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Private Reserves
Why visit a Private Reserve?
Immediately to the west of the Kruger National Park are a number of exclusive private reserves accessible only to those staying in their camps and lodges. Almost all share unfenced boundaries with the Kruger allowing the wildlife to move freely. Heading out on thrilling game drives with experienced rangers/guides who can take you ‘off road’ brings you closer to the action and adds to the sense of adventure.
Accommodation in the private reserves ranges from beautifully authentic bush camps to luxurious lodges, all offering an exclusive stay with exceptional service and hospitality. The reserves also have a strong focus on conservation, vital to maintaining the healthy wildlife populations.
We suggest a minimum of three nights to fully experience both your lodge and the wildlife. Or visit a couple of reserves to experience the different landscapes and wildlife dynamics. Our team are experts in selecting the perfect combinations.
Wondering what to expect on safari? Read our guide.
Kruger's Private Reserves
Friendly elephants
Getting up close on a game drive with highly qualified guides
Delicious food
Unique sleepout experiences
Beautiful places to stay
Pamper yourself!
Romantic sundowner spots
Cheers!
Highlights of a safari in the Kruger’s private reserves
- As most of the reserves share an unfenced boundary with the Kruger National Park, you’ll be seeing the same wildlife in the same beautiful settings. No day visitors are permitted and vehicle numbers are carefully managed, so the wildlife viewings and the overall experience is much more exclusive.
- As you can’t drive yourself in the private reserves (other than to reach your lodge, though we can also arrange transfers if preferred), your game drives will be with highly knowledgeable rangers who are trained on animal tracking and behaviour. They aim to maximise your wildlife viewings - if you have a specific animal you would like to see they will do their best to find them for you.
- In private reserves your game drives can venture ‘off road’ for better sightings and go out at night when predators are on the prowl and the nocturnal species appear. Many also offer the option of a guided walk.
- Many lodges support wildlife conservation and community projects in their areas. They will often proudly introduce you to their local community or enable you to participate in a conservation project.
- Sabi Sand Game Reserve is the oldest private reserve in South Africa and has a reputation as a world-class premier safari experience. At the southern end of the Kruger area, it is home to a high concentration of the Big 5 – lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffaloes and has a high density of sightings, in particular leopard.
- The Timbavati Private Nature Reserve is slightly smaller than Sabi Sand Reserve, but is still an impressive 130,000 acres of wilderness, a picturesque mix of savanna, bushveld and riverine forests. Along with elephant, leopard, rhino, buffalo and wild dogs, the reserve is renowned for its healthy white lion population.
- The Klaserie Game Reserve is ideal for a slower paced safari amidst its varied landscapes. With fewer lodges, you are able to linger longer over special sightings and are likely to see fewer vehicles. Many lodges offer bush walks as an alternative activity. The reserve’s wildlife includes endangered species such as the African Wild Dog and White Backed Vulture, as well as the ever-popular Big 5, numerous birds and smaller mammals. While numbers may not be as prolific as in other reserves, the wildlife experience is equally as rewarding.
- The well-established Thornybush Game Reserve is known for its abundant wildlife and has a wide choice of lodges from comfortable to exclusive luxury. It is a popular choice for family safaris.
- Kapama Game Reserve is a fenced reserve covering 15,000 hectares of open savannas, riverine forest sand bushveld – the small number of luxury lodges ensure an exclusive experience.
Where to stay in the Private Reserves
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"We felt thoroughly spoiled and privileged to have had such a wonderful family holiday - we really enjoyed the whole experience. The boys loved the hike up Table Mountain, and cable car back down. We definitely benefited from a good exchange rate, so eating out as a family wasn’t a painful experience! The only thing I would have done differently is pack a few warmer layers for safari – always forget how cold Africa can be in the bush!"
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DiscoverWhen to travel to Kruger's Private Reserves
Kruger's Private Reserves are great to visit at any time of year, but the cooler and drier months from April to November are best for viewing wildlife - the grass is shorter, the vegetation less dense and the animals easier to spot.
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Kruger's Private Reserves
Kruger's Private Reserves are adjacent to the Kruger National Park. They vary in their size, ask your African Pride consultant for their recommendations.
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