Imagine waking up before dawn, coffee in hand, on your way to one of Africa’s most famous reserves—Kruger National Park. While we haven’t done the tour ourselves, reviews and details from travelers suggest this is an adventure worth considering, especially if you love wildlife, expert guides, and value for money.
What we love about this experience is the focus on professional guides backed by decades of experience, the chance to see the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino), and the opportunity to enjoy a full day of authentic safari adventure for just around $80. The fact that the tour includes bottled water and offers pick-up service makes it even more appealing.
One thing to consider is the timing—a very early start at 5:00 am means sacrificing sleep, but it’s well worth it for the chance to see animals at their most active. This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a guided, comprehensive wildlife experience with minimal hassle, especially those on a budget who still want quality.
Key Points
- Experienced guides make all the difference in wildlife spotting and sharing knowledge.
- The early start maximizes your chances to see animals in action.
- The cost-effectiveness offers good value, especially with included bottled water and flexible itineraries.
- Small group sizes (up to 30 travelers) help create a more personal experience.
- The full-day duration allows for a thorough exploration of Kruger, including lunch and breakfast breaks.
- Authentic wildlife sightings, including lions, zebras, elephants, and possibly the elusive Big Five.
The Itinerary: What You Can Expect
Looking for more options in Hazyview? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Morning Pickup and Setting Off
The tour begins sharply at 5:00 am from the meeting point at Kuka Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge at Perry’s Bridge Trading Post in Hazyview. This early start is a typical feature of safari tours, designed to catch animals when they’re most active—before the sun gets too hot and animals retreat into shaded areas.
Traveling in a safari vehicle, you’ll be surrounded by fellow wildlife enthusiasts, all eager for the day’s adventures. The group remains manageable, with a maximum of 30 travelers, making it easier for guides to focus on individual interests and sightings.
The Main Safari Experience at Kruger National Park
Your time in the park will last around 8 hours, allowing plenty of opportunity to see animals in their natural habitat. Reviewers consistently highlight the guide’s knowledge—Selby, for instance, was praised for his extensive animal expertise and ability to explain their behaviors, making the drive not just exciting but also educational.
Expect to see a variety of animals, with chances of spotting the Big Five—though, as one reviewer noted, seeing all five can be hit or miss depending on the day. While the admission fee for international travelers is R460, included in the tour price is a free admission ticket for the park itself, adding to the overall value.
Sightings and Animal Behavior
Many travelers report seeing lions walking beside the vehicle, zebras crossing the road, and elephants ambling across the savannah. One guest shared that lions and lionesses walked right next to the safari vehicle, an experience many dream of. Zebras and elephants crossing the road gave a classic safari scene, just like in the movies.
The guides’ deep knowledge shines in their explanations, helping visitors understand animal behaviors, park ecology, and conservation efforts. As one reviewer said, “Selby knew a lot about the animals and it was a very educational experience.”
Food Stops and Rest Breaks
The tour includes a stop for breakfast and lunch at Skukuza, one of Kruger’s main rest camps. Reviewers noted that the 45-minute breakfast break was a bit tight, sometimes not enough time to order and eat comfortably—some chose to take their food in the vehicle.
Interestingly, a reviewer mentioned that bottled water was not provided during the drive, which is worth noting to plan ahead. Nevertheless, the included bottled water generally helps keep travelers hydrated during the long morning.
End of the Tour and Return
The safari wraps up back at the original meeting point, usually by late afternoon or early evening. The early start means you get a full day of wildlife viewing without feeling rushed, leaving plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights.
Why This Tour Is Such a Good Deal
The $80.52 per person price is competitive, especially considering the length of the tour and the inclusion of park fees and bottled water. When compared to private safaris or guided tours with fewer animals and less time, this offers excellent value for those who want a comprehensive, guided experience.
Reviewers consistently praise the professional guides for their dedication and knowledge. Guides like Selby and Bradley went the extra mile to provide educational insights and ensure everyone saw key animals, making the entire experience more meaningful.
The Group Size and Atmosphere
With a maximum of 30 travelers, the atmosphere allows for some personal interaction with guides, while still maintaining a lively group setting. Many reviews mention friendly, accommodating guides who are eager to answer questions and point out elusive animals.
Timing and Weather Considerations
The tour’s early start means you’ll experience cooler weather and animal activity peaks. However, it also demands an early alarm clock—something to keep in mind if you’re not naturally an early riser. Also, as with any outdoor activity, weather conditions can affect sightings, but the tour offers a full refund or rescheduling if canceled due to poor weather.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Dress in layers—mornings can be chilly, and it warms up later.
- Bring snacks or a light breakfast, as some travelers found the break time tight.
- Bring a camera with a good zoom lens—expect some incredible photo opportunities.
- Arrive on time because the tour departs promptly at 5:00 am.
- Confirm water availability if staying hydrated is a priority, as some reviews mentioned it wasn’t always provided.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This safari is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who still want a guided, full-day wildlife adventure. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to maximize your chances of spotting Africa’s iconic animals. Wildlife enthusiasts, first-time visitors to Kruger, or those eager to learn from experienced guides will find this tour particularly rewarding.
Couples, small groups, and solo travelers alike will appreciate the manageable group size and the opportunity to chat directly with knowledgeable guides. If you’re comfortable with an early start and want to see animals in their most active state, this tour hits the sweet spot between affordability and quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the start time for the tour?
The tour begins at 5:00 am, which is typical for game drives to maximize wildlife sightings in the cooler early hours.
Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup is offered from Hazyview, and the tour starts at the meeting point, making logistics easier for travelers.
What is the duration of the safari?
Expect around 9 to 10 hours in total, including the game drive, stops, and breaks.
Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are scheduled stops for breakfast and lunch at Skukuza, a popular park rest camp.
How much does the entrance fee cost?
For international travelers, the entrance fee is R460, but the tour includes a free park admission ticket. South African citizens and SADC citizens pay R115.
What animals can I expect to see?
You’ll likely see lions, zebras, elephants, and possibly the Big Five, though sightings depend on luck and animal movements.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.
How many people are on the tour?
A maximum of 30 travelers ensures a comfortable group size for wildlife viewing and guide interaction.
Is this suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to check with the tour provider if you have specific needs as the activity involves outdoor vehicle travel and early hours.
This Kruger National Park tour offers a solid, well-organized way to see some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife without breaking the bank. The combination of experienced guides, a full-day schedule, and the chance to witness lions, elephants, and more makes it a fantastic option for first-timers and repeat visitors alike.
While the early start might not be for everyone, it’s the best way to catch animals in their lively, daytime environment. The group size and knowledgeable guides help make it more than just a drive—they turn it into an educational journey filled with memorable moments.
If you’re looking for a value-packed, authentic safari experience that balances adventure with comfort, this tour hits all the right notes and is likely to leave you with stories to tell for years.