Safari in South Africa - Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park is situated in North East South Africa in the province of Mpumalanga. It is one of the largest game reserves with a high density of wildlife including the Big 5 ( Lions, Leopard, Rhinos, Elephants, Buffalo) You will also find a large selection of other animals at the park including Zebra, Giraffe, Wildebeest, Cheetah, Hyena, Wild dogs, Antelope, Impalas & Hippos to name a few. What a great way to experience these creatures in their own natural habitat. If you like adventure, nature and sightseeing, a trip to South Africa is a great choice.
Photo: Giraffe in Kruger National Park, South Africa
The park is 19,633km2 which is almost the same size as Wales or Belgium. Toronto is just 630km2 and Simcoe County is apx 4,841km2 to give you some comparison to the size. Over 1 million visitors go to the park each year. Toronto Zoo experiences apx 1.3 Million. That’s a lot of visitors passing through Kruger park.
There are 9 entrances to the park in South Africa and 2 that share the border with Mozambique making 11 entrances in total. The closest to Johannesburg Airport is Numbi Gate which will take 4-5 hours to drive (375km). After a visit to Kruger you may also wish to consider an internal flight to Cape town and see the beautiful landmarks and famous Table Mountain.
The Kruger National Park offers the opportunity to view their LIVE web cams set up, so you can take a peek at what’s going on at various times throughout the day around the water holes. https://www.sanparks.org/webcams/livecam.php
Kruger National Park has many types of species onsite including apx 336 Trees, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds, 147 mammals. There are also apx 255 Archeological sites which include rock art dating from the Stone & Iron ages. Artifacts found have been up to 100,000 years old. Many of these sites hold cultural and spiritual importance, while others reveal an exciting and romantic history of the area.
Day Time Activities
Activities on Site are endless. Wilderness trails, Game drives, Guided walks, 4x4, Mountain biking, Backpack trail, Bird watching, Golf & Eco trails to name a few. Game Drives are often early morning or evening for the best experience. A few days here would be recommended to give you the best experience. Many travellers will stay for upto a week to enjoy both Adventure and Relaxation. There are some beautiful Lodges to spend your days when not exploring.
Photo: Three Lions kruger National Park, South Africa
When to Travel
South Africa can be visited at any time of year. The dry season is usually more recommended for safaris as you may see more wildlife and it will not be as hot through the day. This would be between the months of May- Sept. It is their winter, so this is the coolest time to go. Mornings can be chilly and if you are camping you would require extra layers as evenings can drop quite cool. The Summer is their wet season.High season for visitors tends to be mainly between Dec-Jan or July-Aug.
What to pack for an African Safari
Walking shoes will depend on the terrain but usually a good comfortable pair is recommended when doing the occasional game walk. If you are trekking through the jungle then a waterproof pair of hiking boots may be a better option.
Clothing should be light and quick drying in natural tones. Avoid bright colours as they can deter the animals. Some areas ban camouflage so it is also not recommended.
Waterproof/Windproof Jacket. Waterproof is recommended for the wet season and wind proof for the winter season as it can be cold in the mornings and have a wind chill on those early morning drives.
Warm fleece. Peak season during winter can get cold. Also, warm clothing if camping outside such as thermals would be recommended.
Cap/Hat & Bandana. A bandana comes in handy to wipe the dust from your face or lens.
Long trousers to avoid creatures biting your ankles.
Solar charger to help power your devices when there’s limited electricity. Or a plug-in type if you are staying onsite and can charge overnight.
Watch. To save you using your phone. Allows you to keep your hands free and saves power.
Binoculars. Keep a safe distance from the wildlife so not to disturb them in their natural habitat. Some animals will not let you get that close so a good pair of binoculars will ensure you can make the most of your experience.
Hand Sanitizer would be advisable most bush toilets are out in the open you will not be able to wash your hands. Hand sanitizer will be a life saver.
Eye drops. Dusty conditions can cause irritation to your eyes.
Toilet Paper.
Unscented Deodorants. Animals do not like new smells so avoid anything scented.
Sunblock. Good SPF30 or higher is recommended. A sports/Active option may be best.
First Aid kit. Include Antihistamines, Band aids, pain killers, re-hydration kits, antiseptic wipes, Anti-nausea tablets, Imodium, Medications, Bug sprays (30% DEET or higher is needed to be effective against malaria) & Antimalarials.
As South Africa is a Malaria zone, especially in the Summer months we recommend discussing options with your Doctor on protection during your trip. There’s a smaller risk between October to April but it is always recommended to check your vaccinations and other health requirements when travelling. Travel Insurance is always recommended and good Medical protection should be included.
Safari Accommodations
There is no shortage of accommodation options available, from resorts, Bush camps, Bush lodges & Private game reserves. We work with a number of suppliers that provide guided tours around South Africa with the park included on the tour. This is a perfect option for those looking to see more places during their trip. We can provide various options from basic to luxury tours with add on extensions at either end.
Honeymoons in South Africa have also been a popular option over the years. Explore the Savanna’s with amazing wildlife and relax by fires in the evening. Enjoy spas & pools during the day with the option to go out exploring on game drives in the early mornings and/or Evenings. This would be more suited to the adventurous couples that are not looking for relaxation. However, South Africa has other options for those looking for a more relaxing trip. A honeymoon in South Africa is sure to provide a lifetime of memories.
Interesting Fact
Did you know the Park originated In 1898 as Sabie Game Reserve. It was smaller at the time.In 1903 Shingwedzi was established.In 1926 they merged and became Kruger National park.
Photo: Elephants in Kruger National Park by the waterhole, South Africa
Start planning your trip to South Africa Today!
Travel Advisor: Sarah Robinson
Adiona Travel, Canada