Kruger Camp Route Planner: 7-Day South to North Safari

7 Day South to North Safari: Planning a 7-day safari through the Kruger National Park is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the vast diversity of South Africa’s most iconic wildlife sanctuary. Starting in the game-rich southern regions and gradually making your way north unveils changing ecosystems, fewer vehicles, and an incredible variety of animal sightings. This route planner will help you navigate the best rest camps, game viewing routes, and daily tips to ensure an unforgettable Kruger Park safari.

Day 1: Berg-en-Dal Rest Camp – A Quiet Start Near Malelane Gate

Entry Gate: Malelane Gate
Accommodation: Berg-en-Dal Rest Camp
Suggested Route: H3
Travel Time: ±45 minutes from the gate

Tucked away near the granite outcrops of the southwestern corner of Kruger, Berg-en-Dal offers a calm introduction to the park. The region is known for its black and white rhino sightings, leopard activity, and tranquil drives along the Matjulu loop.

Tip: Join a guided sunset drive to spot nocturnal predators like hyena and civet.

Day 2: Lower Sabie – River Views and Big Cat Territory

Route: Drive east along the S110 and join the H4-1 to Lower Sabie
Accommodation: Lower Sabie Rest Camp
Travel Time: ±3 hours (longer with stops)

The H4-1 road is arguably the most productive drive for predators in the entire park. With its lush riverine forest, open grasslands, and access to the Sabie River, expect sightings of lions, elephants, hippos, and a variety of bird species.

Don’t Miss:

Day 3: Satara – The Lion Capital of Kruger

Route: H10 north to Tshokwane, then H1-3 to Satara
Accommodation: Satara Rest Camp
Travel Time: ±4 hours

This central region is famous for lion, leopard, and cheetah sightings. The open plains make it easy to spot wildlife, and the network of surrounding roads like the S100 and S126 provide excellent game viewing opportunities.

Insider Tip: Early morning drives on the S100 often yield lion prides on the road.

Day 4: Olifants – Where the Views Take Your Breath Away

Route: H1-4 to Olifants
Accommodation: Olifants Rest Camp
Travel Time: ±2.5 hours

Perched on a cliff above the Olifants River, this camp offers panoramic views unlike anywhere else in Kruger. Watch elephants, buffalo, and hippos below while enjoying a drink at the camp lookout.

Highlight: Book a guided morning walk to explore the bush on foot with armed rangers.

Day 5: Letaba – Elephant Country and Peaceful Rivers

Route: H1-5 from Olifants to Letaba
Accommodation: Letaba Rest Camp
Travel Time: ±1.5 hours

Letaba is an ideal mid-park stop, offering shade from tall trees and a gentle, relaxing atmosphere. It’s home to the Elephant Hall Museum, showcasing the park’s largest tuskers and elephant conservation.

Wildlife Tip: Look out for bushbuck, vervet monkeys, and fish eagles near the camp fence.

Day 6: Shingwedzi – Remote and Authentic

Route: H1-6 northbound
Accommodation: Shingwedzi Rest Camp
Travel Time: ±3.5 hours

This camp feels worlds away from the busier south. It’s known for mopane woodlands, large elephant bulls, and fewer vehicles. Game drives along the Shingwedzi River loop can produce sightings of lion, buffalo, and even sable antelope.

Suggestion: Visit Kanniedood Dam in the early morning or late afternoon.

Day 7: Punda Maria – A Northern Gem

Route: H1-7 to Punda Maria
Accommodation: Punda Maria Rest Camp
Travel Time: ±2.5 hours

The northernmost camp is a birder’s paradise and gateway to the lush Pafuri region. It’s one of the best areas for nyala, Sharpe’s grysbok, and over 350 bird species including the elusive Pel’s fishing owl.

Don’t Miss: Take a drive to Crook’s Corner at the confluence of South Africa, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe for unbeatable scenery and biodiversity.

Main Entry Gates

Rest Camp Gates

Tips for Planning Your Route

• Booking in Advance: Camps fill up quickly, especially in peak season. Book via SANParks or with Nhongo Safaris for a guided, stress-free experience.

• Fuel Up: Most main camps offer fuel, but always top up when you can.

• Cool Box: Useful for drinks and snacks between camps. You’ll find picnic sites along the way.

• Don’t rely on zoom alone – binoculars help pick up movement in the bush.

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Let Nhongo Safaris guide you on a 7 Day Kruger Safari from Johannesburg with expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and unforgettable moments. Visit www.nhongosafaris.com or check out our 7 Day Kruger Safari package.