Kruger National Park Tour & Trip Pages

Kruger National Park Overview

Kruger National Park, one of Africa’s largest and South Africa’s first National Park, is the ultimate wildlife destination. About 7,576 square miles (19,623 sq km) in size, it extends 220 miles (360 km) from north to south through Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces. The park is known for abundant wildlife and diverse ecosystems of savannahs, dense forests, rivers, the famed Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo, and over 500 bird species.  

More than safaris, a multi-day trip to the Kruger National Park can include horseback riding, hot air ballooning, and scenic helicopter rides over canyons, making each day a new adventure.

Kruger National Park Visitor Insights

• Country: South Africa

• Time-Zone: South Africa Standard Time (SAST), UTC/GMT +2 hours

• Location: Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces in northeastern South Africa

• Size (Area): 7,576 square miles (19,623 sq km) 

• Annual visitors: 1.8 million

• Visitor Centers: Rest camps, picnic areas and many others

• Opening hours: 5.30 - 6 am (varies monthly)

• Closing hours: 17.30 - 18.00 (varies monthly)

• Entrance Gates: 10 gates

• Entrance Fee: ZAR 486 (adult) and ZAR 243 (children under 12) (rates may vary)

What currency is accepted at Kruger National Park?

The Rand (ZAR) is the official currency of South Africa, and no other currency is accepted. You can exchange money at airports, banks, or malls. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, and ATMs are available. It's advisable to carry enough cash, especially when visiting national parks or for emergencies.

Kruger National Park Major Attractions

Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre

Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre at the base of the Drakensberg mountains in Limpopo province offers a unique opportunity to connect with wildlife. The center focuses on rehabilitating abandoned, orphaned, and injured animals with special care for raptors and primates, including the rare Samango monkey. If you’re interested in learning more about wildlife conservation, Moholoholo offers junior programs, courses, and volunteer activities. You can get hands-on experience in conservation efforts while staying in luxury camps and participating in safaris or game drives. 

Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre (HESC) is another center, which continues its 30-year mission of conserving rare and endangered animals with a particular focus on the cheetah. Located within the Kapama Game Reserve, you can opt for day tours and safari drives and observe the lifestyle of cheetahs and other endangered species. 

Game Reserves

Kruger National Park is surrounded by several private game reserves, each providing a unique and immersive wildlife experience. While Kruger is government-owned and has certain restrictions—such as no night drives or bush walks—the private reserves offer more flexibility and secluded trips. These reserves are crucial in wildlife conservation and provide luxurious retreats with exclusive and off-road adventures, giving you an up-close encounter with nature. Some popular game reserves are:

Sabi Sands Game Reserve: Sharing an unfenced border of 31 miles (50 km) in the southwestern corner of Kruger National Park, among the most renowned game reserves is Sabi Sands. Covering 250 square miles (2.5 sq km), this reserve is famous for leopard and lion sightings along with cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and African wild dogs. It 

Timbavati Game Reserve: Located on the western edge of Kruger, Timbavati Game Reserve is famous for its rare white lions and diverse bird species. Sharing unfenced borders with Kruger, animals roam freely between the two areas, allowing for incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. 

Manyeleti Game Reserve: Bordering Kruger but far from the other tourist reserves, Manyeleti offers a more secluded safari experience with open savannas and subtropical vegetation.

Other notable game reserves include Balule, Idube, and Thornybush.  

Wilderness Trails

Wilderness trails in Kruger National Park offer an immersive way to explore the untouched beauty of the African wilderness. Unlike traditional safari drives, these trails lead small groups on foot for several days through remote areas, providing a close-up experience of Kruger’s rich ecosystems. Skilled and armed guides lead the groups where you can learn about wildlife, diverse ecosystems, and local culture. Some of the most popular and off-the-beaten wilderness trails include:

The Nyalaland Wilderness Trail, one of the most remote in Kruger, lies between Punda Maria and Pafuri camps along the Madzaringwe River in the Soutpansberg Mountains. This trail is renowned for birdwatching with rare species like Pel’s Fishing Owl and Verreaux’s Eagle. The trail passes through botanically rich areas with giant baobabs and sandveld vegetation. On the route, you can visit historical sites with dinosaur fossils, ancient rock paintings, and stone ruins.

The Bushmans Wilderness Trail in the southwestern corner of Kruger is characterized by quiet valleys and rocky landscapes with close sightings of elephants, rhinos, and antelope. The area’s diverse plant life and frequent bird sightings like red-throated wrynecks and jackal buzzards, add appeal. Bushman paintings and other cultural sites are key features of this trail, providing insights into South Africa’s history and art.

The Mathikithi Wilderness Trail departs from Satara Rest Camp and leads hikers through high rocky outcrops. It’s known for its stunning sunsets and excellent game-viewing opportunities from high viewpoints. The nearby Sweni Trail, starting from Satara, is also worth a visit.

