2-Day Kruger Park Overnight Safari from Johannesburg — 1 Night Wildlife Package
Short on time but craving the bush? This tight 48-hour itinerary pairs an Mpumalanga panorama with an early-morning Kruger safari, delivering Big Five sightings, lodge comforts, and practical logistics for the traveler in transit.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring binoculars
A compact 8x42 pair will unlock distant herds and birdlife during the early-morning drive.
Start pre-dawn
Morning drives maximize cool temperatures and active wildlife; expect pickup before sunrise.
Malaria precautions
Consult a travel doctor about prophylaxis and carry insect repellent—Kruger is in a malarial zone.
Light luggage only
Shuttles have limited space; pack a small overnight bag and keep valuables with you.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Sunrise vantage along the Sabie River near Hazyview for hippo and bird sightings
- •Panorama Route stops like Three Rondavels and God's Window on the half-day tour
Wildlife
- •African elephant
- •hippopotamus
Conservation Note
Kruger operates anti-poaching units and community programs; stay on roads, avoid feeding animals, and minimize single-use plastics to reduce impact.
Mpumalanga's landscape was shaped by geological uplift and later colonial-era exploration and mining; today tourism and conservation define the local economy.
Photographer's Notes
- • Sabie River banks near Hazyview
- • Three Rondavels viewpoint on the Panorama Route
- • Inside the early-morning game drive near Phabeni/Skukuza corridors
What to Bring
Binoculars (8x42)Essential
Essential for spotting distant game and birdlife on drives.
Neutral-layered clothingEssential
Early mornings are cool and afternoons can warm quickly; layers adapt to the day.
Insect repellent & malaria medsEssential
Repellent for comfort; consult your doctor about prophylaxis before travel.
Telephoto camera lens (200mm+)
Helps capture wildlife frames without disturbing animals or leaving vehicles.
Common Questions
How long is the shuttle from Johannesburg to Hazyview?
Expect about 5–6 hours depending on traffic and stops; pickups begin roughly 15 minutes before scheduled departure times.
Will I see the Big Five on this short trip?
The itinerary targets early-morning drives when wildlife is most active, improving chances of seeing Big Five species, but sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Are meals included?
Yes; dinner the first night and breakfast the following morning are included in the package.
Is this trip suitable for children or people with back problems?
The trip is marketed as suitable for all fitness levels but not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries; check with the operator for child policies.
Do I need vaccinations or malaria tablets?
Yellow fever is not required for most travelers, but Kruger is in a malaria area—consult a physician about prophylaxis and ensure routine vaccinations are current.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund if cancelled at least 6 full days before departure; 50% refund between 2 and 6 days; no refund within 2 days.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 days (approx. 48 hours)
Location
Hazyview, Mpumalanga
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; must handle sitting for a multi-hour shuttle and short uneven lodge walks.
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