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 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?
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’.
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19 Trips Available
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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$ 9,929
- Trip Type:
- Classics (Bestsellers), Luxury and Beyond, Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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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$ 2,699
- Trip Type:
- Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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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$ 4,819
- Trip Type:
- Luxury and Beyond, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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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$ 4,539
- Trip Type:
- Small Group Touring
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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$ 8,168
- Trip Type:
- Classics (Bestsellers), Luxury and Beyond, Private Experiences, Rail Travel Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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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$ 2,985
- Trip Type:
- Classics (Bestsellers), Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
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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:
- On request
- Trip Type:
- Classics (Bestsellers), Luxury and Beyond, Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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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$ 2,719
- Trip Type:
- Luxury and Beyond, Rail Travel Ideas, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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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$ 1,819
- Trip Type:
- Escorted Coach Touring
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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:
- AU$ 10,342
- Trip Type:
- Luxury and Beyond, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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A Tale of Two Safaris: Amazulu Private Game Reserve, Umhlanga & Greater Kruger
DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Enjoy superb game viewing and luxury accommodations in the Manyoni Private Game Reserve and the Greater Makalali Private Game Reserve on this 9-day South African vacation. Search for the Big 5 and other incredible wildlife living within the country’s finest private game reserves and spend two nights relaxing on Umhlanga's beaches in between.- Duration:
- 9 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 4,662
- Trip Type:
- Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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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$ 5,208
- Trip Type:
- Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Southern Africa Extravaganza: Greater Kruger, Cape Town & Victoria Falls
DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Combining a superb African safari with a trip down the Western Cape, this South Africa travel opportunity takes you to one of the world’s most beautiful cities, Cape Town, before ending at spectacular Victoria Falls.- Duration:
- 12 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 8,405
- Trip Type:
- Luxury and Beyond, Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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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$ 9,164
- Trip Type:
- Luxury and Beyond, Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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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$ 1,497
- Trip Type:
- Family Vacations, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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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:
- AU$ 3,854
- Trip Type:
- Safaris Worldwide, Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Southern Africa Odyssey
FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: Embark on a soul-stirring journey through Southern Africa. Connecting from Cape Town’s cosmopolitan charm to Makalali’s wild majesty to the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, this elevated small group journey promises an unforgettable immersion into Southern Africa’s diverse landscapes and captivating wonders.- Duration:
- 12 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 4,279
- Trip Type:
- Classics (Bestsellers), Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
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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:
- 5 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ On Request
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly
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Sunrise and Sun Downers in South Africa
FIRST-CLASS | SPECIALITY GROUP: Venture to Africa's southernmost country on this 11-day group South Africa vacation. Explore the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town, sample delights from the Winelands, search for the Big 5 at Kruger National Park, discover the history of Johannesburg, and unwind at the iconic Victoria Falls on this trip sure to check off your bucket list.- Duration:
- 11 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 3,799
- Trip Type:
- Specialty Groups & Events