Best Time To Visit Kruger National Park

What is the best time to visit Kruger National Park?

The best time to visit Kruger National Park is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. This period offers excellent game viewing opportunities as the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot wildlife. The weather is also pleasant, with cooler temperatures and lower humidity, providing a comfortable safari experience.

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Kruger National Park Travel Packages

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10 Days / 9 Nights

10 Days South African Package: Cape Town to Kruger

Cape Town (3N) → George (3N) → Kruger (2N) → Johannesburg (1N)

$ 2,428

6% off

$2,280/person

9 Days / 8 Nights

9 Days Kruger Wildlife Safari and Cape Town Dis...

Johannesburg (1N) → Kruger National Park (2N) → Johannesburg (1N) → Cape Town (4N)

$ 1,887

6% off

$1,767/person

7 Days / 6 Nights

Kruger & Karongwe Exploration: 7-Day National G...

Johannesburg (1N) → Kruger (2N) → Karongwe (3N) → Johannesburg (0N)

$ 1,425

8% off

$1,303/person

11 Days / 10 Nights

Family South Africa Wildlife Tour Package

Johannesburg(1N) → Kruger National Park(2N) → Sun City(2N) → George(2N) → Cape Town(3N)

$ 1,878

16% off

$1,575/person

6 Days / 5 Nights

South Africa Tour: Kruger and Pretoria

Johannesburg(1N) → Pretoria(1N) → Kruger National Park(2N) → Soweto(1N)

$ 1,047

8% off

$961/person

11 Days / 10 Nights

Wilderness of South Africa and Kenya: 11 Day 10...

Nairobi (1N) → Masai Mara (3N) → Nairobi (1N) → Johannesburg (2N) → Kruger (2N) → Johannesburg (1N)

$ 3,719

18% off

$3,027/person

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More about Best Time to Travel to Kruger National Park

March to April

As the rains subside, the park becomes more accessible, and wildlife is active with plenty of opportunities to see newborn animals, as well as predators hunting. Temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C. Road conditions are improved, and visibility is good.

January to February

The peak of the wet season, with occasional heavy rainfall. Although roads can be challenging, it is a quieter time to visit, and the park is lush and vibrant. Temperatures range from 17°C to 33°C, and visibility is fair.
Visitors can witness the birth of many animals, including impalas and zebras, and can spot lions, leopards, and elephants. Birdwatching opportunities continue with migratory birds.

November to December

The start of the rainy season, with rejuvenated landscapes and newborn wildlife. Warm temperatures range from 17°C to 33°C. However, heavy rains may result in muddy roads. Visibility is fair. Visitors can see elephants, lions, leopards, and a variety of antelope species. Birdwatching is fantastic with the arrival of migratory species.

September to October

Towards the end of the dry season, wildlife becomes more concentrated around remaining water sources, leading to some of the best game viewing of the year. Temperatures range from 14°C to 30°C. It is the peak tourist season, so early bookings are advisable. Road conditions are good, and visibility is clear. Sightings include large herds of elephants, buffalos, and rhinos. Birdwatching remains fantastic.

June to August

Winter months with cool mornings and evenings, and mild daytime temperatures ranging from 8°C to 25°C. Wildlife congregates around waterholes, offering fantastic game-viewing opportunities. Road conditions are well-maintained, and visibility is clear.
The park is teeming with wildlife, including the Big Five, hyenas, wildebeests, and hippos. Birdwatching highlights include Martial Eagles, Wahlberg's Eagles, Kori Bustards, South ground Hornbills, and Bateleurs.

May

The end of the rainy season, with lush vegetation and abundant water sources attracting wildlife. Temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 10°C to 26°C, and wildlife sightings are excellent.
Migratory birds start arriving, adding to the birdwatching experience. Road conditions are good, and visibility is improved. Animals include elephants, giraffes, zebras, impalas, and predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs.