4-Day Kruger National Park Essential Safari
Price
From USD 928 pps
Duration
Comfort Level
Mid-Range (3 Star)
Departs From
Johannesburg, ZA
Ends At
Johannesburg, ZA
Your essential 4-Day Kruger National Park Safari, situated at the southernmost point of the park with upmarket accommodation in an unfenced game reserve. The animal viewing never stops.
Tour Highlights
- Full Day Game Drive in Kruger National Park
- Morning Game Drive in Kruger National Park
- Afternoon Game Drive in Kruger National Park
Join The Mzansi Experience on an unforgettable celebration of wildlife and pristine nature, as we go on safari in the southern section of Kruger National Park, staying just outside the main park but still in a game reserve known as Marloth Park. On this 4-Day and 3-night safari you will stay in a 4-star lodge just off the banks of the Crocodile River, looking right into the Kruger National Park. You can spot wildlife in Kruger National right from the lodge deck while enjoying a beverage or meal, or simply embracing the outdoor bliss.
Getting to Marloth Park (and return) will be by a scheduled shuttle transfer departing from OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, South Africa. This transfer includes a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus vehicle with an experienced driver at the helm, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey for all passengers. Due to the distance that needs to be travelled to Kruger National Park, the duration of the transfer is about 6 hours each way. There will be convenience stops along the way to stretch your legs, buy some snacks, or visit the bathroom facilities.
Your accommodation inside Marloth Park will be in well-appointed lodge rooms equipped with one double bed or two single beds, an en-suite bathroom, and air-conditioning. The lodge has a two-level swimming pool to cool off during hot summer days, and a welcoming boma to warm up during cold winter nights. Delicious meals are served on the deck or inside dining area, depending on the weather.
Marloth Park is a unique wildlife conservancy located just outside the southernmost gate of Kruger National Park, the Crocodile River Gate. The conservancy covers an area of approximately 3000 hectares. Marloth Park is a popular destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, offering a close-to-nature experience in a beautiful African setting.
One of the notable features of Marloth Park is that wildlife roam freely throughout the conservation area. The game viewing never stops! This means that visitors to Marloth Park can often see a wide variety of animals roaming around in their natural habitat, including giraffes, zebras, kudus, impalas, wildebeests, and many species of birds. The conservancy is also home to smaller wildlife like vervet monkeys, bushbabies, and warthogs, which can often be seen wondering around the lodges and camps. By default, Marloth Park is devoid of predators such as lions or leopards. However, occasionally, these predators breach the fence during night times as they attempt to hunt their prey, naturally retreating to the safety of the Kruger National Park (their home) afterwards.
Should you have leisure time in-between scheduled activities, there are designated walking trails where visitors can explore the park on foot, allowing for a more intimate experience with nature. Bird watching is also a popular activity, as the park is home to over 300 species of birds, including various eagles, owls, and colorful bushveld species.
Game drives inside Kruger National Park offer an exhilarating experience as travelers explore one of Africa’s most renowned wildlife reserves. All game drives are conducted in open safari vehicles that have been optimized for exceptional animal viewing opportunities, allowing you to spot wildlife from various angles. The vehicles are driven by experienced guides who have extensive knowledge about the park and its wildlife. Your designated guide will share information about the wildlife that you encounter, their fascinating habits, and the Park’s conservation efforts. Game drives in Kruger National Park can vary in duration, typically lasting between 3 to 4 hours. While sightings are never guaranteed, the southern region of Kruger National Park is known for its diverse and dense wildlife populations, increasing the chances of encountering a variety of species while out on safari.
In addition to the wildlife, Kruger National Park boasts diverse habitats and stunning landscapes revealing evidence of their own unique stories. The southern section of the Park encompasses vast plains, dense bushveld, and meandering rivers and safari trails.
Please note that Kruger National Park is listed as a low-risk malaria area, therefore please take the necessary precautions by applying repellants – and speak to a medical professional regarding malaria prophylaxis.
Room Amenities
Available Room Types
Departure Type
Special Catering
Child Friendly
Day 1: Transfer to Kruger National Park
Your transfer will depart the airport at 12:00 PM strictly, with an estimated arrival time at the lodge around 18:00 PM to 18:30 PM – just in time to check in before a scrumptious dinner is served.
You will meet us at the Shuttle Terminal at OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) for your transfer. Please be ready and waiting from 11:45 AM. Detailed instructions and confirmation numbers for the shuttle will be provided after your booking has been processed. As you are transported towards Marloth Park, you will enjoy convenience stops along the way and observe a gradual change in the surrounding landscape while travelling from South Africa’s Highveld to Lowveld region.
The friendly staff with check you in and show you to your room. After a brief freshening up, you can join us for a delicious dinner at the dining area or deck. You will have the opportunity to get more information about the area, and your itinerary from the manager on duty.
