Best time to visit Kruger

Kruger National Park may be one of Africa's greatest safari destinations, but depending on what wildlife you hope to see, you'll need to know what time of year to visit Cape Town's animal kingdom. Keep reading to learn about the best time to visit Kruger, where you can stay once you get there and what you can expect during your safari!

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When is the best time to visit Kruger National Park?

Located in Cape Town, with mountains in the east, rolling hills in the south, tropical forests in the north, and the possibility of coming across majestic Big Five creatures such as lions, leopards and elephants, it won't come as a surprise that Kruger National Park gets crowded.

One of the best times to visit the park is during the dry season, from May to September. The sparser supplies of water and vegetation are a magnet for animals seeking to replenish themselves, increasing the opportunities of spotting them. The park's busiest months are January, July and August (especially when the kids are off from school).

Weather-wise, December to February, the weather is hot and humid, while April to May and September to November offer the best weather. The other benefit to visiting during these months is the park is in its low season. Bear in mind, the wet season falls from October to April, and while the wildlife viewing isn't as good as the dry season there are lots of baby animals around, the birdwatching is spectacular, and you'll be treated to a lush green landscape as opposed to a dry and dusty one.

Where to stay in Kruger National Park?

For travellers coming to South Africa to visit Kruger National Park, there are places to stay. Within and around the park, accommodation varies from camping and caravans to self-catered cottages, guesthouses and luxury lodging.

There are 12 main camps, and along with views and proximity to nature, all of them offer amenities such as a convenience store, electricity, laundry facilities and a restaurant or cafe. Visitors looking for something more secluded and remote should opt for a cottage in one of Kruger's bushveld camps. Travellers that want an upscale experience can stay in one of the park's lodges, after viewing game during the day, they can relax with gourmet good and spa treatments.

If you need to stay connected to WiFi during your safari, check ahead to see if your accommodation offers it.

What are the best lodges in Kruger National Park?

Located in concessions around the park, lodges in Kruger National Park range from budget luxury to straight-up extravagant, and each safari lodge has its perks.

Imbali Safari Lodges - A romantic lodge located in the unspoilt wilderness of the private Mluwati Concession.
Jock Safari Lodge - The first private lodge built in the heart of Kruger National Park located in Jock of the Bushveld Concession Area.
Lukimbi Safari Lodge - Situated in the 15,000-hectare Lwakahle Concession, Lukimbi offers incredible game viewing opportunities.
Rhino Post Safari Lodge - Perfect for more adventurous safari enthusiasts! Luxury tents offer a superb glamping experience surrounded by Kruger's southern wilderness.
Shishangeni Private Lodge - Situated in Mpanamana Concession in the south-eastern section of Kruger bordering Crocodile River, this lodge is prime for game viewing.
Singita Lebombo Private Game Lodge - This extravagant retreat is located in the Nwanetsi Concession, an area thriving with game, overlooking a plain where two rivers cross.
Singita Sweni Lodge - Visitors can enjoy solitude along the banks of Sweni River at this safari lodge, along with trying to spot the Big Five.
Lion Sands Kruger National Park - This chic wood-panelled safari lodge offers an experience in Kruger's bushlands with views overlooking the Sabie River.
Pafuri Camp - Located between the Limpopo and Luvuvhu River in the Makuleke Contract Park, Pafuri Camp offers two game drives daily and guided walking safaris.
The Outpost - Located in the Makuleke Region, a remote part of Kruger's wilderness that was previously inaccessible to visitors.

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