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Picture of Kruger Park, South Africa

Travel Guide for
Kruger Park

South Africa

Subtropical, wet summers, dry winters

Introduction

Kruger National Park, located in northeastern South Africa, is one of Africa’s largest and oldest game reserves, founded in 1898. Spanning close to two million hectares, it boasts incredible wildlife including the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo.

In January, the park is lush and green from summer rains, with daytime temperatures around 30°C (86°F), so pack light clothing and sun protection. Families can enjoy guided safari drives, child-friendly camps, and educational bush walks, all at reasonable prices. This is an unforgettable destination for wildlife viewing, immersing families in South African nature and culture.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleFamily friendly

Dates16-23 January 2026

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHotel, villa, apartment or house, resort

Interests and Activities:

family activitiessightseeing and toursoutdoor adventuresarts and culturegastronomy

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Picture of Kruger Park, South Africa

Key Facts

Location

Mpumalanga & Limpopo

Currency

South African Rand (ZAR)

Religion

Christianity, traditional

Population

200,000

Language

Xitsonga, English, Afrikaans

Electricity

230V, 50Hz, plug types C/M

Time zone

UTCSAST (UTC+2)

Country code

+27

Internet access

Available at main camps, moderate speed

Climate

Subtropical, wet summers, dry winters

See More South Africa Facts

Language:

Zulu

  • hello

    sawubona (sah-woo-boh-nah)
  • goodbye

    hamba kahle (ham-bah gah-shleh)
  • yes

    yebo (yeh-boh)
  • no

    cha (chah)
  • how much

    kubiza malini? (koo-bee-zah mah-lee-nee)
  • please

    ngiyacela (ngee-yah-cheh-lah)
  • thank you

    ngiyabonga (ngee-yah-bon-gah)
  • excuse me

    uxolo (oo-xoh-loh)

Map

Logistics

Reaching Kruger Park is easiest by flying into Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport, then connecting to one of several regional airports near the park—such as Nelspruit, Skukuza, or Hoedspruit. Many families then rent a car for the scenic 4–5 hour drive, offering flexible stops and the convenience of moving at your own pace.

There are also affordable shuttle buses from Johannesburg to major park gates, which are a comfortable and safe option for those not wishing to drive. Train or boat options are not available. In January, the region can experience summer rains, so allow extra travel time for wet roads and possible delays. Booking accommodations and park entry in advance is highly recommended.

Weather

Kruger Park enjoys a subtropical climate, with hot, rainy summers (October to March) and mild, dry winters (May to September). Summer temperatures often reach 30–35°C (86–95°F), with afternoon thunderstorms bringing lush greenery and vibrant wildlife. Winters are cooler and drier, excellent for game viewing as animals gather around waterholes.

During January 16 to January 23, expect hot and humid weather with daytime highs near 32°C (90°F) and occasional showers or afternoon storms. While heavy rain may bring brief, localized flooding on gravel roads, extreme weather events are uncommon. Family activities, sightseeing tours, and outdoor adventures remain enjoyable, with lush scenery and active wildlife sightings.

Food & Drink

Kruger Park offers a taste of South African cuisine, with local favorites like boerewors (farm sausage), braaivleis (barbecue meats), pap (maize porridge), and fresh local produce. Don’t miss biltong (cured meat) as a snack and try Rooibos tea or Amarula, a local liqueur, for a treat.

Best dining spots include Mugg & Bean at Skukuza and Lower Sabie Rest Camps, or Tindlovu Restaurant in Skukuza for views over the Sabie River. Most camp restaurants cater well to families and offer kids’ menus and vegetarian options. Self-catering is easy at rest camps, with grocery shops and communal braai facilities.

A 10% tip is customary at sit-down restaurants. Since Kruger is malaria-prone, bring insect repellent, especially when dining outdoors. Book tables in advance during busy season, and notify restaurants of special dietary needs ahead of time for the best service.

