4-Day Kruger Big 5 Safari from Johannesburg: Game Drives, Panorama Route & Wildlife Immersion
Four days from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park deliver sunrise and sunset game drives, a full-day safari with expert guides, and a scenic Panorama Route tour. Expect long drives, close wildlife encounters, and photography-ready golden hours.
The Experience
Before You Go
Rise early for the best sightings
Morning drives (05:30–06:00 in summer/winter) are prime for predators and active birds—pack warm layers for dawn and a headlamp for pre-dawn mobilization.
Bring binoculars and a telephoto lens
Open vehicles put distance between you and shy species; 8x42 binoculars and a 200–400mm lens will improve sightings and photos.
Carry cash for rest camp purchases
Lunches inside park rest camps and small purchases at viewpoints often require cash—ATMs are not guaranteed inside the park.
Respect wildlife and guide instructions
Stay seated, keep voices low, and never attempt to feed or approach animals—the guide’s protocols are there to protect you and the animals.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early-morning bird hides at nearby rest camps for close views of lilac-breasted rollers
- •Drive to the lesser-known viewpoints on the Panorama Route for quieter views of Lisbon Falls
Wildlife
- •African elephant
- •African lion
Conservation Note
Kruger enforces strict anti-poaching measures and partners with local communities to fund conservation and sustainable tourism; choose licensed operators to support these programs.
Kruger National Park began as the Sabie Game Reserve in the late 1800s and became one of South Africa’s first major protected areas, shaping regional conservation policy.
Photographer's Notes
- • Open vehicle during sunset drives near waterholes
- • God’s Window lookout for wide panoramas
What to Bring
Binoculars (8x42)Essential
Helps you scan the bush for distant wildlife and subtle movement.
Light layered jacketEssential
Dawn and dusk can be chilly—layers allow quick temperature adjustment.
Wide-brim sun hat & sunscreenEssential
Protects from strong midday sun during drives and Panorama stops.
Camera with telephoto lens
A 200–400mm lens captures close-up wildlife shots from the vehicle.
Common Questions
Do you guarantee seeing the Big 5?
No guarantee—wildlife is wild—but guides have about an 80% success rate for spotting the Big 5 on a full-day drive.
Are park entrance fees included?
Park entrance and conservation fees are typically included in guided safaris, but confirm at booking—some personal purchases at rest camps are extra.
What pickup options are available?
Pickup is offered within a 50 km radius of Johannesburg and Pretoria; specific hotel pickup must be arranged when booking.
Is this suitable for children or wheelchair users?
Yes—this trip is listed as suitable for all fitness levels and wheelchair-accessible transport is available; check vehicle options for activity accessibility.
What should I tip guides and lodge staff?
Tipping is customary—guides typically receive the largest share (suggest 10–15% of the tour cost distributed across staff), with small amounts for lodge and transfer staff.
Can I extend my safari or customize the itinerary?
Private tours allow customization—contact the operator for options like extra game drives, different rest camps, or longer stays in Mpumalanga.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 days
Location
Skukuza (Kruger National Park), Mpumalanga
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal hiking required; participants should be comfortable sitting in an open vehicle for several hours and handling multi-hour road transfers.
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