Kruger National Park
National park · Mopani
South Africa
Highlights
Vast South African park for Big Five safaris, stunning scenery, and stargazing
Vast South African park for Big Five safaris, stunning scenery, and stargazing
"The largest game reserve in South Africa, encompassing over 7,500 square miles, is famed for sightings of the Big Five and luxury safari lodges; its remote location and lack of light pollution also yield impeccable night-sky viewing. The flat savanna and bushveld provide ideal terrain for training binoculars on Southern Hemisphere features such as the Southern Cross, Scorpio, and the rings of Saturn. Adding a nighttime astronomy experience to a game-drive itinerary is recommended." - Skye Sherman Skye Sherman Skye Sherman is a travel writer based in West Palm Beach, Florida. Aside from traveling, she's also a pilot, scuba diver, bookworm, and fourth-generation Floridian. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, USA Today, Palm Beach Illustrated, Atlas Obscura, and more. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"One of Africa's largest game reserves, Kruger National Park is renowned for its incredible wildlife and offers various camping options, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural habitat of numerous animal species."
"A quintessential South African safari destination where experiences span from budget, hostel-run three-day camping trips—one reviewer remembers sharing a tiny 5x5 tent with a friend—to luxury lodges and guided bush walks. Wildlife viewing is season-dependent: the dry months (roughly May–September) make spotting animals easier as vegetation thins and wildlife concentrates around permanent water, while the wet season (October–April) brings rains, migratory birds, and numerous antelope births. Because the park lies in a malaria-risk province, travelers are advised to consult a doctor about antimalarial medication and required vaccinations well in advance. Practical trip notes from visitors and guides include packing layers for chilly mornings and nights, bringing waterproof gear for the rainy season, and preferring soft-sided luggage when intra-country flights or small aircraft are involved." - Katherine Alex Beaven Katherine Alex Beaven Katherine Alex Beaven is a Los Angeles-based travel, food and drink, and culture writer. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"One of Africa's largest game reserves, famous for its high density of wild animals including the Big Five: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalos."
"A vast national park in South Africa known for its wildlife and diverse ecosystems, offering safari experiences."
