50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Our first trip in January 2017 was so great we returned in June and are going back a third time.
When we moved to Swaziland we knew we'd be close to Kruger and we figured we'd make one or two trips before our time in this part of the world came to an end. What we didn't plan on was how much we enjoyed our first trip there (in January 2017). Because of this trip there was a second one in June, and another upcoming trip confirmed for December.
For the January trip, a three night stay, we opted to stay inside the park at Skukuza and we didn't regret this decision. The self-catering accommodation was comfortable, well built, located next to a river allowing for additional sightings of wild game, and secure. The weather was great for two of the days and a bit misty and rainy on the other, but that didn't slow us down. In fact, due to the recent history with the drought we enjoyed a bit of rain.
One distinct advantage of being inside the park is the ability to begin your touring earlier than those looking to come in from the outside. Despite having the option to join a guided tour we self-drove all weekend as it gave us flexibility and our own vehicle was better suited for my elderly father who accompanied us. One benefit of taking a guided tour is they know where the animals tend to hang out and they use radios to communicate.
Despite the fact we blindly drove around for two full days and half of a third we saw a large variety of animals and birds. People asked us, "Did you see the big five?", as if that was the goal. Our goal was to experience the park, see what we could see, and enjoy the memories that came along as a result. We saw four of the big five (missed a cheetah) but my lasting memory will be the two male kudus fighting for territory or a female on the other side of the river as we relaxed at the end of the day. A large herd of elephants crossing the same river the day before is also a lasting memory. On day two we had a young, solitary, bull elephant diplomatically tell us to back up was a bit of a wake up call that perhaps we shouldn't have lingered as long as we did taking his picture. I guess he didn't like paparazzi. These are the memories we went looking for and we found them.
I'm not much of a birder, but after you've photographed the big game, you start looking for something different. If you're a birder there's plenty there. The hornbill sifting through elephant feces remains my favorite from the first trip.
It's difficult for me to be enamored with the scenery at Kruger because I've been to places that are much more scenic. You don't really go to Kruger for the scenery, you go to see wildlife. The topography is unremarkable when compared to other parts of Mpumalanga Province.
Lastly, we had the opportunity to engage with other tourists and we found several who had a similar mindset and outlook about the pace as we did. In fact, everyone we spoke to was pleasant, relaxed, and willing to engage. You will meet people from all over the world there, and there's a reason for that, it's simply worth going to see.
US
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Review about Tsavo West National Park by Kam
Ride through while in the train to Mombasa. Saw animals from a distance but didn't get a real feel for the park.
US
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Review about Lake Nakuru National Park by Kam
A more lush area, animals are harder to see at times but very beautiful.
US
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Review about Amboseli National Park by Kam
Not as many animals as Masai Mara, different much drier terrain.
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Review about Masai Mara National Reserve by Em
Amazing to see the migration herds of wildebeest. Also great lion viewing and diversity of other wildlife.
FR
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Impressive
It is difficult for me to evaluate the Kruger Park alone because my trip is to spend two weeks including three other safaris.
The fact of traveling in 4x4 of 6-8 people is appreciable, the diversity and the landscapes there are an asset for who want to have fun with his camera. Indeed, we had the great chance to see the Big Five (Twice on two safaris .... incredible !!!).
What sets it apart is the immensity of the park as you can stay away from the wildlife by driving long distances, or take the cross-roads to get close to it. Each species takes ownership of its geographical area, you can also target the ones you want to see by contacting the Rangers who keep each other informed of their migrations, and their knowledge is a wealth of information.
If this is your first safari, this is the must-see park and it will be necessary to devote at least two days to fill up memories.
Balance sheet:
A true happiness, this park is immense, truly immense; so it all depends on how long you stayed there, or the luck you have.
Trust the Rangers to understand and learn.
This park is necessary for the preservation of wildlife.
Little more, the month of January is calmer.
One thing is for sure, I would go back someday.
65+ years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Review about Tsavo East National Park by Ramakant Jena
Unfortunately, there was a temporary drought in this reserve during my visit. Lots of animals have moved elsewhere as a result.
NL
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Wonderful time
This safari was very nice, I had a wonderful time! We saw the big five and lot of other animals. The guide/driver was a very nice guy and he knew a lot about the animals. Even when there was a problem with the car one evening, he did an excellent job. The next morning everything was all right again, ready to bring us to the next game drive. I had a very nice experience!
NL
20-35 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Campsite
The campsite is simple but fine. We were not welcomed in a friendly way (not allowed to select our own spot while there were no other campers), but the owner came to do this. Each day a nice fire was lighted next to our tent. During payment the rate was different than stated in the reservation but after some discussion this was also solved.
NO
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Fantastic country, wonderful trip!
First of all: go to safari in Uganda. What a beautiful country! So incredibly many animals, an amazing and very varied nature, and last but not least - the chance to go gorilla and chimp tracking.
Both those are qualities of Uganda, and not Matoke per se. The good thing is that Matoke is specialized on Uganda, and the program they had put together was excellent. Very varied and perfect pace. Enough stuff happening but also enough time to relax.
Our guide, Mike, was excellent. He is very knowledgeable, and you can really tell that he too loves the animals and the nature. He is easy-going and relaxed, and I really liked that he also told us a lot about local culture, food, etc.
We went for Matoke's 13 day Best of Uganda Budget Trip. What made it budget was mostly the fact that we were staying in tents - but these were permanent tents on very nice safari lodges, and all these lodges had communal toilets and showers in good condition. Food was also good. Only thing I was a little bit disappointed about was the car, it had definitely seen better days (several minor malfunctions), so I would enquire about this before booking.