Kruger National Park and Private Reserves

Kruger and its private reserves are South Africa’s flagship safari destination. With diverse habitats, exceptional lodges, and some of Africa’s best guides, this is where close-up Big Five sightings meet luxury and heritage.

© Sabi Sand

Kruger is South Africa’s most celebrated safari region - and with good reason. Stretching across nearly 20,000 square kilometres, the national park and its bordering private reserves offer some of the most consistent and rewarding Big Five game viewing on the continent.

The landscape ranges from acacia-dotted plains to dense riverine forest, supporting a high concentration of wildlife alongside world-class guiding and conservation.

While the national park offers wider accessibility and excellent sightings, the private reserves – such as Sabi Sand, Timbavati, and Manyeleti – elevate the experience with off-road tracking, fewer vehicles, night drives, and some of the finest lodges in Africa. Charter flights from Johannesburg or Nelspruit make access smooth and efficient, especially for time-limited travellers.

Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned enthusiast, Kruger’s blend of scale, species diversity, and luxury makes it an unforgettable cornerstone of any Southern African journey.

Greater Kruger Weather

Hot, wet summers and mild, dry winters bring two distinct safari experiences.

May - September

Dry Season

Cool mornings and warm days with little rain make for excellent wildlife viewing as animals gather at scarce waterholes.

October - April

Green Season

Hot, humid afternoons with dramatic thunderstorms create lush scenery, newborn animals, and fantastic birding.

Places to Stay

in Kruger & Private Reserves

Thornybush Game Lodge – Thornybush Nature Reserve

A pioneer of South African safaris, Thornybush Game Lodge blends heritage and modern elegance with prime riverbed views, exceptional dining, and warm, timeless hospitality in the Greater Kruger.

Kamara House – Thornybush Nature Reserve

Opened in 2023, Kamara House is Thornybush’s exclusive-use villa — a contemporary safari home with private staff, chef, game drive vehicle, and a rim-flow pool overlooking the riverbed, perfect for families and groups.

Amava River Lodge – Greater Kruger

A secluded tented camp on the banks of the Olifants River, offering an exclusive Greater Kruger safari with breathtaking river views, abundant wildlife, and just five elegant tents immersed in pristine wilderness.

Simbambili Game Lodge – Sabi Sand Game Reserve

Renowned for its prolific leopard sightings, Simbambili blends intimate, sophisticated suites with private plunge pools and Sala beds, warm personal hospitality, and unrivalled game viewing in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve.

Your Safari, Your Way

Ready to begin? Let’s craft your perfect safari together.

Every Wildseeker journey is designed from scratch, shaped around your interests, travel style, and budget. While we often share sample itineraries for inspiration, the real magic lies in creating something just for you: from handpicked lodges to seamless logistics and insider offers.
No two trips are ever the same, because no two travellers are.

Start Planning