3-Day Kruger National Park Safari: Open Vehicle Game Drives & Elephant Encounters
Spend three days chasing dawn and sunset across Kruger National Park in an open safari vehicle. This itinerary pairs up-close elephant interactions with full-day game drives, local transfers, and conservation fees included.
The Experience
Before You Go
Prepare for early starts
Game drives begin before sunrise—bring a warm layer and a headlamp for pre-departure moments at the lodge.
Sun and dust protection
Wear a wide-brim hat and sunglasses; pack a bandana or buff to keep dust off your face during open-vehicle drives.
Respect wildlife distance
Follow your guide’s instructions—do not attempt to approach, feed, or provoke animals even when they seem calm.
Bring binoculars and camera
A mid- to long-range lens and compact binoculars significantly improve sighting quality from the vehicle.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Elephant Whispers interaction center in Hazyview for guided elephant education
- •Graskop Gorge Aerial Cable Trail for forest canopy views and a quieter perspective of the valley
Wildlife
- •African elephant
- •lion
Conservation Note
Park entrance and conservation fees support anti-poaching units and habitat management; follow leave-no-trace practices and local guidelines to minimize visitor impact.
Kruger’s protected areas date back to early conservation efforts in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and evolved into the formal national park to safeguard large-scale wildlife populations.
What to Bring
Layered clothingEssential
Cold pre-dawn and hot midday temperatures make quick on/off layers ideal.
Binoculars (8–10x)Essential
Improves distant wildlife viewing and bird identification from the vehicle.
Sunhat and sunscreenEssential
Protects against intense Lowveld sun during midday stops.
Camera with zoom lens
A 200–400mm equivalent lens captures wildlife behavior without disturbing animals.
Common Questions
How are transfers arranged to and from O.R. Tambo Airport?
Round-trip transfers between O.R. Tambo and the Hazyview guesthouse are included as specified; you'll supply flight details and pickup points during booking.
What wildlife can I expect to see on a full-day Kruger drive?
Guides search for elephants, lion, buffalo, leopard, and rhino, plus abundant plains game, antelope, hippo, and diverse birdlife—sightings vary by season and luck.
Are safaris suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
Open vehicles are accessible for many travelers but require climbing steps; notify the operator of mobility needs during booking to discuss options.
What is the refund or cancellation policy?
This tour is listed as all sales final with no refunds for cancellations; confirm details with the operator before booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 days
Location
Hazyview, Mpumalanga
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required; must be able to step into and out of an open safari vehicle and tolerate early mornings
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