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Kruger Park Hostel: Authentic Participatory Camping Safaris

Embark on an Authentic Safari Adventure in the Wild Heart of Africa

Join us on an incredible journey where you'll truly experience the heart of Africa. At KPH Safaris, we believe in going beyond typical safaris to immerse you in the wonders of wildlife, South African cuisine, and the African night sky.

Highlights:

Experience an authentic African adventure with KPH Safaris. Book your safari today and step into a world of genuine experiences.

Kruger Park Safari Itinerary:

R 4 905 per person

Leopard in tree seen while on safari in the kruger park

Day 1: The Start of an Unforgettable Journey

Departure: Set off from Kruger Park Hostel, diving straight into the heart of the wilderness.

Mlondozi Picnic Site

Breakfast: Indulge in a sumptuous breakfast at the picturesque Mlondozi Picnic Site, embracing the early morning splendor of Kruger.

Lunch: Enjoy a satisfying meal at the renowned Tshokwane Trading Post & Picnic Site (at your own expense), tasting the flavors of local cuisine and rejuvenating for the afternoon's explorations.

Evening at Maroela Camp: As dusk falls, immerse yourself in the African wilderness at Maroela Camp. Engage in setting up your tents and cooking a memorable dinner under the stars. Located beside the Timbavati River, near Orpen Rest Camp, Maroela offers a serene backdrop for a night under the African sky.

Day 2: Exploring the Depths of Kruger

Dawn Safari: Wake up early to catch a glimpse of the nocturnal wildlife before they retreat from the day's heat. Return to camp for a leisurely breakfast.

Breakfast: Savor your morning meal at the Timbavati Picnic Site, complete with facilities and surrounded by the tranquil sounds of nature.

Lunch: Stopping for a light and refreshing lunch amidst the beauty of Kruger.

Overnight Stay: Spend another serene night at Maroela Camp, enveloped by the sounds of the wild.

Day 3: Bidding Adieu to the Wilderness

Campsite in the Kruger Park
Campsite in the Kruger Park

Early rise for a game drive, returning a few hours later to have breakfast at Maroela Camp and then breakdown camp, and taking a leisurely drive south to Skukuza.

Lunch: Choose from a variety of dining options at Skukuza for lunch (at your own expense), enjoying the diverse offerings.

Conclusion: Journey back to Kruger Park Hostel, enriched with unforgettable memories and stories from a deep dive into the African wilderness.

Lunch stop in the Kruger Park
Lunch stop in the Kruger Park

Please note the above itinerary may change.

Join us on this participatory safari, where every meal, every rest stop, and every overnight camp brings you closer to the true essence of Kruger National Park. Book your spot today and let the adventure begin!


To book please send an email to Marion @ Marion@KrugerParkHostel.com


Kruger Camping Safari – Full FAQ

Everything you need to know about our small‑group, participatory camping safaris in Kruger National Park.

A participatory camping safari means you’re part of the adventure, not just a passenger. You’ll help with simple, quick camp tasks—pitching and taking down tents, preparing meals, organising coolers/water, packing the vehicle and keeping your area tidy. These tasks are shared fairly and supervised by your guide, building camaraderie and a true sense of “I’m really in the bush.” It’s immersive and authentic—very different from lodge safaris where everything is done for you.

Tasks rotate between guests. Typical duties: tent setup/breakdown, loading/unloading the vehicle, chopping vegetables or stirring a potjie, washing dishes, and organising gear/water/coolers. Each task takes only a few minutes, your guide keeps things smooth, and everyone contributes.

No. Our safaris are designed for absolute beginners. We’ll teach you how to pitch your tent, pack your gear, assist with meals, and stay safe around camp. If you can zip up a tent and chop a tomato, you’re ready.

  • All Kruger entry & conservation fees
  • Camping gear: dome tent, stretcher bed, sleeping bag, liner, pillow
  • All breakfasts & dinners
  • Professional safari guide
  • Enclosed, air‑conditioned vehicle (best comfort for multi‑day trips)
  • Hands‑on cooking & campfire experiences
  • Small groups — maximum 4 guests per vehicle

  • Max 4 guests — no crowded trucks
  • Freshly cooked, locally inspired meals
  • Fireside storytelling & community vibe
  • Eco‑friendly, low impact travel
  • Flexible routes based on real‑time sightings
  • Genuinely participatory — be part of the experience

Day 1 – Entering the Wild

  • Early departure from Kruger Park Hostel
  • Breakfast at a Kruger picnic site
  • Long game drive; lunch stop at Tshokwane or similar
  • Afternoon sightings; arrive at camp, pitch tents, help cook dinner

Day 2 – Deep Safari

  • Dawn game drive (prime predator time)
  • Breakfast in the bush; midday rest or slow drive
  • Second night in camp under the stars

Day 3 – Final Drive

  • Early game drive; camp breakdown
  • Leisurely exit drive based on sightings
  • Return to the hostel late afternoon

Kruger is renowned for the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, buffalo). You may also see cheetah, wild dog, hyena, hippo, giraffe, zebra, many antelope species, and 500+ bird species. Because this is a true wilderness, no operator can guarantee sightings — that’s what makes it special.

