From Johannesburg : 3 Day Kruger National Park BIG 5 Safari

Planning a safari to South Africa’s most famous wildlife destination? This 3-day all-inclusive tour offers an exciting opportunity to see the Big 5 in their natural habitat while enjoying comfortable accommodations and guided game drives. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned safari enthusiast, this trip packs a lot into a short, well-organized package.

What makes this experience appealing? We love the comprehensive itinerary covering morning and afternoon game drives, the full-day safari with a scenic lunch stop, and the convenient pickup and drop-off from Johannesburg hotels. Plus, the chance to stay overnight at a cozy lodge adds a layer of relaxation to the adventure. The only thing to keep in mind is the fixed schedule, which might feel a bit hurried for those wanting more free time.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic safari experience without the hassle of planning logistics. It’s perfect if you want to maximize wildlife sightings in a short time, enjoy guided tours with experienced rangers, and stay comfortably within a budget of around $1,123. If you’re after a flexible, private or self-guided experience, you might prefer other options, but for straightforward, curated wildlife viewing, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Package: Includes park entrance fees, meals, accommodation, and guided safaris.
• Wildlife Focused: Designed to maximize sightings of the Big 5 and other animals.
• Comfortable Lodging: Staying at Tembo Guest Lodge offers a relaxing base after your safari drives.
• Structured Itinerary: Carefully planned with morning, afternoon, and full-day game drives.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off from Johannesburg make it hassle-free.
• Value for Money: Priced at $1,123, it offers a complete safari experience for those wanting it all in three days.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Experience

This 3-day Kruger Safari is built for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free wildlife adventure. The tour departs from Johannesburg, making it accessible for those staying in the city or arriving on a South African trip. The journey begins with a road trip to Mpumalanga, a scenic area that sets the tone for your safari adventure.

Day 1: From Johannesburg to Kruger

Your adventure kicks off with a hotel pickup in Johannesburg, followed by a comfortable drive towards Hazyview. The trip itself is comfortable, with scenic views along the way—don’t forget to keep your camera handy! Upon arrival, you’ll check in at the Tembo Guest Lodge, a cozy spot that provides a good base for your safari.

In the afternoon, you’ll head through Phabeni Gate for your first game drive. This initial safari sets the tone, offering a chance to spot animals in the late afternoon light, which is often when predators are most active. Reviewers note that guides are knowledgeable, and the game drives are well-paced, allowing plenty of time for wildlife spotting.

Day 2: Full-Day Safari at Kruger

Wake-up calls are early—around 5:30 am—so you can make the most of the daylight hours. The full-day safari begins with a morning drive, where you’ll explore different areas of Kruger National Park. Expect to see a variety of animals, from elephants and lions to giraffes and zebras, all in the vibrant morning light.

Around 9 am, you’ll stop at Skukuza for breakfast. Imagine enjoying your meal with a view of the Sabie River and the Kruger Shalati Train in the background—an authentic safari scene. Some reviews mention that guides are attentive and eager to share insights about animal behavior and park history, making the experience educational as well as exciting.

After breakfast, the safari continues until around 1 pm, when you’ll break for lunch. During this stop, you’ll have a chance to relax, recharge, and take photos of the scenic surroundings. The afternoon session resumes, with the chance to see animals that may have been missed earlier. Returning to the lodge around 4 pm, you’ll have time to unwind before dinner.

Day 3: Morning Safari and Return

The final day begins early again, with a final morning drive that aims to catch any last glimpses of wildlife. Many guests say this is their best chance to see elusive animals and enjoy the park’s peaceful morning ambiance.

After breakfast at approximately 9:30 am, you’ll begin the journey back to Johannesburg, with an estimated arrival time around 4:30 pm. The return trip offers a chance to reflect on your sightings and perhaps plan the next safari adventure.

