by GP Wentzel
Kruger National Park & My First Safari
I was fortunate enough to have my very first Kruger visit when I was only 2 years old, accompanying my family on their yearly getaway to enjoy nature. One of my earliest memories is being on an early morning game drive – a beautiful scene overlooking a river, my dad chatting to another driver that pointed out a bateleur eagle and a leopard sighting further up the road. I remember the excitement, anticipation and burst of adrenalin to see a leopard leap from the bush and take down a male warthog as we stopped.
I have frequented the park ever since as both a private visitor and professional guide – here are some insights and tips.
The Kruger
Kruger National Park was established in 1926, making it the second oldest in the world. The park has a proud history of nurturing biodiversity interwoven with a rich culturally diverse legacy. Today it is one of the world’s premier safari destinations to marvel at the fauna and flora on offer.
Spanning 20,000 sq km, it boasts over 150 mammal species, 500 bird species and a diverse landscape teeming with wildlife.
Best time to visit Kruger National Park?
- The most popular time of year is from May to July when it is dry with less vegetation with watering holes frequented by animals. The park will be bursting at the seams with locals frequent the park. Expect crowds at sightings.
- I am a big fan of shoulder seasons; March to April will have fewer visitors and offer lusher scenery that makes for beautiful pictures.
- September to October will also have fewer visitors and more accommodation availability in and around the park. Hotter this time of year, but 99% of overnight options have swimming pools.
- December to January is my favorite time to go. I have had truly unique sightings, the park is quiet and you have time to enjoy the amenities of your camp / lodge during the heat of the day.
Here are some pictures at different times of the year for comparison…
Which accommodation options to choose?
There are three main accommodation options catering to different experiences:
- Inside the park (SANParks) means you will have a range of options: camp sites, permanent tents, basic bungalows and chalets. This is popular with self drive safari and favoured by the locals.
- Outside the park has the most options offering lodges and hotels in towns alongside the park that provide easy access to multiple gates.
- Greater Kruger Concessions offer lodges inside private game reserves adjacent to the park, thus free roaming game between park & reserve. There are also concessions agreements inside the park itself. All offering exclusive, luxury experiences with off-road game drives.
What to expect on Game Drives & Wildlife Encounters?
On your African Safari (Swahili word for journey) you will go on a game drive. No one game drive is ever the same.
- If you self-drive you will explore the park in your own vehicle on the well-maintained road network.
- The guided open-vehicle drives offered by Tour Operator will have half-day (3-4 hour) or full-day (7-8 hour) game drives in specialised 4×4 vehicles. They will also only be permitted on the road infrastructure of the park.
- When staying at a private reserve the drives are included with your stay. They are allowed to do off-road driving and tracking in their concessions for enhanced close-up wildlife encounters. Early morning, afternoon and sunset game drives are generally 3-4 hours.
There are very clear game driving etiquette & ethics and I fully support these. Unfortunately not all guides and companies feel the same and ethics differ. Thus I believe you need to go prepared – you can find the guidelines HERE.
Will You See the Big 5?
Named in the colonialist era to identify the 5 most dangerous animals to hunt on foot.
- Kruger offers one of the best chances to see the Big 5 – lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo.
- All the animals are wild and free roaming, making every sighting a fortunate affair. You will see lots of common animals like the impala and less likely to see endangered animals like the african wild dog / african painted wolf.
- Important to note is to embrace all aspects of the ecosystem, from towering trees to birds and reptiles.
Safety & Responsible Travel…
A Kruger Safari is safe, but only when you follow the rules.
- Guides are well trained, the park is well regulated and animals are used to vehicles which means they could not be bothered by your presence…inside the vehicle.
- Kruger is a malaria-risk area from October to May; consult your doctor for prophylactics and use insect repellent.
- Kruger National Park plays a key role in cultural and ethical aspects through conservation and community development, supporting anti-poaching initiatives and habitat restoration projects. Many lodges and tour operators partner with local communities, ensuring that tourism benefits conservation efforts and provides sustainable livelihoods.
- Be a responsible traveller, care for the environment and be a conservation warrior.
South African National Parks Rules & Regulations
Top tips to visit Kruger…
- Check out our blog on – 5 Things You Need to Know Before Going on Safari
- Book a trip – I strongly recommend first time visitors to book a trip that includes a combination of outside the park & within Greater Kruger. This will offer the perfect experience.
- Photography tips: If serious about wildlife photography, invest in a zoom lens or join a specialized photo safari.
- Go with a professional guide – game drives with professional guides will offer you their expertise and increase the likelihood of good sightings.
Final Thoughts
With its breathtaking landscapes, spectacular wildlife sightings and diverse accommodation options, Kruger National Park delivers an unforgettable safari experience. Whether self-driving or opting for a guided tour, it’s a destination that offers unparalleled value to any traveller.
Let Inspired Routes plan your dream Kruger safari today and experience the magic of the African bush.
Pictures to enjoy Krugers diversity…
Safe travels!