The majority of people who visit South Africa don’t really know the differences between going to the Kruger National Park, or the Greater Kruger Park. While they’re practically identical in terms of flora and fauna, they can be quite different in many other ways. As a guide who has worked in both sections I can easily recommend them both. It all comes down to your budget first of all, and secondly what level of knowledge you have or would like to gain in terms of the different animals you may encounter on your adventure. Let me give you a quick description of the two.
Kruger National Park-
The Kruger National Park was laid out and established as a result of a huge decline in animal numbers because of hunting. The area incorporated in the national park was and is run by the state. The South African national parks board (Sanparks) is responsible for the running of the park and enforce the set of rules and regulations for visitors to abide by.
Greater Kruger Park-
Along the western boundary of the Kruger National Park were a number of privately owned farms that were not included in the National Park once it was established all those years ago. These farms were separated from each other and from the park by fences. A number of these areas have since joined the Kruger Park and remain privately owned but the most important factor is that animals can move freely between the two.
Kruger National Park-
1.Run by the state
2.Visitors can drive their own vehicles around the park in search of animals
3.Can be a huge amount of vehicles at any animal sighting
4.Offers self catering although there are a number of restaurants in the park.
5.Accommodation is more basic but still comfy.
6.No off-road driving and you cannot leave you car
7.You can spend the whole day driving around at your own pace
8.More affordable
9.Camps are very large with a number of people in and out during the day
The Greater Kruger Park-
1.Land is privately owned
2.Only safari vehicles with rangers can drive on the land
3.Very strict to the amount of vehicles at a sighting.
4.The lodge or camp provides all your meals for you incl in the price
5.More luxurious
6.Your ranger can often drive off road to get you closer to animals
7.Safari times are set out and limited to about 3 hours
8.Prices vary but are generally more expensive
9.Camps are private and usually smaller with a limited number of people
So which is for you?
It all depends on your own set of requirements. If you prefer to drive your own vehicle around all day in search of animals and stopping and enjoying the scenery but don’t mind the busy roads and bigger more basic camps, then the National park side is for you. It may be easier on your wallet in the long run.
If you prefer to be driven around by your experienced ranger and spend the rest of the day relaxing by the pool, more luxurious meals and accommodation then the Greater Kruger Park may be for you.