The southern area of South Africa’s most famous game reserve, Kruger National Park, is separated from lush farmland by the Crocodile River, a popular area for spotting crocodiles, playful hippos and thirsty wildlife gathering along the banks. This region, known as the ‘Southern Circle’, is renowned for its excellent game viewing and high concentrations of rhinos and lions, with different prides displaying fascinating hunting techniques and behaviours. Near the Hippo Pool, visitors can also discover ancient San rock paintings that offer insight into the area’s rich cultural heritage. The Southern Kruger features magnificent landscapes of African bushveld and open savannah, dotted with acacia trees and seasonal waterholes attracting diverse wildlife. Popular activities include guided game drives, birdwatching and photography, making this one of the park’s most rewarding safari regions.
Set at the heart of South Africa’s largest and most famous game reserve, Central Kruger is home to large numbers of lions, hyenas, cheetah, leopards, buffalo, wildebeest, elephants, zebra, and birds of prey. The Olifants River flows through the region, a popular bathing and drinking site for hippos, elephants, and other mammals. Visitors can explore the area by way of guided game drives, bush walks, bird walks, and night drives. The area is also conveniently close to the Masorini archaeological site, an excavated ruin that dates back to the late Iron Age known to be a trading post for iron products by the Ba-Phalaborwa people. Other popular attractions easily accessible from the region include the spectacular Mac Mac Falls and the quaint historic town, Pilgrim’s Rest.
