Kruger Travel Guide

Visitors are often confused by the terminology used to explain the Kruger National Park and its surrounding areas.

The Kruger National Park is essentially the area that falls under government control, with its clearly defined borders and an extensive network of tarred and dirt roads. Along the park's western border, a large number of privately owned reserves have been established.

Although technically not part of the park, most of these private reserves share an unfenced border with the Kruger, allowing free movement of animals in and out of the territories. These reserves are tailored to offer their guests a superb safari experience with accommodation that's the last word in luxury.

The most prestigious of the Kruger Park's Private Reserves is the Sabi Sands which borders the southwestern corner of the park. Within the Sabi Sands a handful of Africa's most prestigious Safari Brands own and operate their very own pieces of wilderness. These include: Mala Mala, Singita and Londolozi.

Within the park, there are areas that are referred to as private concessions. These areas are basically leased land that has been utilised to offer private lodge experiences to visitors who wish to stay in the park.

Although run privately, and with a certain degree of autonomy, these concessions fall under park law, unlike the private reserves.

Visitors shouldn't get to caught up in the specifics; choose your holiday according to what you would like to experience.

If it's luxury you're after, choose from the private reserves or concessions; if it's a self-drive, budget game-viewing extravaganza, opt for the rest camps within the park.