Kruger National Park

Known for its ground-breaking conservation philosophy, Kruger National Park is one of the largest and oldest reserves in Africa. Its practices have paved the way for so many other national parks in Africa and it is without doubt an essential stop on any trip to South Africa. It is often considered the crème de la crème of safari destinations and its easy to see why.

Established in 1898, it covers an expansive area of nearly 20,000 square kilometres (7,523 square miles), making it one of Africa’s largest game reserves. The park is named after Paul Kruger, the former president of the South African Republic, who played a significant role in its early conservation efforts.

Kruger National Park is celebrated for its incredible biodiversity, boasting a wide array of ecosystems that support a rich variety of flora and fauna. From savannah grasslands to dense woodlands, the park’s diverse habitats provide a home to a remarkable selection of wildlife. Visitors to the park have the chance to encounter the Big Five (lions, elephants, rhinoceroses, leopards and buffaloes), along with numerous other species such as giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and various antelope.

The park’s conservation efforts have been highly successful in preserving these species, particularly the endangered African rhinoceros. Anti-poaching measures and community involvement have played a crucial role in these efforts, helping protect these magnificent animals from the threats of poaching and habitat destruction.

One of the park’s unique features is the Kruger National Park’s extensive network of well-maintained roads and trails, making it accessible for self-drive safaris. Visitors can explore the park at their own pace, stopping at designated viewpoints and waterholes to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Alternatively, guided safaris led by knowledgeable rangers are also available for those who want to deepen their understanding of the park’s ecology and history.

In addition to its incredible wildlife, Kruger National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 500 bird species recorded within its boundaries. It is also home to a variety of cultural heritage sites, including ancient rock paintings, archaeological sites, and historical landmarks that provide insights into the region’s rich history.

Not too far from Kruger is Johannesburg, a diverse and welcoming city with a thriving cultural scene and impressive programme of regeneration but also a turbulent past with the dark shadow of apartheid in its not-too-distant history. A visit to the Apartheid Museum is an important inclusion on any tour of Johannesburg alongside the variety of galleries and shops as well as any number of excellent restaurants. For a day trip outside of the city, head to Pretoria. Enjoy the tree-lined avenues and the peaceful atmosphere in this charming city. This is also a starting point for some of South Africa’s most famous luxury train journeys and a wonderful way to experience the country or combine a holiday which travels through to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

To the east of Johannesburg in South Africa’s Mpumalanga province, the Blyde River Canyon is thought to be the third-largest canyon in the world. Measuring 25 kilometres in length and averaging around 750 metres in depth, it’s also the world’s largest green canyon and offers some spectacular vistas on route to Kruger.