South Africa’s largest nature reserve spans approximately 20,000 km² across Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces, protecting one of Africa’s most biodiverse ecosystems.
At a glance
Kruger National Park (Nasionale Krugerwildtuin in Afrikaans) covers an area roughly equivalent to Wales or the state of Israel. The reserve extends 350 km from north to south and 67 km from east to west, positioned between the South African provinces of Mpumalanga and Limpopo to the west and south, with Zimbabwe to the north and Mozambique and Eswatini to the east.
History
The park was established to protect South Africa’s wildlife and natural heritage. In recent decades, Kruger has transcended its borders through the Great Limpopo cross-border initiative, which unites it with Zimbabwe’s Gonarezhou National Park and Mozambique’s Limpopo National Park—creating a unified conservation area spanning three nations.
What you see
Kruger encompasses diverse landscapes and ecosystems within its vast expanse. The reserve protects extensive grasslands, savanna, and woodland habitats that support the park’s renowned wildlife populations across its 20,000 km² territory.
Cultural significance
The park holds international recognition as part of the Kruger to Canyons Biosphere, designated by UNESCO as an international human and biosphere reserve. This designation acknowledges the area’s ecological importance and its role in global conservation efforts.
Key facts
- Area: Approximately 20,000 km²
- North-south length: 350 km
- East-west width: 67 km
- Coordinates: -23.9883848, 31.5547402
- Phone: +27 12 428 9111
- Official website: https://www.sanparks.org/parks/kruger/default.php/
Practical information
The park is open Monday through Sunday; hours may vary seasonally or by entrance gate. Visitors are advised to check the official SANParks website for current opening times and entry requirements before planning their visit.
Getting there
Kruger National Park is located in northeastern South Africa, bordered by Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces. Multiple entrance gates provide vehicle access; consult the official website for directions and transportation options from major South African cities.
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