Intelligence Base
Park Rules & Vital Information
The regulations, speed limits and ethical code every Kruger visitor is held to.
Field Protocol
Entry Strategy
2026 Manual
2026 Strategy
100% Cashless
Kruger is now fully cashless. Carry Visa and Mastercard.
Safety Buffer
Aim to reach camp 30 minutes before closing to avoid heavy fines.
Field Facts
- Skukuza is the largest camp and the park's 'capital', with shops, a museum, and even an airport!
- Lower Sabie Rest Camp is famous for its stunning views over the Sabie River, where you can see animals from your porch.
- Olifants Camp is perched on a cliff, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Olifants River below.
- Some smaller Bushveld Camps, like Biyamiti or Talamati, don't have fences, so animals can roam freely through the camp at night!
- Most camps have a camp shop where you can buy supplies, curios, and a map to plan your next drive.
- The park was first proclaimed in 1898, but it was to protect animals from hunting, not for tourists!
- It was originally called the Sabie Game Reserve. It was renamed Kruger National Park in 1926.
- Evidence of ancient humans, including stone tools, dating back over 500,000 years has been found in the park.
- There are over 250 known cultural heritage sites in Kruger, including ancient rock art.
- The first motorists entered the park in 1927. Imagine those early safari adventures on bumpy dirt roads!
- Never get out of your car except in designated areas like camps or picnic spots. You are in the animals' home!
- The speed limit is 50 km/h on tar roads and 40 km/h on gravel roads. Driving slowly helps you spot more animals and keeps them safe.
- Always keep your windows up when you are close to predators like lions or leopards.
- Do not feed any animals. It's bad for their health and can make them aggressive.
- Be aware of monkeys and baboons in camps. They are clever and will try to steal your food if you leave it out!
- You can stay in traditional round huts called 'rondavels', a classic safari experience.
- For a more luxurious stay, some camps offer large guesthouses with multiple bedrooms and private kitchens.
- If you're adventurous, you can camp in your own tent or caravan at most of the main rest camps.
- Safari Tents are a fun option! They are permanent tents with real beds and sometimes even a bathroom and kitchen.
- For a really wild experience, you can stay at a private lodge, which offers guided game drives and catered meals.
- Wear neutral-colored clothing, like beige, green, or brown. Bright colors can sometimes scare animals away.
- Pack light layers. It can be cool on early morning drives but get very hot during the day.
- A hat and sunglasses are essential to protect you from the strong African sun.
- Comfortable walking shoes are a must for when you are in camps or on guided walks.
- Don't forget a warm jacket or fleece, even in summer, for the evening and early morning game drives.
- Binoculars are the most important item! They help you see animals that are far away.
- A camera with a good zoom lens to capture all the amazing wildlife you'll see.
- An animal and bird identification guide book can make your sightings even more exciting.
- Sunscreen and insect repellent are very important for your protection.
- Pack a flashlight or headlamp. It gets very dark in the camps at night and it's useful for spotting nocturnal animals.
- The best times to see animals are early in the morning and late in the afternoon when they are most active.
- Drive slowly and have everyone in the car look in different directions. The more eyes, the better!
- Look for changes in the bush. A flick of an ear or a swish of a tail can give away an animal's location.
- Spend time at waterholes and rivers, as animals often gather there to drink, especially during the dry season.
- Look for a 'traffic jam' of cars. It usually means a very exciting sighting like a lion or leopard!
Ethical Code
Roads & Vehicles
Stay in your vehicle at all times, unless in a designated area (like a camp or picnic spot).
No part of your body may protrude from the vehicle's window or sunroof.
Stick to the official roads. Driving off-road or on roads marked "No Entry" is not allowed.
Adhere to speed limits: 50 km/h on tar roads and 40 km/h on gravel roads.
After-hours driving is not permitted. You must be in your camp by the gate closing time.
Motorcycles, bicycles, skateboards, and roller skates are prohibited.
Wildlife & Conservation
Never feed the animals. It is dangerous for both you and the animals.
Do not get out of your vehicle to get a better view or photo. Maintain a safe distance.
Do not disturb the animals in any way (e.g., loud noises, shouting, or trying to make them move).
The use of drones is strictly forbidden in the park.
Do not remove any plants, animals, or natural artifacts (like stones or wood).
Littering is a serious offense. Keep your trash with you until you find a bin.
General Conduct & Safety
Be considerate of other visitors. Do not make excessive noise or play loud music.
Pets are not allowed in the park.
All firearms and dangerous weapons must be declared and sealed upon entry.
Kruger is a malaria area. Consult a medical professional about taking precautions.
Always obey instructions from SANParks officials.