The world-renowned Kruger National Park should be visited at least once in a lifetime and with so many self-catering rest camps to choose from, it is possible for everyone to experience a Big Five safari.
The Kruger National Park has a total of 21 self-catering rest camps spread across two million hectares of untouched wilderness. Each rest camp is positioned within incredible game viewing areas and offers an array of accommodation options to suit everyone; including bungalows, cottages, guesthouses, and campsites for the more adventurous travelers.
Traveling from Johannesburg, the closest gate to access the Kruger National Park is Malelane Gate. The closest self-catering rest camps to this gate are Berg en Dal, Malelane Satellite Camp, and Biyamiti. From the Paul Kruger Gate one can access Skukuza, Lower Sabie, and Pretoriuskop rest camps. Orpen Gate is the closest to the central parts of Kruger, offering convenient access to both Orpen and Satara rest camps.
The facilities offered at the main self-catering rest camps include a reception, restaurant, a grocery shop with the basics, an internet access point at reception, a laundromat, petrol station, braai facilities, auditorium and conference facilities, a picnic area, and a swimming pool. At the satellite and bushveld rest camps, the facilities are more limited but still have everything needed to ensure an unforgettable stay.
Booking one of the self-catering rest camps offers you the flexibility to plan meals and either self-drive through the Kruger or book one of the guided game drives offered at the camps. There is also the option to book walking safaris, overnight hides, or venture out on one of the 4×4 adventure trails. These safari activities are led by professional guides who are incredibly knowledgeable and know how to track down animals. The chances of seeing the Big Five are more likely when booking guided activities as the guides are in communication with one another and generally start off the safari in the last place they sighted a particular animal. Night drives offer the opportunity to view those rare nocturnal species and are recommended if you are looking to see lions in action.
