5 Day Best of Kruger Safari

Overview

Experience the best of Kruger on this exciting Big 5 safari. Thrilling 4x4 game drives and comfortable lodge accommodation.

Highlights

  • Big 5 game viewing in Kruger National Park
  • Evening game drive in private reserve
  • Explore African bushveld on foot
  • Breathtaking views of Blyde River Canyon
  • Authentic safari lodge accommodation

Description

Experience thrilling wildlife sightings on this unforgettable Big 5 Kruger Park safari!

Our open vehicle drives through Kruger Park and Private Reserves guarantee incredible animal sightings, providing you with unmatched photo opportunities with Africa’s majestic Big 5. Experience the magic of sunset and night drives, indulge in stargazing sundowners, take leisurely nature walks, and savor unforgettable boma dinners under the stars. This immersive journey goes beyond the ordinary, allowing you to explore not only Kruger Park but also its surrounding areas.

Discover why this tour is one of our most sought-after experiences, offering the perfect blend of African hospitality, adventure, and wildlife excitement. Get ready for a safari that will leave you with lasting memories!

INCLUSIONS / EXCLUSIONS

Inclusions

  • Accommodation:
    - 4 Nights Lodge
  • Meals:
    - 4 breakfasts - 1 lunch - 4 dinners
  • Qualified guide
  • Game drives in 4×4 open-top safari vehicles
  • Transport in minibus (if transfers selected)
  • Entrance fees to national parks
  • Included activities:
  • - Afternoon game drive- Full day game drive in Kruger (2)- Nature walk with tour guide- Blyde River Canyon (photo stop)

Exclusions

  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas
  • Drinks and snacks
  • Gratuities / Tips
  • Clients making their own way to the lodge will need to pay a once-off conservation fee of ZAR 150 per vehicle.
  • Add-on activities:
  • - Full-day game drive in Kruger- Game drive in a private reserve- Conservancy night game drive- Panorama Route excursion- Blyde River Canyon river cruise- Cycling safari- Moholoholo Wildlife Centre- Morning bush walk- Spa treatments

ITINERARY

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DAY 1 Johannesburg To Greater Kruger

South Africa

Depart Johannesburg and venture towards the Greater Kruger National Park. As you journey through the Highveld farmlands, you’ll gradually descend the breathtaking Drakensberg Escarpment, where some of South Africa’s most pristine Private Game Reserves and the world-renowned Kruger National Park await your exploration.

On arrival at the lodge, enjoy a delicious lunch and get ready for your first game drive in the bushveld, getting up close with Africa’s extraordinary wildlife, including the famous Big 5.

To end off the day, we gather for a scrumptious dinner in a traditional “boma” setting, creating unforgettable memories in the heart of the wilderness.

Meals

Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Thornhill Safari Lodge

Private room (ensuite bathroom)

Included Activities

Afternoon game drive

Important:

For your convenience, we provide transfers from both Johannesburg and Hoedspruit Airport. Alternatively, guests have the option to arrange their own transportation.

For detailed information regarding rates, please refer to the “Dates and Prices” section.

DAY 2 Kruger National Park

South Africa

A very early start with tea, coffee, and biscuits, before heading out for the Kruger Park in an open game viewing vehicle. Our sunrise game drive begins as soon as the Kruger Park gates open. Early morning game drives allow for excellent wildlife viewing as the animals are on the move before they take to the shade for the midday heat. The specially adapted vehicles offer excellent viewing and photographic opportunities.

After an exciting morning we stop at a scenic picnic site to enjoy a hearty packed breakfast and time to relax and stretch our legs before we head back out in search of the Big 5. The qualified guides have excellent knowledge of the Kruger Park and know all the best waterholes and areas to spot wildlife.

A welcome stop for lunch and we continue our search for any animals we may have not yet spotted.

Leaving the Kruger Park at sunset we return to the lodge for dinner around the fire.

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation

Thornhill Safari Lodge

Private room (ensuite bathroom)

Included Activities

Full day game drive in Kruger

DAY 3 Greater Kruger

South Africa

Today is all about leisure! Take it easy by the pool, soaking up the tranquil bush atmosphere, or dive into one of the available activities for some extra fun.