The Napi Wilderness Trail stretches between Pretoriuskop and Skukuza Rest Camps offering scenic walks along the Napi and Mbiyamithi rivers. The trail has distinct plant life with broadleaf woodlands that attract both black and white rhinos. During the evenings, you can hear calls of eagle owls and barred owls.

Other notable trails include the Olifants Wilderness Trail and Wolhuter Wilderness Trail, each providing its own unique wilderness experience in Kruger National Park.

Cultural Sights

Kruger National Park is not only rich in wildlife but also boasts many cultural and historical sites that offer insights into the region’s ancient and more recent past. Scattered throughout the park, these sites are easily accessible from many rest camps.

• Bushman Rock Paintings can be found in various locations across Kruger. These ancient rock art sites depict the lives and daily practices of the early inhabitants. 

• Masorini Ruins, located near the Phalaborwa Gate is an Iron Age settlement that has been partially restored. The site includes a museum that showcases tools and artifacts used by early inhabitants providing insights into their lifestyles and communities.

• Albasini Ruins, near Phabeni Gate, gives insight into the trade routes and exchanges between early European settlers and local African communities.

• Thulamela Ruins are a 500-year-old stone-walled archaeological settlement located north of the park. Once home to a thriving Iron Age civilization, this site is considered one of the most significant historical locations within Kruger.

Other Activities

In addition to thrilling safari rides, Kruger National Park offers a variety of unique activities like:

Hot Air Ballooning in the Hoedspruit area is a breathtaking way to start your day. Enjoy a one-hour sunrise flight over the stunning Lowveld landscape taking in spectacular views of the Blyde River and the Northern Drakensberg Escarpment. 

Walking Safari or hiking trails: If you want easy and short hikes, then Sabie Valley offers many options including the Loerie Trail and the Forest Falls Nature Walk. These are popular family trails with the opportunity to cool off in the pools along the way.

Elephant Sanctuary located along the banks of the Sabie River in Hazyview allows visitors to interact with  African elephants. You can feed, touch, and walk with the elephants here.

Panorama Route

The Panorama Route in Mpumalanga province is a scenic drive around Blyde River Canyon, the world’s third-largest canyon, known for its stunning landscapes and rich history. For a deeper experience, consider a multi-day guided tour to Kruger National Park clubbed with the Panorama Route. Key highlights along the route include:

• Three Rondavels: Iconic rock formations resembling traditional African huts.

• Bourke's Luck Potholes: Unique geological rock formations created by swirling waters.

• Mac Mac Falls: A 200-foot (65 mt) beautiful waterfall.

How to Get Around Kruger National Park?

The most preferred way to get around the Kruger National Park is to book a guided safari tour. You can rent a car and self-drive, however, it’s not recommended because the roads are not well-marked. Another option is to fly between the park airstrips.

Best Time to Visit Kruger National Park

Kruger is a year-round destination with distinct seasons. Dry Winter (May to October): This is the best time for wildlife viewing as animals migrate and congregate around water sources. The cooler weather makes for comfortable game drives, but it’s also the busiest season, so expect higher crowds and rates.

Summer Rainy Season (November to April): Heavy rainfall transforms the park into lush, green landscapes. While the scenery is stunning, wildlife is harder to spot as animals disperse and the dense vegetation can obscure sightings.

Shoulder Season (September to October): Although hot and humid, these months are still ideal for wildlife viewing as animals remain near water sources. There are also fewer tourists compared to the peak season, making it a good time to visit for a more peaceful experience.

Essential Tips to Know Before Going on an Kruger National Park Tour

• Clothing: Wear light cotton clothes to stay cool and comfortable. 

• Safaris: Follow safari guidelines and wear muted colors. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses for sun protection. Respect local wildlife laws by using professional guides and adhering to park regulations.

• Health: Consult your doctor before traveling, especially if visiting malaria-prone areas like Kruger National Park.

How much does it cost for a Kruger National Park Tour?

Kruger National Park tour costs vary based on duration, group size, and activities you choose. At AdventureTripr, we offer affordable options including a 10-day South Africa Safari and Adventure tour for $2,750.

Kruger National Park Accommodation

In Kruger National Park and other game reserves, you can find accommodations from luxury cottages to budget-friendly lodges. Satellite or bushveld camps provide basic amenities in the heart of the park, offering an authentic wilderness experience. You can opt for private game reserves for a more exclusive wildlife-watching experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: How to reach Kruger National Park?

Answer 1: Three airports serve Kruger National Park, namely Phalaborwa Airport (Northern Kruger Park), Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport (Central Kruger Park), and Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (Southern Kruger Park). You can fly to these airports from Johannesburg, Cape Town, or Durban and continue to the park by road. 

Question 2: Are there any health precautions to consider?

Answer 2: Be aware of insect-borne diseases like malaria in certain areas of the park. It's advisable to use mosquito repellent, wear protective clothing, and stay in insect-proof accommodations.

Question 3: Can I swim in the park?

Answer 3: There are designated swimming areas in some camps and be mindful of only swimming in safe, marked locations.