luxury Family Villas each with its own pool and timber deck. With bushveld views… from the lodge’s expansive deck, photographic workshops, and two game drives daily, guests can discover over 40 mammal species and more than 330 bird species.
Up to 50% Off
Manyeleti - Tintswalo Safari Lodge
- From : R11985/night
Nestled on a private concession within the Greater Kruger, Tintswalo offers 4 accommodation types, each with its own plunge pool and viewing deck. Six luxury Explorer Suites link to the main lodge by lantern-lit timber walkways. The Presidential Suite, Grant Suite, and Manor House… accommodate 4-10 guests with private safari vehicles, dedicated guides, a private chef, and butler. With waterholes attracting many birds and wildlife, Manyeleti is known for exclusive, uncrowded Big 5 safaris.
Up to 50% Off
Klaserie - Makumu Game Lodge
- From : R7280/night
With 60 000 hectares of private game viewing territory Klaserie is one of the largest privately-owned reserves forming part of the Greater Kruger. With the Klaserie River running through the reserve the location is ideal for exclusive Big 5 game viewing. The six African inspired suites at Makumu are situated on a hill boasting… uninterrupted views over the bushveld and Dundee riverbed. With a maximum of twelve guests this is a truly exclusive getaway.
Up to 50% Off
Timbavati – Kambuka River Sands Lodge
- From : R9700/night
Located on the western end of the Kruger National Park, River Sands Lodge boasts over 1000 hectares of sole traverse area, ensuring uncrowded game drives and exclusive animal sightings including the rare White Lion. Eight luxurious thatch suites set on a perennial river system make it the perfect spot… for birdwatching and wildlife sightings from your private viewing deck. The world-class lodge also offers a spa, gym, photographic and art safaris.
Up to 50% Off
Balule - Sausage Tree Safari Camp
- From : R4660/night
The small private reserve, which forms part of the Greater Kruger National Park, is strategically located with a 4km stretch along the Olifants River attracting hippo, a diverse bird colony and making for excellent game viewing. Sausage Tree Safari Camp boasts five luxury tents built in an elevated position with views over the… riverbed, bush, and majestic mountains. Guests can enjoy an Elephant Interaction adventure, Olifants River boat cruise, and photographic workshops.
Up to 50% Off
Thornybush - Saseka Tented Camp
- From : R15805/night
Set in 14000 hectares of private reserve territory within the Greater Kruger National Park Saseka Tented Camp features eight luxury tents with private pools and riverbed views. Leadwood villa, perfect for a family, includes a private chef and private game drives. The superior Big 5 habitat boasts some of the best game… viewing in South Africa with complete Big 5 sightings likely within the first 2 days of your safari.
Up to 50% Off
Makalali - Garonga Safari Camp
- From : R7450/night
Set within 26 000 hectares of private territory on the west of the Kruger National Park, Garonga Safari Camp boasts 6 uniquely lavish tents, combining organic eco-materials with modern touches and contemporary design. Each tent features a private deck with hammock and boasts spectacular views… of the dry riverbed below. Besides a holistic eco-luxury safari approach and spectacular game viewing, Garonga also offers a romantic sleep-out experience under the stars.
Up to 50% Off
Klaserie – The Last Word Kitara
- From : R13900/night
The Klaserie Private Nature Reserve is one of the largest privately-owned nature reserves in South Africa covering 60 000 hectares of wildlife territory. Home to a variety of predators, including lion, leopard, spotted hyenas, and wild dogs the reserve offers spectacular game viewing. Set along the verge of the Klaserie… riverbank, six Victorian-style chalets can host up to 12 guests in 5-star luxury with the lodges lounge, terrace, and infinity pool all offering breath-taking reserve views.
Up to 50% Off
Makalali - Makalali River Lodge
- From : R6225/night
With gorgeous views of the Makhutswi River from private timber decks, Makalali River Lodge features 17 luxury suites, spread over 3 camps, as well as a thatched family suite. Set within 26 000 hectares of private savannah plains and riverine forest on the west end of the Kruger National Park, the diverse vegetation… offers an ideal habitat for a variety of game and birdlife, making for exceptional wildlife viewing and Big 5 sightings.
