Kruger National Park vs. Sabi Sands: which one offers South Africa's best safari experience?

The Kruger National Park and neighbouring Sabi Sand Game Reserve are two of our favourite wildlife destinations in South Africa. And although they are actually next-door-neighbours, they offer very different experiences. Leon Marais from Lawson's delves into the details. He has 'behind the wheel' experience in both destinations, having guided extensively while working at two different lodges in the Sabi Sands and guiding in the Kruger. Take a look at his verdict...

[@stephaniediedericks6941]

Ive never been an adventurous tipe of person but after seeing this short video made me change my mind

[@hannahparker484]

Really informative. Thank you 🙂

[@lawsonswildlife]

Thanks for watching Hannah, please share with anyone who may be interested.

[@JackItumeleng]

Thank you for this video best information for safari lovers ❤

[@nixferguson7323]

Brilliant and well informed vid thank you

[@lawsonswildlife]

Thanks Nicolette, glad it was helpful for you.

[@bornufree]

Thanks for the helpful video In your view which are the best located private lodges in the Sabi Sand? I know Mala Mala has a big traverse area and has good game density

[@vzlanoxvida]

Well done! Thank you. We’re coming over late September 2022. We’re also wondering if we should grab a flight from JHB to Kruger or if the drive is worth it we would rather do that!

[@lawsonswildlife]

Hi. I'm glad you found the video helpful. In terms of flying vs driving, it depends which gate you are aiming for. The southern gates, such as Phabeni and Malelane (Numbi Gate is not recommended due to safety concerns), are around 5 - 6 hours from JHB, a fairly easy drive on a normal day. The gates further north involve a longer drive, so it starts to be more worthwhile to fly. But personally, I would say flying is a better option - well less than an hour to Kruger / Mpumalanga Airport, and the plane stays relatively low, so you can still see the landscape from the air. And it's a lot less hassle. You can then pick up a hire car at the airport and be into the Kruger less than an hour later. Or even better, fly directly into Skukuza, which is inside the park... I hope you have a great trip!

[@jaaluud5395]

Sabi sand top place mr T world

[@lawsonswildlife]

It sure is! Hard to beat for pure game viewing pleasure.

[@webuyvideos106]

HD Please :)

[@lawsonswildlife]

I do have the full version if you are interested?

[@animalpower6061]

Have you ever seen a really huge lion sir?

[@lawsonswildlife]

I sure have, many times!

[@animalpower6061]

@@lawsonswildlife Thanks for replying! If you have seen some huge lions then you probably must have taken their pictures and recorded a few of them too right? If yes then please upload some footage on those lions. I love researching about lions. It would help me a lot. Have a nice day sir 👍

[@animalpower6061]

Your videos are really informative btw, thx!

[@lawsonswildlife]

@@animalpower6061 Thanks so much, glad you enjoyed the videos! Please share (we need views!).

[@lawsonswildlife]

@@animalpower6061 Sure thing, I'll see what I have and upload it.