Quick facts
Daily budget
For a full category-by-category breakdown of accommodation, food, transport, and activity costs in Kruger National Park, see the dedicated budget guide.
Practical info
Getting There
- Fly to Kruger Mpumalanga International (KMIA) or Hoedspruit Airport
- Drive from Johannesburg: 4–5 hours via N4/N12
- Main gates: Numbi, Phabeni, Crocodile Bridge, Malelane, Orpen, Phalaborwa
Entry & Permits
- Daily conservation fee: R440/adult (foreign), R110/adult (SA resident)
- Gate hours: sunrise to sunset (varies monthly)
- No permit needed beyond entry fee, just book accommodation
Health & Safety
- Kruger is a malaria zone, so take prophylaxis (consult doctor 2 weeks before)
- Stay in your vehicle at all times except at designated rest stops
- Carry a first aid kit, as the nearest hospitals are outside the park
What to Pack
- Binoculars, camera with zoom lens, bean bag for car-window stabilisation
- Neutral-coloured clothing (khaki, brown, green)
- Warm layers for early morning drives, as winter mornings drop to 5°C
Connectivity
- Cell signal available at most rest camps (Vodacom/MTN best)
- No Wi-Fi in most camps, though some have paid hotspots
- Download offline maps (Maps.me) before entering the park
Fuel & Supplies
- Fuel stations at main gates and large rest camps (Skukuza, Satara, Letaba)
- Camp shops stock basics: ice, braai meat, bread, snacks, cold drinks
- ATMs at Skukuza and Letaba only, so bring cash for smaller camps
Cultural tips
Respect wildlife distance
Never leave your vehicle outside designated areas. Maintain at least 20 metres from elephants and never get between a mother and calf. Animals are wild and unpredictable, and a car is your best hide.
Road etiquette matters
Do not block the road at sightings, and pull over to the side. Keep your engine off when stationary near animals. If others are already at a sighting, wait your turn and do not crowd in aggressively.
Gate times are strict
If you are caught outside a rest camp after gate closing time, you receive a heavy fine (R2,500+). Plan your afternoon drives to return at least 30 minutes before closing. Gate times change monthly.
Leave no trace
Do not throw any food or litter from your vehicle. Baboons and monkeys learn to associate cars with food, which leads to aggressive behaviour and eventual culling. Keep windows closed at monkey-heavy stops.
Support local communities
Buy crafts from community markets outside the park gates rather than mass-produced souvenirs inside. Many lodges and camps employ staff from surrounding communities, and tipping R20–50 per day for camp cleaners is appreciated.
Ethical photography
Never use flash photography near animals, as it can startle them and cause dangerous reactions. Do not use drones in the park (strictly illegal). Share sightings locations responsibly to avoid overcrowding sensitive areas.
