Duration
5-Day
Kruger National Park, South Africa
5-Day Budget Kruger Big Five Safari from Johannesburg
Overview
Embark on our unforgettable 5-Day Budget Kruger Big Five Safari from Johannesburg, combining thrilling wildlife encounters with breathtaking scenery. Stay at a comfortable lodge near Kruger National Park and enjoy expertly guided safaris in search of the Big Five. From sunset drives in Greater Kruger to full-day game drives and the stunning Panorama Route, this adventure offers the perfect balance of nature, excitement, and value.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Johannesburg to Johannesburg (Johannesburg)
Via Greater Kruger, Kruger NP, Panorama Route
Country & park
South Africa / Kruger National Park
Style
Shared safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
6 years
Activities
game drives & evening/night game drives
Accommodation
Kruger Adventure Lodge - Budget lodge near Hazyview (Town)
Meals
Day 1: Dinner Included; Day 2: Breakfast & Dinner Included; Breakfast & Dinner Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Solo travelers
Can join this group tour
Rates
Rates Per Person
USD
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
$1,375 USD
$1,276 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
$1,375 USD
$1,276 USD
Jan 1, 2028 - Dec 31, 2028
$1,430 USD
$1,320 USD
Before booking
Important To Know
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
Single travelers can join this group tour, but it requires a minimum of 2 people to run.
This tour is not available to groups larger than 3 people.
This tour is offered in US dollars (USD).
This tour accepts children who are 6 years and older. Children under 12 receive a discount.
Quote flow
Request Guidance
We advise requesting quotes from 3 operators ()
Requests are sent directly to the tour operator
If preferred, you can contact the tour operator directly
Route
country
South Africa
Start
Johannesburg (Day 1)
Day 1
Greater Kruger
Day 2
Kruger NP
Day 3
Panorama Route (Highlight)
Day 4
Kruger NP
End
Johannesburg (Johannesburg) (Day 5)
Tour Features
Budget tour
This budget tour uses lodges.
Shared tour
On this shared tour, you will join a group of other travelers. Max 3 people per vehicle.
Can start any day
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
Cannot be customized
The contents of this tour cannot be changed.
Suitable for single travelers
Single travelers can join this group tour, but it requires a minimum of 2 people to run.
6
Minimum age of 6 years
The minimum age for this tour is 6 years.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: game drives & evening/night game drives
Game drives: open-sided 4x4 vehicle
Getting around: open-sided 4x4 vehicle & normal 4x4 vehicle
This operator can select your international flights, but you'll have to book them yourself
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Accommodation & Meals
Day 1-2
Kruger Adventure Lodge
Budget lodge near Hazyview (Town)
Day 1: Dinner Included; Day 2: Breakfast & Dinner Included
Day 3
Kruger Adventure Lodge
Budget lodge less than 1hr drive from Panorama Route (Highlight) – Breakfast & Dinner Included
Breakfast & Dinner Included
Day 4
Kruger Adventure Lodge
Budget lodge near Hazyview (Town) – Breakfast & Dinner Included
Breakfast & Dinner Included
Day 5
End of tour
(No accommodation)
Breakfast Included
Day By Day
Tour step
Arrival
You'll be collected from the airport. Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 1
Johannesburg to Kruger & Sunset Safari
Your adventure begins with a morning transfer from Johannesburg to the Kruger region, traveling through scenic landscapes as you leave the city behind. Upon arrival at the Adventure Lodge near Kruger National Park, you’ll check in and have time to relax before the excitement begins. In the late afternoon, head out on a sunset game drive in the Greater Kruger area. This is one of the best times to spot wildlife, as animals become more active in the cooler hours of the day. With the guidance of an experienced ranger, you’ll search for iconic species, including elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and predators such as lions and leopards. As the sun sets over the African bush, enjoy the magical atmosphere and changing colors of the landscape. After the drive, return to the lodge for dinner and a restful evening, preparing for the adventures ahead. Budget lodge located near Hazyview (Town) Dinner (Breakfast & lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Greater Kruger Stay: Kruger Adventure Lodge Budget lodge located near Hazyview (Town) Meals: Dinner (Breakfast & lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2
