Kruger National Park - Discovering South Africa

Travelling to Kruger National Park

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kruger National Park, a pretty good destination in South Africa (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kruger National Park and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kruger National Park, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through South Africa, here's everything to know about Kruger National Park for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Africa, located in northeastern South Africa bordering Mozambique and Zimbabwe. It covers an area of almost 20,000 square kilometers and it's home to a wide range of animals such as lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, buffalos, and many more. It offers great opportunities for wildlife viewing and it's a popular destination for safaris and outdoor adventures. The park has several camps and lodges, both inside and outside its borders, where visitors can stay and enjoy the beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife. The best time to visit Kruger National Park is from May to September, during the dry season when the animals are easier to spot.

What to visit in Kruger National Park

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions in Kruger National Park and their information: 1. Big Five - Kruger National Park is known for having the Big Five (African elephant, lion, leopard, Cape buffalo, and rhinoceros) which are the most sought-out animals by tourists.
2. Game Viewing - Kruger National Park is home to over 140 species of mammals, more than 500 species of birds, and more than 100 species of reptiles, which makes it an ideal destination for game viewing.
3. Bird watching- Kruger National Park is a bird-watchers paradise as it is home to over 500 different bird species which include raptors, vultures, eagles, and colorful species like bee-eaters, rollers, and kingfishers.
4. Guided Safari Tours - Professional and experienced guides are available to take visitors on guided safari tours, ensuring the best wildlife viewing experience for visitors.
5. Self-drive safari tours - Tourists can also explore the park on their own using their own vehicles as the park has excellent roads, signposts, and maps.
6. Night Safari Tours - Visitors can take a night safari tour to see nocturnal animals such as the elusive leopard, hyena, and honey badger.
7. Game walks - Visitors can take guided walking safaris led by professional guides who take visitors closer to the natural habitats of animals such as elephants, giraffes, and other herbivores.
8. Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport - This airport serves as an entry point to Kruger National Park and provides easy access for tourists from different parts of the world.
9. Panorama Route - Tourists can also explore the scenic Panorama Route which is a scenic drive that showcases breathtaking views of Blyde River Canyon, Bourke's Luck Potholes, and the Three Rondavels. 10. Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre and Cheetah Breeding Project - These centers help in rehabilitating injured wild animals, and visitors can also get to see some of these animals being cared for at these centers.
Overall, Kruger National Park offers a unique and magnificent experience to all visitors, and it is a must-visit tourist destination for anyone visiting South Africa.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in South Africa, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Kruger National Park.

When to go on holiday to Kruger National Park

The best time to go on a holiday to Kruger National Park depends on what you want to see and do during your trip. Here's a breakdown of the different seasons: - Summer (November to February): This is the rainy season and temperatures can be hot and humid. However, this season is great for bird watching and the park is lush and green. There are also lots of baby animals around! - Autumn (March to May): This is a popular time to visit as it is generally cooler and drier. It is a good time to see wildlife as animals tend to congregate around waterholes.
- Winter (June to August): This is the dry season and the best time for game viewing as vegetation is sparse and animals come out to drink at water sources. The weather is cooler, but it can get quite chilly at night.
- Spring (September to October): This is a great time to visit if you want to see newborn animals. The weather is warming up and there are fewer crowds than in the summer months.
Overall, the best time to visit depends on your personal preferences and what activities you want to do while you're there.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kruger National Park

There are a few ways to get to Kruger National Park in South Africa, depending on where you are coming from and your preferred mode of transportation.
By flight: The closest airport to the Kruger National Park is the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) in Nelspruit, which is approximately an hour's drive from the park. Another option is the Hoedspruit Airport, which is closer to the central and northern parts of the park. From either airport, you can rent a car or book a shuttle to take you to the park.
By car: If you are driving from Johannesburg, take the N4 to Nelspruit and then the R40 to Hazyview. From there, follow the signs to the park's entrance gates. The drive takes around 4.5 to 5 hours.
By bus: Several bus companies offer services from Johannesburg and other major cities to the town of Hazyview, which is near Kruger National Park. From Hazyview, you can rent a car or book a shuttle to take you to the park.
Keep in mind that the park has several entrance gates, so be sure to check which one is closest to your chosen accommodation.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kruger National Park, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kruger National Park

