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KRUGER

- The Kruger National Park - 
 One of the best safari experiences in Africa 

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First let us share a few facts with you, which are often confused even by locals. A Kruger safari can mean one of two things.

You have the actual “Kruger National Park”, government-run and measuring about 20,000km². This is usually the cheaper way to conduct your safari, but there is a pay-off. For one you drive yourself around and have to stick to designated roads, which often means you cannot get very close to animals. Also, animal sightings are often crowded by dozens of other travellers at times leading to traffic jams and a general lack of game viewing etiquette. 

Then you have what is known as the “Greater Kruger Region”, an area also measuring around 22,000km², comprising of the official Kruger National Park as well as half a dozen private reserves. There is no fences between the government-owned and private reserves, and the animals move freely back and forth. Two of the most famous private reserves are Sabi Sands and Timbavati, where only the vehicles belonging to private lodges are allowed to circulate. Although this is more costly than driving yourself, it is far more intimate experience and means unforgettable wildlife sightings. 

Because the Kruger Region has one of the best anti-poaching programs in Africa, this is one of the best places in the world to tick off your Big 5 (buffalo, lion, leopard, elephant and rhino). You can also expect to see cheetah, giraffe, hippo, the elusive African wild dog, the almost extinct Pangolin and many more beautiful species. The breadth of species present will simply take your breath away!

If 4x4 safaris aren’t exciting enough for you, why not venture out on a guided bush walk and get up close and personal with a white rhino. Standing just metres away from such a magnificent creature with nothing but bush between you, is an experience you will not forget. Less adrenaline inclined? No worries, you can simply relax on the back of the open safari vehicle, sip a lovely G&T as you watch the crimson sun set behind savannah trees, and enjoy the bonfire sparkling into the star-studded night sky. All this awaits you and more… 
Tailor Made Itineraries to South Africa Small Group Travel

Each region is unique!

Click on the different regions below to find out more about the unique beauty each offers, and when the best time is to visit.

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 Itineraries to South Africa

- Best time to go to The Kruger National Park -

Best time to go to The Serengeti

Kruger is an all year-round destination. When you choose to go depends on your priorities. 


Winter (June - September):  Many safari enthusiasts will tell you the best time to visit Kruger is during the peak of dry season, June to August. Because of the lack of water, the wildlife gathers around waterholes and the vegetation thins out which makes viewing much easier, allowing the rangers to spot the Big 5 from a far distance. The weather is also gorgeous, as temperatures stay mild and as a general rule, skies are sunny with no rain and the malaria risk is at its lowest. 


Early morning game drives at the crack of dawn in open vehicles can get pretty chilly, with temperatures as low as 5°C / 40°F, so it’s important to pack something warm. However, the temperatures improve much during the day, averaging around 15°C / 60°F.


Autumn (April- May) and Spring (September - November):  Our own favourite time to go to Kruger is the in-between seasons, when the temperatures are milder, so that you can enjoy your swimming pool, and the days are still generally dry. October is an especially nice month, just before the summer arrives in full force. 


Summer(November - March):  Summer is the rainy season in Kruger National Park. The heat and humidity levels peak, and you can easily expect temperatures up to or even exceeding 40°C / 105°F. This is also a good breeding ground for mosquitos, so be sure to take antimalarial medication beforehand.


However, thanks to the rains, the scenery becomes green and lush and it is birthing time! If you wish to come back with lots of cute baby animals’ pictures, this is the best time to visit the Kruger Park! If you’re a fan of birding, summer is also an excellent time to get those binoculars out, as animal and birdlife are thriving. Game drives usually start and finish earlier in the morning, before the day gets too hot, and the rest of your days are spent relaxing around the lodge pool. 
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