"Have stayed here several times and will continue to do so when coming to Kruger. It's a great property , really comfortable rooms with everything you need, and you cannot beat the location!"
"Have stayed here several times and will continue to do so when coming to Kruger. It's a great property , really comfortable rooms with everything you need, and you cannot beat the location!"
"The staff went above and beyond. They went and picked up my suitcase that was delayed arrival and delivered to an airport for almost 2 hours away. They had amazing hospitality. Every morning, we are waking up with a awesome wake up. Call and treated to a great breakfast before going out on the most spectacular game drives. Could not recommend enough."
"The staff went above and beyond. They went and picked up my suitcase that was delayed arrival and delivered to an airport for almost 2 hours away. They had amazing hospitality. Every morning, we are waking up with a awesome wake up. Call and treated to a great breakfast before going out on the most spectacular game drives. Could not recommend enough."
"It was a very enjoyable few days. The staff and food was excellent. The game drives were very good, and Fabian the guide, was very knowledgeable. We would come again."
"It was a very enjoyable few days. The staff and food was excellent. The game drives were very good, and Fabian the guide, was very knowledgeable. We would come again."
"Such a lovely resort, the people are friendly, the food is different every night, the tents are stunning and the guides clearly love their jobs which make the drives so enjoyable, would 100% recommend staying here."
"Such a lovely resort, the people are friendly, the food is different every night, the tents are stunning and the guides clearly love their jobs which make the drives so enjoyable, would 100% recommend staying here."
"This was a great place to stay near Kruger. Staff were exceptionally helpful, food was great and the location unbeatable. We had hippos playing in the river in front of us."
"This was a great place to stay near Kruger. Staff were exceptionally helpful, food was great and the location unbeatable. We had hippos playing in the river in front of us."
"Wow! What a wonderful lodge. The staff were very helpful and friendly. Our Field Guide (Mauritz), Tracker (Kruger) & Butler (Abel) made our stay memorable. Food was excellent and we would highly recommend staying at Lion Sands Tinga Lodge to any of our family and friends."
"Wow! What a wonderful lodge. The staff were very helpful and friendly. Our Field Guide (Mauritz), Tracker (Kruger) & Butler (Abel) made our stay memorable. Food was excellent and we would highly recommend staying at Lion Sands Tinga Lodge to any of our family and friends."
"Lodge com atendimento espetacular, de todos os colaboradores, recepção e garçons. Permitem que seja uma experiência única e inesquecível. Conseguimos ver bastante animais, inclusive dentro da própria acomodação. Comida e hospitalidade impecáveis."
"Lodge com atendimento espetacular, de todos os colaboradores, recepção e garçons. Permitem que seja uma experiência única e inesquecível. Conseguimos ver bastante animais, inclusive dentro da própria acomodação. Comida e hospitalidade impecáveis."
"The lodge is set amongst the trees by a water hole. There are a lot of animals especially Elephants close by. The safaris are excellent and very well organised. The food is outstanding and we enjoyed every meal and homemade snack. It was outstanding."
"The lodge is set amongst the trees by a water hole. There are a lot of animals especially Elephants close by. The safaris are excellent and very well organised. The food is outstanding and we enjoyed every meal and homemade snack. It was outstanding."
"We traveled as a couple and spent three nights in Hoyo Hoyo. Our trip was all about the two three hour game drives morning and evening. They were sensational. Andrew, our guide was a treasure.
Our bungalow was fantastic and beautifully appointed (NB tailor your expectations. This is in the middle of the bush and not an 80th floor suite in a 6 star hotel in China). Nonetheless, all our needs were catered for with a smile and a joke from the delightful staff, always at the ready.
Highly...
"We traveled as a couple and spent three nights in Hoyo Hoyo. Our trip was all about the two three hour game drives morning and evening. They were sensational. Andrew, our guide was a treasure.
Our bungalow was fantastic and beautifully appointed (NB tailor your expectations. This is in the middle of the bush and not an 80th floor suite in a 6 star hotel in China). Nonetheless, all our needs were catered for with a smile and a joke from the delightful staff, always at the ready.
