BIG 5 Kruger 4 Day Safari From Johannesburg

Thinking about venturing into South Africa’s iconic Kruger National Park? This 4-day safari promises an adventure packed with wildlife sightings, breathtaking landscapes, and genuine safari vibes—all tailored for those wanting to tick off the Big 5 from their bucket list. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or a first-time safari-goer, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that balances comfort with authenticity.

What we love most? The expert guides’ knowledge, the vastness and variety of the park, and the comfortable lodgings at Tembo Guest Lodge. A key highlight is the chance to see lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and more in their natural environment. One potential consideration? The tour’s intense schedule might be tiring for some, especially early mornings and long drives. Still, if you’re craving an immersive wildlife experience, this safari is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized adventure that combines game drives, comfortable stays, and expert-guided sightings.

Key Points

• Authentic Big 5 wildlife encounters within Kruger National Park
• Professional guides with extensive knowledge and experience
• Comfortable accommodation at Tembo Guest Lodge
• Flexible options including airport pickups and group discounts
• Value for money with all game drives and transfers included
• Early starts and long days highlight the immersive nature of the tour

An Overview of the 4-Day Kruger Safari Experience

This tour offers a genuinely rewarding way to explore one of Africa’s most famous wildlife reserves. Over four days, you’ll soak in the sights of Kruger’s incredible diversity of animals, landscapes, and ecosystems. It’s designed with practicality in mind—balancing exciting game drives with comfortable rest stops and flexible transportation options.

Starting from Johannesburg, the trip kicks off with a scenic 4-hour drive through South Africa’s countryside, heading toward Hazyview. The journey begins early, around 7 am, with a brief coffee stop at Middleburg, giving you a taste of local life before arriving at your accommodation, Tembo Guest Lodge. This is where the safari truly begins, as you’ll relax and prepare for the adventures ahead.

Day 1: From Johannesburg to Hazyview

The first day is more about transit and settling in. After arriving at Tembo Guest Lodge, there’s no safari activity planned, allowing you to unwind after your journey. The lodge’s quiet setting provides a perfect spot to relax, with the promise of a full day of game viewing starting bright and early the next morning.

Day 2: First Safari in Kruger National Park

The real excitement begins at dawn. An early pickup from the lodge around 5.30 am gets you to the Phabeni Gate by 6 am—when the park is at its most active. The morning game drive is around two hours, during which seasoned guides—like the highly praised driver Ben—help you spot the Big 5 and other wildlife.

After the initial drive, you’ll stop at Skukuza Camp for a pre-packed breakfast, a convenient way to enjoy your meal in the wilderness. The safari continues until lunchtime, with ample opportunities to see elephants bathing, lions lounging, or leopards stalking. Returning to Skukuza for your own expense lunch, the afternoon offers another couple of hours of game viewing before heading back to the gate at sunset.

Day 3: Exploring Different Sectors of Kruger

On your third day, the focus shifts to experiencing different sections of Kruger. The park’s vastness means each area offers unique sights—more dense bush, open plains, or riverine environments. This variety increases your chances to see a range of animals, including the elusive small 5 and other less common species. The guides’ local expertise shines here, as they can spot animals you might miss and share fascinating insights into their behaviors.

Breakfast and lunch are again enjoyed within the park, and the day is filled with scenic vistas and animal encounters. The consistency of knowledgeable guides and well-planned routes keeps this day engaging and rewarding.

Day 4: Return to Johannesburg

The last morning involves a relaxed checkout from Tembo Guest Lodge around 10.30 am. The journey back to Johannesburg takes about 5 hours, with a drop-off at your hotel or directly at OR Tambo Airport, ensuring you catch your flight without stress. The trip’s conclusion is smooth, leaving you with memories of incredible wildlife encounters and stunning views.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Well-organized logistics are a consistent highlight. From airport pickup options (customizable if your flight arrives on the day) to the seamless transfers, the tour makes travel simple. The guides, especially appreciated for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, enhance the experience—many reviewers mention driver Ben specifically as a standout.

Accommodation at Tembo Guest Lodge gets high praise for its comfort and relaxing gardens, providing a peaceful retreat after busy days. The lodge’s three-bedroom cottages with lush gardens are a hit with visitors who enjoy a cozy, homely atmosphere.