The choice is yours—whether it’s relaxation or adventure, make the most of your day in this beautiful setting.

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation

Thornhill Safari Lodge

Private room (ensuite bathroom)

Add-on Activities

Full-day game drive in Kruger
Game drive in a private reserve
Conservancy night game drive
Panorama Route excursion
Blyde River Canyon river cruise
Cycling safari
Moholoholo Wildlife Centre
Morning bush walk
Spa treatments

DAY 4 Kruger National Park

South Africa

An exciting day awaits. Today we have an early wake-up call and head off to the Kruger for another day of wildlife viewing. After a full day in the Kruger we head back to the lodge for another dinner under the stars.

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation

Thornhill Safari Lodge

Private room (ensuite bathroom)

Included Activities

Full day game drive in Kruger

DAY 5 Greater Kruger To Johannesburg

South Africa

Embark on an early morning nature walk with a qualified guide, giving you a chance to learn about spoor (tracks) of various animals, birdlife, and more. After a delicious breakfast your tour will end.

Those who’ve booked the transfer back to Johannesburg have the opportunity to stop at Blyde River Canyon view point to take some photos of the Three Rondawels.

We end our safari in Johannesburg in the late afternoon.

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

None

Included Activities

Nature walk with tour guide
Blyde River Canyon (photo stop)

Important:

You have the option to be dropped off at either your hotel in Johannesburg or at O R Tambo Airport. If you have a same-day flight, kindly schedule domestic flights for 8 pm or later and international flights for 10 pm or later.

Our pick-up and drop-off services are exclusive to O R Tambo Airport and hotels within a 10 km radius of O R Tambo Airport.

ACCOMMODATION

Comfortable Lodge Accommodation

Explore Kruger National Park from the comfort of Thornhill Safari Lodge, a budget-friendly choice within the Greater Kruger Park ecosystem in South Africa. Just 40 kilometers from Kruger Park’s Orpen gate, it’s your gateway to adventure.

The lodge offers stunning views of the majestic Drakensberg Escarpment and is surrounded by an abundance of diverse wildlife and game species.

The lodge features 13 chalets and a self-catering house with 5 rooms, accommodating a total of 41 guests, including the honeymoon suite.
Choose from single, twin, double, or family units, with special sleeping arrangements available for our younger guests.

Rooms are furnished with mosquito nets, overhead fans, and air-conditioning for your comfort. Additionally, enjoy the convenience of tea and coffee stations in each room.

The lodge offers Wi-Fi in communal areas only.

There is a bar which is open all day, offering a selection of soft drinks, local beers, South African wines, cocktails and liqueurs.

TOUR MAP

IMPORTANT INFO

What to Expect

  1. Flexibility is Key: The information provided in the itinerary is subject to change.  Any changes made, prioritize your safety and are aimed at enhancing the overall quality of your experience.
  2. Road Conditions: Please be mindful that road conditions can vary significantly. While some routes may offer smooth travel, factors like weather, road quality, and traffic congestion can influence our travel time. Be prepared for long hours on the road between Johannesburg and Kruger and vice versa. In Africa, some roads may be uneven, leading to occasional bumpy rides during the journey.
  3. Adventures for the whole family: This is a family-friendly tour and is open to adventurers aged 6 and up. Certain activities might have specific age restrictions for safety reasons. For precise details on age requirements, feel free to check details with your consultant.
  4. All-Weather Adventure: Our tours operate year-round, so be prepared for any weather conditions, from scorching heat to chilly nights. Pack accordingly!

Start & End Point Information

We provide transfers from both Johannesburg and Hoedspruit Airport, ensuring a seamless journey to the lodge. Alternatively, guests have the option to arrange their own transportation.

Please refer to the “Dates and Prices” section for respective rates.

Johannesburg Transfers

If you would like to be picked up and/or dropped off in Johannesburg, we can arrange pick up and drop off at the following locations:

  • O.R Tambo Airport
  • Hotels located within a 10 km distance from O.R Tambo Airport
  • Hotels in Sandton

The pick up time in Johannesburg is between 5:30 am and 7:00 am. We will email or WhatsApp you the afternoon before your tour departs to confirm your exact pick up time.

