Kruger Park

A safari is often a crucial element of any South Africa trip. And for many travellers, there is no better safari destination than the Kruger National Park and its adjacent private game reserves. Words cannot describe the thrill of tracking a leopard on the hunt or along a sandy riverbed. Or observing a breeding herd of elephants at a waterhole. These candid moments are everyday encounters in this enormous, unfenced ecosystem where wildlife moves freely. 

The Greater Kruger is the safari destination for many of our guests. The Kruger National Park itself is vast and encompasses many diverse biospheres. This ensures a diversity of wildlife on offer. But the Kruger also offers an unsurpassed concentration of wildlife. Alongside the national park lie a collection of renowned private game reserves, including Sabi Sands, Timbavati, Thornybush and Kapama.

These concessions along with the National Park are in collection, the Greater Kruger Area. Many share open borders with Kruger, meaning animals traverse naturally between protected areas. These private reserves are home to some of southern Africa’s most respected safari lodges, offering expert guiding, fewer vehicles and a more immersive safari rhythm. 

We recommend spending at least three to four nights on your Kruger Park safari, and ideally longer. Many guests choose to combine two different safari areas, for example Sabi Sands with Timbavati, or a private reserve with one of Kruger’s internal concessions, to experience contrasting landscapes and wildlife patterns. 

For those wanting even greater contrast, you can enjoy a Kruger safari and then head to a completely different safari destination such as Madikwe Game Reserve, northern KwaZulu Natal or the Waterberg. The Kruger also contrasts very well with the Okavango Delta of Botswana or the Mana Pools of Zimbabwe. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose between Kruger Park and a private reserve? 
Private reserves offer guided safaris and fewer vehicles, while Kruger Park allows for self-drive exploration. Many travellers combine both for variety. 

Is Kruger suitable for honeymooners or special occasions? 
Yes — private reserves and concessions offer secluded lodges, exceptional guiding and romantic touches well-suited to celebrations. 

Can I combine Kruger with other regions easily? 
Very easily. Kruger works well with Cape Town, the Garden Route, Blyde River Canyon, or other safari regions in southern Africa.