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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

Bunny Chow is a South African fast food dish consisting of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with...

A picture of Boerewors

Boerewors

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

A picture of Bobotie

Bobotie

Bobotie is a flavorful South African dish made with spiced minced meat, usually lamb or beef, topped with...

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Sosaties

Sosaties are skewered and marinated meat kebabs that are a favorite at South African braais (barbecues). The meat,...

A picture of Melktert

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!

Kruger National Park. 3 Days Best Ever Safari from Cape Town

Kruger National Park. 3 Days Best Ever Safari from Cape Town

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Experience the Wilds of South Africa on Our Cape Town Safari Tour Spend three unforgettable days exploring Kruger National Park on our Cape Town safari tour. Guests will fly roundtrip from Cape Town to Johannesburg and be transported directly to Kruger National Park, known for its diverse wildlife including Africa's Big Five. Our expert guides will ensure guests have the ideal safari experience, with game drives in the morning and evening to spot wildlife like lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and more in their natural habitat.This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the raw beauty and majesty of Africa's wilderness, all while staying in South Africa's vibrant city of Cape Town before and after the tour. Book now to reserve your spot on our next Cape Town safari.

5.0 (25 reviews)

From $1403 USD

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Experiences

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Attractions

4.8 (62 reviews)
Kruger Park Safari: Guided Day Tour from Nelspruit

Kruger Park Safari: Guided Day Tour from Nelspruit

INSTANT

Make the best of your stay in South Africa and embark on the Kruger Park Safari: Guided Day Tour from Nelspruit. You will have the unique opportunity to participate on a game drive to spot nearly 140 mammals, including the big five: African lion, African elephant, Cape buffalo, African leopard, and White/Black rhinoceros. Receive insights from your knowledgeable local guide as you adventure through this beautiful park.

From $93 USD

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5.0 (32 reviews)
4 Day Kruger National Park Tour

4 Day Kruger National Park Tour

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

A quality safari experience. Enjoy small group tours that focuses on quality friendly service with a flexible outlay. Experience safari par excellence and the surrounding beauty in one scoop, and enjoy the tranquility of nature on a guided nature walk. Enjoy starry nights next to the camp fire as we listen to lions roaring into the night. Make it an experience to remember by meeting and making new friends, and share an experience that will remain in your memory forever.

From $857 USD

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5.0 (3 reviews)
Kruger Park Safari - Half Day Game Drive from Hazyview

Kruger Park Safari - Half Day Game Drive from Hazyview

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL

It doesn’t get much better than a guided Kruger Park safari, home to the largest diversity of wildlife in South Africa and delivering some of the finest game viewing on the continent including Africa’s sought-after Big 5! MORNING SAFARIS – approx 6-7 hours The early morning gives you a good start for your game viewing as the bush comes alive and animals become active. AFTERNOON SAFARIS – approx 5-6 hours Late afternoon is a good time for game viewing, and as evening approaches, nocturnal animals become active. After about 2-3 hours of game viewing, you will stop at one of the camps for a quick break, before continuing with your game drive and return to Hazyview. Children 6years and above on shared vehicles. If you have children under 6years, book one of our private safari tours instead!

From $79 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
Best South Africa Tour to Kruger National Park and Cape Town

Best South Africa Tour to Kruger National Park and Cape Town

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL

Spend 9 days viewing what South Africa have to offer on a private trip. Get into the wild and see the majesty of Africa's Big Five on a safari tour at the Kruger National Park. Travel through the beautiful Cape Town by a private vehicle and enjoy views of the Table Mountain, Robben Island, Cape Peninsula and finally have a wine-tasting tour.

From $5729 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
10 Day South Africa Tour- Johannesburg- Kruger Park - Durban - Cape Town

10 Day South Africa Tour- Johannesburg- Kruger Park - Durban - Cape Town

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This is the best of South Africa. Experience Africa like never before on a 10-day trip that will leave you breathless. Discover the Kruger National Park, one of the biggest in Africa with the big 5. Discover the Isimangaliso Wetlands Park, a World Heritage Site in the Northern KZN. Then visit Durban the most popular holiday destination for local South Africans with its warm beaches and wonderful other features such as the Victoria Market which is full of Indian spices and other local herbs. Then visit the Drakensberg Mountain Region, this is extraordinary, thanks to the dramatically beautiful setting. From the Drakensberg we head to the Wild Coast before embarking on the exhilarating Garden Route that finally takes us to Cape Town, one of 10 most beautiful cities in the world.

From $2550 USD

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5.0 (6 reviews)
Kruger National Park Private Guided Tour

Kruger National Park Private Guided Tour

INSTANT

The great thing about having a tour on a private vehicle is that you get to choose what you are interested in and where to stop so more time can be spent doing and observing what you enjoy. Kruger National Park is one of the most amazing places one could visit while in South Africa, so don't miss out on this great opportunity.