We drop clients off in Johannesburg around 6 pm. If you are catching a flight on this day, please book domestic flights for 8 pm or later and international flights for 10 pm or later.

Hoedspruit Transfers

If you prefer to skip the drive from Johannesburg to Kruger (approx. 6 hours) you can catch a flight to Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport and we can pick you up from there. We also offer transfers to Hoedspruit airport after the safari and you can catch a flight back to Johannesburg. If we drop you off at Hoedspruit you will miss the stop over at Blyde River Canyon on the last day.

See below for recommended flights between Johannesburg and Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport.

Airlink Flights – Airlink website
Cemair Flights – Cemair website

No Transfers / Self-drive to lodge

Guests making their own way to the lodge will need to pay once-off conservation fee of ZAR 150 per vehicle. Please ask your consultant for details on where to meet and at what time.

Pre & Post Tour Accommodation

Detour Africa is here to arrange a seamless experience, including pre and post-tour accommodation, as well as convenient airport transfers. Please ask your consultant for assistance.

Emergency Contact

If you have an emergency (for eg. your flight has been delayed, you are running late for your tour departure or you missed your incoming flight), you can call the emergency number listed on your confirmation document or you can get in touch with us via:

WhatsApp message: +27 60 018 6293
Call us: +27 21 424 1115

Passports & Visa Requirements

PASSPORTS

Ensure your passport has sufficient pages for all required visas, with a minimum of 2 clear pages for each country you’ll be visiting. Note that South Africa requires 2 clear pages upon entry, especially crucial if you plan to fly home from South Africa after touring multiple African countries.

Additionally, ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months after your departure date from Africa. It’s wise to keep a copy at home or with friends. Consider taking a photo of your passport and its contents, and emailing it to yourself for added security.

Using more than one passport (to avoid visa payments) is not advisable. For example, when entering another country, the immigration official must see the exit stamp for South Africa in the same passport for entry clearance.

VISA REQUIREMENTS

It is your responsibility to secure any necessary visas for your upcoming trip. Visa requirements differ based on your nationality and destination so please contact the various embassies or visa service agencies to check visa requirements. We also advise that you recheck visa requirements at least four weeks before departing for your tour as regulations can change.

Detour Africa will not be held responsible for clients being denied entry should they not be in possession of the relevant visas.

Ensure a smooth journey by having a valid onward or return flight or proof of alternative transportation to depart from the country where your tour ends. Alternatively, show proof of sufficient funds, such as a credit card, enabling you to purchase an air ticket for your departure.

Here is a useful link to check your visa requirements. Travel Visa Checker

These are subject to updates and may vary based on your nationality so please double check this information directly with the embassies for each country.

Medical & Health Requirements

VACCINATIONS

For the most accurate and up-to-date vaccination requirements, we strongly advise consulting with your doctor or a travel clinic. They can provide personalized guidance based on your health history, ensuring you receive the most relevant and current information to stay protected during your travels. Your well-being is our priority, and we want you to embark on your African adventure fully prepared and in good health.

To enter or transit through South Africa, passengers must possess a valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate only if arriving from or transiting through countries or regions designated as yellow fever-infected by the World Health Organization. Failure to present a valid certificate issued at least 10 days before arrival will result in entry refusal. There is no provision for vaccination upon arrival, including transit through affected areas. Please be aware that this requirement applies to transit as well.

COVID-19

Detour Africa and our suppliers have implemented stringent COVID-19 protocols to prioritize your health and safety. While we diligently adhere to guidelines, it’s essential for clients to actively comply with each visited country’s requirements. Clients bear responsibility for their documentation, and we will not be liable if you are denied access to a country due to non-compliance.

In the unfortunate event of a client contracting COVID-19 during the tour, it’s important to note that all associated expenses, including testing, medical costs, hospitalization, and quarantine accommodation, will be the client’s responsibility. Additionally, no refunds will be issued for unused tour nights and services in such cases.

