How to visit Kruger National Park: guide to the perfect circuit
After covering the entire south-eastern part of Kruger National Park in day 1 of this tour, all you need to do is discover the South-West part and thus finish the southern loop of this giant South African reserve. Unlike yesterday, there is only a short drive to reach your hotel in the evening (around 3 hours by car). So you have time explore the back roads of the Kruger available to you along the way and observe around you without feeling rushed. If you haven't seen them all yet the Big 5, then you can afford to take detours to maximize your chances.
(See the article on day 1 of this circuit in Kruger National Park in clicking here.)
Finish the circuit of the southern part of Kruger National Park: from Malelane Gate to Skukuza
Like all game drives, the day should start early. For your second day on this tour to Kruger National Park, enter the reserve by Malelane Gate at dawn and head to Berg in Dal. You will then go through Pretorius head to finally go back to Skukuza and finish the southern loop of the national park.
Take the side roads of this tour between Berg en Dal and Pretoriuskop at Kruger Park
The circuit of the South-West part of the Kruger National Reserve being relatively short to cover, we took many additional paths to make the most of every corner of the national park and we were not disappointed!
Indeed, the network of secondary roads is immense and much less visited. So we were much quieter while enjoying sumptuous landscapes. In addition, we saw more animals along these roads certainly because they are more peaceful! So don't miss this part of the tour.
The lodge with the best value for money to sleep around Skukuza gate (Kruger National Park)
For accommodation close to Skukuza gate, we recommend the Sabie River Bush Lodge. It is for us the best value for money in this Kruger region.
Situated on the banks of the Sabie River, this lodge offers a magnificent view of the Kruger National Park and the animals that bathe there: hippos, crocodiles and in the evening antelopes and elephants drink there. You can admire this landscape from the swimming pool, the bar or the restaurant. Also, you have the choice between luxury tent or normal room: nothing better than ending a safari with a night in a (luxury) tent!
Check availabilityNB : Find the program for day 1 in our article The best route to visit the Kruger National Park day 1/2.
If you want to explore Kruger National Park on a luxury safari you can read our article The best private reserves in Kruger Park in South Africa.
Our tips for a successful trip:
- Book your flight in advance to take advantage of the best prices
Airline ticket prices are cheaper when booked 6 to 3 months in advance. To be sure of getting the best price, we recommend using a flight comparator such as Skyscanner.
- Book your accommodation before departure to have access to the best offers
You will always find a room at the last minute, but the best located accommodations are necessarily those that are always full. That's why it's best to book your accommodations as soon as possible. We recommend going through Agoda which offers the best prices. In addition, this site allows you to be easily reimbursed in the event of cancellation.
- Skip the line to visit the most popular attractions
By booking your excursions in advance on Civitatis, you do not queue on site to get your tickets. Less time waiting = more time enjoying your vacation! Plus, their guided tours ensure you have a knowledgeable guide who speaks your language.
- Use a comparator to find a rental car at the lowest price
Save yourself hours of research with rentalcar.com ou discovercars.com. These comparators are the best for finding rental cars at the lowest prices.
- Don't leave without travel insurance
For us, it is unimaginable to leave without travel insurance. We recommend the one proposed by AXIS. This is the best guaranteed way to leave with peace of mind. However, consider taking out additional specialized insurance for activities not covered (such as skiing or scuba diving).
- Want more information about your destination?
Do not hesitate to complete the information present on this blog with a travel Guide. You can take it in your luggage and refer to it throughout your vacation.
To find out more about South Africa:
The itinéterre team
Itinéterre is a travel blog written by a team of expatriates and locals. They share their experiences so that you can enjoy the best tours in their countries. Their advice will help you plan your vacation easily as if a local is accompanying you!