Up to 50% Off
Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve
- From : R11625/night
On the southwestern corner of the Kruger National Park, lies the 65 000-hectare Sabi Sands Game Reserve. Renowned for incredible leopard and lion sightings, Sabi Sands boasts outstanding private game viewing with the most knowledgeable and experienced game rangers. Sabi Sands Game Reserve offers… inspired 5-star safari accommodation. With a passion for excellent service and spectacular comfort, Sabi Sands world-class lodges are perfect for those looking to enjoy the wild, in luxury.
Up to 50% Off
Lion Sands - Narina Lodge
- From : R15385/night
Perched amidst a canopy of trees with exceptional views, Ulusaba Safari Lodge consists of eleven luxurious suites, accessed by swing bridges and raised walkways, heightening the sense of an African bushveld adventure. Lodge facilities include a sparkling swimming pool, fitness centre, a wine cellar, and relaxing spa…
Up to 50% Off
Lion Sands - Tinga Lodge
- From : R15385/night
Perched amidst a canopy of trees with exceptional views, Ulusaba Safari Lodge consists of eleven luxurious suites, accessed by swing bridges and raised walkways, heightening the sense of an African bushveld adventure. Lodge facilities include a sparkling swimming pool, fitness centre, a wine cellar, and relaxing spa…
Up to 50% Off
Lion Sands - Hi'Nkweni Villa
- From : R67705/night
Perched amidst a canopy of trees with exceptional views, Ulusaba Safari Lodge consists of eleven luxurious suites, accessed by swing bridges and raised walkways, heightening the sense of an African bushveld adventure. Lodge facilities include a sparkling swimming pool, fitness centre, a wine cellar, and relaxing spa…
Up to 50% Off
Thornybush - Game Lodge
- From : R11175/night
Perched amidst a canopy of trees with exceptional views, Ulusaba Safari Lodge consists of eleven luxurious suites, accessed by swing bridges and raised walkways, heightening the sense of an African bushveld adventure. Lodge facilities include a sparkling swimming pool, fitness centre, a wine cellar, and relaxing spa…
Up to 50% Off
Thornybush - Shumbalala Game Lodge
- From : R11175/night
Shumbalala Game Lodge is set on the banks of the Monwana river, boasting incredible game viewing from the lodge deck and private viewing decks. The lodge features 4 Superior suites and 1 Presidential suite, allowing for an intimate safari experience of pure luxury and close attention to every guest’s needs…
Up to 50% Off
Thornybush - Jackalberry Lodge
- From : R7140/night
Jackalberry Lodge at Thornybush Game Reserve offers an intimate safari experience with seven suites in total, of which one is a family suite comprising 2 bedrooms. The relaxed setting boasts distant views of the Drakensberg mountain range northern escarpment. At Jackalberry Lodge the communal pool …
Up to 50% Off
Waterside Lodge at Thornybush
- From : R8112/night
Thornybush is a private game reserve sharing unfenced borders with the Kruger National Park. Known for 14 000 hectares of open savannah woodland with patches of thicket, its superior Big 5 habitat boasts some of the best game viewing in South Africa. Here a full Big 5 sighting within the first 2 days of your safari…
Up to 50% Off
Mulwati - Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge
- From : R4875/night
A unique combination of traditional African living and contemporary design make up the six luxury African huts at the exclusive and intimate Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge. Set upon an ancient elephant route in the Mluwati Private Concession, Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge hosts a maximum of twelve guests along the Mluwati river…
Up to 50% Off
Monwana Lodge at Thornybush
- From : R7140/night
Monwana Lodge at Thornybush Game Reserve offers an intimate safari experience with 5 luxurious suites, of which four overlook the waterhole. The private viewing decks are perfect for observing herds of elephants, antelope, zebra, giraffe, and birdlife from your very own suite…
Up to 50% Off
Mulwati - Hamiltons Tented Camp
- From : R6936/night
With only 6 opulent tents, Hamiltons Tented Camp provides the perfect tranquil escape into the African wild within the secluded Mluwati Private Concession. Hamiltons Tented Camp promises ultimate guest privacy making it a fantastic place for couples and honeymooners to enjoy a secluded getaway…
Up to 50% Off
Mulwati - Imbali Safari lodge
- From : R5486/night
Strategically positioned along wildlife movement paths, Imbali Safari Lodge offers guests an exclusive opportunity to relax in luxury while viewing elephant, buffalo, and antelope pass by. Imbali Safari Lodge exudes old-world charm and beautifully marries tradition with nature in its design elements of thatch…
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