5-Day Kruger National Park Safari: Full-Day Game Drives, Blyde River Boat Cruise & Conservation Visit
Wake before dawn and follow the open 4x4 into Greater Kruger: two full-day safaris, a Blyde River Canyon boat cruise, and a conservation-focused visit to Moholoholo. This five-day private tour balances intense wildlife viewing with practical guidance for travel in a malaria-risk, rugged environment.
The Experience
Before You Go
Early wake-ups are non-negotiable
Game drives start around 5:30 a.m.; set alarms and plan light evening meals so you can move quickly at sunrise.
Bring binoculars and a zoom lens
Animals can appear at a distance—8x–10x binoculars and a 200mm+ lens will make the difference for photos.
Hydrate and layer
Mornings are cold and afternoons hot—carry a 1L water bottle and wear layers to adapt on long drives.
Follow your guide’s safety rules
Remain seated in the vehicle, keep noise low, and never attempt to feed or approach wildlife for photos.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Boat cruise viewpoints along the Blyde River quieter than the main lookout points
- •Early-morning game drive tracks near Orpen Gate where nocturnal predators often linger
Wildlife
- •African elephant
- •lion (plus hippo and crocodile along the river)
Conservation Note
The itinerary includes Moholoholo’s rehabilitation work and conservation fees; support is focused on rescue, rehabilitation and community education to reduce human-wildlife conflict.
The Greater Kruger conservancy grew from private and communal land-use agreements that expanded habitat corridors beyond Kruger National Park to improve large-animal movement.
Photographer's Notes
- • Open-vehicle along the Orpen access roads
- • Boat deck on the Blyde River Canyon cruise
- • Blyde River Canyon lookout for wide-angle landscape shots
What to Bring
Binoculars (8x–10x)Essential
Essential for spotting distant game quietly from the vehicle.
Camera with telephoto lens (200mm+)
Captures detailed wildlife shots from the open vehicle or boat.
Lightweight, warm layersEssential
Cold dawns require insulating layers that can be shed as the day warms.
Insect repellent and malaria prophylaxis adviceEssential
Protects against mosquitoes—speak to a doctor about prophylaxis before travel.
Common Questions
Are park and conservation fees included?
Yes—this tour includes all excursion, entry, and conservation fees as listed in the itinerary.
How do I get from Johannesburg to the camp?
Pickups are arranged from O.R. Tambo; it’s about a six-hour road transfer to Hoedspruit with a lunch and rest stop en route.
Is this suitable for children?
Families with children are welcome, but game drives are long and wildlife is unpredictable—check specific child-age policies with the operator when booking.
Do I need malaria medication?
Kruger is in a malaria-risk area; consult your healthcare provider for recommended prophylaxis and bring insect repellent and long sleeves for evenings.
What should I tip the guides and camp staff?
Tipping is customary; budget roughly ZAR 50–150 per guest per day for guides, and small amounts for camp staff depending on service.
How much walking is involved?
Most days are spent in the vehicle; there is a 1.5-hour guided nature walk and short walks at rehabilitation sites—no strenuous trekking required.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 days (daily 3–10 hour activities)
Location
Hoedspruit, Limpopo
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Light to moderate fitness—able to handle early mornings, long vehicle days, and short guided walks.
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