4-Day Budget Kruger Safari Itinerary – Private Game Reserve Experience in Greater Kruger Park
Embark on an unforgettable 4-day Kruger safari to a private game reserve in the heart of Greater Kruger National Park, South Africa. This budget-friendly safari package includes comfortable accommodation at an authentic bush lodge, twice-daily Big Five game drives, and expert-led wildlife experiences in a remote African wilderness.
Safari Overview
Stay at an exclusive safari lodge located in the Maseke Game Reserve, part of the Balule Private Nature Reserve in Greater Kruger Park. Surrounded by untamed bush and abundant wildlife, this private safari camp offers a unique opportunity to explore one of Africa’s most renowned game-viewing regions. Ideal for small groups and families, this intimate lodge delivers a personal and immersive African safari experience.
- Authentic private game reserve safari
- Comfortable safari lodge accommodation
- Guided morning and evening game drives
- Family-friendly and small group setting
- High chances of Big Five sightings
Day 1: Transfer from Johannesburg to Greater Kruger Park
Your Kruger safari adventure begins with a scheduled shuttle transfer from Johannesburg (OR Tambo International Airport) or Pretoria. The shuttle departs OR Tambo at 07:00 and collects guests in Pretoria at 07:30 before continuing northeast to the Greater Kruger region.
Arrival at Three Bridges near Hoedspruit is between 12:30 and 13:00. From here, a guide will transfer you to the Maseke Balule Game Reserve, where your private safari lodge awaits, nestled within 8,000 hectares of pristine bushveld.
After lunch, head out on your first afternoon to night game drive, where you may encounter leopards, hyenas, civets, and other nocturnal species. Return to the lodge for a warm dinner and drinks around the campfire under the African night sky.
Included: Lunch and Dinner
Travel Time: Approximately 6 hours
Accommodation: Private Safari Lodge – Greater Kruger Park
Safari Highlight: Afternoon and night game drive in a private reserve
Day 2 and 3: Full Safari Days in Maseke Game Reserve
Each morning begins with an early wake-up for coffee and snacks before heading out on a sunrise game drive. As part of Greater Kruger National Park, the Maseke Game Reserve offers unfenced access to an expansive ecosystem teeming with wildlife.
This is Big Five territory, home to lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards. The region also boasts over 150 species of mammals and more than 500 bird species. Return mid-morning for a hearty breakfast back at camp.
Spend the late morning and early afternoon relaxing at the lodge – unwind by the sparkling swimming pool, enjoy the bush scenery from the deck, or take a quiet walk within the camp.
After lunch and afternoon tea, head out on a second afternoon-to-evening game drive, giving you another chance to witness the vibrant activity of the bush as the day cools. Your safari guide will share expert knowledge and help track wildlife to maximize your experience.
Return to the lodge for a delicious dinner, followed by a cozy evening around the fire sharing stories under the stars.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (both days)
Accommodation: Greater Kruger Safari Lodge
Safari Highlight: Morning and night game drives on both days
Day 4: Final Game Drive and Return to Johannesburg
Enjoy one last early morning game drive through the Greater Kruger wilderness, followed by a farewell breakfast at the lodge. Then, your guide transfers you back to Three Bridges, where the shuttle will collect you at 11:45.
The return journey travels via Pretoria, dropping off guests at approximately 17:00, and finally at OR Tambo International Airport around 18:00 – marking the end of your Greater Kruger safari experience.
Included: Breakfast
Travel Time: Approximately 6 hours
Safari Highlight: Final early morning game drive
About the Safari Lodge – Maseke Game Reserve
This eco-friendly safari lodge lies near the Olifants River within the Maseke Game Reserve, forming part of the Balule Nature Reserve in Greater Kruger Park. With only 10 guests at a time, it offers a secluded and private bush experience ideal for families and small groups.
The lodge features thatched chalets, a swimming pool, and a viewing deck where elephants, kudu, bushbuck, and other wildlife are often seen. The surrounding mopane woodland and rocky outcrops create a stunning natural backdrop.
Shuttle Transfer Details – Johannesburg and Pretoria
Pick-up Locations (Day 1):
07:00 – OR Tambo International Airport (Bus Terminal Building)
07:30 – Glen Fair Shopping Mall, Lynnwood, Pretoria
Drop-off Times (Day 4):
17:00 – Glen Fair Shopping Mall, Pretoria
18:00 – OR Tambo International Airport
Note: Transfers to and from these pick-up/drop-off points are not included in the tour price.
Pre and Post-Safari Lodge Accommodation (Optional)
We offer 4-star accommodation near OR Tambo International Airport for guests needing a stay before or after their safari. Conveniently located just 10–15 minutes from the airport, this lodge is the perfect addition to ensure a smooth start or end to your Kruger safari tour. Contact us to add this option to your booking.
Child Policy
- Children aged 5 and older are welcome on scheduled departures
- For exclusive lodge bookings, children of all ages are accepted