To maintain a secure and enjoyable experience for all, any guest not adhering to the established protocols may face expulsion from the tour. We emphasize the importance of securing adequate travel and medical insurance before arrival, ensuring comprehensive coverage for your peace of mind throughout your journey.

MALARIA

Kruger is considered a low risk Malaria area and requires a proactive approach to safeguard your well-being. By using mosquito repellent and adhering to these guidelines, you can significantly mitigate the risks associated with this disease.

Mosquitoes, the carriers of malaria, thrive in areas with high concentrations of people and water. Minimize exposure by adopting protective measures such as:

  • Wearing long-sleeved shirts, socks, closed shoes, and long pants during the evening hours when mosquitoes are most active.
  • Rooms are equipped with mosquito nets. For proper coverage make sure the mosquito net fully covers your sleeping area, including the sides and bottom. Tuck the edges of the net under the mattress or sleeping mat to prevent mosquitoes from finding their way in.
  • An imperative line of defense against mosquito-borne illnesses is the application of an effective insect repellent, preferably in stick or lotion form. Prioritize products containing the active ingredient DEET, as it is renowned for its efficacy in repelling mosquitoes.
  • Consult with your healthcare provider for medical advice.

It is crucial to comprehend that malaria prophylactics do not serve as preventive measures but act as treatment modalities in the event of contraction. Moreover, these medications contribute to minimizing the severity of the illness. Contrary to misconceptions, malaria is curable with prompt medical intervention.

Here is a useful link to check malaria-affected areas:
Malaria Affected Areas

Insurance

Medical insurance is a mandatory requirement. Your guide will request your policy number before the tour begins so please keep your insurance details handy when starting your tour. Ensure that your travel and medical insurance covers both cancellation and emergency evacuation in case of serious illness or injury, especially considering our tours often venture far from well-equipped hospital facilities. It’s important to note that credit card insurance might not offer sufficient coverage, so we strongly recommend obtaining a separate travel insurance policy for comprehensive protection.

Many of our customers opt for World Nomads Travel Insurance and highly recommend their services. While we’re not directly affiliated with World Nomads, we do encourage you to explore their offerings to secure a reliable insurance solution for your journey.

Luggage Requirements

Please note that the weight limit for luggage on our Kruger safaris is a maximum of 20kg. We recommend bringing a smaller day pack for daily excursions.

What to Pack

Please be advised that Africa experiences varying weather patterns, and conditions on your tour may differ. It’s important to check and monitor the weather as temperature shifts can be significant.

Early morning and late evening game drives may be chilly during certain times of the year. Game drives take place in open 4×4 safari vehicles for extended periods, potentially the entire day. Considering this, it’s recommended to have clothing that provides protection against wind chill and keeps you warm. Avoid synthetics, which can be uncomfortable in hot weather.

Here is a basic guideline on what to bring on safari:

  • Passport and travel insurance details
  • Mixture of lightweight clothing and warm clothing
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Wet wipes
  • Camera and Binoculars
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Insect and mosquito repellent
  • Suntan lotion, sunblock, and after-sun lotion
  • Hat
  • Swimwear
  • Sunglasses
  • Cash for tips and souvenirs
  • Small basic First Aid kit including painkillers, band-aids, after-sun lotion, eye drops, and anti-diarrhea tablets.

Meals

Most meals are included on this safari. Please refer to your tour itinerary for details on what meals are included on your tour.

We recommend budgeting approx. ZAR 200 per meal not included. Your guide will take you to a restaurant or shop where you will be able to purchase something to eat.

To ensure we cater to your specific needs, please inform us of any special dietary requirements at the time of booking.

It’s important to note that we cannot accommodate requests made at the start of the tour, so giving us a heads-up during the booking phase is key.

Transport

Our game drives are conducted in specialized 4×4 open-top safari vehicles that can seat 9 people.

Transfers are conducted in a mini bus or SUV depending on the number of people.

Money & Currencies

Money can significantly impact your tour experience, so it’s essential to budget wisely. Africa isn’t known for being inexpensive, so prudent spending is key.

CASH

In South Africa, the local currency is the RAND (ZAR), which is widely accepted throughout the country. We recommend carrying some cash for souvenirs and tipping purposes, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience during your travels.

