From Johannesburg: Kruger National Park 3-Day Safari

Experience the wild heart of Africa with a 3-day safari in Kruger National Park, departing from Johannesburg. This tour promises an exhilarating chance to see lions, elephants, rhinos, and more in their natural habitat, all while enjoying comfortable accommodations and expert guidance. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or a first-time safari-goer, the trip offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and authentic encounters.

Three things we love about this safari:
First, the chance to see the Big Five and other iconic South African wildlife up close. Second, the scenic views, from Kruger’s sprawling plains to the lush farmlands of Schoemans Kloof. Third, the professionalism of guides who bring the experience to life with their knowledge and friendly approach.

One potential drawback is the early start times—safaris often begin around 5:30 AM—which might be tough for some travelers. However, for those eager to catch the sunrise over the wilderness, it’s worth the early alarm.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a well-organized, value-packed wildlife adventure that balances game drives, relaxation, and cultural insights — perfect for first-timers and seasoned safari fans alike.

Contents show

Key Points

Close encounters with Africa’s Big Five in a safe, open-air safari vehicle
Comfortable accommodations with friendly staff, close to the park gates
Expert guides who provide informative, engaging commentary throughout
Scenic drives through Kruger and surrounding farmlands, offering stunning views
Flexible itinerary with options for added activities like sunset or bush walks
Well-structured schedule balancing early mornings, rest, and late afternoon game drives

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Kruger Safari Itinerary: What to Expect

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Pretoria

Starting Point: Convenient Pickup Options and Travel Comfort

The tour begins with pick-up at one of six locations around Johannesburg, including Sandton, Pretoria, and Midrand. This range of options makes it accessible regardless of where you’re staying in Gauteng. Once on the coach, you’ll enjoy a comfortable 5-hour ride through the scenic Elands Valley, famous for its orange citrus groves. This part of the journey already sets the tone—expect a relaxed start with plenty of opportunity to soak in South Africa’s vibrant landscape before reaching the wild.

First Day: Entering Kruger and the Initial Game Viewing

Upon arriving in Kruger National Park, you’ll enjoy a hearty lunch before your first game drive in the early afternoon. The chance to spot elephants, giraffes, and antelopes in their natural environment is one of the trip’s highlights. Reviewers have appreciated the organization, noting that guides like Johan and Peter, who are praised for their helpfulness and knowledge, significantly elevate the experience.

What makes Day 1 special? It’s the first taste of the wild, and the landscape is breathtaking. You’ll see the rolling plains and dense bush that make Kruger so famous, and with luck, you’ll catch sight of some of the Big Five animals. Plus, the overnight stay at Tembo Guest Lodge in Hazyview offers a cozy retreat after your first day’s adventures.

Day 2: The Big Five and Waterhole Encounters

Waking up early is a must for the best wildlife sightings, and reviewers consistently highlight how magical these dawn drives are. The morning game drive often leads to sightings of lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo—sometimes all in one morning. Guides like Johan are lauded for their storytelling, sharing interesting facts about each species, which makes the experience even more engaging.

After breakfast, you’ll visit a watering hole to catch hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds in action—an entirely different perspective on the ecosystem. A relaxing midday rest follows, giving you a break before an afternoon drive that continues the wildlife spotting. Dinners are served at Skukuza Camp along the Sabie River, which reviewers describe as a charming setting to enjoy local cuisine and reflect on the day.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 3: The Final Safari and Cultural Exploration

The early morning drive on the last day is often described as the most rewarding, with some reviewers mentioning sightings of elusive animals hiding in the bush. You’ll then have a chance to browse local shops, potentially picking up souvenirs or gifts before heading back towards Johannesburg.

Throughout the tour, the views are varied—from vast plains to fertile farmlands—creating a rich backdrop for your wildlife encounters. The return journey takes about 5 hours, with a stop for lunch in the Highveld region, providing a satisfying end to your safari adventure.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Pretoria

The Accommodations: Comfort Meets Convenience

While not inside Kruger itself, Tembo Guest Lodge offers simple yet comfortable chalets and bungalows. Several reviews praise its cleanliness, friendly staff, and the delicious food prepared by their attentive cook, including vegetarian options. The lodge’s proximity to park gates makes it convenient for early game drives and evening returns.

Guests often remark on the welcoming atmosphere, with some describing the lodge as a cozy base that enhances the overall experience. The lodge’s amenities, combined with the natural surroundings, strike a good balance between comfort and immersion in nature.