From $503 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
6 Days Safari and Culinary Private Tour in South Africa

6 Days Safari and Culinary Private Tour in South Africa

MANUAL

This activity is managed by Wiann and Marta De Lange. We offer tours with a highly experienced guide with an incredible passion for wildlife, committed to giving you the best experience in South Africa. From finding the best spots on the Panoramic Route to showing you the big 5 in the Kruger Park: we will try to give you the experience of a lifetime. In addition to the natural attractions, we also allow your taste buds to experience the best that South Africa has to offer. From a traditional potjie or braai dinner: it's impossible to truly connect with the wilderness without a braai and a safari.

From $4135 USD

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5.0 (14 reviews)
4 days Kruger Park Big 5 Safari and Awesome Panorama Route

4 days Kruger Park Big 5 Safari and Awesome Panorama Route

MANUAL

The world-renowned Kruger National Park offers a wildlife experience that ranks with the best in Africa. This 4 day safari is an excellent choice for people who want to enjoy spectacular scenery, combined with game drives to see the renowned big five (elephant, rhinoceros, lion, leopard and buffalo). The Panorama Route are also to be visited and the following highlights can be seen: Sunset game drive (into the night), Game drives to see the renowned big five (elephant, rhinoceros, lion, leopard and buffalo) Game boat ride, Very good opportunities to spot the Big Five, Chances to have encounters with elephant, giraffe, hippo, and antelope, History of the discovery of gold in Pilgrim's Rest, See Pinnacle Rock, God’s Window, Berlin Falls, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, a Boat trip on the Blyde Canyon Dam. 6 and more adults get 20% discount  Please make your booking 60 days in advance.

From $1390 USD

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5.0 (6 reviews)
Afternoon Kruger National Park Safari

Afternoon Kruger National Park Safari

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

The Kruger National Park is South Africa’s largest game reserve, and one of the most respected in the world. Our highly experienced field guides are passionate about the bush, and they will share their knowledge of the 147 species of mammals, more than 500 species of birds and 336 species of trees which make this 2 million hectare space their home, with our guests.      From an Open Safari Vehicle guests can smell the dust and the sun-warmed grass, listen to the cicadas and the cry of the Fish Eagles, and enjoy the heat of an African day.  Late afternoon is a good time for game viewing, and as evening approaches, nocturnal animals become active. Duration: Approximately 4 hours Pick up time: 13h00 Drop off time: 17h00 / 18h00 (Depending on gate times) Includes: Entry fees and bottled water Minimum: 1 Adults

From $91 USD

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4.0 (2 reviews)
Kruger Park Game Walk 4 people Minimum

Kruger Park Game Walk 4 people Minimum

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Experience the Kruger national park on walk with our 2 professional rangers that will be sharing the secret of the bush while you are safe and come very close to the big 5 and other wildlife. Minimum number of 4 people

From $79 USD

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5.0 (10 reviews)
Full Day Kruger Park Safari From Hazyview

Full Day Kruger Park Safari From Hazyview

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

We enter the Kruger National Park once the gates are opened then go on to explore the Park on the lookout for a pride of lions, majestic herds of elephants or lone roaming elephant bulls, a solitary leopard lying in a shady tree, the rare rhino, and herds of buffalo, as well as a multitude of other wild animals and birds, like hornbills, eagles, secretary birds, hippo, zebra, giraffe, not forgetting the abundance of buck, like impala & kudus. Our guides are all qualified and have years’ worth of experience in the park. They love nothing more than to share their well of knowledge with our guests and to make sure that you have the best safari experience possible.

From $98 USD

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5.0 (5 reviews)
Morning Kruger National Park Safari

Morning Kruger National Park Safari

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

For guests who have limited time, this tour provides an opportunity to visit the Kruger National Park for the morning. Duration: Approximately 7 hours Pick up time: 05h30 Drop off time: 12h30 Includes: Entry fees and bottled water Minimum: 1 Adults

From $91 USD

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4.8 (4 reviews)
Kruger Park Full Day Guided Safari

Kruger Park Full Day Guided Safari

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

We collect guests from their accommodations, travel to Kruger National Park, known as the world renowned National park, we provide unique guided experience in the natural habitat, this is the animal Kingdom where you stand a change to experience the BIG 5 ( Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo and Rhino) different types of birds species ( Martial eagle, African Eagle, Hornbills, Kingfishers and more, Come and join us on a greatest wildlife show on earth.

From $110 USD

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5.0 (90 reviews)
Full Day Private Kruger Park Safari

Full Day Private Kruger Park Safari

MANUAL

An exciting early morning is the start of your day venturing into the Kruger National Park, in one of our open 4×4 game viewers. Exploring the Kruger National Park and its natural habitat is for many a bucket list dream that has to be ticked off. During the course of your adventure, comfort stops and a lunch break at a scenic picnic spot or Rest Camp will be enjoyed, where one can savour the sounds of the bush and the scenic landscape and then continue the search for the big five in their natural habitat. The Kruger is roughly the size of Wales, covering 19,485 square kilometres (7,523 sq mi) and the animals are as wild as they come!

From $142 USD

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