From Johannesburg International Airport, board a short flight to Hoedspruit Airport where you will be met and transferred to your lodge in the Greater Kruger National Park. Upon arrival, settle in and perhaps enjoy a light lunch if there is time, before embarking on your first thrilling game drive into this world renowned park.

Greater Kruger National Park, which now also encompasses many of the adjacent private game reserves with which it shares a fenceless border, is one of the world’s most pristine wilderness sanctuaries. Opened in 1926 and home to over 80 mammal species and more than 360 types of birdlife, what makes Kruger so popular is the ease with which you can enjoy up close and personal encounters, while staying in some of Africa’s most warm and welcoming lodges.

Today, enjoy both early morning and evening game drives in 4×4 safari vehicles, accompanied by experienced field guides and trackers, in search of the Big 5 and more (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino).

Rise early for a morning game drive and discover Kruger at its best: herds of meandering elephants slowly chewing on mopane leaves, prides of lions sweeping the horizon for unsuspecting antelope or even a lazy leopard snoozing on a tree branch overhead. Savour a hot chocolate as you watch the sun come up, then return to the lodge for a delicious cooked breakfast. As the heat of the day hits, cool off in the pool or take a well earned nap in your room before the afternoon’s activities begin.

On your second game drive of the day, keep a look out for some of the park’s other popular mammals, such as majestic kudu, zebra, playful warthogs and gentle giraffes. This evening, enjoy an alfresco boma dinner close to the roaring fire, as you listen to your guide regale incredible tales from their years in the bush.

On your final full day, perhaps enjoy a lie in and take your time over a leisurely breakfast overlooking the ever changing vistas of the African bush. Many lodges have resident monkeys and antelope, which make for fun mealtimes!

As you embark on your final afternoon game drive, your guide will make a point to search for any wildlife that have proven elusive thus far, before stopping for sundowners at a scenic lookout point. As you return back to camp, enjoy dinner under the stars one final time as you reflect on your incredible time in Kruger.

There should be time for one final game activity before you say goodbye to the amazing staff at the lodge, before being driven to the airport for your return flight to Johannesburg.