Highly...
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Silolweni Lake during your travels in Skukuza. While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.
As the main camp in Kruger National Park, Skukuza offers prime wildlife viewing with rangers who know where lions frequently roam. Book a sunrise safari drive to spot elephants at watering holes, then explore the camp's informative Stevenson-Hamilton Knowledge Resource Centre.
Exceeded all our expectations, just the views from the bridge and the amount of wildlife you can see without leaving the hotel. Our game driver was a 11/10, outstanding knowledge, friendly and courteous. You name it we saw it. The hospitality staff was incredible from housekeeping, front desk, wait staff and everyone we interacted with. Food options were excellent. Highly recommend this hotel, we are definitely going to go back.
Exceeded all our expectations, just the views from the bridge and the amount of wildlife you can see without leaving the hotel. Our game driver was a 11/10, outstanding knowledge, friendly and courteous. You name it we saw it. The hospitality staff was incredible from housekeeping, front desk, wait staff and everyone we interacted with. Food options were excellent. Highly recommend this hotel, we are definitely going to go back.
Marc
Reviewed September 27, 2026Reviewed September 27, 2026
This was a beautiful hotel, the room was nice and comfortable and filled with wildlife. The food was excellent and so was the staff. The tree-house we stayed at for a night did not meet expectations... we got there just about two minites before sunset and did not have time to take enough pictures and soak it all in. Our hot dinner was ice cold and the toilet did not have the water turned on. Having said that the place was beautiful and romanitically decorated.
This was a beautiful hotel, the room was nice and comfortable and filled with wildlife. The food was excellent and so was the staff. The tree-house we stayed at for a night did not meet expectations... we got there just about two minites before sunset and did not have time to take enough pictures and soak it all in. Our hot dinner was ice cold and the toilet did not have the water turned on. Having said that the place was beautiful and romanitically decorated.
Kruger park was only about 20 minutes away by drive. All of the staff were wonderful. So friendly. Whatever you wanted, they would get for you. I couldn’t single out one staff member because they were all perfect. The suites are gorgeous and spotless with a wonderful view of the Sabe River. The food was excellent and so plentiful. I couldn’t think of a better place to stay to get to Kruger and experience the game drives. The drivers were excellent and it was easy to see their love for...
Kruger park was only about 20 minutes away by drive. All of the staff were wonderful. So friendly. Whatever you wanted, they would get for you. I couldn’t single out one staff member because they were all perfect. The suites are gorgeous and spotless with a wonderful view of the Sabe River. The food was excellent and so plentiful. I couldn’t think of a better place to stay to get to Kruger and experience the game drives. The drivers were excellent and it was easy to see their love for...
Fantastic location in Sabi Sands Game Reserve. Guides were incredibly knowledgeable and went out of their way to make our trip perfect. Up close to leopards, lions, rhino and buffalo. Food was excellent! Lovely quiet property with view over a waterhole. Two swimming pools with one close to our room was very convenient. Beautiful deck around the restaurant. Such a great experience that my partner proposed ❤️ Perfect in every way!
Fantastic location in Sabi Sands Game Reserve. Guides were incredibly knowledgeable and went out of their way to make our trip perfect. Up close to leopards, lions, rhino and buffalo. Food was excellent! Lovely quiet property with view over a waterhole. Two swimming pools with one close to our room was very convenient. Beautiful deck around the restaurant. Such a great experience that my partner proposed ❤️ Perfect in every way!
Alex
Reviewed November 29, 2019Reviewed November 29, 2019
What a fantastic experience! The staff at Tintswalo were more than accomadating. They recognized our honeymoon with a private wine cellar dinner and spa lunch! We are both big foodies as well! The dining was exquisite.
The game viewing in the Manyeleti was superb. Both of the Tintswalo guides Christof and Allister worked tirelessly to find the big 5. They went out of their way with additional hikes. My wife and I were particularly thrilled following the lioness and her pride while we...
