About Kruger National Park

Welcome to Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park is one of Africa's largest and most renowned game reserves, spanning nearly 20,000 square kilometers across the northeastern provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga. This iconic wildlife sanctuary is home to an incredible diversity of African wildlife, including the legendary Big Five - lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino - attracting over 1.5 million visitors annually from around the world.

Established in 1898 to protect the wildlife of the South African Lowveld, Kruger has evolved into a world-class conservation area and premier safari destination. The park's diverse ecosystems support an extraordinary array of mammals, birds, reptiles, and plant species, offering visitors unparalleled opportunities to experience the African bush in its most authentic and spectacular form.

Kruger National Park Wildlife and Landscape

Rich Conservation Heritage

Kruger National Park Conservation History

From Hunting Ground to Protected Reserve

Originally home to indigenous African tribes and abundant wildlife, the Lowveld region faced severe hunting pressure in the late 1800s. In 1898, President Paul Kruger proclaimed the Sabie Game Reserve to protect the dwindling wildlife populations, laying the foundation for what would become one of the world's greatest national parks.

Birth of Kruger National Park

In 1926, the Sabie and Shingwedzi reserves were combined and officially designated as Kruger National Park, named in honor of President Paul Kruger. Under the leadership of the first warden, Colonel James Stevenson-Hamilton, the park expanded its boundaries and implemented strict conservation measures that saved numerous species from extinction.

Modern Conservation Success

Today, Kruger National Park stands as a testament to successful wildlife conservation. The park has pioneered innovative management strategies, community partnerships, and anti-poaching initiatives. It continues to play a crucial role in protecting endangered species while providing sustainable tourism and supporting local communities.

Incredible Wildlife & Biodiversity

The Big Five Experience

Kruger is one of the best places in Africa to see the Big Five - lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. These magnificent animals roam freely across the park's diverse habitats, offering visitors thrilling wildlife encounters and unforgettable safari experiences.

Extraordinary Biodiversity

The park is home to 147 mammal species, over 500 bird species, 114 reptile species, and countless insects and plant varieties. This incredible diversity makes Kruger one of the most biodiverse conservation areas in Africa and a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

Diverse Ecosystems

From riverine forests and open savannas to rocky outcrops and dense bushveld, Kruger's varied landscapes support different wildlife communities. Each ecosystem offers unique sighting opportunities and showcases the complexity of African wilderness.

Explore Kruger's Regions

Kruger National Park is divided into distinct geographical regions, each with unique landscapes, vegetation types, and wildlife populations. From the lush southern grasslands to the rugged northern wilderness, every region offers different safari experiences and sighting opportunities.

Did You Know?

Kruger National Park is larger than the entire country of Israel and roughly the size of Wales! You can see lions hunting at dawn, elephants bathing at midday, leopards in trees at dusk, and hyenas calling under the stars all in a single day!

Southern Kruger - Big Five Country

The southern region features open grasslands and is known for excellent Big Five sightings. Popular areas include Skukuza, Lower Sabie, and Pretoriuskop camps, offering the highest concentration of wildlife and easiest game viewing.

Central Kruger - Diverse Landscapes

The central region showcases varied habitats from riverine forests along the Sabie and Olifants rivers to mixed bushveld. Known for large elephant herds, diverse birdlife, and excellent predator sightings around Satara and Olifants camps.

Northern Kruger - Wilderness Experience

The remote northern region features mopane woodland and dramatic landscapes with fewer visitors. Home to unique species like roan antelope and Lichtenstein's hartebeest, offering authentic wilderness experiences around Punda Maria and Shingwedzi camps.

Private Reserves - Luxury Safari

Private game reserves bordering Kruger, including Sabi Sand and Timbavati, offer exclusive safari experiences with no fencing. Luxury lodges provide exceptional wildlife encounters, off-road driving, and walking safaris with expert guides.

Conservation & Community Impact

World-Class Conservation

Kruger National Park is a global leader in wildlife conservation and research. SANParks manages the park with cutting-edge conservation strategies, including anti-poaching initiatives, wildlife monitoring, and habitat restoration programs that protect endangered species and maintain ecological balance.

Sustainable Tourism Leader

The park is a major economic driver for the region, generating sustainable tourism revenue while preserving natural heritage. Kruger attracts over 1.5 million visitors annually and supports thousands of jobs in hospitality, guiding, conservation, and local businesses throughout surrounding communities.

Community Partnerships

Kruger works closely with neighboring communities through development programs, employment opportunities, and benefit-sharing initiatives. These partnerships help ensure that conservation efforts support local livelihoods while protecting the wilderness for future generations.

Kruger National Park Conservation and Community

Safari Experiences & Activities

Game Drives & Wildlife Viewing

Kruger offers exceptional game viewing opportunities through self-drive safaris and guided game drives. Morning and evening drives provide the best chances to see predators hunting, elephants gathering at waterholes, and the incredible diversity of African wildlife in action across varied landscapes.

Wilderness Trails & Walking Safaris

Experience the African bush on foot with guided wilderness trails and walking safaris. Expert rangers lead small groups through the wilderness, teaching tracking skills, bush survival, and offering intimate encounters with nature that vehicle-based safaris cannot provide.

Bird Watching & Nature Photography

With over 500 bird species recorded, Kruger is a paradise for bird watchers. The park's diverse habitats support everything from tiny sunbirds to massive eagles. Nature photographers from around the world visit to capture stunning wildlife moments against dramatic African landscapes.