National Parks

Kruger National Park South Africa

Let the iconic Kruger National Park in South Africa be the stage for a safari like no other, offering you an indescribably rich wildlife experience at one of Africa’s best national parks. Learn more about the spectacular Kruger Park and how you can experience thrilling guided game drives, incredible wildlife, and exclusive accommodation at the best luxury lodges with Ker & Downey Africa.

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Everything you need to know about Kruger National Park

Rated as one of the top wildlife parks in Africa, the Kruger National Park is a spectacular backdrop for a Big 5 safari and boasts some of the best scenery on the continent. A jewel in the African safari crown, the nearly 2 million-hectare park stretches 352 kilometers from north to south and is home to six major rivers and the greatest diversity of flora and fauna in Africa. The Kruger National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Africa and is the ultimate destination for a truly rich wildlife experience, including African big cats, buffalo, giraffes, elephants, and a variety of large antelope.

Where is the Kruger park located?

The Kruger National Park is situated in the north-eastern region of South Africa. Wedged between the provinces of Mpumalanga and Limpopo, and bordering the countries of Zimbabwe and Mozambique, the Kruger Park offers a wide diversity of landscapes with the African bush home to a superb selection of wildlife, including the Big 5. It is easily accessible from South Africa’s two major international airports – Johannesburg and Cape Town – with regular scheduled flights to local airports in the different regions of the Park.

About Kruger National Park

What can you expect from the terrain?

Because of the sheer size of the Park, the landscape, and subsequent game viewing, the terrain differs vastly as you travel from north to south. Ultimately, the park is divided into two major sections – the more arid northern section and the slightly more saturated southern section. Home to five different vegetation zones, the terrain ranges from wide grassy plains, interspersed with vast river valleys and dense woodland forests, to craggy sandstone hills and iconic Baobab trees that pepper the region. It is a medley of remarkable nature at its very best.

What type of wildlife will we see?

Because of the varying terrain, animals are generally seen in bigger numbers in the more arid southern region. Here, the Big 5, including incredible cat sightings, are a more regular occurrence, whereas, in the north, unique sightings of localized mammals and bird species, as well as some of the Kruger’s biggest elephant populations, can be seen that are unique to that region. All in all, Kruger Park offers some of Africa’s best game viewing opportunities. Guests can expect close encounters with leopard, white and black rhino, buffalo, lion, elephant, cheetah, zebra, giraffe, hippo, hyenas, and the rare wild dog amongst a range of other various smaller game, birds of prey, and nocturnal animals.

Why is Kruger National Park so famous?

The Kruger National Park is one of the most famous in Africa, thanks to its sheer size, incredible biodiversity, and breathtaking scenery. The park is the largest game reserve in Africa, home to the Big 5 – lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and buffalo – along with a vast array of mammals, birds, reptiles, and plant species. The Kruger Park was established in 1898 and has a long history of wildlife conservation, with its efforts globally recognized. It is also a hub for scientific research. Due to the park’s vast size, there is a spectacular array of safari experiences and luxury lodges to choose from. Ker & Downey Africa has access to superb safari lodges and experiences. Contact our team today, and let us handpick the best luxury lodge based on your requirements. We look forward to curating a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience in this world-renowned African game reserve.

What are the top experiences to enjoy at Kruger National Park?

Not only is the Kruger National Park a spectacular backdrop for a Big 5 safari, but the area is also remarkable for an exceptional range of ancient Bushman rock paintings and important archaeological sites. These, and other close encounters with the bushveld, can be experienced on incredible walking safaris where expert local guides will share their extensive knowledge and bush lore with you.

Another bucket list experience when visiting this iconic wildlife haven is spending the night out in the open, experiencing the sounds and sights of the bush while sleeping in luxury mobile tents under the stars. There really isn’t anything quite as magical as being up close and personal with the bush’s nocturnal wildlife and experiencing millions of stars scattered on a black canvas like moon dust.

Another bucket list experience when visiting this iconic wildlife haven is a night spent out in the open, experiencing the sounds and sights of the bush while sleeping in luxury mobile tents under the stars. There really isn’t anything quite as magical as being up close and personal with the nocturnal animals of the bush and experiencing the sight of millions of stars scattered on a black canvas like moon dust.

What is the closest city to the Kruger National Park?

The closest city to Kruger National Park is Nelspruit, which is now known as Mbombela. Mbombela is located in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa and serves as a common gateway for visitors traveling to the park. The city is approximately 63 kilometers (about 39 miles) west of the nearest entrance to Kruger National Park, making it a convenient starting point for tourists. Additionally, Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP), located near Mbombela, provides easy access for international and domestic travelers heading to the park.

How much does a luxury safari cost in the Kruger National Park?

The cost of a luxury safari to the Kruger National Park will depend on multiple factors, including your length of stay, time of year, chosen accommodation, and desired safari experiences. We have access to the most exclusive safari lodges in the Kruger Park. Contact our team today if you would like to explore the Kruger National Park on a luxury safari in South Africa.

Is the Kruger National Park safe to visit?

Yes, Kruger Park is safe to visit, especially when you book with a recognized and highly respected safari operator. As one of Africa’s top attractions, the park goes to great lengths to ensure the safety of its guests. However, it’s always best to exercise caution and to travel with registered, qualified tour guides.

Is the Kruger National Park safe to visit?

What type of safari experiences can I enjoy in Kruger National Park?

There’s a wonderful selection of safari experiences to enjoy in Kruger Park, including:

Big game drives
Walking safaris
Fishing safaris
Hot air balloon safaris
Horseback safaris

Contact our team to learn more about exploring South Africa’s stunning Kruger Park.

When is the best time to visit the Kruger National Park?

Although the Kruger National Park thrives throughout the year, the best time to visit is at the beginning or end of the region’s drier season – the South African winter, from May to September. Though the evenings can get cold, temperatures during the days are pleasant and sunny, and because the vegetation is sparse during this time, it is far easier to spot wildlife. However, if you choose to visit in summer, you will witness the birthing season. No matter what time of year you visit, Kruger Park offers excellent game viewing.

Is Kruger Park a private game reserve?

Kruger Park is a state-owned national park; however, it does include concessions of private reserves within the greater Kruger Park. These private reserves typically sit around the national park’s borders and offer a conservation-driven, ultra-exclusive luxury safari experience. Contact our team to experience Kruger Park and one of the greater Kruger Park’s private game reserves.