6-Day Kruger & Private Reserves Camping Safari
Experience the best of South Africa’s wilderness on this immersive Kruger & Private Reserves Camping Safari. This affordable 6-day African adventure combines guided game drives in the iconic Kruger National Park with exclusive safaris in private Big 5 game reserves for an unforgettable wildlife experience under canvas.
Quick Overview of the Kruger & Private Reserves Camping Safari
- Big 5 sunset and night game drive in Balule Game Reserve (Greater Kruger)
- Traditional bush braai at the Marula Tree Boma
- Guided morning bush walk and afternoon game drive in a private reserve
- Two full days of open-vehicle game drives in Kruger National Park
- Visit to Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre
- Camping in permanent tents at a safari camp near Kruger Park
- Scenic Panorama Route drive with nature walk on the final day
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Johannesburg to Balule Private Game Reserve
Your Kruger & Private Reserves Camping Safari begins with a pickup from Johannesburg or the airport. Journey through Limpopo to Balule Private Game Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger Park. In the afternoon, set off on your first Big 5 game drive in an open 4×4 vehicle, followed by a traditional bush braai under the stars at Marula Tree Boma. Overnight in an air-conditioned chalet at a private game lodge.
Meals: Bush Braai Dinner
Activities: Sunset to night game drive in Balule Reserve
Day 2: Morning Bush Walk and Treehouse Camp
Begin the day with a guided bush walk along the Olifants River, followed by brunch at the lodge. After high tea, enjoy another game drive in the private reserve. Transfer to a rustic treehouse safari camp for overnight camping under the stars.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Activities: Bush Walk & Afternoon Game Drive
Day 3: Full-Day Safari in Kruger National Park
Spend a full day exploring Kruger National Park in an open safari vehicle. Enjoy top-tier wildlife viewing around the Orpen and Satara regions, known for high predator activity. Return to the treehouse camp for dinner and a relaxed evening around the campfire.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Activities: Full-day open-vehicle game drive in Kruger Park
Day 4: Moholoholo Centre & Game Drive
Visit the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre to learn about rescued wildlife, including big cats, birds of prey, and wild dogs. After lunch, set off for another Big 5 game drive in Balule Reserve, returning to the treehouse camp at sunset.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Activities: Wildlife centre tour & Afternoon game drive
Day 5: Kruger National Park Safari
Return to Kruger Park for another full day of Big 5 wildlife viewing, sharpening your spotting skills with help from expert guides. Enjoy your final night in the bush with a farewell dinner at the treehouse safari camp.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Activities: Full-day Big 5 Safari in Kruger Park
Day 6: Morning Nature Walk & Panorama Route
Wrap up your Kruger & Private Reserves Camping Safari with a guided nature walk, followed by a scenic drive back to Johannesburg via the Panorama Route. Highlights include the Blyde River Canyon and Three Rondavels viewpoint. Drop-off in Johannesburg around 17:00.
Meals: Breakfast
Activities: Morning bush walk & Panorama Route highlights
Accommodation Highlights
Your first night is spent at a comfortable, air-conditioned chalet in Balule Game Reserve. The rest of the safari features permanent tented accommodation at a treehouse-style safari camp in the Motlala Game Reserve, offering basic yet cozy amenities and excellent proximity to nature. Expect shared bathrooms, electricity, hot showers, and a true wilderness setting.
About the Kruger & Private Reserves Camping Safari Experience
This budget-friendly South African safari is ideal for travelers who want to experience the thrill of camping in the African bush without compromising on comfort and quality. Game drives in both Kruger National Park and private reserves offer diverse and abundant wildlife sightings, while guided walks and immersive bush experiences bring you closer to nature.
Child Policy
Children aged 6 and older are welcome. However, bush walks are restricted to guests aged 16 years and older for safety reasons.
Pre & Post-Safari Lodge Options
Pre- and post-tour lodge accommodation near OR Tambo International Airport is available on request. This 4-star lodge is conveniently located just 10-15 minutes from the airport. Contact us for rates and availability.
Book your unforgettable Kruger & Private Reserves Camping Safari today and experience the raw beauty and untamed wilderness of South Africa like never before!