Kruger National Park or private reserves?
Baseline decision available
The Decision in One Line
Private reserves offer more; Kruger offers value
What This Depends On
Key Assumptions
Private reserves offer off-road, night drives, and walking safaris not available in Kruger.
High confidencePrivate reserves cost 3-5x more than Kruger self-drive or rest camps.
High confidenceWildlife populations are shared between Kruger and adjacent private reserves.
High confidenceThis might change if...
If budget is primary concern, Kruger self-drive provides exceptional value.
If leopard sightings are priority, Sabi Sands has the best odds in Africa.
If wanting the full safari experience with guides, private reserves deliver.
If combining with self-drive adventure, Kruger fits the approach better.
Trade-offs to Understand
What you gain
+
Kruger: Self-drive flexibility and value+
Kruger: Large park with diverse habitats+
Private: Off-road tracking and positioningWhat you accept
-
Kruger: On-road only, no night drives-
Kruger: More vehicles at sightings-
Private: 3-5x higher costsEvidence to Know
Private reserves offer off-road, night drives, and walking safaris not available in Kruger.
Well-established pattern
Safari planningPrivate reserves cost 3-5x more than Kruger self-drive or rest camps.
Well-established pattern
Safari planningWildlife populations are shared between Kruger and adjacent private reserves.
Well-established pattern
Safari planningKruger: Self-drive flexibility and value
Trade-off considerationKruger: On-road only, no night drives
Trade-off considerationRelated Decisions
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