Best Kruger safaris - Candid tips by travel authority Howard Hillman

Kruger safari tips

pointers you can trust

How the
Kruger safari
regions differ

Southern

This is the most tourist-crowded area of the Kruger safari areas. And vegetation is generally dense, reducing wildlife viewing. However, there are good cheetah and white rhino sightings in the more open areas.

Central

Its large portion of grassy plains makes it superior to the Southern and Northern areas in seeing grazing animals and therefore lions and other predators.

Northern

This is the least tourist-crowded area. Its upper part is hot, arid and remote. The lower part is good for elephant watching.

Private reserves

They have a much higher concentration of the Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) than exists in the other three regions. They also have most of the luxury lodges. Click the "Luxury lodges & camps" button for details.

When to go

Your wet or dry season decision will be mainly based on your priorities.

Wet season
occurs in the
Southern Hemisphere summer

It can be hot, humid and rainy. But rains are normally short. And the vegetation is greener, days are longer, and birding is at its best.

Dry Season
occurs in the
Southern Hemisphere winter

Nights are cold. However, days are warm. And with less foliage, more sunny days, and busier water holes, it's easier to see and photograph the wildlife. Moreover, reservations (except during holiday periods) are easier to obtain - and rates are typically lower. x