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Bunny Chow

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Boerewors

Boerewors is a traditional South African sausage made from a blend of beef, pork, and spices. It's coil-shaped...

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Bobotie

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Sosaties

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Melktert

Melktert, meaning 'milk tart,' is a classic South African dessert with a sweet pastry crust filled with a...

Accommodation

In Kruger Park, top family-friendly lodging options include well-equipped rest camps like Skukuza and Lower Sabie, offering comfortable bungalows and guest houses with self-catering kitchens. For added privacy, look for private villas or bush lodges such as Rhino Post Safari Lodge—these often feature pool access and organized game drives.

Regions near the southern gates, such as Hazyview and Marloth Park, offer apartment-style houses, family hotels, and all-inclusive resorts. Check Booking.com and Safari.com for real-time rates and availability; January is summer, so book early for the best selection, as this is a popular travel season. Most accommodations provide guided tours and kids’ activities.

Itinerary

Begin your adventure with a smooth arrival, settling into your accommodation, and taking in your first sights and sounds of the African wilderness.

Arrive and Get Acquainted at Your Lodge

Check in at your family-friendly lodge near a Kruger Park gate. Settle into your room, explore the resort amenities, and let the kids unwind after travel. Take time to orient yourself with a complimentary welcome drink as you listen to the sounds of nature.

Sundowner Wild Viewing from Lodge Deck

Relax on the main deck of your lodge to catch your first African sunset. Order refreshments and use binoculars to spot grazing antelope or elephants at nearby waterholes as dusk falls. A gentle introduction to Kruger’s wildlife!

Full-Day Kruger Park Safari from Nelspruit, Whiteriver or Hazyview

Full-Day Kruger Park Safari from Nelspruit, Whiteriver or Hazyview

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Your Mbombela Experience One Day Kruger Tour departs from Nelspruit/White River or Hazyview or Malelane early in the morning. You’ll enjoy a full day of adventurous game driving in this world famous natural reserve park. Kruger National Park has the greatest diversity of wild animals in Southern Africa, making it an ideal spot for game viewing and safari adventure activities. This natural game reserve is renown for boundless opportunities to spot the Big Five of Africa – Elephants, Leopards, Buffalo, Rhinos and, of course, Lions. We’ll return at sundown.

4.8 (47 reviews)

From $114 USD

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Experiences

Cheetah Conservation in South Africa
animals

Cheetah Conservation in South Africa

Minimum 2 weeks

South Africa

$1040/week

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Kindergarten Teaching in South Africa
teaching

Kindergarten Teaching in South Africa

Minimum 1 week

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$550/week

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Attractions

4.8 (40 reviews)
Fullday Gamedrives in Kruger National Park from Marlothpark

Fullday Gamedrives in Kruger National Park from Marlothpark

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Our Guides will share their passion and knowledge about the wildlife and Africa bush with you. Spot the Big 5 or Magnificent 7 while you enjoy the Africa Bush crisp air.. We enjoy Breakfast and Lunch at Lower Sabi ( Mug&Bean restaurant) overlooking the Sabi river.. Own account.. There is also Picknick spots at campsites where you can have your own picknick.. We will stop for several bird /tree species in order for you to take a special picture.. We have several Safari Vehicles and can accomodate big Groups also.. Contact me if you want a Private Safari Bring alongs: Binoculars, Cameras,Face Masks, (Optional) Small coolerbox with snacks and soft drinks ( no alchol).. Ponchus and Sanitiser spray are provided for the Cold morning/ rainy days All vehicles are sanitised regularly ,

From $76 USD

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5.0 (43 reviews)
Full Day Safari - Kruger National Park

Full Day Safari - Kruger National Park

MANUAL

We offer qualified guides with a passion for wildlife. Bottled water for the hot summers days and blankets and ponchos for the cooler winter days.