CREDIT CARD

Credit Card facilities are available in major cities, though some establishments may impose surcharges. Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted, whereas Diners and American Express may have limited acceptance. Remember to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any card access issues while abroad.

ATM’s

With ATMs becoming more prevalent in major towns, cities and airports, utilizing credit or debit cards provides a convenient and accessible means to access funds during your journey. Ensure your cards feature chip and pin technology for secure transactions.

DEPARTURE TAX

The departure tax, also known as the Passenger Service Charge, is typically included in the price of your airline ticket when you depart from South Africa’s international airports. However, it’s always a good idea to double-check with your airline for any changes or updates regarding departure taxes, as policies and fees may change over time.

TIPPING

To assist you during your journey, we’ve compiled the following tipping guidelines based on feedback from both our valued travelers and dedicated staff.

  • Restaurant Service Charge: Upon reviewing your bill, if a 10% service charge is included, there’s no obligation for additional tipping. However, if no service charge is added, it’s customary to consider a 10% gratuity of the total bill amount. In general, service charges are not included in South Africa.
  • Lodge Staff: You’ll often find tipping boxes conveniently placed in common areas within the lodges. A suggested amount of approximately USD 2 (ZAR 40) per day per person is appreciated to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the lodge staff.
  • Guides: The amount you choose to tip your guides and drivers is entirely at your discretion. As a general guideline, consider offering between USD 2 to USD 4 (ZAR 40 to ZAR 80),per guide, per day. Feel free to adjust the gratuity amount based on your personal experience of service quality and the duration of your trip.

Remember, tipping is voluntary and should be extended only when exceptional service is received. Your contributions through tipping play a meaningful role in recognizing the efforts of our staff and enhancing the overall experience of your safari adventure.

Solo Travellers

This tour caters perfectly to solo adventurers in search of shared experiences and safe travels. Single travellers must book a single room at the single room rate and cannot share with other guests. 

Travelling with Children

This is a family-friendly tour and is open to adventurers aged 6 and up. Certain activities might have specific age restrictions for safety reasons. For precise details on age requirements, feel free to check details with your consultant.

Certain African countries require travelers entering or leaving the country with a minor (under the age of 18) to present an unabridged birth certificate that includes details of both parents. In some cases, if a child is traveling with only one parent or without both parents, additional documentation such as a parental consent affidavit may be required. This affidavit typically needs to be notarized. Travel regulations, including those related to documentation for minors, can change. Governments periodically review and update their travel policies, so it’s crucial to check with the relevant embassies, consulates, or official government websites for the most current information.

Wi-Fi Access

Ensure seamless connectivity during your stay with our complimentary WiFi service, accessible both in your room and throughout the communal areas.

Add-on Activities

During the 4, 5 or 6 day safari, you’ll have the opportunity to choose from a range of add-on activities that are not included in the standard package. Your consultant can assist with recommendations to help you decide which activities to book. It’s important to note that these activities are operated by trusted third-party operators, so the prices are subject to change and are to be used as a guideline only.

