Matt Davison
With all the excitement of planning your safari holiday, you might have forgotten all about the most important question: Where to stay in Kruger National Park?
The Kruger Park is a magnificent experience, and we aim to make your African stay as fun and enjoyable as possible. Everything from your accommodation, must-see sights, and areas, to what you should take note of on your adventure. No worries, as we have it all sorted out!
Where is Kruger National Park?
Tucked away in the northeastern part of beautiful South Africa, you will find the Kruger National Park. Spanning across 2 provinces (Limpopo and Mpumalanga), this is one of the largest game drives in South Africa. This stunning reserve is home to thousands of flora and fauna, all just waiting for you to come and visit them.
Best Time to Visit Kruger National Park
Visiting this beautiful destination takes time and some detailed planning (SANParks Kruger might help). You have to keep in mind that the seasons may be different from your current situation, so it’s a good idea to plan accordingly. The best time to visit Kruger National Park Mpumalanga would fall between April and September, as these months have the most pleasant temperature ranges.
During the abundant rainy times (October to March) viewing conditions for the animals themselves might be a bit more obscured. All the rain and drizzle, as fantastic as it is for the planet, causes huge vegetation growth, hiding Bambi just a little bit better!
For a detailed map of the park, follow this link. It shows a stunning map of Kruger National Park and Surrounds
Accommodation Inside Kruger National Park
You have your safari guide planned out, your bags packed, but there’s one last thing to sort out before you can head off: where will you stay? Accommodation inside Kruger National Park is something to consider. As there is genuinely a multitude of options before you, all depending on your game plan.
Do you want to rough it out and camp it old-school? Or perhaps you want a bit more luxury in one of the many cottages and guesthouses? Or would you rather sleep in style in one of the many gorgeous lodges and hotels? It all is up to you, but luckily we made a handy guide to inform you of the many options that lay on the table.
Self Catering Accommodation in Kruger National Park | Camping Availability
The best way to ensure a happy stomach is to do it yourself! Self-catering accommodation units are in abundance inside Kruger National Park. Booking one of these spots puts the power into your hands regarding your safari experience (at least when it comes to food).
While there are many self-catering units, we have made a list of a few sites that are sure to be a hit. All of these offer affordable, flexible options, allowing you to fine-tune your experience.
Berg-en-Dal Restcamp
A plethora of tent or caravan sites, all equipped with electricity points, communal ablutions and even cooking amenities. While each site can host up to 6 people, groups are encouraged to book together and set up, making it a huge and fun venture for all. There are also a lot of six-bed cottages up for grabs, Bungalows that can be rented, as well as luxury units that occupy the prime real estate
Satara Restcamp
Here you’ll find a multitude of campsites and caravan spots available with all the amenities that can be expected. Over 70 multiple bedroom bungalow units are also available, for those who are less camp-enthusiastic. Also on offer are a collection of guest cottages with ensuite bathrooms. They are large and luxurious, with fully equipped kitchens and even limited DSTV.
Pretoriuskop Restcamp
Camping, caravaning and rustic huts are available for accommodation at this destination. Options range from just the necessities to luxury family cottages. This unique spot offers some awesome activities like bush walks, game drives, and 4X4 Adventure trails.
Kruger National Park Lodges
In a game reserve as mighty and expansive as the Kruger, you can imagine there is quite a variety of options regarding where to spend your nights (besides stalking hyenas!). We have put together an extensive list of Kruger National Park lodges, as they range from absolutely extravagant to romantically intimate.
Baobab Hill Bush House
This remote location can sleep a maximum of 8 people, which means it is ideal for a family or group of adventurers. Modern amenities, plus a guest house and swimming pool will ensure you are fully equipped, making your stay comfortable.
Camp Shawu
Situated on the edge of a dam, Camp Shawu brings you right into the thick of things. As the animals often flock here to drink from the water, visitors can look forward to premium game viewing from the observation decks. Big 5 viewing opportunities are always a must, as well as organized game drives and bush walks (just remember to bring a guide).
Fitzpatricks Lodge at Jock
Gorgeous and child-friendly to boot, this luxury lodge can cater to the whole family. Able to sleep 6 adults and 4 children, the spacious interior will make you feel right at home. The area itself is also renowned for its Big Five viewing opportunities
Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge
A beautiful cultural experience allows guests to enjoy the local Tsonga culture and an overnight stay in luxurious rooms. Decorated in bright African themes, you might even hear the staff playing drums and crooning some traditional songs.
Imbali Safari Lodge
The perfect romantic getaway, elegant suites are situated along a picturesque stretch of river Private jacuzzis and a plunge pool are only some of the amenities guests can look forward to. All meals and local beverages are included, as well as hot drink-making services in all the rooms. Daily safaris in an open safari vehicle are something to look forward to.
Kruger National Park Hotels
Lodges and guest houses, campsites, and caravans. While all of these options might be enticing, perhaps you have set your sites on something a little more luxurious?
Say no more, as the Kruger National Park Hotels are sure to wow you with breathtaking spectacle. Experience the best of the bush, with the splendor you deserve.
Protea Hotel Kruger Gate
Right in the heart of the Kruger about 12.1km away from the center of the Skukuza area, you will find the Protea Hotel Kruger Gate. 4-Star luxury, with top-class amenities and activities, this hotel will surely meet the standards you have been accustomed to.
Each room has a beautiful view of the gardens, with birds and wildlife in abundance. The open-air Lapa Restaurant will fuse the atmosphere of the outdoors, with the culinary excellence your stomach is rumbling after. With your food being served under the stars, what more could you possibly dream of?
Some of the amenities include a swimming pool and gym, access to Wi-Fi, room service and a 24-hour front desk, air conditioning, and a car rental service.
And, for the avid adrenaline junkies in you, they also offer tree house sleep-outs, allowing you to sleep with the sounds of nature all around you.
Last but not least, as a special treat, they also have Dee’s African Spa, located on the banks of the Sabie River. They have a full range of beauty on offer, plus some magnificent views to boot.
Lion Sands River Lodge
Starring as the origin of the Lion Sands Safari, this Lodge offers a sophisticated version of the traditional safari lodge. With contemporary decor, clean lines, and a blended modern feel, the hotel has all you could ever want from a luxurious accommodation.
Some of the features include a Safari Lounge and Bar and Barista’s Station for the coffee lovers. Enjoy a stunning gallery showcasing local talent, as well as the OneLife MORE boutique. Dining in the shade of the trees while overlooking the Sabie River is sure to take your breath away.
Other amenities include a swimming pool, a printing lab to capture precious memories on canvas, a Firepit for social gatherings, and even a health spa. Nothing is spared, no leisure omitted. Lion Sands is the place to be.
Bringing everything together: Kruger and You
The Kruger National Park is the experience of a lifetime. It is something to behold, and the memories you will make in this majestic park will stick with you for life.
With all your travel plans sorted, accommodation booked, perhaps you would like to take a look at safari prices and activities that may lie ahead?