There is a cash bar available for beverages and alcoholic drinks.
After dinner, you can relax on the deck or retire to your room for the night. We recommend getting a good night’s rest as an early morning rise is required for your thrilling full day game drive tomorrow.
Accommodation: Well-appointed Lodge Room, with en-suite bathroom
Included: Transfer from Johannesburg & Dinner
Excluded: All Other Meals & Beverages
Day 2: Full Day Game Drive in Kruger National Park
Wake up early morning and prepare to embark towards Kruger National Park for your full day game drive. We typically depart the lodge at 05:00 AM – with an estimated arrival just as the Kruger gates open to visitors. The drive through Marloth Park, and towards the Crocodile Bridge Gate of Kruger National Park will be about 30 mins in total. Please note the game drive vehicle might also collect other guests along the way to join on the game drive. A packed breakfast will be provided as you leave the lodge, to enjoy in the park while on your safari.
We will enter Kruger National Park between 05:30 AM and 06:00 AM. The southern section of Kruger National Park is notorious for wildlife sightings almost right into the gate, and a favourite area for herds of elephants to graze close by the river. The game drive will continue throughout the Park, with stops at nearby rest camps and picnic areas positioned along the way. This will be your opportunity to take advantage of the restrooms, giftshops, or convenience stores and enjoy a leg stretch.
Lunch can be enjoyed at one of the restaurants located within the spacious rest camps, which will be for your own account. Your guide will allow enough time for you to enjoy a quick meal, before getting back onto the game drive vehicle to continue your safari adventure.
The game drive will conclude around about 15:00 PM, after which we exit the Crocodile Bridge Gate and head back to the lodge in Marloth Park. You should arrive back at the lodge latest 16:00 PM.
You’ll have the opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate on the deck or explore the nearby bird hide for birdwatching during your free time.
Dinner is served at 19:00 PM on the deck or dining area.
After dinner, you can choose to retire underneath the starlit sky, lending your ear to surrounding nocturnal sounds, or retreat to the comfort of your room for a good night’s rest.
Accommodation: Well-appointed lodge room, with en-suite bathroom
Included: Full Day Game Drive in Kruger National Park, Packed Breakfast, Dinner
Excluded: All Other Meals, Lunch & Beverages
Day 3: Morning & Afternoon/Sunset Game Drive in Kruger National Park
Wake up very early and be ready to embark towards Kruger National Park for your full day game drive. We typically leave at 05:00 AM in the morning. A packed breakfast will be provided as you leave the lodge, to enjoy in the park. The drive through Marloth Park, and towards the Crocodile Bridge Gate of Kruger National Park will be about 30 mins in total. Please note the game drive vehicle might also collect other guests along the way to join on the game drive.
We will enter Kruger National Park between 05:30 AM and 06:00 AM. The southern section of Kruger National Park is notorious for animal sightings right as you enter the gate, and a favourite area for herds of elephants to graze close by the river. The game drive will continue throughout the park, with stops at the rest camps and picnic areas positioned along the way.
We will exit the park at Crocodile Bridge Gate by about 11:00AM and head back to the lodge in Marloth Park.
You will have free time to refresh, relax on the deck (or cool down in the pool during summer), walk some of the river trails in the conservancy or visit the nearby bird hide for some birdwatching. Please take care to have proper sunscreen while being outdoors and staying hydrated.
A light lunch will be served – please discuss this with the lodge reception which time you prefer your meal.
Prepare and be ready by 16:15 PM to embark on a sunset and early evening game drive in Kruger National Park. We will depart the lodge by 16:30 PM latest, enroute the Crocodile Bridge Gate to enter the Park. A sunset and evening game drive provides the perfect opportunity to view wildlife normally active during the day come to rest. This is also the opportunity to spot nocturnal animals as they start to become active. Once the game drive concludes, we will exit via the Crocodile Bridge Gate again and arrive back at the lodge by about 19:30 PM.
Dinner will be served shortly after your return to the lodge to be enjoyed on the deck or dining area, as you discuss the thrilling drive’s sightings.
After dinner, you can relax on the deck or retire to your room for the night. We recommend getting a good night’s rest as you will be picked up from the lodge early in the morning for your return to Johannesburg.
Accommodation: Well-appointed Lodge Room, with en-suite bathroom
Included: Full Day Game Drive in Kruger National Park, Packed Breakfast & Dinner
Excluded: Lunch, All Other Meals & Beverages
Day 4: Return Transfer to Johannesburg
This morning, you need to be up and ready for the shuttle to collect you from the lodge at about 05:15 AM, for your return transfer to Johannesburg. A snack pack will be provided for the road with bottled water or juice.
