Kruger National Park, located in northeastern South Africa, is an iconic destination that draws nature enthusiasts from around the globe. Spanning over 19,000 square kilometres (7,336 square miles), this vast wilderness is home to an astonishing array of wildlife, including the famous Big Five.
Adjacent to this world famous wildlife haven, are a number of private reserves, which, together form part of the Greater Kruger National Park. The Sabi Sands, Timbavati, Manyeleti and Thornybush, share unfenced borders, allowing free wildlife movement and offer exclusive and intimate safari experiences - without the crowds. Safari Guru generally favours these private reserves and partners with several luxury lodges and authentic camps, including tented safari camps, giving our travellers rewarding experiences of exceptional wildlife and the raw magic of the African bush.
Kruger National Park, is without a doubt South Africa’s safari pinnacle, and beckons nature enthusiasts with its breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Kruger National Park is a world-renowned conservation area, teeming with an abundance of wildlife. The park's diverse ecosystems, ranging from open grasslands to dense bushveld and riverine forests, provide a sanctuary for a vast array of species. The Big Five—elephants, lions, leopards, rhinoceroses, and buffalos—thrive within the park, making it one of the best places on the continent to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Embarking on a safari drive through Kruger National Park unveils a captivating world where lions stalk their prey, elephants wander gracefully, and zebras graze peacefully. The park is also home to over 500 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. From the impressive martial eagle to the colourful Lilac-breasted roller, bird enthusiasts will be mesmerised by the sheer diversity and beauty of Kruger's avian residents.
Accessing this iconic destination is easier than you might think, with various transportation options available include commercial aircraft, private aircraft from OR Tambo and Cape Town, and road transfer directly from any Johannesburg hotel, but first, let's explore the diversity of this iconic destination.
Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve: A Luxury Safari Experience:
Adjacent to Kruger National Park lies the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, an exclusive and luxurious safari destination. Renowned for its exceptional game viewing and intimate wildlife encounters, Sabi Sands offers an unparalleled experience for discerning travellers. The reserve is famous for its habituated leopards, providing visitors with a rare opportunity to witness these elusive predators up close.
Sabi Sands is also known for its top-notch safari lodges, such as the Dulini Collection, Londolozi Tree Camp and Singita Ebony Lodge, and authentic bush-camps, such as Savanna Lodge and Londolozi Varty Camp which blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings while offering world-class amenities and services. From open-air suites with private plunge pools to gourmet dining experiences under the stars, Sabi Sands epitomises luxury in the heart of the African bush. Expert rangers and trackers accompany guests on game drives, sharing their in-depth knowledge and ensuring unforgettable encounters with Africa's iconic wildlife.
Timbavati Private Nature Reserve: A Pristine Wilderness:
Situated on the western border of Kruger National Park, Timbavati Private Nature Reserve is a pristine wilderness that showcases the beauty of the African savannah. With its wide open plains, ancient trees, and meandering rivers, Timbavati offers a rich and diverse wildlife experience and offers many excellent value-for-money safari options, such as Motswari, Simbavati River Camp and Kambaku River Sands.
If you're looking for a sleep-out hide or tree-house experience, we recommend Geiger's Camp, with their Giraffe's Nest sleep-out or Ngala Tented Camp.
Some of our favourite family-friendly camps in the Timbavati include Kambaku Safari Lodge and, for a little more under-canvas luxury Ngala Tented Camp.
Exploring Timbavati on a guided safari reveals a wealth of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, zebras, and an abundance of antelope species. The reserve is particularly known for its population of white lions, a rare genetic anomaly that has captured the fascination of visitors worldwide. The reserve is also a haven for bird lovers, with over 360 bird species gracing its skies. Embark on a walking safari, accompanied by experienced trackers, and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of the African bush.
Thornybush Game Reserve: A Blend of Luxury and Adventure:
Thornybush Game Reserve, located in the Greater Kruger region, offers a unique blend of luxury and adventure. This privately-owned reserve spans over 14,000 hectares (34,595 acres) and boasts a diverse landscape, ranging from open plains to dense thickets. Thornybush is known for its excellent game viewing opportunities, including regular sightings of the Big Five.
The reserve prides itself on its commitment to conservation and offers visitors the chance to participate in conservation-focused activities. Engage in meaningful experiences such as rhino darting, where you can join conservationists in the field to help protect these magnificent creatures from poaching. Immerse yourself in the African bush through guided bush walks, where you can learn about the smaller, often overlooked, inhabitants of the reserve, including birds, insects, and plant life.
Commercial Aircraft: For travellers seeking convenience and a hassle-free journey, commercial flights are an excellent option. Several major airlines operate regular flights from both Johannesburg and Cape Town to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) near Nelspruit. KMIA serves as the main gateway to the southern regions of Kruger National Park. The airport is well-equipped with facilities, including car rental services, making it easy to continue your journey by road.
From Johannesburg, direct flights to KMIA are available, taking approximately one hour. Cape Town offers connecting flights, with a layover in Johannesburg, extending the total travel time to around three hours. Once you arrive at KMIA, you can opt for a road transfer or connect to a smaller aircraft for a scenic flight to private airstrips within the park.