What a fantastic experience! The staff at Tintswalo were more than accomadating. They recognized our honeymoon with a private wine cellar dinner and spa lunch! We are both big foodies as well! The dining was exquisite.
The game viewing in the Manyeleti was superb. Both of the Tintswalo guides Christof and Allister worked tirelessly to find the big 5. They went out of their way with additional hikes. My wife and I were particularly thrilled following the lioness and her pride while we...
Chris
Reviewed October 22, 2017Reviewed October 22, 2017
We had a great family stay at Sabie River Bush Lodge in one of the log cabins that had lots of room for a family of 4.
The staff here go over and beyond to ensure that your stay is memorable. The breakfast and dinner were included in our rate and the food was so delicious! Kudos to the cook!
The grounds are well maintained and the view overlooking Sabie River and Kruger Park was so peaceful and serene. One of their guides Caska took us on an unforgettable sunrise safari at Kruger Park. Thank...
We had a great family stay at Sabie River Bush Lodge in one of the log cabins that had lots of room for a family of 4.
The staff here go over and beyond to ensure that your stay is memorable. The breakfast and dinner were included in our rate and the food was so delicious! Kudos to the cook!
The grounds are well maintained and the view overlooking Sabie River and Kruger Park was so peaceful and serene. One of their guides Caska took us on an unforgettable sunrise safari at Kruger Park. Thank...
We LOVED our stay at Imbali Safari Lodge! We stayed three nights and wish we could have stayed longer. The food was incredible, the entire staff wonderful- shout out to Winston! Our lodge was lovely; private and so very comfortable. The 2 included safari drives a day were exciting and informative, thanks to our exceptional guide, Morne. I would recommend Imbali for a couple looking for value with romantic, traditional decor and warm and friendly staff to take care for you on your Kruger Park...
We LOVED our stay at Imbali Safari Lodge! We stayed three nights and wish we could have stayed longer. The food was incredible, the entire staff wonderful- shout out to Winston! Our lodge was lovely; private and so very comfortable. The 2 included safari drives a day were exciting and informative, thanks to our exceptional guide, Morne. I would recommend Imbali for a couple looking for value with romantic, traditional decor and warm and friendly staff to take care for you on your Kruger Park...
Thrilling Safari Adventures: Experience exhilarating safaris in Kruger National Park, where you can witness Africa's incredible wildlife up close.
Stunning Natural Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking scenery and diverse landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Skukuza Museum: Gain insight into local culture and history at this informative museum.
Golfing with a View: Play a round at Skukuza Golf Course, known for its beautiful surroundings.
Diverse Accommodation Options: Choose from luxurious lodges to comfortable hotels that cater to every traveller's needs.
Find great hotels in and around Skukuza
Skukuza, nestled in the heart of Kruger National Park, offers a delightful selection of accommodations for every type of traveller. From luxurious lodges to comfortable hotels, you'll find the perfect resting spot for your South African adventure. Whether you're seeking a serene spa-themed getaway, a base for business travel, or an immersive safari experience, Skukuza's diverse lodging options cater to your needs and promise an unforgettable stay in this stunning natural setting.
Kruger Gate Hotel: Nestled at the entrance of Kruger National Park, this 4-star hotel boasts a guest rating of 9.0. Ideal for families and couples seeking a romantic getaway, Kruger Gate Hotel offers a delightful experience with amenities such as onsite mini-golf, a children's playground, and supervised childcare services. Enjoy romantic packages featuring limited-hours room service and a relaxing spa offering various massages. The inviting poolside bar adds to the romantic atmosphere, making it a perfect base for your wildlife adventure.
Kruger Shalati - Train on the Bridge and Garden Suites: This unique budget-friendly lodging boasts an impressive guest rating of 9.8. Situated on a historic train, it offers a romantic and golf-themed experience for travelers. Guests can indulge in golf activities while enjoying luxurious amenities like a private chef, champagne service, and limited-hours room service. The outdoor pool area, with sun loungers and hot stone massages, creates a serene retreat, allowing you to unwind amidst nature while marveling at the scenic surroundings.
