From Johannesburg : Kruger National Park 2 Day BIG 5 Safari

Traveling to South Africa and dreaming of spotting lions, elephants, and rhinos? The Kruger National Park 2-Day Big 5 Safari promises a quick but packed wildlife adventure starting from Johannesburg. With its all-inclusive package, it aims to give travelers a taste of Africa’s most iconic game reserve in just 48 hours.

We’ve looked at reviews, itinerary details, and what’s on offer to give you a balanced, practical picture. Whether you’re a first-timer craving a safari experience or someone who wants a snapshot of the wild without the lengthy commitment, this tour has some appealing aspects, but it’s worth considering what might fall short.

Three things we really like about this safari: the chance to see the Big 5 and Small 5, the convenient all-in-one package including transfers and accommodations, and the emphasis on wildlife in their natural habitat.
One possible downside: the overall rating is modest at 2.5/5, with some reviews hinting at areas for improvement, particularly in guide expertise and overall experience.
Best suited for: travelers with limited time who want a straightforward, guided snapshot of Kruger’s wildlife without the fuss of planning every detail.

Contents show

Key Points

Wildlife Focus: Strong emphasis on Big 5 and Small 5 sightings in a short duration.
All-Inclusive Convenience: Transfers, accommodations, and entry fees included for a hassle-free experience.
Guided Tours: Two safaris, morning and afternoon, led by knowledgeable guides (according to reviews).
Value for Money: Priced at $778 per person, offering a comprehensive package, but consider the overall quality.
Limitations: May not suit travelers wanting a personalized or luxury safari experience.
Logistics: Easy pick-up and drop-off from Johannesburg, with overnight stay at Hazy View.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Johannesburg

Day 1: Arrival and Afternoon Safari

The adventure starts with a hotel pick-up in Johannesburg, promising a smooth transfer to Kruger. This initial part of the journey is crucial for setting expectations: you’ll be on a comfortable vehicle, likely with other travelers, heading towards Hazy View, your overnight stop.

Once settled in, the first safari happens in the late afternoon. This is often the golden hour for wildlife—the light softens, and animals become more active. Guides aim to show you the Big 5 (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, rhino) along with smaller species like zebras and giraffes. As one reviewer noted, “the guides are knowledgeable, and the views are stunning.” But others mentioned that wildlife sightings can be unpredictable, which is typical in safari land.

Day 2: Morning Safari and Return

The next morning kicks off early—expect to be out before sunrise. This is when predators are most active, and you might see lions on the prowl or hyenas scavenging after a night of hunting. Breakfast is usually included afterward, with soft drinks provided to keep you refreshed.

The safari then concludes with a transfer back to Johannesburg. Some reviews mentioned feeling satisfied with the experience, even if the sightings weren’t always prolific. One reviewer appreciated the chance to see animals in their natural environment and enjoyed the sense of being surrounded by nature.

Overnight Accommodation at Hazy View

The overnight at Hazy View is a key part of the package. The details on lodging are limited, but staying overnight allows for a more relaxed safari experience compared to a day trip. Expect basic, comfortable accommodations suitable for travelers who are more interested in the wildlife than luxury.

More Great Tours Nearby

What You’ll Experience on This Safari

Wildlife Sightings: The core appeal is, of course, the chance to see Big 5 animals along with Small 5 species like elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, buffalo, zebras, giraffes, and impalas. Several reviews highlighted the presence of cats, hyenas, and other wildlife, especially during morning and late afternoon safaris.

Guided Tours: You’ll benefit from guided game drives, where knowledgeable guides—according to reviews—are familiar with animal behaviors and the best spots for sightings. The inclusion of two safaris means you get multiple chances to see animals, which is more than just a quick drive.

Scenic Views: Kruger is known for its diverse landscapes—open plains, bushveld, and riverine areas—providing stunning backdrops for wildlife viewing. The tour emphasizes this, making it ideal for nature lovers.

