6-Day Southern & Central Kruger Park & Private Game Lodge

Early start with a quick cup of coffee then head into Kruger Park for your first morning game drive. Travel through the bush and probably along the river looking for Big 5 species (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo). The Sabie River with its huge trees is a dominant feature of southern Kruger and driving along the banks can be very exciting. Stop at a small Camp where your guide will arrange breakfast and allow time to relax. Continue on the mid-morning drive visiting any special sightings reported for the day. Around lunchtime stop for refreshments, browse in the curio shop then carry on with the afternoon drive returning to Sabie River Bush Lodge. Time for a swim then enjoy sundowners on the deck overlooking the Sabie river with one of the best photo opportunities ‘on safari in Africa’. Join your guide for dinner in the restaurant or a braai and listen to the hippos in the river.

Leave the lodge for an exciting early morning game drive travelling north past Tshokwane to the open plains of central Kruger where you may find herds of zebra, wildebeest and possibly some lions. Stop for breakfast at Satara and explore the Camp. Continue on the next morning drive which heads up to the very scenic Olifants River, another one of the main waterways in Kruger Park. Your guide will allow you to walk along the Olifants bridge where you often see elephants, buffalo and hippos. Close by is Olifants Camp with a spectacular river view and a great spot for photos. After a lunch break, head back to Satara on the afternoon drive and check in for overnight. Look forward to dinner in the Cattle Baron bistro where we recommend a nice juicy South Africa steak.

Awaken to the sound of birds at Satara Camp and meet your guide for the morning drive which usually goes past Nsemani Dam and then follows the Timbavati river along to Orpen Gate. Exit central Kruger and proceed to a private safari lodge (Shiduli, Mohlabetsi or KuSungula) near Hoedspruit. You can expect to find personalised service and a great bush atmosphere – check into a traditional rondavel (round chalet) or safari lodge suite. Time to freshen up and then enjoy lunch in the garden. Approx 16.00 after a quick swim, board the safari vehicle for a sunset game drive stopping en route for “sundowners “. Spotlights will be switched on for night viewing & hopefully some excitement to follow. Return to the lodge for drinks and dinner often served in the boma with campfire.

Enjoy a full day at the private lodge starting with coffee at around 06h00 followed by the sunrise drive . In addition to animal sightings, the guides are also keen bird spotters and early morning is one of the best times whilst it’s cool to learn more about the beautiful birds we have in Africa. Return to Shduli (or similar) for a delicious breakfast then leisure time at the pool. Alternatively a morning bush walk can be requested at additional cost. Lunch will be served at 14h00 then siesta until the sunset drive to look for big cats or possibly rhino. Back at the lodge, discuss the day’s highlights with other guests before a delicious dinner in the boma or lodge restaurant. Overnight listening to hyena and other nocturnal animals which all adds to a memorable experience.

Early morning call & listen to the sounds of the bush as you drink a quick coffee. Board the safari vehicle hoping to see Big 5 species as well as the elusive cheetah. Return to the lodge and freshen up before a full English breakfast. Pack up, farewell to staff and depart on a relaxing return journey. Arrive back in Johannesburg at O R Tambo Airport or nearby hotels by 16h30. Please allow 1.5 hours connecting time for local flights or 3.0 hours for international flights.