There are several typical foods available in Kruger National Park, representing the diverse culinary traditions of South Africa. Here are some of the most commonly found foods in Kruger National Park with a brief description: 1. Biltong: Biltong is a type of dried, cured meat that is popular in South Africa. It is usually made from beef or game meats and is a great snack for visitors on safari.
2. Bobotie: A traditional South African dish, Bobotie is a baked dish made up of spiced minced meat, covered with an egg-based topping and baked in the oven.
3. Boerewors: Boerewors is a traditional South African sausage that is made from beef and pork and usually served on a braai or barbecue.
4. Chakalaka: Chakalaka is a spicy vegetable relish that is commonly served as a side dish in South African cuisine. It usually contains beans, carrots, onions, and spices, and is often served with pap (a type of maize porridge).
5. Bunny Chow: Bunny Chow is a South African fast food dish that consists of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with a spicy curry made with meat, chicken, or vegetables.
6. Koeksisters: Koeksisters are a traditional South African pastry made of deep-fried dough that is then immersed in a sugar syrup. They are usually braided and have a twisted appearance.
7. Malva Pudding: Malva Pudding is a sweet and sticky traditional South African dessert made with apricot jam and topped with a hot custard.
8. Rooibos Tea: Rooibos tea is a herbal tea that is native to South Africa. It is caffeine-free and has a sweet and slightly nutty flavor.
These are just a few of the typical foods available in Kruger National Park. Visitors can find a range of traditional South African dishes as well as more international cuisine.
You can find general info about typical foods in South Africa here.

Is Kruger National Park an expensive destination for tourists?

Kruger National Park can be considered a relatively expensive destination compared to other destinations in South Africa. The park charges entrance fees which can range from R100 (approximately $7) to R400 (approximately $28) per person per day depending on the type of visit and the nationality of the visitor. Accommodation, food, and activities within the park can also be costly, especially if you opt for luxury lodges or private safaris. However, there are also more affordable options available, such as self-catering accommodation and guided group tours. Overall, the cost of visiting Kruger National Park will depend on your budget and travel preferences.

Where to find accomodation in Kruger National Park

There are several areas where you can find accommodation when visiting Kruger National Park: 1. Skukuza Rest Camp: This is the largest and most popular rest camp in Kruger National Park, located in the southern region of the park.
2. Satara Rest Camp: This is another popular rest camp in the central region of the park, known for its massive herds of buffalo.
3. Lower Sabie Rest Camp: This camp is located in the southeastern region of the park and is known for its beautiful views of the Sabie River.
4. Olifants Rest Camp: This camp is located in the northern region of the park and is perched on a hill overlooking the Olifants River.
5. Berg-en-Dal Rest Camp: This camp is located in the southwestern region of the park and has beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
These are just a few options, but there are many other camps and lodges within the park to suit different preferences and budgets.
You can check hotel prices at Kruger National Park here:
Booking.com

Is Kruger National Park a safe destination for tourists?

Kruger National Park is generally a safe place for tourists to visit. However, it is still important for visitors to take precautions and follow the rules of the park to ensure their safety. There are wild animals present in the park, including lions, leopards, elephants, and rhinos, so it is important to never approach or feed the animals. Visitors should stay in their vehicles, or designated viewing areas, at all times unless accompanied by a park ranger. Also, visitors should keep a safe distance from any wildlife sightings, as it can be dangerous to get too close. It is also recommended to only stay in designated campsites within the park, and to avoid walking around at night. Additionally, visitors should follow all signage, rules, and regulations within the park, and to report any suspicious activity to park officials.
In summary, while Kruger National Park is generally safe for tourists, it is important to exercise caution, follow safety guidelines, and respect the wildlife to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in South Africa here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kruger National Park.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kruger National Park the most?

Kruger National Park is a great destination for a wide variety of travelers. The park has activities and attractions that appeal to couples, young people, families with children, and solo travelers.
Couples can enjoy the park's romantic and secluded setting, with plenty of opportunities for private game drives, scenic walks and evenings under the stars.
Young people looking for fun can enjoy a variety of activities in the park, including guided bush walks, bird watching, mountain biking, and nighttime game drives.
Families will love the chance to see an incredible array of wildlife up close, as well as the educational opportunities offered by the park's interpretive center and guided tours. The park also has many family-friendly accommodations and facilities.
Overall, anyone interested in wildlife, adventure and natural beauty will love Kruger National Park.

How to get around Kruger National Park

The best way to move around Kruger National Park is by using a 4x4 vehicle, either by renting it or joining a guided safari tour. The park has many gravel roads that can be difficult to navigate with a regular car, so a 4x4 is a safer choice. Also, it is important to note that self-driving is allowed in the park, but visitors must follow speed limits and stay in their cars at all times for safety reasons.

What to see around Kruger National Park

Certainly! Here are some nice places you can visit within a day trip from Kruger National Park in South Africa: 1. Blyde River Canyon: This beautiful canyon is the third largest in the world and showcases some of South Africa's most impressive natural beauty.
2. Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Center: For a chance to see and learn about the rehabilitation of South African wildlife, visit this fantastic wildlife center.
3. Pilgrim's Rest: Take a trip back in time and explore this historic gold mining town that dates back to the 19th century.
4. Sabie Waterfall Route: Explore the beautiful waterfalls located just outside Kruger National Park. The route is easy to follow and offers stunning views of nature.
5. Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre: Visit this non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of endangered species including cheetahs, wild dogs, and other big cats.
I hope these suggestions give you a good starting point for planning your day trips from Kruger National Park.
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