From $91 USD

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5.0 (5 reviews)
Private Full-Day Kruger National Park Safari

Private Full-Day Kruger National Park Safari

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Experience the Kruger National Park on your own terms and get closer to nature without the hustle and bustle of a shared group safari. With the exclusive use of the vehicle, you and your group can enjoy this tailored safari experience just the way you like it. From spending an extra 5 minutes for the perfect Sunrise photo, to discovering new birds on your lifer list or simply enjoying an animal interaction sighting for that little bit longer. Our private safaris are offered to groups of no more than 6 guests per vehicle, guaranteeing each guest a window seat and offering you an elevated vantage point for exceptional panoramic views. Our Safaris are conducted by the Owner, Keegan Steward, a qualified Nature Conservationist with a special love for birding and many years of experience guiding within the Kruger National Park.

From $343 USD

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3.0 (8 reviews)
Kruger Park Safari

Kruger Park Safari

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

The best way to view wildlife in the most old and world renowned National Park in Africa. Kruger National Park is known for its abundance of flora and fauna. Experienced guide and we offer over 5 international languages on tour.

From $147 USD

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5.0 (4 reviews)
Kruger National Park Afternoon Sunset Safari Tour

Kruger National Park Afternoon Sunset Safari Tour

INSTANT

Travelling with Safaria is a personal experience. We realise that you may only have one day and you're a little uncertain of what to expect, who to trust and who will offer you that experience you've always dreamed of. We understand this and so we have established our business on personal engagement, doing what we say we will and offering you the finest guides, vehicles and personalised experiences in Kruger. Our Safaris are all about you and helping you realise your Safari dream to reality, just have a look at what our clients. All our Safaris, be it half or full day are all designed around you! Our "Safari Style" is bespoke and focusses around your specific areas of interest with the intention to create and experience and not just chase the game. We establish your own personal wonder-filled storyboard that will share the Savanna from birds to mammals, insects to trees, old ancient bush wisdoms and everything in between. Its your Safari, its your experience. We just help you tell it!

From $142 USD

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4.7 (3 reviews)
Kruger National Park Full Day Safari

Kruger National Park Full Day Safari

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Our transport is an open safari vehicle. We pick travelers to Kruger game drives. It is a flexible, enjoyable game viewer. You can be able to see animals much better than driving in small car. You are advised to travel with us and enjoy Kruger national park, big five game park. most of the time we start in the morning. for half day tour we finish at 12:00Full day tour we finish at 16:00

From $88 USD

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4.7 (27 reviews)
Overnight Kruger National Park Classic Camping Safari

Overnight Kruger National Park Classic Camping Safari

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

This overnight tour is for travelers with limited time on their hands and still want to experience a night in the world renowned Kruger National Park. It includes an afternoon or sunset game drive and a full day game drive in the Kruger National park. Enjoy the tour in an open game viewing vehicle that will give you the advantage of height as our knowledgeable guides provide the answers to all your wildlife questions. We will seek out the vast variety of animal species that have made Kruger their home as well as the world famous Big Five.

From $220 USD

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5.0 (227 reviews)
Kruger National Park sunrise Morning Private safari

Kruger National Park sunrise Morning Private safari

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

The Kruger national park is a leading African wilderness, not only does it offer the Big 5 but cheetah and Wild Dogs, and over 140 Mammal species and over 500 Bird species, Our rate is per vehicle from 1-10 clients ,and clients pay there own entry fees at the gates as this varies from nationality and age. TripAdvisor rated number 1 safari operator in Kruger, come join us on an unforgettable safari. Entry fees are paid at the gate upon arrival by clients. International citizens: R424 pp children under 12 less 50%- R212 pp (Proof of identity necessary) South African citizens: R105 pp children under 12 less 50%- R52 pp (Proof of identity necessary) Morning Open vehicle Safaris in the Kruger National Park. Duration: 6 Hours. Pick up times in Hazyview- Numbi gate - Phabeni gate. 05:30 to 12:00 from October to March 06:00 to 12:00 from April to September We can collect clients from any lodge in and around Hazyview and at the Numbi and Phabeni gates.

From $134 USD

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