7-Day Greater Kruger & Private Reserves Safari
Overview
A week-long immersion into the Greater Kruger ecosystem, combining public Kruger drives with exclusive traversing rights in private reserves bordering the park. Experience off-road tracking, walking safaris, and night drives that aren't possible in public areas. Move between two distinct lodges for variety, from riverfront luxury to intimate bushveld camp.
Route
Start
Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport
Day 1: Arrival & Private Reserve Introduction
Day 2: Walking Safari & Afternoon Drive
Day 3: Full Day in Kruger National Park
Day 4: Transfer to Bushveld Camp & Night Drive
Day 5: Photography-Focused Drive & Bush Dinner
Day 6: Off-Road Tracking & Farewell Sundowner
Day 7: Final Dawn Drive & Departure
End
Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport
Tour Features
Vehicle
Open 4x4 Land Cruiser
Group Size
Min 2 guests
Minimum Age
12 years
- Off-road tracking in private reserves
- Walking safari with armed ranger
- Night drives with spotlight
- Two distinct lodges for variety
- Bush dinner under the stars
- Photography-focused drives
- Exclusive traversing rights (no public vehicles)
Accommodation
Two distinct luxury lodges within the Greater Kruger private reserve system. The first (3 nights) is a riverfront lodge with plunge pools and indoor/outdoor showers. The second (3 nights) is an intimate bushveld camp with only 6 suites, offering a more remote wilderness experience. Both feature exceptional cuisine and personalised service.
Day by Day
Arrival & Private Reserve Introduction
Fly into Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport. Met by your dedicated ranger and transferred to the private reserve lodge. Afternoon tea, lodge orientation, then a sunset game drive on exclusive private traversing, with off-road tracking permitted here, getting you closer to wildlife than public parks allow.
Walking Safari & Afternoon Drive
Early morning walking safari with an armed ranger: track rhino on foot, learn to read spoor, and experience the bush at ground level. Return for brunch. Afternoon open-vehicle drive focusing on predator activity as temperatures cool.
Full Day in Kruger National Park
Cross into Kruger National Park for a full-day drive. Explore different habitats: granite ridges, riverine forest, and open savanna. Breakfast and lunch stops at rest camps. Return to the private lodge for dinner under the African sky.
Transfer to Bushveld Camp & Night Drive
Morning at leisure with optional spa treatment. Late morning transfer to an intimate bushveld camp deeper in the reserve. Settle in, afternoon drive, then a dedicated night drive with spotlight to search for leopard, hyena, aardvark, and other nocturnal species.
Photography-Focused Drive & Bush Dinner
Sunrise photography drive: your guide positions the vehicle for optimal light. Mid-morning return for brunch and editing time. Late afternoon drive followed by a bush dinner in a dry riverbed under lanterns and stars.
Off-Road Tracking & Farewell Sundowner
Dedicated off-road tracking morning: your guide follows fresh tracks through the bush. Focus on the most elusive of the Big Five. Brunch, leisure, then a farewell sundowner drive with drinks and snacks at a scenic viewpoint.
Final Dawn Drive & Departure
One last dawn drive to catch the bush waking up. Return for breakfast and checkout. Transfer to Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport for your onward journey.
Rates
Per person sharing
R 58 500
Rates can change with the season and group size. We confirm your price when you enquire.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Included
- Dedicated private ranger for your stay
- All game drives (2 per day) in open 4x4 vehicles
- 1 walking safari with armed ranger
- 1 bush dinner experience
- Night drives with spotlight
- 6 nights luxury lodge accommodation (2 lodges)
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Selected beverages (house wines, beers, soft drinks)
- Conservation and traversing fees
- Return transfers from Hoedspruit Airport
- Inter-lodge transfer
- Laundry service
Not Included
- Premium wines and spirits
- Spa treatments
- Gratuities for ranger and tracker
- Travel insurance
- Flights to/from Hoedspruit
Getting There
Fly to Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport (Airlink from Johannesburg or Cape Town, approximately 1 hour). Your ranger will meet you at the airport. Private charter options are also available direct to the reserve airstrip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I pack for a safari?
Neutral-coloured clothing (khaki, olive, brown), comfortable walking shoes, a warm jacket for early mornings, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, binoculars, and a good camera with a zoom lens.
Is it safe to go on safari?
Absolutely. You are always accompanied by professionally trained and licensed guides who prioritise your safety. Game drives are conducted in specially designed vehicles, and lodges have trained staff on hand at all times.
What is the best time of year for a safari?
The dry winter months (May to September) offer the best game viewing as animals congregate around water sources and vegetation is thinner. However, summer (October to March) brings lush greenery, newborn animals, and migrant birds.
Do I need vaccinations?
A Yellow Fever certificate is required if travelling from an endemic country. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for Kruger and lowveld areas. Consult your travel clinic 6-8 weeks before departure.
Can children join the safari?
Age restrictions vary by itinerary (see the minimum age listed). Most lodges welcome children 8+ on game drives. Private vehicle bookings can sometimes accommodate younger children, so ask us.
What happens if it rains?
Game drives go ahead in light rain, and animals are often more active. Ponchos are provided. Only in extreme weather conditions (rare) would a drive be cancelled, and an alternative activity arranged.
Looking for more?
Other packages and trips from the local team
R 58 500
per person sharing
Rates can change; we confirm your price when you enquire.
- Duration
- 6N / 7D
- Location
- Greater Kruger & Private Reserves
- Vehicle
- Open 4x4 Land Cruiser
- Min guests
- 2
7-Day Greater Kruger & Private Reserves Safari
Enquire about this trip
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R 58 500 × 2 guests
An estimate from the listed rate. We confirm your price when you enquire.