The 3 Best Luxury Lodges Near Kruger National Park for Families

Take the kids on the adventure of a lifetime with a family holiday to Kruger National Park in northeastern South Africa. The glorious untamed landscape sprawls over 20,000 square kilometres and is an unspoilt tapestry of savannahs, woodlands and riverine forests.

Famed as one of the largest and most highly renowned game reserves in Africa, there are few better destinations to set off on a wildlife safari than Kruger National Park. The area is home to an exceptional array of species including lions, hippopotamuses and giraffes. 

With so many magnificent creatures to see, exploring Kruger is sure to be an unforgettable experience for every member of the family, young and old, big and small. While the prospect of going on a wildlife safari in such a highly-renowned park is incredibly exciting, planning the holiday can seem a daunting task.

One important factor in planning a family safari trip is deciding where to stay with the little ones. To make the process as easy as possible for you, we have put together a list of the best safari lodges near Kruger National Park for families to stay.

Family Safaris Near Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park is one of the best places to go on a family safari in the world. Catching the wonder in your child’s eyes as they gaze over some of the world’s most glorious creatures in an awe-inspiring landscape is a truly heartwarming experience. Not to mention the little ones’ excitement as they track the prints of some of their favourite animals. 

Even teenagers are sure to enjoy themselves on such a thrilling family holiday as they will have the incredible experience of spotting the biggest and best predators in the animal kingdom. Engaging in such special activities with your children creates a unique bond as you forge unforgettable memories together that will last a lifetime. 

Kruger National Park is a particularly excellent place to embark on a family safari as all of the animal kingdom’s most iconic creatures thrive here. The park is home to over 12,000 elephants, 27,000 African buffalo and 2,800 lions and is regarded as one of the best places in the world to see a leopard. 

What’s more, you’ll also find a phenomenal selection of luxury game lodges in greater Kruger National Park offering utmost comfort amidst the sensational landscape. 

Best Time to Visit Greater Kruger National Park For Families

Timing is everything when it comes to organising a trip to Greater Kruger National Park with the kids. So, one of the first things to consider when putting together your itinerary is to consider the best time to go on a safari holiday according to your family’s needs and preferences.

The dry months of May to September can be a wonderful time to explore the marvellous landscape of Greater Kruger National Park. These months are South Africa’s winter season, when the animals often gather around the waterholes during this period, making them very easy to spot. 

However, the flourishing vegetation and birdlife activity found between the summer months of November and February also offers great conditions for exploring the area. If you’re wanting the family to see the unspoilt landscape at its very quietest, you may alternatively opt to visit during the low season months of March and April. 

The Best Luxury Lodges Near Kruger National Park for Families

We have gathered together some key information on some spectacular family-friendly accommodation options in the area. Consider this a map of the finest Greater Kruger safari lodges for you to check out during your stay.

• andBeyond Kirkman’s Kamp

Nestled within the glorious landscapes of the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, andBeyond Kirkman’s Kamp is one of the best luxury game lodges near Kruger National Park. The lush accommodation is located in one of the finest wildlife viewing spots in the whole of South Africa.

The lodge is home to twelve intimate cottages, each of which boasts magnificent views over the Sand River, an area renowned for its rich elephant population. When it comes to sleeping arrangements, families with children aged sixteen and below can opt for a triple room that offers plenty of space for all.

This is certainly one of the best luxury resorts near Kruger National Park for those wishing to be truly immersed in the wildlife of the area. The Sabi Sands Game Reserve in which the cottages lie shares an unfenced boundary with Kruger National Park. 

As a consequence, the accommodation sees a constant stream of extraordinary creatures passing by, including cheetahs, lions and rhinos. 

While the majesty of the landscape speaks for itself, the guides at andBeyond Kirkman’s Kamp have a special talent for conveying the distinctiveness of the area to young children. Little ones between the ages of three and twelve can take part in the WILDchild programme. 

The activities of the children’s club vary depending on the season but can include everything from frog safaris to croquet and bug collecting to baking with the chefs in the kitchen. But don’t worry adults, you will be equally well cared for at this luxury lodge. 

Unwind after a day of exploring the reserve with a dip in the on-site pool. Alternatively, you may wish to sustain the excitement with a tournament on the tennis courts. Teenagers and parents will also be able to go on walking tours and pamper themselves with wellness treatments. 

With so many adult and child-friendly services on offer, it’s no wonder why andBeyond Kirkman’s Kamp is regarded as one of the best safari lodges in Kruger National Park.