Sabie River Bush Lodge: Located 29.0km from Skukuza, this charming 3-star lodge has a guest rating of 9.0, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers. The lodge focuses on providing a natural experience with wellness amenities, featuring outdoor terraces and barbeque grills for a relaxed atmosphere. Nearby adventure sports such as rafting, ziplining, and kayaking offer excitement for active guests. Sabie River Bush Lodge is the ideal choice for those wanting to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying comfortable accommodations and a variety of activities.
Where to stay near Skukuza
Skukuza, Mpumalanga, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation amidst nature's beauty. Enjoy scenic walks along the Mphongolo River, explore the rocky outcrops, and unwind at nearby camping facilities. The warm atmosphere and friendly locals enhance your experience, making it an ideal destination for adventure and tranquility. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife that define this stunning region.
Sabi Sands Game Reserve: Located 27.4km from Skukuza, Sabi Sands Game Reserve offers an unparalleled wilderness experience that attracts adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. This picturesque village is renowned for its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife, making it a prime destination for outdoor activities such as safaris and hiking. Visitors can explore national parks and nature reserves, while enjoying local accommodations that range from luxurious resorts to charming lodges. The peak travel seasons in January and from March to April provide ample opportunities for wildlife sightings, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Sabiepark: Just 12.9km away from Skukuza, Sabiepark is a quaint village that serves as a gateway to adventure and outdoor exploration. Known for its beautiful landscapes, this area attracts visitors for its various recreational activities, including safaris and wildlife spotting. The peak seasons in June to July and September offer visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the local ecosystem. Nearby attractions like national parks and visitor centres enhance the travel experience, providing insights into the region's rich biodiversity and conservation efforts.
eMakhazeni: Situated 20.9km from Skukuza, eMakhazeni is a charming village that invites adventurers to explore its breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities. With a steady flow of visitors year-round, particularly in March and during the December to January period, eMakhazeni is a great spot for those seeking adventure. Popular activities include hiking in national parks and engaging in various adventure sports. Local landmarks, including visitor centres, provide valuable resources for tourists looking to connect with the area's natural beauty and wildlife.
Things to do in Skukuza
Skukuza, located in Mpumalanga, South Africa, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy thrilling safari tours, including African and wildlife safaris, that provide unforgettable experiences in nature. Additionally, the area features a recreational zone, as well as a golf course and a private country club, making it an ideal destination for adventure getaways and relaxation alike.
Shopping
In Skukuza, visit the local shops for unique African crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to the Riverside Mall in Nelspruit, about 45 minutes away, offering a range of retail outlets, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for shopping.
Recreation
Skukuza offers a tranquil wellness retreat at the Kruger National Park Spa, where you can unwind with soothing treatments amid stunning bushveld views. For recreation, explore the numerous walking trails, enjoy birdwatching, and partake in guided game drives to connect with nature and experience wildlife up close.
Adventure
Skukuza, located within Kruger National Park, offers thrilling game drives where you can witness the Big Five in their natural habitat. Explore scenic walking trails for a closer look at wildlife and enjoy cultural experiences at nearby villages, immersing yourself in local traditions and breathtaking landscapes.
Nightlife
In Skukuza, the vibrant atmosphere comes alive at the Skukuza Safari Lodge bar, where you can enjoy drinks under the stars. Nearby, the Kruger National Park offers night game drives for a thrilling wildlife experience, blending adventure with the serenity of the African night.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.
Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Skukuza
The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Skukuza are June, August and October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to May and November, where prices are slightly higher.
The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Skukuza about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Skukuza is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Skukuza is Monday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organize your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to narrow down your choices by hotel type—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you'll be presented with sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations available for booking.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Skukuza with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Skukuza
Skukuza offers a fantastic outdoor adventure, perfect for nature enthusiasts and scenery lovers. Visitors can explore the renowned Kruger National Park, historic gates, and beautiful reserves. Don't miss the Skukuza Museum for a glimpse into local culture, or enjoy a round of golf at the Skukuza Golf Course, which boasts stunning views. With its diverse attractions, Skukuza promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller seeking adventure and natural beauty.
