What are you looking for?

Last Updated: 30 January 2024

The Perfect Kruger Safari

Matthys Van Aswegen Headshot

Written by  Tiffany Bowers

 • Travel Writer

Verified by  Matthys Van Aswegen

 •  Africa Safari Expert

Part of the Kruger National Park Safari Collection

As we were all locked in our houses for most of 2020 and whilst borders closed for all travel globally since the break of the pandemic news, we have all been dreaming of getting out into nature once more and travel the big, large outdoor spaces.

We are all ecstatic about the reopening of international borders for travel. South Africa is prepared for all travellers who want to experience a once in a lifetime African holiday, with the friendliest service & gourmet food.

You have not done a proper holiday in Africa if you have not yet experienced an authentic South African safari in Kruger. As the countries most loved, there is a reason why the Kruger consistently ranks amongst Africa’s most valuable reserves.

About the Kruger

The Kruger National Park is the largest wildlife reserve in South Africa, covering an area of almost 2 hectares. Located in Limpopo and parts of Mpumalanga, the park is home to a vast diversity of wildlife including the Big five, thousands of bird species and hosting some of the best private safari lodges.

The Perfect Kruger Safari

The region comprises peaceful savannas, woodlands, riverine, forests and rugged mountains. The vegetation changes due to the size of the area, therefore it is good to have an expert guide as the changes have implications on game viewing. The Kruger is great for game viewing all year-round.

Where and How?

The Kruger offers a wide range of ways to explore the wilderness. Exploring can be done by doing a self-drive safari arranging your camping or lodge accommodation with the National Park authorities. If you are on a budget or local to South Africa, this is an excellent way of exploring the Kruger. I need to mention that doing this independently does come with a great many restrictions that limit your game viewing experience.

The Perfect Kruger Safari

Travellers coming to visit the Kruger region usually start their journey in Johannesburg or Cape Town by taking a flight to the nearest airport in Kruger. There are also direct road transfers from Johannesburg international airport which is situated about 400 kilometres west of Kruger. This is a great way to add to your South African holiday, whilst also visiting the Blyde River Canyon en-route.

The Perfect Kruger Safari

Most travellers opt to fly to either of the nearby airports, namely, Eastgate, Skukuza or Nelspruit. Upon arrival, private transfers or vehicle hire can be arranged.

There are several private game reserves and lodges within or bordering the Kruger National Park. Worthy of mention would be the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Timbavati Nature Reserve, Manyeleti, Balule and more. It is within these privately owned reserves where the best game viewing and safari’s take place.

The best way

From experience,  the best is to plan private safari at one of the many famous private reserves offering luxury accommodation and superb game viewing in Kruger.

The added benefit of the reserves is that they are unfenced, animals roam freely between Kruger and the reserve, which adds to the magic that a Kruger safari offers.

A suggested stay of between 3 – 6 nights at any of the famous lodges, which are known for their world-renowned safari and wildlife encounters including professional, luxurious service.

It will be a once in a lifetime experience with priceless memories.

The Perfect Kruger Safari

Another great idea if you want more bang for your buck and wow stories, is splitting your time between two different private reserves, which will guarantee splendid game viewing.

You can quickly fly to one of the nearest airports, usually Eastgate while having pre-booked your private transfer from the airport to the lodge, which will ensure a smooth and very relaxed holiday experience by doing less and experiencing more.

Arriving at the lodge of choice you will be met by friendly staff, experienced and provisional game trackers and guides. You can spot wildlife from your lodge, watching elephants drinking from the nearby waterhole, all while enjoying coffee and snacks in comfort.

The Perfect Kruger Safari

Your safari tends to include exceptional food and beverages as well as activities such as day and/or night game drives in open-top Land Rovers.

Meals usually have an authentic traditional twist to it and include a boma fire to take in the full African vibes. Bush Walks are also available for those who are more adventurous at heart.

In summary, Kruger is undoubtedly one of the safest destinations,  with great local deals, current exchange rates being in favour of the international traveller it is almost a must to book yourself the best safari of your life.

Planning an exclusive safari to any of the fantastic private lodges within the Kruger is the way to go.

Written by  Tiffany Bowers

 • Travel Writer

Team Member Headshot

Verified by  Matthys Van Aswegen

 •  Africa Safari Expert

Matthys is a Senior Travel Consultant, with over 18 years experience in the travel industry and a keen eye for photography.

Discover the African Journey that’s Right for You

Discover Africa Through Travellers' Stories

These stories capture the real magic of Africa – where every journey becomes a chapter worth sharing.

The true magic, though, is with the people. They’re not just staff; they’re my friends, my family.

JJ Towler

United States

Matthys Van Aswegen

JJ Towler's journey was crafted with the expertise of Matthys Van Aswegen

I went to Africa to help my parents check a box, but I returned with a new perspective on my own life. Africa is no longer a "someday" destination for me; it’s a "must-return".

Steven

United States

Vihann Van Wyk

Steven's journey was crafted with the expertise of Vihann Van Wyk

We trusted our guide implicitly as we sat mere metres from elephants, lions, and hippos.

Cathy & Debb

Canada

Vihann Van Wyk

Cathy & Debb's journey was crafted with the expertise of Vihann Van Wyk

The Serengeti offered us sights we had never witnessed before, such as the surreal image of lions lounging high in the trees

Cathy & Nat

Canada

What Our Guests Have to Say?

Read recent reviews from travellers who have planned and booked their trips with us

star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon
Safari Bookings review

"I contacted Chrizaan after my tour operator in the UK went into liquidation 3 weeks before we were suppose to travel. Asking if you could help me to rebook the Camps, Hotels and As Dunas. This Lady went above and beyond what you would consider helping noth..."

John Walker, United Kingdom•13 Oct 2026•

Read More
star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon
Safari Bookings review

"Chrizaan was friendly, organized and extremely knowledgeable about lodges and safari options that we were interested in. We booked an 11 night tour through Zimbabwe and Botswana starting in Victoria Falls at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge then going to Botswan..."

Linda, United States•12 Aug 2026•

Read More
star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon
Trustpilot review

"Justin took great care to make sure we had the best possible experience in Kruger NP and we are so grateful. Through the booking process we were looking at several options and he patiently guided us through the alternatives but ultimately encouraged us t..."

Mark, Australia•01 Aug 2026•

Read More
star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon
Google review

"I worked with Justin Van Wyk at Discover Africa Safaris to arrange safaris in Zimbabwe and Botswana, including a stop at Victoria Falls, for two of my children and me. The safaris were exquisite, and Justin was phenomenal—professional, responsive, and detai..."

Bill Reid, United States•24 Jul 2026•

Read More
star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon
Trustpilot review

"We worked with Discover Africa to arrange our first ever Safari. Chrizaan from Discover Africa did a tremendous job in first understanding our requirements and wishes and then translating them into the perfect trip for us! Everything was organized to the..."

Elke Bregler, United States•21 Apr 2026•

Read More
star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon

"Discover Africa and their trip advisor Megan Warrington did a fantastic job arranging our trip to Cape Town, Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe), and the Chobe River and Kwara Camp in Botswana. We originally planned this trip a few years ago, but had to cancel. Megan..."

Roger Pennifill, United States•12 Nov 2025•

Read More
View All Testimonials

Our safari traveller reviews are independently verified and sourced from trusted third-party review platforms.