All-Inclusive Comfort: From hotel pick-up to meals and park entrance fees, this package aims to handle all logistics so you can relax and focus on the experience.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Johannesburg

What the Reviews Say

While the tour’s overall rating is 2.5/5 based on two reviews, they offer insights worth considering. One reviewer appreciated the professionalism of the guides and the breathtaking views, noting, “The guides are very knowledgeable, and I saw animals I’ve only read about.” However, another pointed out inconsistencies: “The sightings were a bit hit or miss, and the overall experience could be more polished.”

Reviewers also mentioned the value of having soft drinks included with meals and the convenience of door-to-door transfers, saving time and effort. But some suggested that the safari could benefit from better coordination and perhaps more personalized attention.

The Practical Aspects: Transportation, Timing, and Cost

Transportation

The tour provides hotel pick-up and drop-off in Johannesburg, making it straightforward for travelers staying in the city. The drive to Kruger is typically a few hours, so you’ll want to be prepared for a long day of travel on the first day. The game drives are conducted in safari vehicles, which are generally comfortable but could feel crowded depending on group size.

Timing

Your two safaris are scheduled for the afternoon of day 1 and early morning of day 2, aligning with animal activity patterns. Expect early starts, around sunrise, and potentially late finishes, especially if wildlife sightings are plentiful.

Cost and Value

At $778 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package that includes most essentials—transfers, overnight stay, park fees, and safaris. For a quick, guided introduction to Kruger, that’s a fair price, especially considering the convenience. However, travelers should weigh whether the level of wildlife sighting and guide expertise meet their expectations, based on the reviews.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari is ideal for first-time visitors or those with limited time wanting a snapshot of Kruger’s wildlife. It suits travelers looking for a hassle-free experience, with everything organized and included. It’s also a good option for those who want to see the Big 5 without committing to a longer or more expensive safari.

Those seeking luxury accommodations or customized tours might find this package too basic. If you’re after in-depth wildlife photography or a more intimate experience, you might want to explore other options.

The Sum Up

The Johannesburg to Kruger 2-Day Big 5 Safari offers a straightforward, all-inclusive way to experience South Africa’s legendary wildlife. With guided game drives, scenic landscapes, and the convenience of door-to-door transfers, it packs a lot into a short trip. However, the modest overall rating indicates that the experience may vary depending on wildlife sightings and guide quality.

For travelers eager to tick the Big 5 off their bucket list without the fuss of planning every detail, this safari provides a solid introduction. It’s especially fitting for those with limited time or a preference for guided comfort over a DIY adventure.

That said, if your expectations are high in terms of sightings and personalized service, keep in mind that the experience might not fully meet those standards. It’s worth considering reviews and understanding what’s included to ensure this tour aligns with your wildlife dreams.

FAQ

Is hotel pick-up and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off in Johannesburg, making it convenient for travelers staying in the city.

How many safaris are included?
You’ll enjoy two game drives: one in the afternoon of day 1 and another early in the morning of day 2, increasing your chances to see wildlife.

What animals are most likely to be seen?
Most sightings focus on the Big 5 (lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, buffalo) and Small 5 species like zebras, giraffes, and impalas, with guides aiming to maximize sightings during drives.

Is overnight accommodation included?
Yes, the package covers one night at Hazy View, offering a break between safaris and a chance to relax in a comfortable setting.

What is the approximate cost?
The tour is priced at $778 per person, covering transfers, park fees, safaris, and meals (soft drinks included), representing good value for a guided experience.

Are there any restrictions or things not allowed?
Drones, alcohol, drugs, and bare feet are not permitted on the safaris, ensuring safety and respect for wildlife.

In the end, this tour is a practical choice for those who want a quick, guided safari adventure with all logistics handled. It’s suitable for first-timers, wildlife enthusiasts on a tight schedule, and anyone looking for a straightforward, enjoyable introduction to South Africa’s wildlife. Just keep expectations realistic regarding sightings and overall polish, and you’ll likely find it a worthwhile trip.