Kruger National Park: Just 483m from Skukuza, this iconic national park offers breathtaking scenery, thrilling adventures, and a true outdoor experience. Explore diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes that make it a premier destination for nature lovers.
Numbi Gate: Located 43.5km from Skukuza, Numbi Gate serves as an entrance to the park, welcoming visitors with beautiful scenery and adventure opportunities. Enjoy the outdoor vibes as you embark on a journey through one of Africa's largest game reserves.
Paul Kruger Gate: Situated within Skukuza, this historic gate arch is a cultural landmark that offers insights into the rich history of the area, making it a must-visit spot for those interested in South African heritage.
Best time to go to Skukuza
The best time to visit Skukuza is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. February is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain.
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing
January
77.5°F (25.3°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly High
Average
February
77.7°F (25.4°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
March
76.8°F (24.9°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
April
72.5°F (22.5°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly High
May
68.9°F (20.5°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Slightly Low
Slightly High
June
64.8°F (18.2°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Average
Slightly Low
July
64.2°F (17.9°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Slightly High
Average
August
68.4°F (20.2°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Average
Slightly Low
September
73.4°F (23.0°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Average
October
75.0°F (23.9°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly Low
Slightly Low
November
76.1°F (24.5°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly Low
Slightly High
December
77.2°F (25.1°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
The nearest major airports for your trip to Skukuza
As a tourist visiting Skukuza, Mpumalanga, you have several airport options. Hoedspruit Airport (HDS) is located 88.5km away, with nearby hotels like the 5-star Kapama River Lodge, just 4.8km from the airport, offering airport shuttle services. Skukuza Airport (SZK) is the closest, only 3.2km away, with excellent accommodations such as the Lion Sands Tinga Lodge, located 1.4km from the airport. Lastly, Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) is 66.0km away, with options like Nut Grove Boutique Hotel, situated 9.7km from the airport, providing transportation services. Each hotel offers various shuttle services to ensure smooth transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best area to stay in Skukuza?
The best area to stay in Skukuza is within the Skukuza Rest Camp itself, as it offers the most convenient and comprehensive experience for visitors.
Skukuza Rest Camp is the largest camp in Kruger National Park and functions as a small town, providing a central hub for all your safari needs. It's situated on the banks of the Sabie River, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing right from the camp. You'll find a wide range of facilities here, including a general store, a petrol station, a post office, and a bank. The camp is well-organised with various accommodation types and is the main departure point for many guided game drives and bush walks.
For couples seeking a comfortable and well-appointed base, staying within the main Skukuza Rest Camp is ideal. You'll have easy access to early morning and late afternoon game drives, which are often the best times for spotting wildlife. The camp also features a restaurant overlooking the Sabie River, great for a relaxing evening meal after a day of exploration. The convenience of having everything within walking distance means less stress and more time to enjoy the safari experience.
Families travelling with children will also find Skukuza Rest Camp exceptionally suitable. The camp offers a variety of family-friendly accommodation options, some with self-catering facilities, which can be very practical. There are also designated play areas for children and a swimming pool, providing opportunities for relaxation and entertainment between game drives.
When is the best time to go to Skukuza?
The best time to visit Skukuza for exceptional wildlife viewing is during the dry winter months, from May to September.
During this period, the vegetation is sparse, making it much easier to spot animals as they gather around the remaining water sources. The days are generally sunny and warm, but not excessively hot, creating comfortable conditions for game drives. Mornings and evenings can be cool, so packing layers is advisable.
This season is particularly good for families with school-aged children as the cooler temperatures are more pleasant for younger travellers spending extended time in open safari vehicles. The consistent dry weather also means a lower chance of rain disrupting planned activities.
For those prioritising birdwatching, the summer months from October to April, also known as the wet season, are ideal. This is when migratory birds arrive, and the bush transforms into a lush, green landscape.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Skukuza.
How much is the nightly rate at a Skukuza hotel?
Prices for hotels in Skukuza often vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $55 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.