What To Expect from a South African Safari at Kruger National Park

For travel enthusiasts, an extended stay on safari is a coveted experience. This kind of bucket list trip is one that most only get to do once or twice in a lifetime – so if you’re considering it, it’s important to choose your location wisely.

In South Africa, Kruger National Park is a firm favourite for nature lovers and thrill seekers. Let’s see why.

Lots of wild things

It goes without saying that, despite all the other perks of staying in Kruger, the animals are what it’s all about. Lucky, then, that Kruger is considered to have the most diverse range of wildlife in all of South Africa. In fact, it’s one of the few places that you’re likely to spot the Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and African buffalos – which make up the most iconic, must-see group of native animals. It doesn’t end there – you may also catch a glimpse of warthogs, crocodiles and hyenas, as well as a whole lot of other fascinating mammals, birds and reptiles.

The beauty of heading off on a safari is that you never know when or where you’re going to see the animals. It’s all a part of the excitement, and means that every day spent exploring will be different to the day that’s gone before.

Luxurious accommodation

After a long day out on a game drive, a little rest and recuperation is what every explorer needs. At Kruger, you can expect to find stunning accommodations to suit every taste, equipped with lots of high-end amenities: pools, hot tubs, cosy fireplaces and outdoor canopy beds all await you in some of Kruger’s most lavish dwellings.

The lodges here are surrounded by greenery, and you’ll often find that your little spot of luxury is just a stone’s throw away from the wild and rugged landscape of the plains. You may even sight a creature or two foraging in the nearby bush, as you step out for your morning coffee or a spot of lunch.

You don’t have to fork out a fortune to have an indulgent experience at Kruger, either. Just like the private lodges, nearby hotels have stunning spa facilities and picturesque views of the safari park. No matter how you choose to spend your time on safari, you’re guaranteed the perfect place of refuge after plenty of adventuring.

Knowledgeable guides

Safari holidays are popular, but they’re only safe experiences because of the professional, knowledgeable people behind each excursion. Kruger tour guides are used to being around the animals, and know how to read their behaviours as a result. They know when they can get close to an animal, and when they should stay away – as well as what it is they should do in the unlikely event of an emergency. So, while you’re free to really get up close and personal with the animals on a self-drive safari, it’s best to only do so with a professional in tow.

Other than making for a safe game drive, the presence of a tour guide means that you’re truly getting the most authentic experience possible on your safari. Learning about the animals through speaking to a local guide is a great way to expand your knowledge, and is sure to add value to your South African adventure.

A once-in-a-lifetime journey

It’s hard to resist a trip to this beautiful part of the world once you know what to expect at Kruger. The location has everything you could possibly need from a safari experience, including being one of the best places to spot the most recognised and sought-after safari animals – just be sure to visit during the dry season of July to October. For a once-in-a-lifetime journey across the South African plains, pack your bags and head to Kruger.

Travel Essentials I Can’t Live Without 

CabinZero Backpack

The CabinZero 36L Backpack – this trusty backpack has been my go-to luggage for both domestic and international trips since 2018. I’ve used dozens of backpacks over the years and keep coming back to this one. I almost never check in luggage so I need a carry-on bag that is spacious, sturdy, and comfortable, with a laptop compartment. The Cabin Zero 36 L fits the bill. The size makes it small enough for a weekend getaway and big enough for a month of backpacking in Europe. The bag also comes with a tracker in case it gets lost. How convenient! Check out my complete review of the backpack.

Travelwifi Portable Hotspot Device

Travel WiFI Pocket WIFI Device – With portable WiFi, you can say goodbye to ridiculous roaming charges and SIM cards for good. I’ve been using the Travel WiFi Portable Hotspot device for years and love the peace of mind it gives me. The device provides 3G-4G WiFi for at least 6 hours and works in 100+ countries. In my experience, it lasts 9 hours. It also works in a variety of landscapes and terrains. I even filmed a Facebook Live from a boat in the Atlantic Ocean using my device. I can also use Google Maps, request an Uber, call my mom, and do tons of other things I couldn’t do before. Quick tip: turn off the device when you’re not using it so that the battery can last longer.

Booking.com

Booking.com – Booking.com is my go-to website for booking discounted accommodations around the world.  What I love most about Booking.com is the variety of properties you can find, from luxury apartments to treehouses to university housing. It’s hard to beat the insanely low prices. The website also has a flexible cancellation policy, which is great if things come up or you change your mind.