Kruger National Park is located in northeastern South Africa and is one of the largest game reserves in Africa. It is home to a wide range of wildlife, including the Big 5: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffaloes. The park also hosts numerous other mammals and bird species like vultures, eagles, and storks. Its landscape includes mountains, bush plains, and tropical forests. Kruger National Park is part of the Kruger to Canyons Biosphere, a UNESCO-designated International Man and Biosphere Reserve.
places to visit in Kruger National Park
Timbavati Game Reserve
Timbavati Game Reserve is located between Hoedspruit and Acornhoek, just north of the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve, on the western edge of Kruger National Park. The reserve is known for its rare white lions, with the name ‘Timbavati’ meaning “the place where something sacred came down to Earth from the Heavens.” Visitors can spot wildlife like lions, cheetahs, and elephants, which roam freely between the reserves.
Mala Mala Game Reserve
Mala Mala Game Reserve is part of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve and is the largest and oldest private Big Five game reserve in South Africa. Covering around 15,000 hectares, it’s home to the Big Five as well as animals like cheetahs, hyenas, and giraffes.
Manyeleti Game Reserve
Manyeleti Game Reserve, located in eastern Mpumalanga, offers a peaceful safari experience in complete seclusion. It’s known for open vehicle game drives, bush walks, and excellent Big Five sightings.
Sabi Sabi
Sabi Sabi, in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, is part of the Greater Kruger National Park. This private reserve is famous for its natural Big Five population and conservation efforts.
Londolozi Private Game Reserve
Londolozi Private Game Reserve covers 150 km² and is located on the western edge of Kruger National Park. It is part of the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve and is known for its Big Five wildlife and five luxury camps along the Sand River.
Djuma Game Reserve
Djuma Game Reserve is another private reserve in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. It shares its western border with Kruger National Park and is home to the Big Five, along with a variety of other animals and bird species.
Motswari Private Game Reserve
Motswari Private Game Reserve, set in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, is a family-owned lodge offering an authentic safari experience with understated luxury.
Olifants River Game Reserve
Olifants River Game Reserve is a private Big Five reserve in the Balule Nature Reserve in Limpopo. With 6,500 hectares of bushveld, it features diverse wildlife and the perennial Olifants River running through it.
Klaserie Private Nature Reserve
Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, bordering Kruger and Timbavati, covers 60,000 hectares and is home to lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, cheetahs, and many other species. The Klaserie River runs through the reserve.
Best time to visit Kruger National Park
The ideal time to visit Kruger National Park is from May to September during the dry winter season. This is when the vegetation becomes sparse, making it easier to spot animals. Wildlife tends to gather around waterholes and rivers, increasing your chances of sightings. The weather is mild and dry, perfect for safaris.
