Kruger National Game Park three day PRIVATE Tour

If you’re dreaming of spotting lions, elephants, and the elusive Big Five while enjoying a personalized safari experience, this Kruger National Game Park three-day private tour might be just what you need. Designed for wildlife enthusiasts who want more than a quick peek, this trip offers three days of carefully curated game drives, comfortable accommodation, and the flexibility to tailor your adventure.

What really makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to spread your game drives over multiple days means you’re less rushed, giving you a genuine opportunity to observe animals and enjoy the scenery. Second, the private nature of the tour ensures personalized attention from your guide, Shane, who gets glowing reviews for his attentiveness and deep knowledge. Lastly, the inclusive meals and well-organized itinerary take the hassle out of planning, letting you focus on the thrill of the wild.

However, a potential consideration is the extra fee for park entry, which isn’t included in the base price, but at R450 per day, it’s a worthwhile investment for access to this world-class wildlife reserve. This tour suits travelers who value expert-guided, flexible safaris combined with comfortable, luxury accommodations—perfect for wildlife lovers or anyone wanting a deep dive into South Africa’s iconic national park.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour with dedicated guide Shane ensures tailored game drives.
• Extended Viewing Opportunities: Spread over three days, increasing chances of sightings.
• Inclusion of Meals & Accommodation: Breakfasts and dinners included, plus comfortable river-facing rooms.
• Expert Guides & Flexible Routing: Knowledgeable guides enhance sightings and provide insights.
• Additional Park Fee: R450 per day for park access, worth the price for prime wildlife viewing.
• Authentic & Comfortable: Luxury accommodations and WiFi onboard add convenience and comfort.

The Experience in Detail

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour’s structure is designed to maximize your chances of wildlife sightings while providing a relaxed pace. Starting in Johannesburg, the journey into Kruger is organized for convenience and comfort. The day one kicks off with an afternoon game drive, taking in the famous routes around Skukuza Camp, a hotspot for predators and iconic African wildlife. Expect to see elephants, buffalo, and possibly the rare wild dogs, which have been reintroduced into Kruger and are now forming strong social packs, as one reviewer noted. The evening concludes with a sunset drive, a magical time to see animals in the softer light.

Tip: Reviewers mention that Shane is especially attentive during these drives, often aware of where wild dogs are likely to be seen. Their sightings add a special touch, especially for those adding wild dogs to their list of memorable animals.

Day Two: Full-Day Safari Around Crocodile River

The real highlight here is the opportunity to explore the famous Lower Sabie Road along the Crocodile River. Covering the area from Skukuza to Lower Sabie, this route is one of the best for spotting the Big Five, as well as cheetahs and wild dogs. The early start is perfect for catching the animals during their most active hours, especially during the “golden hour” of early morning light.

A full day in Kruger offers a chance to witness predators stalking, elephants bathing, and birds in flight—an overload of sights for nature lovers. The long hours are rewarded, as one reviewer shared how rewarding it was to spend a day actively seeking wildlife in such a renowned area.

Day Three: Early Morning Game Drive & Return

The trip typically ends with a morning drive through Phabeni Gate, another promising route for wild dog sightings and the Big Five. Afterward, you’ll head back to Johannesburg with a camera full of photos and a camera roll full of stories. Shane’s guidance and the well-planned itinerary mean you’re not just ticking off animals but truly experiencing the park’s natural rhythm.

What’s Included & What to Expect

The tour offers a good balance of convenience and authenticity. Your accommodation is a 3-star, luxury river-facing room, providing comfort after long days in the wild. Meals are included—two dinners and two breakfasts—saving you the hassle of planning or searching for food inside the park.

WiFi on board adds a touch of modern convenience, so you can share your sightings or keep in touch with loved ones. The game drives—morning, sunset, and full-day—are led by a qualified, experienced guide who is praised for his attentiveness and knowledge. This personal touch often makes a difference, as one reviewer highlighted Shane’s attentiveness, making the safari feel curated just for you.

The Value of a Private Experience

While the overall price of around $632.86 per person may seem high, consider the value of exclusivity and flexibility. Unlike group tours, you won’t be competing for sightings with large crowds, and your guide can customize routes based on current animal activity.

The private setting also means you get to enjoy a more immersive experience—quiet, less hurried, and more personalized. It’s ideal for travelers who want to avoid cookie-cutter safaris and prefer a tailored, relaxed adventure.

The Real Deal: Authenticity & Comfort

From the feedback, it’s clear that Shane is a standout guide—attentive, knowledgeable, and passionate, which can significantly elevate the experience. The park’s wildlife, especially the wild dogs, are highlighted as a major draw, emphasizing how this tour offers real chances to see rare and exciting animals.

The inclusion of luxury river-facing rooms makes the stay comfortable and enjoyable—a good balance for those who want to relax after a long day of game viewing. The organized itinerary removes the stress of planning, making this ideal for first-timers or those who prefer a hassle-free experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private tour caters well to wildlife enthusiasts eager for multiple game drives and higher chances of spotting elusive animals like wild dogs and cheetahs. It suits travelers who appreciate expert guides and are willing to pay a bit extra for a personalized, hassle-free safari. Families, couples, or small groups will find the private setup particularly appealing.

It’s also a good choice for those who value comfort and convenience, as the included accommodation and meals reduce the logistical worries of a self-organized trip. If you’re looking for a serious wildlife experience with a relaxed pace and the chance to take stunning photos, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts

This three-day private Kruger safari offers a thoughtful blend of expert guiding, comfortable accommodations, and flexible game drives. The chance to spread out your wildlife encounters over multiple days increases your odds of seeing the Big Five and rare predators like wild dogs.

The private nature and personalized service make this ideal for travelers seeking a tailored experience—less rush, more observation, and genuine animal encounters. The inclusion of meals, luxury rooms, and WiFi on board adds value and comfort, making it less about logistics and more about soaking in the wild.

While the extra park entry fee is a consideration, it’s a small price for access to some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife territories. If you’re after a memorable, intimate safari experience with knowledgeable guides, this tour checks all the boxes.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, especially those comfortable with early mornings and long game drives. It’s best for those with a moderate level of mobility and patience for wildlife viewing.

What’s the price cover?
The price includes luxury river-facing accommodation, all game drives (morning, sunset, and full-day), meals (2 breakfasts and 2 dinners), WiFi onboard, and the guidance of an experienced guide.

Are park entrance fees included?
No, the R450 per day park entry fee is not included. It’s an additional cost, but it grants access to Kruger’s incredible wildlife.

What kind of vehicle is used for game drives?
The tour typically uses private vehicles that are suitable for game viewing, ensuring comfort and good visibility for photography and observation.

Can I customize the route or game drives?
Yes, as a private tour, there’s flexibility to tailor routes depending on animal movements and your preferences, subject to guide availability.

How early do the game drives start?
Morning game drives usually start at sunrise, with the full-day drives beginning early too, to maximize animal activity.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 6 days before the start are not eligible for a refund, but you might be able to reschedule or get partial credit depending on the policy.

This private Kruger tour combines comfort, expert insights, and the excitement of wildlife viewing into one memorable package. It’s perfect for those craving a personalized and authentic safari experience that focuses on quality over quantity.