Where to Sleep in Kruger National Park: A Comprehensive Guide with Estimated Prices
One critical decision when planning a visit to the iconic Kruger National Park in South Africa is where to sleep. Kruger offers a range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets. In this guide, we'll delve into the main categories of accommodation, providing insight into the pros and cons of each, along with estimated price ranges and short descriptions:
In this article, we Discover where to sleep in Kruger National Park with our comprehensive guide. From rustic safari-tented camps to comfortable rest camps, we explore the diverse accommodation options available within the park. Find the perfect place to rest your head amidst the wild beauty of Kruger as you embark on an unforgettable safari adventure.
Kruger National Park Rest Camps:
Rest camps offer a variety of accommodations, including camping sites, huts, bungalows, and cottages. They are the most popular and budget-friendly options in Kruger National Park, providing easy access to park attractions. It is ideal for travellers seeking affordability and a central location.
Managed by SANParks, these camps offer a range of accommodation options, from camping sites to self-catering bungalows and guest houses.
Facilities typically include communal kitchens, ablution blocks, and sometimes swimming pools.
Rest camps are spread throughout the park and offer basic amenities for visitors.
Pros:
Budget-friendly options are available.
Wide range of accommodations.
Central locations.
Cons:
Popular and may be crowded.
Limited luxury amenities.
Estimated Price Range:
Camping: From ZAR 300 to ZAR 700 per night.
Huts: From ZAR 800 to ZAR 1,500 per night.
Bungalows and Cottages: From ZAR 1,500 to ZAR 3,500 per night.
Kruger National Park Private Safari Lodges:
Private lodges inside Kruger National Park offer luxurious accommodations with all-inclusive packages. They provide an exclusive and personalized safari experience, including professional guides for game drives. Perfect for those looking for a high-end safari with top-notch amenities.
Pros:
Luxurious accommodations.
Exclusive safari experiences.
Professional guides
Off Road Safari's
Cons:
High cost per person per night.
It may have limited availability.
Estimated Price Range:
From ZAR 5,000 to ZAR 40,000 per person per night.
Kruger National Park Private Concession Lodges:
Private concession lodges within Kruger National Park offer luxurious accommodations with all-inclusive packages. They provide an exclusive and personalized safari experience, including professional guides for game drives. Perfect for those seeking a high-end safari with top-notch amenities.
Pros:
Luxurious accommodations.
Exclusive safari experiences.
Professional guides.
Off Road Safari's
Cons:
High cost per person per night.
It may have limited availability.
Estimated Price Range: From ZAR 5,000 to ZAR 40,000 per person per night.
Bushveld Camps:
Bushveld camps are located in more remote areas of the park, offering a quieter and more secluded experience. They provide accommodations in cottages and tents, immersing travellers in the wilderness. It is ideal for those seeking a unique and peaceful escape.
These intimate and rustic camps offer a back-to-nature experience within the wilderness of Kruger.
Accommodation options may include tented camps or simple chalets, often with shared facilities.
Guests can partake in guided bush walks and game drives, immersing themselves in the sights and sounds of the African bushveld.
Pros:
Secluded and quieter.
Unique wilderness experience.
Cons:
Limited dining and shopping options.
Longer drives to park attractions.
Estimated Price Range:
From ZAR 800 to ZAR 2,000 per night.
Guest Houses and Safari Tented Camps:
Guest houses and safari-tented camps offer semi-luxury accommodations with an intimate atmosphere. They provide a comfortable and unique safari experience, often with personalized service. Great for travellers looking for a blend of comfort and adventure.
Pros:
Semi-luxury accommodations.
Unique and comfortable safari experiences.
Personalized service.
Cons:
Moderate to high pricing.
Limited availability in some areas.
Estimated Price Range:
From ZAR 2,000 to ZAR 5,000 per night.
Outside Kruger National Park:
Accommodations outside Kruger National Park include many options, from budget to luxury lodges. These are located near the park and offer alternatives to staying inside. They provide flexibility in pricing and amenities, with a slightly longer commute to park entrances.
We had an incredible stay at Lamula Lodge in Elephant Point
Pros:
A wide range of options.
More affordable alternatives.
Less crowded accommodations.
Cons:
Longer commute to park entrances.
There is less immediate wildlife presence.
Estimated Price Range:
Depending on the accommodation type, it ranges from ZAR 1,000 to ZAR 5,000 per person per night.
What is the difference between a Private Safari Lodge and a Private Concession Safari Lodge?
Private Safari Lodge:
A private safari lodge is typically located on privately owned land adjacent to a national park or game reserve.
These lodges operate independently and are not part of the official park or reserve management.
Guests staying at private safari lodges can enjoy exclusive accommodations and safari experiences tailored to their preferences.
While they may offer guided game drives and other activities, they do not have access to traverse the entire national park or game reserve.
Private Safari Concession Lodge:
A private safari concession lodge is within a designated private concession area within a national park or game reserve.
These concessions are leased from the government or park authority by private operators.
Lodges within private concessions have exclusive access to a designated portion of the park or reserve for safari activities.
Guests staying at private safari concession lodges can enjoy the benefits of a private safari experience while also having access to traverse a larger area of the national park or game reserve than lodges outside the concession.
In summary, while both lodges offer exclusive safari experiences, private safari concession lodges have the added advantage of operating within designated concession areas, providing guests access to a more extensive and potentially more diverse wildlife viewing area within the national park or game reserve.
Generally, it is always better to stay inside the park if budget is not a question. That said, there are circumstances where staying outside the park is better, and staying inside is much more expensive. Read our full article here!
Staying Inside the Park (Rest Camps, Private Lodges, Bushveld Camps, Guest Houses):
Pros:
Immersive wildlife experiences.
Convenient access to park attractions.
Cons:
Higher cost for private lodges.
It may be crowded during peak seasons.
Staying Outside the Park:
Pros:
More affordable options are available.
Less crowded accommodations.
Cons:
Longer commute to park entrances.
There is less immediate wildlife presence.
Your choice of accommodation should align with your budget, preferences, and the type of safari experience you desire. Whether you prioritize luxury, affordability, or seclusion, Kruger National Park has options to suit every traveller's needs.
Please note that these are estimated price ranges, and actual prices may vary depending on the time of year, availability, and specific camps or lodges. It's advisable to check the latest prices and availability when planning your visit to Kruger National Park.
Article by Craig Howes, Professional Safari Expert
