4-Day Kruger Safari and Panorama Route from Johannesburg — Big Five, God’s Window & Blyde River Canyon
Leave Johannesburg for four days of contrasts: early-morning and sunset game drives in Kruger National Park, then a full-day tour of Mpumalanga’s Panorama Route including God’s Window and Bourke’s Luck Potholes. Expect long drives, dramatic cliffs, and chances to see the Big Five in their prime territory.
The Experience
Before You Go
Early starts pay off
Predators and active wildlife are most likely at dawn and dusk; be ready at least 30 minutes before departure with layers and a camera.
Bring cash for small vendors
Local craft stalls at Panorama Route viewpoints accept cash for souvenirs and light snacks — ATMs are sparse outside bigger towns.
Protect your gear from dust
Game-drive tracks are dusty; use zip-locks, lens cloths, and a padded camera bag to keep lenses clean.
Hydrate on the road
Carry 1.5–2 liters of water per person for safari days and refill when offered at lodges or picnic stops.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early-morning game viewing around smaller waterholes yields intimate animal behavior.
- •Short walks near God’s Window reveal moss-covered streams and quiet viewpoints away from crowds.
Wildlife
- •Elephant
- •Leopard
Conservation Note
Kruger operates a conservation model balancing tourism with anti-poaching, and visitors are asked to follow guide instructions to minimize disturbance to wildlife.
The Panorama Route passes through landscapes shaped by ancient river erosion and the colonial-era timber and mining economies that opened Mpumalanga to tourism.
Photographer's Notes
- • God’s Window overlook on the Drakensberg escarpment
- • Three Rondavels viewpoint over Blyde River Canyon
- • Bourke’s Luck Potholes boardwalks for close geological shots
What to Bring
Long telephoto lens (200–400mm)Essential
Helps capture distant wildlife on open savannah and close-ups from the vehicle.
Lightweight layering systemEssential
Mornings on the escarpment and evenings in the bush can be cold; layers let you adapt quickly.
Ankle-supporting walking shoesEssential
Comfortable for short boardwalks, lookout trails, and uneven lodge paths.
Reusable water bottle (1.5–2 L)Essential
Keeps you hydrated during long drives and at roadside picnic stops.
Common Questions
How far is the drive from Johannesburg to Kruger?
Expect 5–6 hours on the road covering roughly 400–500 km depending on pickup points and traffic.
Will I see the Big Five on this tour?
The tour targets the Big Five on the full-day and sunset safaris, but sightings cannot be guaranteed — Kruger is wild habitat, not a zoo.
Are park fees included?
Admission is included for scheduled game drives as described in the itinerary, but confirm at booking for any changes.
Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes; the itinerary notes accessibility and suitability for all fitness levels, though long drives may be tiring for very young children or those with mobility limits.
What kind of accommodation is provided?
Overnights are in a Kruger-area lodge (Kruger Adventure Lodge or similar) with breakfasts included on three mornings.
Do I need vaccinations or special documents?
Carry a valid passport; check current health advisories for South Africa and consult your doctor on recommended vaccinations before travel.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 days
Location
Skukuza, Mpumalanga
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with basic fitness; long vehicle transfers and uneven short walks require stamina and agility for stepping in and out of safari vehicles.
Ready to Explore Skukuza?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now