4-Day Kruger & Panorama Route Safari from Johannesburg: Big Five, Blyde River Canyon & Lisbon Falls
Four days of open‑jeep safaris and sweeping escarpment views take you from Johannesburg into Kruger National Park and along Mpumalanga’s Panorama Route. Expect sunrise game drives, an all‑day search for the Big Five, and geological highlights such as Bourke’s Luck Potholes and Lisbon Falls.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start early for wildlife
Animals are most active at dawn and dusk—be prepared for a 5:30–6:00 a.m. pick‑up on full‑day safari mornings.
Malaria awareness
Kruger sits in a malaria risk area—consult your doctor about prophylaxis and pack DEET‑based repellent.
Layer for temperature swings
Bring layers: highveld mornings can be cool, while midday and lowveld afternoons grow hot and dusty.
Respect wildlife distances
Always follow your guide’s instructions—do not exit the vehicle or approach animals for photos.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early‑morning birding around Kruger’s riverine thickets—great for rare kingfishers and raptors
- •Small roadside curio markets near Graskop for local crafts and freshly pressed sugarcane juice
Wildlife
- •Elephant
- •Leopard
Conservation Note
Kruger relies on anti‑poaching efforts and community conservation initiatives—choose operators who support local reserves and follow park rules to minimize your impact.
The Panorama Route passes landscapes long inhabited by Tsonga and Swazi peoples and named by 19th‑century prospectors; place names reflect both local culture and colonial history.
Photographer's Notes
- • Open 4x4 during sunrise game drives
- • God’s Window lookout over the Blyde River Canyon
- • Bourke’s Luck Potholes observation platforms
What to Bring
Binoculars (8x42)Essential
Essential for picking out distant game and birdlife from the open vehicle.
Lightweight layers and windbreakerEssential
Morning drives are cool; a windbreaker blocks dust and early‑hour chill.
Telephoto lens (200–400mm) or zoom
Useful for close wildlife shots without getting near animals.
Insect repellent and sunscreenEssential
Protects against mosquitoes in the lowveld and sun exposure during midday stops.
Common Questions
Do I need malaria medicine for this trip?
Kruger lies within a malaria risk area—consult your healthcare provider about prophylaxis and bring repellent; lodges often provide mosquito nets and guidance.
Are park fees included?
Some itinerary entries list admissions included—confirm at booking whether Kruger gate fees are covered or charged locally.
How long is the drive from Johannesburg to Kruger?
Expect about a five‑hour road transfer (roughly 400–450 km) depending on traffic and pickup locations.
Is this trip suitable for children or less mobile travelers?
The tour notes wheelchair accessibility and says it’s suitable for most fitness levels, but check specifics with the operator regarding vehicle boarding and child policies.
What's the accommodation like?
You’ll stay in midrange lodge accommodation (Kruger Adventure Lodge or similar) with basic amenities and proximity to park gates and Panorama Route attractions.
How much should I tip guides and drivers?
Tips are discretionary; a common guideline is R50–R150 per person per day for guides, and R20–R50 for drivers, depending on service.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 days
Location
Hazyview, Mpumalanga
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness for long drives, early starts, and short walks to viewpoints; no high‑altitude conditioning required.
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