3-Days in the Kruger Park
Over the years, I’ve guided many guests on 3-day safaris in and around Kruger National Park. It’s a short trip, yes — but if you plan it right, it’s enough time to experience some of the best this region has to offer.
This blog isn’t an official itinerary, just an idea based on what I’ve seen work well in the past. Every trip is different — that’s the beauty of the bush. If you’re considering a 3-day safari, I hope this gives you a better sense of what to expect.
And if you’d like help planning your own, I’m happy to share what I’ve learned and guide you in the right direction.
What you can expect during 3 days in the Kruger
With three days on safari, you won’t cover massive distances — and that’s a good thing if you ask me. The goal is to slow down, spend time in nature, and enjoy a few solid game drives without rushing from the one side of the park to the other (which you won’t mak anyway).
A typical 3-day safari should focus on:
4 game drives (1 in the afternoon of arrival, 2 on the full second day and 1 in the morning of the departure day).
A chance to relax and not feel the pressure of the available time.
Having a coffee or drinks stop in the right spot.
The key is to choose the right location from the start, so you’re not spending half your time getting there.
An example itinerary for a 3-day visit
Arrival Day
Start in Hoedspruit, this can be from one of the lodges or from Eastgate Airport (HDS).
Drive to the basecamp for the visit. With a 3-day visit I recommend sticking to one single camp. Tamboti Tented Camp for example, which is not a far drive from the first gate (Orpen).
Settle in, and offload luggage.
First afternoon game drive
Back at the camp before darkness to make food on the fire.
First full safari day
Wake-up call before sunrise
Morning game drive (this is when you’ve got the best chance of seeing predators on the move)
Bush breakfast at one of the picnic sites.
Rest or walk through the fenced camp
Afternoon drive with a stop for sundowners
Dinner at camp
Departure day
Early wake up (first light)
Morning game drive (this is when you’ve got the best chance of seeing predators on the move)
Bush breakfast at one of the picnic sites.
Making sure all luggage is packed.
Extended drive on the way out of the park (time allowing)
Drop off at Eastgate or different spot
What animals can you expect to see?
You’re in Big 5 country, so there’s always a chance of seeing lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo — but no one can guarantee sightings. What I can say is that in the right areas, with the right timing, even short trips can be very rewarding.
Over the years, I’ve had guests see more in one afternoon than others do in a week. That’s just how the bush works — it’s unpredictable, and that’s part of the magic.
If you are into birding, there’s also enough time to take it slow during the safaris and focus on birds. And even trees and insects can be fascinating at times.
My recommendation to make a 3-day visit work
Keep it simple: One lodge or area is enough and this saves you the time of having to pack and move to another camp.
Plan your flights accordingly: By arriving and leaving at the right time, you allow plenty of time for safari on your arrival and departure day.
Travel light: Mornings are chilly, afternoons are warm — pack accordingly. Especially when you are on my open safari vehicle.
Go with a guide (me): In general you’ll get more from the experience with someone who knows the area well.
Where to begin a 3-day visit to the Kruger
Most guests for a 3-day trip fly in via Hoedspruit, Skukuza, or Nelspruit. These small airports are close to some of the best reserves in the region. Transfers are usually arranged through the lodge. Driving is an option too — if that’s your plan, I’ll help you find a good stopover or lodge that’s easy to reach. Most of my guests start their safari with me at Rafiki Bush Lodge in Hoedspruit.
Want me to plan your 3-day Kruger Park safari?
If you’re thinking of doing a 3-day safari and don’t know where to start, feel free to reach out. I’ve guided all over Kruger and the Greater Kruger, and I’m happy to help you find the right lodge, travel plan, and pace for your trip.