Discover The Greater Kruger National Park
About The Greater Kruger
The Greater Kruger National Park region in South Africa is an expansive and world-renowned safari destination located in the northeastern part of the country, encompassing the provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga.
The core of this region is the Kruger National Park itself, one of Africa’s largest game reserves, spanning nearly 2000,000 hectares. Established in 1898, the park is bordered to the east by Mozambique and to the north by Zimbabwe. The Greater Kruger area also includes several private reserves and concessions that share unfenced borders with the national park, creating a vast wilderness area where wildlife roams freely.
The Greater Kruger National Park’s landscape is incredibly diverse, featuring a range of ecosystems from savanna grasslands and woodlands to riverine forests and bushveld. This diversity supports an extraordinary array of wildlife, including the famed Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes.
Visitors can also encounter other iconic African animals such as cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles, and various antelope species. Birdlife is abundant, with over 500 species recorded in the park, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
Private reserves like Sabi Sand, Thornybush, Timbavati, Makalali and Manyeleti are integral parts of the Greater Kruger area. These reserves are known for their luxury lodges and exclusive safari experiences. Unlike the national park, where self-driving is common, the private reserves offer guided game drives and walking safaris led by experienced rangers and trackers. This allows for more intimate wildlife encounters and the opportunity to explore areas not accessible to the general public. The private reserves’ cooperation with Kruger National Park in conservation efforts helps ensure the protection of the region’s rich biodiversity.
The Greater Kruger region is not only a haven for wildlife but also a place of historical and cultural significance. The area has been inhabited by humans for thousands of years, with evidence of early human settlements and rock art sites found within the park. The local Shangaan and Tsonga communities have deep connections to the land and its wildlife, and their cultural heritage is an important aspect of the region’s identity.
The region’s well-developed tourism infrastructure ensures a range of accommodation options with the Greater Kruger National Park region offering something for every traveler, and promising unforgettable encounters with Africa’s magnificent wildlife and landscapes.
Maps of the Area
Access to the Greater Kruger National Park is convenient, with several entry gates and nearby airports, including Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport and Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport.
A short one-hour flight will transport you from Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport to Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport, conveniently located near the reserve, just a 15-minute drive away.
Alternatively, guests can opt to self-drive from Johannesburg, which takes approximately five to six hours.
The Greaterkruger.travel team will gladly facilitate your charter flights to Hoedspruit or directly into the Greater Kruger, as well as arrange your transfer to your safari lodge destination.
Our Travel Team offers great deals by bundling accommodations with flights, transfers, multi-destination trip itineraries and more.
Flora & Fauna
The Greater Kruger National Park, nestled in the rugged beauty of the African savannah, invites guests to embark on a journey of discovery, encountering an extraordinary array of flora and fauna that call this pristine landscape home.
Prepare to be captivated by the diverse wildlife that roams freely across the reserve. From majestic elephants lumbering gracefully through the bushveld to elusive leopards prowling through the shadows, every moment on safari offers a chance to witness nature’s wonders up close. With over 147 mammal species, including the iconic Big Five, The Greater Kruger promises unforgettable encounters at every turn.
Beyond its charismatic megafauna, the reserve is also a haven for bird enthusiasts. With over 500 avian species soaring through the skies, including the dazzling lilac-breasted roller and majestic African fish eagle, birdwatchers are treated to a kaleidoscope of colours and melodies against the backdrop of the African sky.
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of The Greater Kruger’s botanical wonders, where the landscape bursts to life with a mosaic of vibrant colours and textures. Explore lush riverine forests teeming with ancient trees, wander through expansive grasslands dotted with delicate wildflowers, and marvel at the resilience of indigenous plant species thriving in this pristine wilderness. Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or embarking on your first African adventure, The Greater Kruger National Park promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of the wild.
Greater Kruger Weather
Summer (from October to March)
Hot summer months often bring brief, refreshing storms, but all-day rainfall is rare.
Summer temperatures average 32ºC during the daytime.
Winter (from April to September)
While the dry winter mornings can be cool, afternoons are typically cloudless and pleasant.
The average winter morning temperature is 9ºC, reaching up to 25ºC in the afternoons.
Safari Information
Safari Exclusivity in the Greater Kruger National Park
Embark on a journey of discovery, in South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park. The team at Greaterkruger.travel, is standing by to expertly guide and design your specialised safari experience.
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