Located in Mpumalanga, the legendary Kruger National Park is the crown jewel of South Africa’s national parks, and one of the country’s most visited tourist attractions. Home to the famous Big 5 (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo), visitors come here from all over the world to enjoy superb game viewing on Kruger National Park tours.
The Kruger Park is one of the largest national parks in Africa and the setting for dozens of safari lodges. If you opt for a luxury safari, you can enjoy private game drives that are led by knowledgeable guides who take you deep into the bush, tracking and sighting animals. If you prefer to go game viewing on your own, there are numerous resorts located in the Kruger National Park itself as well as a number situated just outside. These safari lodges and camps are an excellent base from which to tour the Kruger National Park. You can drive its extensive network of roads and enjoy game viewing at leisure.
Why we love Kruger safari holidays
- The Kruger National Park teems with wildlife, and all the animals that you hope to see on safari reside here.
- It’s home to the illustrious Big 5: elephant, lion, leopard, rhino and buffalo.
- It’s considered one of the best places in Southern Africa to see leopards in their natural habitat.
- The Kruger Park is a year-round destination that boasts varied attractions, unique to each season.
- The Kruger National Park is enormous – you can visit numerous times and never have the same experience.
- Bird watching is excellent, with more than 500 species to discover.
- It’s home to 145 different species of animals that you can view on safari.
- Sunsets in the Kruger Park are unforgettable.
- It’s an excellent opportunity to learn more about nature and wildlife conservation.
A safari adventure in the Kruger National Park is one you will never forget. Seeing wild animals in their natural environment is truly special, and should be on the bucket list of every traveller. Experience the best Kruger National Park safari package with Thompsons Holidays.
Nothing compares to exploring the African bush. In the Kruger National Park, your choices of how to experience the wild are endless. There are so many places to visit in the Kruger Park, each region unique in its landscapes, wildlife density and seasonal attractions. There are numerous picnic areas plus several excellent game viewing sites at watering holes where you can see a variety of wildlife, particularly in the early mornings and late afternoons either on a private game drive with an experienced guide or self-driving.
Things to do in the Kruger National Park
- Embark on a guided walking safari in a private concession.
- Enjoy game viewing at sunset in an open safari vehicle.
- Have dinner in the bush cooked African-style over hot coals.
- Take a dawn safari in a hot air balloon.
- Discover the Albasini Ruins, remains of a 19th-century trading post.
- Enjoy a picnic in the bush at the Tshokwane Picnic Site.
A Kruger National Park holiday package revolves around viewing wild animals and enjoying the magic of the bush. Let Thompsons Holidays make your Kruger National Park travel experience a memorable one. Browse our available packages, from luxury to cheap, and book now.
Getting there & getting around  Â
- The Kruger National Park is serviced by the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, which lies 40km from the Numbi Gate (southern Kruger). Flight duration from Johannesburg to the Kruger National Park: 50 minutes. From Cape Town: 2 hours, 37 minutes.
- The Kruger Park is also serviced by Phalaborwa Airport in the north and Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport in the central region.
- You can self-drive to the Kruger Park from Johannesburg. The nearest gate is Malelane. Drive time from Johannesburg: 4 hours, 13 minutes (406km) via N12 and N4.
- The Kruger Park road network is excellent, with well-maintained tarred and gravel roads, and excellent signage, making self-drive tours the best way to get around.
- Entrance fees and daily conservation fees apply. Be sure to speak with your Thompsons for Travel agent about rates.
Health informationÂ
- The Kruger National Park is in a malaria area. Please consult your doctor about prevention before your trip and do not forget to pack it.
When is the best time to visit?
- The Kruger Park is a year-round destination, with each season bringing its own charm and highlights.
- Game viewing can be at its best during the dry winters months.
- The rainy summer season is beautifully lush and green, and the best season for birdwatching.
- Light, cotton (breathable) clothing for summer, warm layers for winter. Neutral tones are always the best choice for a safari.
- Lightweight rain jacket.
- Comfortable walking shoes.
- Sunscreen, lip balm, hat, swimsuits and sunglasses.
- Binoculars and a small torch.
- Mini first aid kit and regular prescription medication. Don’t forget your malaria medication.
- Hand sanitiser and insect repellent.
- Camera.
- Always give the animals the right of way. Do not feed animals in rest camps or the greater park.
- Follow all the Park rules. Make sure you are at your booked camp before the gates close.
- Stay in your vehicle at all times.
- Follow the rules of the road.
