The Kruger National Park has accommodation to suit every travel style and budget. From camping sites and safari tents to luxe five-star lodges, and everything in between, the pickings are vast in the Kruger. Booking is essential. Don’t leave it to the last minute, either! Kruger is rightly popular and, especially in peak seasons, availability can be scarce.
Some of the main rest camps offer special holiday programmes and even screen wildlife films in the evenings.
Discerning travellers who prefer minimal sightings of other humans can opt to stay at one of the private game reserves within the park’s boundaries that have exclusive-use areas for their guests.
Overnight on a wilderness trail
Only a small percentage of South Africa falls under the “true wilderness” bracket. Almost half (49%) of the Kruger’s two-million hectares can be defined as such and this is where Kruger’s wilderness trails are operated.
There are seven wilderness trails that are run from the various rest camps in different parts of the reserve.
Trails are usually three nights long and include overnight accommodation in basic huts with delicious meals cooked on an open fire or gas stove. Guests are accompanied by a trail ranger at all times.
No cellphones, radios or other devices are allowed. The trails are purposely designed to take visitors away from other people and interruptions from the outside world. Visit the SANParks website for information and costs.
Skukuza Rest Camp is the park’s headquarters and the biggest (and most popular) rest camp. You’ll find the most extensive facilities here including; two restaurants, a bank, post office, picnic sites, two swimming pools and even, the nearby Skukuza Golf Course.
The camp lies along the southern edge of the Sabie River and is sheltered by many (by Kruger’s standards) trees. Lion sightings in the surrounding areas are frequent. Visitors are advised to keep an eye out for the “resident” Fruit Bat living in the eaves of the shop, too.
Choose from camping sites, permanently erect safari tents and semi-luxury bungalows, family cottages and guesthouses.
The safari tents are popular and often recommended. Guests can make use of the communal ablution and cooking facilities, while the tents themselves, are simple but clean and comfortable with a small veranda, fridge and fan.
Truly discerning travellers looking to step back in time into the romantic safari days of yesteryear can check into the five-star Hamiltons Tented Camp. Set within the private Mluwati concession in the west of Kruger, the camp offers a truly exclusive experience. Just six luxury tents are nestled on raised decks that overlook the river. The decor is pure Out of Africa. For history and luxury lovers, honeymooner couples and those wanting a tranquil walking safari experience, this is a great choice.
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