Full Kruger Safari
Start your day with an early breakfast before entering Kruger National Park for a full-day safari experience. Traveling in an open safari vehicle, you’ll explore diverse habitats that are home to an incredible variety of wildlife. Your guide will navigate through prime game-viewing areas, increasing your chances of spotting the famous Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo — along with many other species such as zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. The early morning hours are particularly rewarding, as predators are often still active from the night before. You’ll enjoy breaks at designated rest camps within the park, where you can stretch your legs and take in the surroundings. Throughout the day, your guide will share insights into animal behavior and the park’s ecosystems. After an exciting day in the bush, return to the lodge for dinner and relaxation. Budget lodge located near Hazyview (Town) Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Kruger National Park Stay: Kruger Adventure Lodge Budget lodge located near Hazyview (Town) Meals: Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3
Panorama Route Exploration
After breakfast, set off on a full-day excursion along the spectacular Panorama Route, one of South Africa’s most scenic drives. This day offers a change of pace from wildlife viewing, focusing instead on dramatic landscapes, viewpoints, and natural wonders. Visit iconic highlights such as God’s Window, where sweeping views stretch across the Lowveld, and Bourke’s Luck Potholes, famous for their unique rock formations carved by centuries of water erosion. You’ll also explore the Blyde River Canyon, one of the largest green canyons in the world, offering breathtaking vistas and photo opportunities. Along the way, there may be stops at charming local markets or viewpoints, allowing you to experience the region’s culture and beauty. After a full day of exploration, return to the lodge in the evening for dinner and a relaxed night. Budget lodge located less than 1hr drive from Panorama Route (Highlight) Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Panorama Route (Highlight) Stay: Kruger Adventure Lodge Budget lodge located less than 1hr drive from Panorama Route (Highlight) Meals: Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 4
Full Kruger Safari
Enjoy breakfast before heading back into Kruger National Park for another full-day safari. Each game drive is unique, as wildlife movements change daily, offering new opportunities for sightings and memorable encounters. Today, your guide may explore different sections of the park, increasing your chances of spotting animals you may have missed earlier. Keep your camera ready for close encounters with elephants at waterholes, herds of antelope grazing across the plains, and predators resting or on the move. The variety of landscapes — from open savannah to dense bush — provides a rich and ever-changing backdrop for your safari experience. Your guide’s knowledge will enhance the journey, helping you understand the delicate balance of this ecosystem. After a rewarding day, return to the lodge for dinner and your final night in the Kruger region. Budget lodge located near Hazyview (Town) Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Kruger National Park Stay: Kruger Adventure Lodge Budget lodge located near Hazyview (Town) Meals: Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5
Morning Safari & Return to Johannesburg
On your final day, wake up early for a morning game drive, one last chance to experience the magic of the African bush. The early hours are ideal for wildlife sightings, as animals are active before the heat of the day sets in. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and keep an eye out for any final Big Five sightings. After the drive, return to the lodge for breakfast and time to freshen up before departure. You’ll then begin your transfer back to Johannesburg, reflecting on the incredible experiences and unforgettable moments from your safari adventure. This 5-day journey offers the perfect introduction to Kruger National Park, combining wildlife, scenery, and comfort at an excellent value — leaving you with memories to last a lifetime. Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Johannesburg Airport (Johannesburg) Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Tour step
End of tour
Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost. You'll be dropped off at the airport.