Yes. We camp only in fenced SANParks rest camps with lighting, security, hot showers and shops. Your guide handles all camp protocols and safety briefings (including food storage and night rules). Follow the guide’s instructions and you’ll be perfectly safe.

Bring:

  • Neutral clothing, warm layer for mornings/evenings
  • Comfortable shoes, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent
  • Torch/headlamp, reusable bottle, power bank
  • Camera & binoculars

Provided by us: dome tent, stretcher bed, sleeping bag & liner, pillow, camping chair.

We use official SANParks rest camps with hot showers, clean toilets and running water. Camps have lighting, shops and picnic sites. No rough or unfenced bush camping.

Kruger is a low–moderate malaria area. Use repellent, wear long sleeves at dusk, and consider prophylaxis during the rainy season (Oct–Apr). Your guide will brief the group and have repellent at hand.

Yes. We use spacious dome tents with stretcher beds, sleeping bags, liners and pillows—easy to pitch and comfortable for a great night’s sleep.

Yes—breakfast and dinner are always included. Lunch is purchased at Kruger picnic sites. Expect braai, potjie, pap & chakalaka, fresh salads and our homemade bread. Vegetarian/vegan on request (please notify in advance).

Moderate fitness is sufficient. You should be able to carry your bag, pitch a tent and step in/out of the vehicle. No strenuous hiking unless specifically requested.

We use an enclosed, air‑conditioned vehicle for multi‑day camping safaris to ensure comfort during long days (open vehicles can be very hot in summer and cold in winter). We still stop frequently for sightings and photos, and prioritise excellent viewing angles.

Maximum 4 guests per vehicle—for better views, more time with your guide and a quiet, intimate safari.

We select camps based on wildlife activity and availability. Common choices: Maroela (quiet, big‑cat region), Satara (excellent lion territory), Lower Sabie (river views) and Skukuza (central). We adapt the route to maximise your wildlife time.

Minimum age is 16. Participatory camping requires responsibility and the ability to follow instructions—traits younger children may not yet have.

Not included: lunch, soft drinks & alcohol, personal snacks, shop purchases, and optional SANParks activities (e.g., night drives/walks). We keep pricing transparent—no hidden extras.

Travellers who want hands‑on adventure, authentic bush immersion, small groups, campfire evenings, genuine food and shared responsibility. If you prefer spas, plunge pools and private butlers, a lodge safari will be a better fit.

All camping safaris depart and return exclusively from Kruger Park Hostel. We do not offer pickups or drop‑offs at other venues.

  • Day 1: Departs between 5–6am (slightly later in winter).
  • Day 2: Often begins around 4am in summer (later in winter).
  • Day 3: Returns to the hostel in the late afternoon—timing depends on sightings.

No. This is a wild ecosystem, not a zoo. That said, Kruger’s wildlife densities are outstanding and our small‑group agility helps maximise your odds.

Kruger hosts around 148 mammal species, 500+ bird species and 118 reptile species, plus amphibians, fish and countless insects and plants—making it one of the most biodiverse reserves in Africa.

Enormous: nearly 2 million hectares, about 350 km north‑to‑south and 65 km east‑to‑west—one of Africa’s largest protected areas.

Kruger (South Africa): Year‑round sightings, huge biodiversity, great infrastructure and value-for-money — ideal for first‑timers and wildlife lovers who want variety and access.

Masai Mara (Kenya): Smaller but dense big‑cat territory; iconic migration river crossings in season (Aug–Oct); open grassland landscapes.

Serengeti (Tanzania): Vast plains and the Great Migration moving throughout the year; spectacular scale and remoteness. Each destination is superb — just with different strengths and seasons.

Lion's in the Kruger Park

We've aimed to provide a comprehensive safari experience. Please ensure you have personal essentials and arrange transportation before your safari. Embark on your adventure with KPH Safaris today!

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