Kruger National Park
Where to stay for an unforgettable wildlife experience
Accommodation Guide
Kruger National Park is unique among African safari destinations for its affordable, self-drive-friendly rest camps run by SANParks, alongside some of the continent's most exclusive private game reserves on its western boundary. From pitching your own tent to sipping champagne in a treehouse suite at Sabi Sands, Kruger caters to every budget.
Top Places to Stay
From budget-friendly to ultra-luxury — hand-picked for wildlife enthusiasts
SANParks Camping (Satara / Lower Sabie)
BudgetSANParks-run campsites inside Kruger offer electrified pitches with communal kitchens, ablution blocks, and braai (BBQ) facilities. Satara and Lower Sabie are top picks for game-viewing.
- Self-catering communal kitchens
- Electrified camping pitches
- Affordable park shop and restaurant
- Walk-in safari hides nearby
Skukuza Rest Camp
BudgetThe largest rest camp in Kruger, located at the confluence of the Sabie and N'waswitsontso Rivers. Self-catering bungalows and safari tents with air conditioning and braai areas.
- Kruger's main hub with shops and restaurant
- Golf course nearby
- River-view accommodation
- Museum and education centre
Pretoriuskop Rest Camp
Mid-RangeKruger's oldest rest camp with a relaxed atmosphere and swimming pool. En-suite cottages and guest houses surrounded by granite boulders and woodland.
- Oldest camp in Kruger
- Swimming pool
- Great for white rhino sightings
- Peaceful atmosphere
Jock Safari Lodge
LuxuryA luxury concession lodge inside southern Kruger, featuring 12 private suites with plunge pools overlooking the Biyamiti River. Named after the famous book "Jock of the Bushveld."
- Private concession inside Kruger
- Plunge pool suites
- Exclusive guided game drives
- Historical heritage site
Lion Sands River Lodge
LuxuryLocated in the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve adjacent to Kruger, this lodge offers premium big cat viewing with expert trackers and rangers. Elegant suites with river-view decks.
- Sabi Sands — Africa's best leopard viewing
- Expert trackers and rangers
- Unique treehouse sleep-out experience
- Open-vehicle game drives
Singita Lebombo Lodge
Ultra-LuxuryPerched above the N'wanetsi River in a 33,000-acre private concession inside Kruger, Singita Lebombo features striking modern architecture with floor-to-ceiling glass, private plunge pools, and some of the best game viewing in southern Africa.
- 33,000-acre private concession
- Contemporary architectural design
- Mountain biking and walking safaris
- Interactive kitchen and wine studio
Royal Malewane
Ultra-LuxuryA 6-suite lodge in the Greater Kruger area, consistently ranked among the top safari lodges globally. Features Africa House Spa, a dedicated wildlife photography studio, and private bush dining.
- Only 6 suites for ultimate privacy
- Award-winning Africa House Spa
- Private photographic vehicle
- Butler service and all-inclusive
💡 Booking Tips for Kruger National Park
- SANParks rest camps open bookings 11 months in advance — book early for school holidays.
- Self-drive is very popular and affordable; rent a car in Johannesburg and drive in.
- Sabi Sands and Timbavati private reserves have no fences with Kruger, but animals roam freely between them.
- Download the SANParks app for live animal sighting maps updated by other visitors.
- Budget tip: bring your own food and braai at camp — Kruger's communal kitchens are excellent.
- The southern section (Lower Sabie to Skukuza) has the highest animal density.
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Where to Stay in Kruger National Park FAQ
Satara and Lower Sabie rest camps are excellent for predator sightings. Skukuza is the most central and largest camp with the best facilities.
SANParks camping costs ZAR 350 per night (about $19). Bungalows start at ZAR 900 (about $50). Private lodges in Sabi Sands cost $400 to $1,500 per night.
Book SANParks accommodation 11 months in advance when reservations open. School holiday periods sell out first.
Rest camps are fenced and completely safe. Private reserve lodges are unfenced but have trained staff. Wild animals sometimes appear near camp, which adds to the atmosphere.