Included
Park fees (For non-residents)
All activities (Unless labeled as optional)
All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)
A professional driver/guide
All transportation (Unless labeled as optional)
All Taxes/VAT
Roundtrip airport transfer
Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Drinking water (On all days)
Excluded
International flights (From/to home)
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Some meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Getting There
This tour starts and ends in Johannesburg
This operator can select your international flights, but you'll have to book them yourself
Fly to/from O.R. Tambo Airport (JNB - Check price) in Johannesburg
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost
Offered by
Knap Tours
4.8 operator rating
49 reviews
Knap Tours is a safari travel company specializing in budget and mid-range tours across South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia. The company offers game drives, safari walks, cultural tours, and reliable private and shared transfer services. Guests are taken to iconic destinations including Kruger, Madikwe, Panorama Route, Garden Route, Okavango Delta, Chobe, Sossusvlei, and the Namib Desert, combining wildlife, landscapes, culture, and seamless travel experiences.
Office In
South Africa
Size
20-50 employees (Founded in 2022)
Member Of
SATSA & ATA
Tour Types
Customizable private tours and fixed group tours
Destinations
Botswana, Eswatini, Namibia, South Africa, Zimbabwe
Traveler feedback
Reviews
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5Macdonald was extremely friendly, patient and knowledgeable.
We had a wonderful Winelands tour with Macdona with Knap tours. We were picked up on time and enjoyed our drive to the Stellenbosch area. We visited 3 wineries and had delicious tastings at each. Macdonald also brought us to a restaurant in the town of Stellenbosch, The Wine Glass, and we had a wonderful conversation with Macdonald at lunch. The wineries visited were wonderful. The last one also had olive oils to sample. The Vineyards were top tier and we enoyed the beautiful scenery during the drive. We also used Knap tours to pick us up at the airport and bring us to our hotel when we arrived in Cape Town. Macdonald greeted us after we exoted baggage cllaim with our name on a sign,.no waiting! We highly this awesime service. We already have booked our airport drop offs with them as well.
Margaret Zimmer · United States
A service that puts you at ease
From start to finish, the process was seamless. Contacted them initially to enquire about a transfer and they responded within 20 mins with all the information needed. Price was so reasonable in comparison to other transfer options. A WhatsApp group was made the day before with times and information provided. Simba transferred us from Cape Town to Sanbona wildlife reserve and his service was exceptional. Arrived promptly, put us at ease the entire journey, allowing us to stop when needed, providing great tunes and giving us really interesting information on the area. Took a beautiful scenic route. Cannot recommend enough and would advise checking with this company first before taking the transfers offered by the places you are going as they are usually double in price.
Kerri · Ireland
Brilliant organisation at very short notice
Julian put together our last-minute three-day safari trip to Namibia at one day’s notice and stayed in touch to make sure all the arrangements went smoothly (they did). He responded immediately to our initial enquiry. We were met at the airport by our driver/guide Jeff, who was excellent, knowledgeable and attentive, so our experience in Etosha National Park was truly amazing. We would thoroughly recommend Knap Tours.
David · United Kingdom
Amazing experience!
Incredible experience on the Garden Route with guide Macdonald.
Marcio · Brazil
Practical answers
Tour FAQs
Are rates charged per person?
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
Which currency is this tour priced in?
This tour is offered in US dollars (USD).
Can children join this tour?
This tour accepts children who are 6 years and older. Children under 12 receive a discount.
Can this tour start on my preferred date?
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
Can the itinerary be customized?
The contents of this tour cannot be changed.
Where do travelers stay during this tour?
Kruger Adventure Lodge - Budget lodge near Hazyview (Town). Meals: Day 1: Dinner Included; Day 2: Breakfast & Dinner Included
Where does this tour start and end?
This tour starts and ends in Johannesburg
Are airport transfers included?
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Operator policy
Terms and Conditions
Disclaimer
This tour is offered by Knap Tours , not SafariBookings.
This operator reserves the right to change rates advertised on SafariBookings.
This group tour requires a minimum of 2 people to run.
The exact order, contents and rates of this tour are subject to availability.
If an accommodation is fully booked, the operator will suggest a comparable alternative.
This tour is subject to the terms & conditions of Knap Tours .
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