South Africa’s Premier Safari Destination
Kruger National Park
Overview
Kruger National Park is South Africa’s largest and most famous game reserve, spanning nearly 19,485 km² (7,523 sq mi) across the provinces of Mpumalanga and Limpopo. It stretches 360 km north
to south and up to 65 km east to west, forming part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park, which links with reserves in Mozambique and Zimbabwe. Established in 1898 as the Sabie Game Reserve and officially proclaimed as
Kruger National Park in 1926, it is a global icon of conservation and ecotourism.
Wildlife & Biodiversity
Kruger is home to an extraordinary diversity of life:
- 147 mammal species – including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino)
- Over 500 bird species
- 114 reptiles, 49 fish, 34 amphibians
- More than 336 tree species This makes Kruger one of the most biodiverse protected areas in Africa. Visitors can also see cheetahs, wild dogs, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and countless antelope species.
Landscape & Climate
The park’s terrain ranges from open savanna and riverine forests to rocky outcrops and mopane woodlands, with six major rivers flowing through it.
Climate:
- Summer (Oct–Apr): Hot and wet, 32–40°C (90–104°F), with afternoon thunderstorms
- Winter (May–Sep): Mild and dry, 24–28°C (75–82°F), chilly mornings and nights
Best game viewing is in the
dry winter months, when animals gather at waterholes.
Activities
- Self-drive safaris on a vast network of roads
- Guided game drives and walking safaris with expert rangers
- Birdwatching, photography, and wilderness trails
- Cultural heritage sites like Masorini and Thulamela, showcasing ancient iron-smelting and stone ruins
Accommodation ranges from
budget rest camps to
luxury lodges, with 12 main camps, bushveld camps, and private concessions.
Visitor Essentials
- Entry Gates: 9 main gates; open 5:30–6:00 AM, close 5:30–6:30 PM (seasonal)
- Speed Limits: 50 km/h on tar roads, 40 km/h on gravel
- Daily Conservation Fees:
- South African residents: R134 (adult)
- SADC nationals: R275
- International visitors: R602
- Nearest Airport: Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (near Nelspruit/Mbombela)
Conservation & Community
Kruger is a leader in conservation tourism, balancing wildlife protection with sustainable travel. It invests in anti-poaching initiatives, habitat restoration, and community-based projects that create jobs
and support local economies. Eco-lodges and guided tours emphasize education and sustainability, making every visitor a partner in conservation.