5 Day Greater Kruger Safari – Balule Game Reserve
Join us on an unforgettable 5 Day Greater Kruger Safari to Balule Game Reserve, a private Big 5 game reserve in the heart of South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park. This guided safari offers thrilling game drives, close-up wildlife encounters, and tranquil evenings in the African bush—all from the comfort of an intimate safari lodge.
Day 1: Johannesburg to Balule Game Reserve, Greater Kruger Park
Your Greater Kruger Safari begins with a road transfer from Johannesburg or Pretoria to Balule Game Reserve. Travel through scenic landscapes, including the Waterberg Biosphere and Magoebaskloof Mountains, before arriving in the Kruger Lowveld.
After a warm welcome at the lodge, settle into your comfortable chalet before heading out on your first Big 5 game drive in an open 4×4 safari vehicle. Enjoy sundowners at sunset and an exciting night drive on the way back to camp. Dinner is served around the campfire under the African stars.
Days 2 to 4: Safari Adventures in Balule Game Reserve
Spend the next three days immersed in the untamed wilderness of the Greater Kruger. Each day begins with a sunrise game drive, the perfect time to spot wildlife at their most active. Return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast and enjoy the afternoon at leisure—relax by the pool or enjoy the natural beauty from your private patio.
In the late afternoon, head out again for a game drive that transitions into a night safari after sunset. Your experienced guide and tracker team are dedicated to providing the best possible wildlife sightings. With no fences between Balule and Kruger National Park, animals roam freely, offering a true safari experience without the crowds.
Evenings are for sharing stories around the fire, enjoying freshly prepared meals, and soaking in the sounds of the bushveld.
Day 5: Final Safari & Return to Johannesburg
On the last morning of your Greater Kruger Safari, enjoy one final sunrise game drive in Balule Game Reserve. After breakfast, say farewell to the lodge and transfer back to Johannesburg or Pretoria, arriving by late afternoon.
Safari Lodge in Balule Game Reserve
Set along a seasonal riverbed in the Big 5 territory of Balule, the safari lodge offers luxurious chalets with en-suite bathrooms and private decks. The lodge features a swimming pool, sun deck, lounge with a fireplace, and boma dining under the stars. It’s a peaceful retreat that blends seamlessly with the surrounding bushveld.
About Balule Game Reserve
Balule is a 40,000-hectare private reserve forming part of the Greater Kruger National Park. With no fences between Balule and Kruger, wildlife roams freely, creating exceptional game viewing opportunities. Because it is a private reserve, no day visitors are allowed, ensuring a quiet and exclusive African safari experience.
Included in Your Greater Kruger Safari
- 4 Nights accommodation in an en-suite chalet
- All meals as per itinerary
- Twice-daily game drives in open safari vehicles
- Night drives with spotlights
- Transfers between York Gate and the lodge
Transfers & Travel Info
Scheduled shuttle pick-up and drop-off is available from OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) and a designated point in Pretoria. Exact times are:
- Pick-up: 07h00 from OR Tambo | 07h30 from Pretoria
- Drop-off: 17h00 in Pretoria | 18h00 at OR Tambo
Transport to and from the pick-up points is not included in the safari price.
Child Policy
This Greater Kruger Safari is child-friendly. Children aged 12 years and older may participate in game drives. A private vehicle must be booked for families with children under 12.
Pre- & Post-Tour Accommodation
We offer convenient 4-star lodge options near OR Tambo International Airport for travelers needing accommodation before or after the safari. Ask us to add this to your booking for a seamless safari experience.
Book your 5 Day Greater Kruger Safari today and explore one of South Africa’s most iconic wildlife regions in comfort and style.