Guides and Wildlife Viewing: Knowledge Is Power

The value of having experienced guides cannot be overstated. Travelers repeatedly highlight guides like Johan, who are praised for their helpfulness, friendliness, and extensive knowledge about the animals and landscape. They not only help locate wildlife but also enrich the journey with fascinating facts, making each drive informative and engaging.

Reviews mention that sightings of the Big Five are common, with some lucky guests even seeing all five in just three days. While rhinos are sometimes elusive, many guests report witnessing elephants, lions, leopards, and buffalo multiple times. Guides often go beyond just spotting animals—they share details about behaviors, conservation issues, and the local ecosystem, which deepens the overall experience.

Authentic Encounters and Special Moments

Travelers mention memorable moments like seeing a lion pride at dawn or observing elephants drinking at a waterhole. Some reviews also note the fun of catching birds and water creatures, adding layers to the safari experience. The guides’ ability to personalize the experience—like accommodating requests for extra game drives or bush walks—adds flexibility and value.

Practical Aspects: Transportation, Timing, and Cost

The tour’s transportation is designed for comfort, with air-conditioned coaches making the 5-hour journey from Johannesburg to Kruger. Pick-up and drop-off at multiple locations around Johannesburg make it accessible for various travelers.

The tour spans three days, with early mornings starting around 5:30 AM—definitely for the early risers. While this schedule might seem demanding, it’s optimized for wildlife viewing when animals are most active. The overall value comes from the inclusiveness of park fees, game drive fees, and accommodation, which many reviews consider reasonable given the high quality of the experience.

The cost reflects a balance of comfort, expert-guided game drives, and convenient logistics. Considering the opportunity to see the Big Five and the professionalism of guides, most travelers find it to be a worthwhile investment.

What to Pack and Other Tips

To make the most of your safari, bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and a camera—preferably with a zoom lens. Since most safaris start early, packing a light jacket or layers can help with morning chills. Remember, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, so check with your doctor about any health concerns beforehand.

Given that malaria is a risk during the wet season (October to May), it’s wise to consult your healthcare provider about prophylactics. While the tour provides some amenities, bringing snacks or additional drinks might be helpful, especially if you have dietary restrictions, since food options at the lodge are limited to what’s provided or purchased locally.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Numerous reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness—mentioning guides like Johan and Peter by name—highlighting how these interactions elevate the trip. Guests also appreciate the flexibility, with some adding sunset drives or bush walks, and the attentiveness of staff, especially the cook who managed vegetarian requests.

One reviewer shared that the safari was “very well organized,” and they saw almost all of the Big Five, except a rhino. Another mentioned that the guides facilitated a private feel, making it a more personalized experience. The proximity to wildlife, combined with expert narration, helped create lasting memories.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Safari?

This 3-day Kruger experience offers excellent value for those wanting to see Africa’s iconic animals in their natural habitat, with knowledgeable guides and comfortable accommodations. It’s a perfect choice for first-time visitors who want a straightforward, well-organized trip, as well as seasoned wildlife lovers looking to deepen their understanding of the ecosystem.

If you’re after authentic encounters with the Big Five, stunning scenery, and a flexible itinerary that balances adventure with relaxation, this safari delivers. While early mornings and some driving are part of the package, the unforgettable wildlife sightings make it more than worth the effort.

Best suited for travelers who appreciate guided tours, value comfort, and want a taste of Africa’s wilderness without sacrificing convenience. If you’re looking for a safe, authentic, and engaging safari experience close to Johannesburg, this tour hits all the right notes.

FAQ

What is included in the tour cost?
The tour covers transportation from Johannesburg, park entry fees, game drive fees, and accommodation at Tembo Guest Lodge.

Are meals provided?
No, most meals are not included, except for a snack and breakfast box provided during the tour. Guests often dine at the lodge, which offers a menu with vegetarian options.

Can I see the Big Five on this tour?
Yes, many travelers report seeing elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and occasionally rhinos, though some guests mention rhinos can be more elusive.

What should I bring for the safari?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, camera, and clothing suitable for early mornings and outdoor activities.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, and age restrictions may apply depending on specific arrangements—check with the provider beforehand.

How long does travel from Johannesburg to Kruger take?
The coach ride takes approximately 5 hours, making it suitable for those comfortable with long travel times.

This 3-day Kruger safari offers a fantastic blend of adventure, comfort, and authentic wildlife encounters — perfect for those eager to experience Africa’s iconic animals with knowledgeable guides and a well-structured itinerary.