Game drives are the core of this experience. With two full days of guided safari adventures, you get a thorough look at Kruger’s wildlife. The early starts and extended drives, sometimes lasting up to 9 hours, highlight how dedicated this tour is to maximizing animal sightings, which many reviews describe as “spectacular” and “memorable.”

Value for money is evident considering what’s included: all fees and taxes, return transfers, full-day game drives, and accommodation. Meals and drinks are extra, but the option to purchase lunch and dinner easily makes the experience flexible.

Using Real Traveller Insights to Understand the Experience

One reviewer called the trip “so well organised,” emphasizing the professionalism of the guides and the quality of the lodges. The same visitor highlighted the “exceptional” accommodation and the gardens to relax in—a welcome comfort after long days of safari.

Another traveler praised their experience with Africa Moja Tours for customizing their itinerary and delivering “very good guides.” They also appreciated the seamless organization of transfers, which reduces stress in planning your adventure.

The guides’ expertise is more than just spotting animals—they share stories and insights that bring the wildlife to life, making every sighting more meaningful. Many guests mention the “knowledgeable guides” as a key factor in elevating the safari from good to unforgettable.

Practical Details and Considerations

Transport: The trip uses an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during the long drives between Johannesburg and Kruger. The early morning starts mean you should be ready for long days, but the guides are experienced in keeping energy levels up.

Accommodation: Staying at Tembo Guest Lodge offers a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. The lodge’s gardens are praised for their tranquility, making it easy to unwind after safari days.

Duration and Group Size: With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate feel, allowing for personalized attention from guides. The 4-day schedule strikes a good balance between depth and feasibility for most travelers.

Price: At around $1,006 per person, the tour presents good value considering all included elements—game drives, transfers, and lodging. Additional costs such as meals are manageable, with options to buy on-site.

Flexibility: The tour offers pickup from Johannesburg or the airport, and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, providing peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari is ideal for those seeking a comprehensive, guided wildlife experience without the hassle of organizing every detail. It suits travelers who want to maximize their chances of seeing the Big 5 within a short timeframe, appreciating expert guides and comfortable accommodations.

If you’re early riser and eager for long, immersive game drives, this tour will satisfy that craving. It’s also perfect for those who value a well-organized, balanced itinerary with reliable transportation and lodging.

The Sum Up

This Big 5 Kruger Safari offers a fantastic way to experience South Africa’s incredible wildlife within four days. The combination of knowledgeable guides, scenic landscapes, and comfortable accommodation creates a memorable adventure that balances authenticity with convenience. It’s especially suited for travelers looking to see some of Africa’s most iconic animals while enjoying good logistics and a relaxed pace.

While the schedule is packed, the payoff—panoramic views, wild encounters, and expert insights—is well worth it. For those craving an authentic safari experience without the fuss, this tour hits the mark.

If you’re after a safari that combines professionalism with genuine wildlife magic, this tour deserves serious consideration.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers all fees and taxes, return transfers to Johannesburg, accommodation at Tembo Guest Lodge, two full-day game drives, bottled water, and breakfast on each day. Meals and drinks outside of breakfast are not included.

Can I customize this tour if I arrive on the same day?
Yes, the tour can be customized to include airport pickups if your flight arrives on the first day, making it flexible to suit your travel schedule.

How long are the game drives?
Each safari day involves around 9 hours of game viewing, including early mornings and late afternoons, to maximize wildlife sightings.

What accommodation is provided?
Guests stay at Tembo Guest Lodge, which features three-bedroom cottages with lush gardens, offering a peaceful retreat after days in the park.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the early mornings and long drives. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a busy schedule and seeking an immersive experience.

What are the main highlights of this safari?
Expect to see the Big 5 (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, rhino), enjoy scenic vistas, and learn from experienced guides about South Africa’s wildlife.

Is meals included?
Breakfast is included each day, but lunch and dinner are at your own expense. You can purchase meals at the park or nearby restaurants.

How many travelers will be on this tour?
The maximum group size is 15, ensuring a more personalized safari experience.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This 4-day Kruger safari delivers a wildlife-rich adventure with expert guides and comfortable accommodations, perfect for travelers eager to experience Africa’s iconic animals in their natural habitat.