  1. Full Day Game Drive in Kruger National Park Safari:
    Explore Kruger National Park on an exciting full-day safari with our expert guide. Encounter Africa’s iconic wildlife while enjoying a packed breakfast (lunch not included).
    Departures: From 05:30 am to 17:30 pm (times may differ depending on season)
    Price: ZAR 2090 per adult / ZAR 1400 per child (aged 3 – 12 years)
    Note: Minimum 2 persons required for departure; inquire for single rates.
  2. Big Five Game Drive in Private Reserve:
    Experience the thrill of a close encounter with Africa’s iconic “Big Five” from the comfort of an open 4X4 safari vehicle. Set in a dedicated Big Five Reserve, this adventure focuses solely on seeking out the famous five – African Elephant, Lion, Leopard, Cape Buffalo, and Rhinoceros.
    Departures: Afternoons at 14:00 pm, Mornings at 5:00 am
    Price: ZAR 1540 per adult / ZAR 1200 per child (aged 3 – 12 years)
    Note: Children under 3 years old are not permitted on the Big Five game drive.
  3. Conservancy Night Drive (non-Big-5 Reserve):
    Embark on a captivating night drive through the conservancy, illuminated by spotlights, as you observe nocturnal wildlife in their natural habitat.
    Departures: From 17:30 pm (times may differ depending on season)
    Price: ZAR 500 per person
  4. Panorama Route Day Tour:
    Discover the breathtaking landscapes of the Panorama Route, renowned for its natural wonders. From Bourke’s Luck Potholes to the iconic Three Rondawels, experience the splendor of striking rock formations, cascading waterfalls, and endemic flora and fauna.
    Departures: From 9:00 am to 17:00 pm
    Price: ZAR 1980 per adult / ZAR 1300 per child (aged 3 – 12 years)
    Note: Minimum 2 persons required for departure; inquire for single rates.
  5. Blyde River Canyon River Cruise:
    Set out on a breathtaking cruise along the stunning Blyde River Canyon, ranked as the world’s third-largest, boasting vibrant subtropical greenery. With a knowledgeable guide, uncover the hidden gem of the Kadishi Tufa waterfall along the way.
    Price: ZAR 1,050 per adult / ZAR 900 per child (aged 2 – 12 years)
    Note: Minimum 2 persons required for departure; inquire for single rates.
  6. Cycling Safari:
    Explore the bush from a unique perspective on a thrilling cycling safari. Led by experienced guides, traverse the landscape in search of Africa’s extraordinary wildlife while delving into the region’s flora, fauna, and cultural significance.
    Price: ZAR 600 per person
  7. Moholoholo Wildlife Centre:
    Encounter wildlife at the Moholoholo Wildlife Centre, where injured or non-releasable animals serve as ambassadors for their species. Gain insight into conservation challenges while enjoying up-close encounters with these remarkable creatures.
    Price: ZAR 950 per adult / ZAR 855 per child (aged 3 – 12 years)
  8. Morning Bush Walk:
    An immersive bush walk led by our knowledgeable field guides. Explore the wilderness as you learn fascinating insights about the environment and its inhabitants during the tranquil hours of early morning or afternoon.
    Departures: 06:00 am – 06:30 am (times may differ depending on season)
    Price: ZAR 450 per person
  9. Spa Treatments:
    Indulge in a luxurious massage amidst the serene ambiance of your room or our scenic viewing deck (weather permitting).Full Body Massage:
    60 min at ZAR 1300 per person
    90 min at ZAR 1500 per person
    Advanced bookings are essential.

About Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park, situated in northeastern South Africa, is one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations and a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip:

  • Location and Size:
    Kruger National Park covers and expansive area of approximately 19,485 square kilometers (7,523 square miles). It stretches across the provinces of Mpumalanga and Limpopo in northeastern South Africa, bordering Zimbabwe to the north and Mozambique to the east.
  • Wildlife and Safari Experience:
    Renowned for its remarkable biodiversity, Kruger is home to an impressive array of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros) as well as numerous other species such as giraffe, zebra, cheetah, hippopotamus, crocodile, and various antelope species. The park offers exceptional game viewing opportunities, allowing visitors to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
  • Best Time to Visit:
    Kruger National Park is a year-round destination, each season offering its own unique advantages. The dry winter months (May to September) are ideal for game viewing, as vegetation is sparse, and animals tend to congregate around water sources. However, the summer months (October to April) bring lush landscapes and increased bird activity, making it an excellent time for birdwatching and photography.
  • Safety Precautions:
    While Kruger is a safe destination for tourists, it’s essential to adhere to park rules and guidelines for your safety and the protection of wildlife. Always remain inside your vehicle during game drives, maintain a safe distance from animals, and refrain from feeding or approaching them.

DATES & PRICES

NOTES:

For those making their own way to the lodge, note that the reserve charges a conservation fee of ZAR 150 per vehicle. This fee is a once-off charge for the entirety of your stay and is settled upon arrival at the Guernsey Main Gate. Please note that currently only card payments are accepted.

Select your preferred transfer option to see pricing details:

Pick-up / Drop-off Johannesburg
Pick-up / Drop-off Hoedspruit
Self-drive to Lodge