Private Aircraft: For those seeking a more exclusive and time-efficient option, private aircraft provide a luxurious and seamless travel experience. Johannesburg and Cape Town offer private airports, such as Lanseria International Airport and Cape Town International Airport, where you can arrange for private charters to Kruger's private airstrips.
Private aircraft allow for flexible departure times and faster travel, as they can land directly at smaller, private airstrips within Kruger National Park. The Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, and Thornybush Game Reserve all have their own private airstrips, which cater to visitors staying at the respective lodges. These private charters offer personalised service, ensuring a smooth transition from the airport to your safari lodge, and an unforgettable aerial view of the park along the way.
Road Transfer: For those who prefer the freedom of the open road, a road transfer from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park provides a scenic journey and the opportunity to explore the surrounding landscapes. From Johannesburg, the most common route is via the N4 highway, which takes approximately five to six hours to reach the park's southern gates.
Once you arrive at the park, you'll find well-maintained roads that allow for self-drive safaris within certain areas. Alternatively, you can arrange transfers or take guided tours with experienced safari operators, ensuring a safe and informative journey into the heart of the park.
Hoedspruit: Another convenient option for accessing Kruger National Park is via Hoedspruit, a town located in close proximity to the park's western regions. Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport serves as the primary entry point for visitors coming from Johannesburg and Cape Town. Several domestic airlines operate regular flights to this airport, providing easy access to the park's private reserves and surrounding areas.
From Hoedspruit, you can arrange road transfers or connect to smaller aircraft for transfers to private airstrips within Kruger National Park.
Kruger National Park and its private reserves; Sabi Sands, Timbavati, and Thornybush offer a gateway to the enchanting world of African wildlife. Whether you choose to explore the vastness of Kruger or indulge in a luxurious safari experience in the private reserves, you are guaranteed an unforgettable adventure. From encounters with the Big Five to witnessing rare species like the white lions, every moment in these pristine wilderness areas is a testament to the beauty and power of nature.
Embark on a journey to Kruger National Park and its private reserves, and let the magic of the African bush captivate your heart and soul. Safari Guru will share advice on the best accommodation in Kruger National Park to ensure the best experiences at the right budget.
FEATURED PROPERTY: LONDOLOZI TREE CAMP
Londolozi Tree Camp offers a captivating fusion of nature and luxury. The camp's design seamlessly integrates with the surrounding environment, allowing you to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of the wilderness. The main camp area features a spacious lounge, a well-stocked bar, and a dining area where gourmet meals are served. The open-air design allows for uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape, creating a sense of connection to the natural world.
Londolozi Tree Camp offers a truly luxurious and intimate accommodation experience. The camp features six elegantly designed and spacious suites, each uniquely situated amongst the ancient ebony trees. The suites are meticulously crafted to blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings, providing an exclusive and serene retreat.
FEATURED PROPERTY: NGALA TENTED CAMP
Ngala Tented Camp perfectly balances luxury and immersion in nature. The main camp area features a spacious and inviting lounge where you can relax and socialise with fellow guests. The lounge opens up to a wooden deck overlooking a seasonal riverbed, offering a breathtaking vantage point to observe wildlife as they come and go. Indulge in refreshing drinks from the well-stocked bar and savour delicious meals served in the open-air dining area, where expert chefs prepare an irresistible fusion of international and African flavours.
Ngala Tented Camp provides a luxurious and intimate accommodation experience, blending the romance of a classic tented safari with modern comforts. The camp features nine spacious tented suites, each exquisitely designed to create a harmonious blend of elegance and natural beauty.
Built on platforms, each tented suite is cleverly designed to blend into the riverside trees, minimising environmental impact yet offering privacy and stunning views of the surrounding bush.
FEATURED PROPERTY: SIMBAVATI RIVER CAMP
Simbavati River Lodge enjoys a unique setting on the banks of Kruger Park’s Nhlaralumi River in the Timbavati Private Game Reserve.
One of its winning charms is the popular waterhole right below the dining deck, much loved and frequented daily during the summer months by the elephant. Between game drives, pampered guests enjoy a game-viewing experience of note just sitting on the deck as wildlife comes and goes from the water.
This lodge has a broad appeal, with a traditional safari ambience, yet offering a contemporary twist in décor. You can choose tented or chalet accommodation, which caters excellently for couples and honeymooners, including a safari spa and fully equipped fitness centre. Whilst its two-bedroom chalets and Cubs Club kids centre are popular with families.
FEATURED PROPERTY: KAMBAKU SAFARI LODGE
Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, the owner-run Kambaku Safari Lodge offers an exclusive haven for travellers seeking an authentic safari experience.
As the sun sets, retire to the welcoming ambience of our communal areas. Relax in the cozy lounge, where plush sofas invite you to unwind and share stories of your thrilling wildlife encounters with fellow travellers. Swap tales around the crackling fire pit, immersing yourself in the warm and inviting atmosphere unique to African lodges.
The team at Kambaku Safari Lodge prides itself on providing exceptional accommodation that seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern comforts. The well-appointed chalets and luxurious suites offer a tranquil retreat after a day of adventure.
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