• Lion Sands River Lodge

Lion Sands River Lodge is certainly one of the most incredible places to stay on a family safari to Kruger National Park. It offers the best of both worlds, serving up terrific wildlife sightings alongside a luxurious stay.

You will find this lodge in a stunning area of Sabi Sands Game Reserve. The site shares an unfenced border with Kruger National Park. So, a glorious array of creatures are constantly passing through the area as they roam freely between the protected areas.

The lodge itself delivers style and sophistication on the banks of a river. While this location offers stunning scenery, it also makes the accommodation better suited to families with older children, ten years and upwards. The lavish suites are soaked in natural light and exude a peaceful ambience.

The high thatched roof and rustic wooden accents provide a natural backdrop for the crisp-white furnishings, creating a stunning contrast. The sleek suites are exclusive and stylish, exuding a peaceful atmosphere with draped bedrooms and open seating areas, complete with a fireplace.

In the evenings, these tranquil communal areas offer an excellent place for families to relax and unwind. Throughout your stay, you and the family will be taken on daily safaris and guided walks to see the unique wildlife and landscapes of the area, including the Big Five. 

Lion Sands River Lodge has dedicated childcare facilities and safari programmes to keep the little ones entertained. Upon returning from a wildlife adventure, you can refresh and rejuvenate in the on-site swimming pool, health centre or gym facility. Alternatively, you can let your hair down in the private lounge and bar. 

However you choose to spend your time at the Lion Sands River Lodge, you’ll be left with no confusion as to why many view it as the best family accommodation in Kruger National Park. Its chic design serves up style and elegance, all the while remaining accessible and well-equipped for the little ones.

• Rockfig Safari Lodge

Family-owned and run, Rockfig Safari Lodge is a fantastic place to stay near Kruger National Park with children. Its six plush suites offer a cosy, intimate ambience while the exceptional on-site service guarantees that your every need is taken care of.

Set out on bi-daily game drives to explore the surrounding landscape of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, which lies adjacent to Kruger National Park. Without any age restrictions for guests, any and all families are welcome at this lush establishment.

Timbavati Game Reserve is famed for its population of white lions and outstanding leopard sightings. Despite all of the incredible animals lying just a stone’s throw away from the accommodation, guests need not worry, as a protective fence encircles the establishment to prevent any unwanted intrusions!

Rockfig Safari Lodge’s design seamlessly merges indoor and outdoor spaces, resulting in a chic accommodation that perfectly complements the surrounding untamed landscape. Its chalet-like suites feature a stylish colour scheme inspired by the local birdlife and vegetation. 

Notable features include indoor and outdoor showers, a private verandah and bespoke watercolour paintings. Another highlight is the glorious uninterrupted views over the Timbavati bushveld. 

Yet, it’s not just the amenities that make this accommodation one of the best lodges near Kruger National Park.  The accommodation provides terrific walking safaris during which you can enjoy the thrilling immersive experience of exploring Timbavati on foot. 

Despite offering a thrilling experience, the tours are completely safe. You will be in the capable hands of expert rangers and trackers who will be constantly interpreting the animal tracks, signs and sounds around you. This experience can be enjoyed by children fourteen years and over. 

Fret not if your little ones are too young for this. Your stay includes a private safari vehicle that gives you and your family the freedom to explore the area at your own pace, regardless of anyone’s age.

When it comes to dining, you can choose to eat in the stylish communal dining area with its long wooden table or in the seclusion of the private suites.

Summary

The glorious landscape of Kruger National Park represents a spectacular corner of the world where many of nature’s most unique and fascinating creatures roam free. With such a vast array of sensational wildlife to see, the area is a wonderful place to explore with children. 

Every day of your safari is an opportunity for unforgettable family adventures, as you check off one incredible animal after the next on an epic holiday like no other. While the experience is made all the more special in the company of your children, this often makes the planning process take that much longer.

You may be concerned about the availability of kid-friendly activities, suitably sized suites or childminding services. Fortunately, there is an exceptional selection of luxury accommodations in Greater Kruger National Park that are fully equipped for your stay.

Discover an excellent range of family-friendly lodges in this untamed landscape, each offering its own unique blend of luxury and adventure. From glamorous safari camps where adults can unwind with spa treatments while kids go on bug-collecting expeditions, to sleek riverfront suites with children’s safari programs and babysitting services, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.

Wanting to go on a family adventure to one of South Africa’s top wildlife destinations? Check out our brilliant range of lodges near Kruger National Park. Alternatively, get in contact with experts at Coral Tree to speed up the planning process. We have a fantastic range of safari experiences and packages to choose from.

Author: Rosanna