Kruger National Park, South Africa
Day One: Off to Kruger National Park
We decided to fly from Cape Town to one of the closest airports to Kruger. Some chose to fly into Johannesburg, we decided to fly into Kruger Mpumalanga Airport (MQP) for convenience.
Our flight from Cape Town to Kruger with Airlink was smooth, and the views were stunning.
We rented a car from Hertz, and picked it up at the airport. The drive was around an hour. This was our first time driving in South Africa, note it is on the other side of the road than what we are used to in the US.
We drove directly to an Airbnb in Mjejane Reserve, right by the Crocodile River.
Transport: Hired van to airport from IHG hotel, $45.00.
Flight: Airlink to Kruger National Park, 10:25 am -> 12:50 pm. Tickets $225 each person.
Luggage: Weight limit 20 kg per bag per person.
Car rental: Hertz, midsize, $700.00.
Accommodation: Airbnb in Mjejane Reserve, house by the Crocodile River.
Outside of the Mpumalanga Airport
Driving into the game reserve was one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life. We had no idea what to expect, but the moment we passed through those gates, everything shifted.
Day Two: Game Drives at Mjejane
The game drives at Mjejane Game Reserve were beyond amazing. We saw cheetahs, baby cubs, rhinos, elephants, hippos, and giraffes up close. Our guides were incredibly knowledgeable, making each drive an exciting adventure.
Activity: Night game drive at Mjejane Game Reserve, $20.00 per person, saw cheetahs, baby cubs, rhinos, elephants, hippos, and giraffes.
Day Three: Self-Driving in Kruger
We decided to explore Kruger National Park on our own, entering through the Malelane Gate. The freedom to drive and discover wildlife at our own pace was thrilling. Lunch at 3638 Station was a delightful addition to our self-drive safari.
Link to Kruger National Park Article - explains how Kruger National Park works.
Activity: Self-drive in Kruger National Park, Malelane Gate, $45.00 entrance fee for 2.
Route: Drove to Skukuza
Lunch: 3638 Station, $68.00.
Day Four & Five: More Game Drives and Relaxation
We continued our game drives, both morning and evening, enjoying every moment of the wildlife encounters. Swimming at the Bush Camp and a Braai dinner with new friends added to the fun and relaxation.
Activities: Morning and evening game drives, swimming at Bush Camp.
Dinner: Braai with new friends.
Day Six: River Lodge and Night Drive
A day of swimming at the River Lodge and another night game drive with a photo shoot made for a perfect day. The relaxed pace allowed us to soak in the surroundings and enjoy the company of our new friends.
Activities: Breakfast and lunch at River Lodge, swimming, night game drive with photo shoot.
