Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park is a spectacular wildlife haven in South Africa, approx 400km east of Johannesburg and bordering Mozambique. It covers a vast area, equivalent to some small European countries, and is home to a wide range of mammals, birds and other species.
​The landscapes vary in the different areas of Kruger, from thick bushveld and mature forests to open plains and grassland. There are also several large rivers which play a key role in providing water for thirsty animals as well as habitats for creatures like hippos and crocodiles. It is a 'seasonal park' with hot days and rain during summer (October-March) and cooler days and little or no rain in winter (April-September).
Given the large size of Kruger there are also a wide variety of accommodation options to suit every budget, from public campsites to exclusive luxury lodges. Unlike safari holidays in other parts of Africa, it is also very easy to drive your own vehicle and explore the park in your own way if you prefer that approach. All this variety means that every visit to Kruger National Park is unique and why we at All Things Kruger return again and again for another new adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Kruger National Park?
Johannesburg's O.R Tambo International Airport is the main airline hub in Southern Africa and international visitors will normally arrive there first. From there, you can either drive or take an additional short flight to one of the airports in or around the park.
Flying
Skukuza Airport sits within the park itself, located just a few KMs from Skukuza camp. Other airport options include KMIA (Kruger Mpumulanga International Airport) near Nelspruit as well as Eastgate Airport in Hoedspruit. All have rental car agencies if you want your own vehicle.
Ultimately, the best option will depend on flight times, which part of Kruger you are visiting and your budget.
Driving
If you decide to drive to Kruger National Park directly, allow for a 5 hour drive (including stop) along good roads to one of the Southern entrance gates ('Malelane' or 'Crocodile Bridge'). We have both flown and driven from Johannesburg in the past and either option is fine.
Where should I stay in Kruger National Park?
There are so many different types of accommodation and locations to choose from but you can start off by considering the differences between properties located inside or outside of the national park boundaries.
There are lots of accommodation options located just outside of the park which drives competition and possibly, better value for money. Each day you would enter the Park gate as a 'day visitor', either in your own vehicle or with a guide and then exit again before sunset.
​Alternatively you can stay in a camp or lodge within Kruger itself. This means there are no daily entry and exit procedures to think about and it's nice to wake up already in the park. However you do pay a premium for that privilege, either in the quality of accommodation, or higher cost, compared to the lodges located "outside".
Will I see lions?
Probably. There is still a healthy population of lions in Kruger National Park and if you are visiting for more than a single day that would increase to extremely likely. But it's a large area and wildlife is exactly that- they are wild animals and can roam freely whereas all vehicles have to stick to the roads. So luck always plays a huge part in any sightings (but you can do things to reduce the odds in your favour!)
One of the things that makes Kruger special is the massive diversity of wildlife so our advice would be to take it slow and enjoy everything that crosses your path.
What is 'Greater' Kruger National Park?
This refers to the private reserves on the western border of Kruger, open only to those staying there. Sabi Sand, Timbavati and Mala Mala are all examples of these reserves and previously they were fenced off from the larger Kruger National Park area.
The fences separating these reserves from Kruger have now been dropped and animals can once again move freely between the two.
When is the best time to visit?
Being seasonal, the best time is very personal. Do you like it hot or prefer cooler temperatures? If you don't mind the summer heat (and it can get past 40c on some days) then you'll get to see lush green bushveld, lots of baby animals and migratory birds.
In winter the temperatures are cooler, the animals can be more active during the middle of the day and the bush has died back, giving clearer views of the wildlife. But some don't like the dead and dusty look at that time of the year.
The other consideration is school holidays, both where you are visiting from and within South Africa too. This can affect availability and cost so is worth checking when planning your trip.
Over the years we have visited in almost every month of the year and we have always had a great trip.