Convenience stops will be made along the way where you can utilize restrooms or stretch your legs. Your expected arrival time in Johannesburg at OR Tambo International Airport will be about 12:00 PM.
This is the end of your tour.
Included in package
- Return transfers from Johannesburg / Marloth Park
- 1 x Full Day Game Drive in Kruger National Park
- 1 x Morning Game Drive in Kruger National Park
- 1 x Sunset /Afternoon Game Drive
- 3-Nights’ accommodation in an upmarket safari lodge room with en-suite bathroom and air-conditioning / heating
- All meals stated as included.
Excluded from package:
- All flights (local, international), visas and other entry requirements
- Travel insurance
- Items of a personal nature
- Drinks and Beverages
- Meals stated as excluded.
- Tips and gratuities (optional)
Option 1 – Boarding directly from the Airport:
To keep the cost of this tour so affordable, all our shuttles only depart from OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg. This is well suited to most guests, who arrive on a flight at the airport and then just go to the shuttle terminal. You will be provided with specific notes on boarding the shuttle once you have booked this tour.
FAQ – Do you offer hotel pickups or drop-offs with this option?
No. To keep the cost of the package as low as possible, we make use of the scheduled shuttle which only departs from, and arrives back at, OR Tambo International Airport. We strongly suggest making use of the Uber service, which is safe, very dependable, and affordable in Johannesburg OR arranging a shuttle with your accommodation the night before. We strongly advise against making use of unknown public transport or using minibus taxis.
Option 2 – Custom / Private Shuttle from Johannesburg:
A more convenient option to suit your specific schedule but quoted at additional cost. We can arrange an alternative pick-up time (from available options) to depart from OR Tambo International Airport, or we can arrange a private shuttle for pickup directly at your hotel. Be advised the private shuttle transfers to Kruger National Park can be quite expensive.
What is the cost of a custom / private shuttle?
Taking an alternative (scheduled) shuttle will cost about ZAR 800.00 additionally per person (one way only). A fully private shuttle is normally charged per vehicle (not per person) and ranges from ZAR 6500.00 upwards, depending on the vehicle type.
Option 3 – Flying to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport and taking a shuttle to the lodge:
While this is a more expensive option (still cheaper than a private transfer from Johannesburg), it is by far the quickest option to get to Kruger National Park (or back to Johannesburg) which allows you maximum time to spend in the bush. It is a one-hour flight vs. 5 or 6 hours by road transfer. Speak to us if you are considering this option, for us to advise the most suitable flight arrival and departure times.
Option 4 – Arriving by self-drive:
Every now and then, we get enquiries by guests wanting to arrive by self-drive. While this is certainly possible, please note that it will be your own responsibility to arrive on time to not negatively affect the times stipulated in the standard tour itinerary. Arriving late, getting lost etc. will result in a forfeit of activities not join on time.
FAQ – What happens if I have a question on the day my tour starts, or cannot find my transport?
For urgent problems and delays – please give us a call / WhatsApp message on the phone number provided before your departure date. A dedicated booking consultant will always be available to assist.
Malaria Information
Kruger National Park is a low-risk malaria area, with mosquito activity more prevalent in the warmer summer months. While the negative effects of malaria medication can potentially affect your safari experience, we still encourage you to speak to your doctor or medical professional for authorized medical advice on the matter.
Proper precautions and measures can however go a very long way, including:
- A proper mosquito repellant – the easiest is in a spray form (e.g. Peaceful Sleep or Tabard)
- A room mosquito spray (e.g. Peaceful Sleep or Doom) to keep the room mozquito free
- Wearing light trousers and long sleeve shirts in the early morning or evening
- Keeping you room / tent door closed to keep bugs outside.
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Disclaimer, Booking Terms & Conditions
- Availability & Pricing: All packages are subject to availability at the time of booking. Rates are indicative, based on current Rate of Exchange (ROE), and are only finalised upon receipt of a formal quote and at least a deposit payment (if a deposit is applicable).
- Provisional Bookings: Can be held for a maximum of 48 hours and will be automatically released if not confirmed with a deposit.
- Intermediary Role: For certain packages, or parts of packages, Mzansi Experience acts as an agent or intermediary only. All bookings are subject to the specific Terms & Conditions of the third-party service providers (airlines, hotels, and operators). This will be advised as part of each quote.
- Responsibility: It is the traveller’s sole responsibility to ensure all passports, visas, and health documents are valid for the duration of the trip.
- Insurance: We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance to cover cancellations, medical emergencies, or baggage loss. While we cannot strictly enforce it, we view it as absolutely mandatory for an international trip.
- Liability: Mzansi Experience shall not be held liable for any injury, loss, delay, or damage caused by third-party suppliers or unforeseen circumstances beyond our control (Force Majeure).
Please read our complete Terms & Conditions for further information.