KRUGER SAFARI GUIDE
Everything you need to know about travelling from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park, including driving times, pickup options and the best safari packages.
Kruger National Park stretches nearly 350 km from south to north and is one of Africa's largest wildlife reserves. The map below shows the main gates, rest camps and safari routes used by visitors travelling from Johannesburg.
Johannesburg Departures
Kruger National Park is one of South Africa's most famous safari destinations and is easily accessible from Johannesburg, Pretoria and OR Tambo International Airport.
Most travellers can reach the southern gates of Kruger National Park in approximately 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic, route and safari destination.
For visitors who prefer not to drive, Big Six Tour Safaris offers owner-guided Kruger safari departures from Johannesburg, Pretoria and OR Tambo Airport.
| Departure Point | Distance | Approx Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Johannesburg | 420 – 500 km | 5 – 6 Hours |
| Pretoria | 380 – 450 km | 4.5 – 5.5 Hours |
| OR Tambo Airport | 430 – 500 km | 5 – 6 Hours |
Guide Tip: Most safari departures leave Johannesburg early in the morning to maximise time in Kruger National Park on the first day.
Guided Safari Travel
A guided safari removes the stress of long-distance driving, route planning and park logistics, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey.
Sit back and enjoy the journey while your guide handles the driving, route planning and safari timing.
Convenient pickup options from OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg hotels and Pretoria.
Travel with an experienced South African tourist guide who understands the routes, seasons and safari areas.
Enjoy a more personal safari experience with small groups and private safari options available.
Safari Packages
Choose from our most popular Kruger National Park safari packages departing from Johannesburg, Pretoria and OR Tambo International Airport.
Ideal for travellers with limited time looking for a memorable Big Five safari.
The perfect balance of wildlife viewing, comfort and value.
Maximum wildlife viewing and more opportunities for unforgettable sightings.
Luxury accommodation, exclusive experiences and private guiding.
Wildlife Viewing
Kruger National Park is one of Africa's premier wildlife destinations and is home to the famous Big Five along with hundreds of other animal and bird species.
Kruger is one of the best places in Africa to see lions in their natural habitat.
The elusive leopard is one of the most sought-after sightings during any safari.
Large elephant herds are regularly seen throughout Kruger National Park.
Kruger remains one of the most important strongholds for both black and white rhino.
Visitors may also encounter giraffe, zebra, hippo, crocodile, hyena, cheetah, African wild dog, numerous antelope species and more than 500 bird species. Every game drive is different, making each safari a unique adventure.
Why Travel With Us
Big Six Tour Safaris offers owner-guided Kruger National Park safaris from Johannesburg, Pretoria and OR Tambo International Airport with a focus on personal service, local knowledge and unforgettable wildlife experiences.
Travel with a registered South African National Tourist Guide with decades of guiding experience throughout Southern Africa.
More than three decades of experience leading visitors through South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho and Mozambique.
Unlike large operators, many tours are personally guided by the owner, ensuring a more personal safari experience.
Enjoy a more comfortable safari with small group departures and private tour options.
Departures available from Johannesburg, Pretoria and OR Tambo International Airport.
Choose from 3 Day, 4 Day, 5 Day and private lodge safaris tailored to your interests and schedule.
Local Insight: One of the biggest advantages of travelling with an experienced guide is learning about animal behaviour, tracking techniques, local history and the ecosystems that make Kruger National Park one of Africa's greatest wildlife destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most safari routes take between 5 and 6 hours depending on your departure point, traffic conditions and the gate used to enter Kruger National Park.
Yes. Several airlines operate flights to airports near Kruger National Park, including Skukuza, Nelspruit (KMIA) and Hoedspruit. Many visitors, however, prefer a guided road safari from Johannesburg.
A guided safari allows you to relax and enjoy the experience while an experienced guide handles the driving, navigation and safari planning. Many visitors also enjoy learning about wildlife behaviour and local ecosystems from their guide.
Yes. Big Six Tour Safaris offers pickups from OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg hotels, Sandton and Pretoria, depending on your safari package.
Our most popular option is the 4 Day Kruger Safari, offering an excellent balance between travel time, wildlife viewing opportunities and overall value.
Ready for Your Safari Adventure?
Join Big Six Tour Safaris on an owner-guided safari from Johannesburg, Pretoria or OR Tambo International Airport and discover one of Africa's greatest wildlife destinations.
Since 1989
Professional Guiding Experience
Small Groups
More Personal Safari Experience
Johannesburg Pickups
Airport & Hotel Collection Available
Kruger Safari Guides
Helpful articles to plan your Kruger National Park safari from Johannesburg.
Weather, seasons and the best months for wildlife viewing.
Clothing, camera gear and seasonal packing advice.
Compare 3, 4 and 5 day safari options.
Choose the best safari style for your trip.
Safety advice for first-time safari visitors.
Browse 3 Day, 4 Day, 5 Day and private Kruger safaris.
