Luxury safari in the Kruger National Park

The Kruger National Park consistently ranks among the very best luxury safari destination in Africa. It comes as no surprise then that the private concessions and private game reserves here spare no expense when it comes to absolute opulent living in the heart of the African bush.

Singita Lebombo

While the vast expanse of the public areas of the Kruger National Park is meant to cater for all, you’ll want to head to one of the private concession areas if all-out indulgence is what you’re after. Here all your needs are taken care of from the moment you set foot in these exclusive sections of the park to the moment you leave. The concessions are set in prime Big Five country and are unfenced, meaning you get to experience exceptional game viewing minus the crowds.

The private game reserves on the western perimeter of the Kruger, many of whom share unfenced borders with the park, are arguably a step up from the concession areas. Here the lodges, luxury tents and villas are set in the most spectacular environments possible and the views from your suite or villa are often worth the trip alone. Most lodges offer personal guides, housekeeping staff and chefs and customize your stay according to specific needs. And did we mention private swimming pools, wine cellars, libraries, rooftop viewing areas, five-star spa treatments, therapeutic massages, wellness centers… the list goes on!

Kings Camp

Both the concession lodges and private reserve lodges offer activities not found elsewhere in the park, such as night time game drives, off-road tracking of animals and activities specifically developed for children. Several lodges offer tailor-made experiences that might focus on photography, romantic getaways, birding and even fine dining.

Speaking of dining, the cuisine at the luxury lodges are world class offerings with a distinctive African flair. What’s more, meals are often set in spectacular bush settings. Ever had breakfast while overlooking a waterhole teeming with wildlife? How about high tea under an ancient African acacia tree? You simply must try a lavish five-course dinner prepared by your personal chef with the Milky Way shimmering over an atmospheric lantern-lit banquet.

Practical information

• Most lodges offer direct air transfers to and from the nearest international airport, OR Tambo, in Johannesburg. However, some lodges offer direct or connecting flights from other popular destinations such as Cape Town, Victoria Falls, Vilanculos and Mauritius.

• Speak to a dedicated safari expert who’ll curate your Kruger National Park safari, as well as connecting destinations, to your specific needs. There is no better way to distill the myriad of options in the Greater Kruger to your personal itinerary, budget, family size and expectations.

• Several lodges offer private and secluded villas for exclusive use. This option caters for the discreet individual, couple or family by providing personal housekeepers, chefs and game rangers for the duration of your stay.

• A host of personalised activities and excursions in the Greater Kruger and nearby regions may be arranged from your lodge. These include, but are not limited to helicopter, hot-air balloon and microlight flights over the stunning Blyde River Canyon; golfing at the world-class Hans Merensky or Leopard Creek Golf Estates; and customised photographic, horseback and birding safaris.