More Great Tours Nearby

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour is well-priced for what you get: entrance fees, guided safaris, meals, and accommodation are all covered. The included safaris—afternoon, full-day, and morning—offer a comprehensive wildlife viewing experience. Having all meals included, especially the breakfasts and dinners at the lodge, keeps logistics simple and helps you focus on the game viewing.

However, alcohol and additional drinks are not included, so if you plan to celebrate or unwind with a drink, you’ll need to budget for that separately. The tour also offers flexibility with “reserve and pay later” options and cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.

Transport and Guides

The transport is via a comfortable bus or minivan, with pickup and drop-off included. While the specific group size isn’t detailed, reviews point to experienced guides who are eager to share their knowledge. Guests have mentioned guides like “friendly and insightful,” which enhances the overall experience.

The Authentic Safari Experience

What really sets this tour apart is its focus on authenticity. The guides are known for their enthusiasm and knowledge, often sharing interesting facts about animal behaviors and park history. Guests have appreciated their attentiveness, noting that they actively try to find wildlife and give everyone good viewing opportunities.

The schedule balances driving with downtime, allowing guests to relax at the lodge without feeling rushed. The lodge itself is described as cozy and convenient, with breakfast included each morning—an ideal way to start early mornings.

Wildlife Sightings and Viewing

Multiple reviews highlight successful sightings of lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinos, and leopards—covering the Big 5. The early start times and full-day drives maximize chances for sightings, especially during the cooler parts of the day. Some guests mention that guides are skilled at positioning the vehicle for optimal viewing and photography.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring layers: Mornings and late afternoons can be chilly, especially in open vehicles.
• Camera gear: A zoom lens is recommended for capturing distant animals.
• Cash or cards: For souvenirs or tips, although most meals and park fees are included.
• Punctuality: The schedule is tight; arriving on time for early drives is crucial.
• Wildlife patience: Sightings can never be guaranteed, but early mornings and full days increase your chances.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari suits travelers looking for a fully guided, all-in-one wildlife experience. It’s ideal if you want to see the Big 5 with minimal planning and are comfortable with early mornings and full days on game drives. Families, solo travelers, or couples will find this offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and convenience.

If your main goal is wildlife sightings in a short time, this tour provides a great value. However, if you prefer more leisurely or private safaris, or wish to customize your schedule, other options might suit better. The fixed itinerary is designed for those who want a structured experience with all logistics taken care of.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day Kruger National Park Big 5 safari from Johannesburg offers a solid combination of guided game drives, comfortable lodging, and scenic park views. It’s a well-organized trip that balances wilderness exploration with relaxing accommodation, making it a good option for travelers who want to make the most of their wildlife experience without the fuss of planning every detail.

While the schedule is tight, the likelihood of seeing a variety of animals—including the iconic Big 5—is high. The tour’s inclusive nature, friendly guides, and scenic stops make it a practical choice for those seeking an authentic South African safari on a reasonable budget.

If you’re after a straightforward, enjoyable wildlife adventure that covers the essentials and delivers on the promise of seeing Africa’s most majestic animals, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most likely yes, especially if your group is comfortable with early mornings and full days on game drives. Check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

What animals are most commonly seen?
Guests often see lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinos, and leopards, making it a true Big 5 safari.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are included in the package, except for drinks like alcohol.

What should I bring?
Layers for early mornings and evenings, camera with zoom lens, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How long are the game drives?
The full-day safari runs from early morning until late afternoon, with breaks at midday.

What’s the accommodation like?
Staying at Tembo Guest Lodge offers a cozy, comfortable base with breakfast included, close to the park.

How do I get picked up?
The tour includes pickup from Johannesburg hotels and drops you back after the trip.

Is the schedule flexible?
The itinerary is fixed, but the tour provider offers reserve and pay later options for planning flexibility.

Will I see animals every day?
While sightings depend on luck, early and full-day safaris maximize your chances of seeing diverse wildlife.

This safari offers a balanced, practical way to experience South Africa’s incredible wildlife with expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and a well-structured itinerary—an adventure worth considering for your next trip!

You can check availability for your dates here: