Kruger Wilderness Camping Self-Drive Tour
From
Johannesburg
to
Crocodile Bridge
Duration
16 Days
Accommodation
Tour Overview
This self-drive safari itinerary offers an unforgettable journey through Kruger National Park, starting and ending in Johannesburg. The trip takes you on a loop across some of the park’s most famous campsites, with each stop offering a unique blend of wildlife, natural beauty, and unforgettable game-viewing opportunities. Your adventure begins with a relaxing stay in Middleburg before heading into Kruger National Park the next day. Throughout your trip, you will experience iconic SANParks campsites such as Berg-en-Dal, Skukuza, Satara, Olifants, Letaba, Lower Sabie, and Crocodile Bridge. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to spot Africa’s Big Five, as well as a variety of other wildlife, from predators like lions and leopards to the park’s diverse birdlife and herbivores like elephants and buffalo. Throughout the journey, you’ll enjoy some of the best wildlife viewing in Southern Africa, and the chance to unwind under the African stars at well-equipped campsites.
Places You'll See
Highlights
Itinerary
Departure/Return Location:
OR Tambo International Airport
DAY 1 - OR Tambo International
Once in Middelburg, you can unwind and acclimatize to your new surroundings. The rest of the day is yours to relax, whether you choose to explore the guesthouse's gardens or simply enjoy some downtime. After a restful night, you’ll be ready to head to Kruger National Park the next day for the start of your self-drive safari.
DAY 2 & 3 - Berg-en-Dal Main Camp
Situated near the Crocodile River, Berg-en-Dal is ideal for spotting elephants, lions, buffalo, rhinos, and an array of antelope. Early mornings and late afternoons bring the chance to see cheetahs and wild dogs. Birdwatchers will enjoy sightings of eagles and rollers, adding to the camp’s diverse wildlife and unforgettable safari experience.
DAY 4 & 5 - Skukuza Rest Camp
Skukuza’s prime location along the Sabie River ensures exceptional game viewing, where you can spot elephants, buffalo, lions, hippos, and crocodiles. The surrounding savannah and woodlands are home to giraffes, zebras, and antelope, with bird watching opportunities abundant, including kingfishers and hornbills. Ideal for self-drive safaris, the camp also offers guided drives and walking safaris for deeper wildlife immersion.
DAY 6 & 7 - Satara Main Camp
The area around Satara attracts large herds of herbivores like impala and buffalo, which in turn draw predators such as lions, cheetahs, and wild dogs. Game drives during the dry season offer excellent sightings of the "Big Five," while bird watching provides a wealth of species to admire. Satara's scenic setting makes it the perfect base for an immersive wildlife experience.
DAY 8 & 9 - Olifants Main Camp
DAY 10 & 11 - Letaba Main Camp
The camp is known for its relaxed atmosphere and picturesque setting, making it a popular stop for those looking to enjoy both nature and comfort. Letaba is particularly renowned for its large elephant population, and you may often spot these majestic creatures near the river, especially at dawn and dusk.
In addition to elephants, the area is home to various wildlife species, including giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and an array of bird life, including raptors such as the martial eagle.
DAY 12 & 13 - Lower Sabie Rest Camp
The Sabie River attracts a variety of animals, from hippos and crocodiles to elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes, making Lower Sabie a prime location for game viewing.
The area is especially renowned for its vibrant bird life, including the African fish eagle, kingfishers, and various waterfowl species.
DAY 14 & 16 - Crocodile Bridge Main Camp
The camp is ideal for those seeking a quieter experience while still being in prime wildlife territory. The river itself is a key attraction, drawing a variety of animals, including elephants, buffaloes, and the occasional lion. The surrounding bushveld offers an opportunity to spot numerous antelope species, as well as leopard sightings at dusk or dawn.
DAY 16 - Return to OR Tambo International
From Crocodile Bridge, the journey will take you roughly 4 to 5 hours, so be sure to leave with plenty of time to spare. The drive offers one last chance to soak in the beautiful landscapes of South Africa’s bushveld, so don’t rush—take your time and enjoy the journey.
Once you arrive at the airport, remember to check in at least two hours before your departure flight to ensure a smooth and stress-free departure.
Things to do
What's Included
- Airport Transfers
- 4x4 Vehicle with AC, GPS & Camping Gear
- Campsite Bookings
- No Meals / Self-Catering
- Vehicle Excess
What's Not Included
- Alcoholic Beverages & Drinks
- Fuel & Rental Vehicle Insurance
- Gratuities & Tips
- International Flights (Arrival & Departure)
- Items of Personal Nature
- Park Entry Fees & Permits
- Travel Insurance
- VISA (If Applicable)
What our customers ask about this tour
What wildlife can I expect to see during this safari?
What makes the SANParks campsites special?
Is this safari suitable for first-time self-drivers?
Good to Know
Currency
In Namibia, the official currency is the Namibian Dollar (NAD), which is pegged to the South African Rand (ZAR), and the Rand is also widely accepted.
In Botswana, the local currency is the Botswana Pula (BWP), though South African Rand may be accepted in some places.
In Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe), the Zimbabwean Dollar (ZWL) is used, but US Dollars, South African Rand, and other currencies are commonly accepted, especially in tourist areas.
In South Africa, the official currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). It is widely accepted across the country and can also be used in Namibia, where the Namibian Dollar (NAD) is pegged to it.
Travel Requirements for Adults with Children Under 18
Adults travelling with children under 18 must provide the child’s original Birth Certificate and a consent form if only one parent is accompanying the child. Failure to present these documents may result in denied entry.
Visa
Unfortunately, we do not offer visa application services. Whether you require a visa depends on your nationality and your destination. If your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you’re visiting, you will need to apply for a visa before your departure. Additionally, some countries may require an invitation letter for the Namibian Embassy to process a tourist visa. If needed, guests can contact us for assistance with obtaining the invitation letter.
