Kruger Safari: The Call of the Wild
Africa's Premier Game Reserve
Experience one of the world's greatest wildlife destinations. Home to the Big Five and hundreds of other species, Kruger National Park offers unforgettable safari adventures.
About Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park is South Africa's flagship wildlife reserve, covering nearly 2 million hectares (about the size of Israel). Established in 1898, it's one of Africa's largest game reserves and offers some of the best wildlife viewing on the continent.
Unlike many African parks, Kruger is accessible and affordable. Self-drive safaris are possible, rest camps provide budget-friendly accommodation, and the park is easy to reach from Johannesburg.
The Big Five
~1,600 in the park
~1,000 (elusive)
~17,000 (common)
White & Black species
~37,000 (very common)
Safari Options
Rent a car and explore at your own pace. Kruger has excellent roads and clear signage.
Expert guides know the best spots and share wildlife knowledge. Dawn and dusk drives available.
SANParks camps offer affordable bungalows. Skukuza and Satara are popular choices.
Private reserves bordering Kruger offer all-inclusive luxury experiences.
Safari Tips
- Best time: Dry winter months (May-Sept) for easier game viewing
- Early starts: Animals are most active at dawn—be at the gates at opening
- Water holes: Patient watching at water holes often yields sightings
- Binoculars: Essential for spotting distant animals and birds
- Stay in the car: Never exit your vehicle except at designated areas
FAQ
When is the best time for safari?
Dry winter months (May-September) offer the best game viewing—sparse vegetation and animals gather at water. Summer (November-March) has lush green landscapes, baby animals, and migrant birds.
What are the Big Five?
Lion, leopard, elephant, rhino (black or white), and buffalo. The term originated from hunting but now refers to the most iconic safari animals. Kruger is one of the best places in Africa to see all five.
Can you self-drive in Kruger?
Yes! Kruger is one of the few African parks where self-drive safaris are popular and safe. Rent a regular car (no 4x4 needed on main roads) and explore at your own pace. It's a unique and affordable way to safari.
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Start Planning Your Safari
Lodges, game drives, self-drive tips, and booking information.
Visit KrugerSafari.com →