Our rates are inclusive of Dinner, Bed and Breakfast.

Kruger Safari Vacation Packages: All-Inclusive vs. Self-Catering

Whether you prefer the ease of all-inclusive Kruger safari packages or the autonomy of self-catering Kruger safari packages, our team is here to help you make the most of your time in one of Africa’s most celebrated national parks.

Couple on a Kruger safari package, holding hands outside a safari lodge

When planning a trip to South Africa’s Kruger National Park, choosing the right accommodation package can shape the entire experience. Kruger safari packages come in many forms, but the two most popular options are all-inclusive and self-catering. Both styles offer unique advantages depending on your travel preferences, group size and budget. So how do you know which is best for your ideal safari holiday?

Set just outside the Paul Kruger Gate, Kruger Gate Hotel offers flexible options designed to meet a variety of guest needs. Whether you’re drawn to the convenience of all-inclusive Kruger safari packages or the freedom of self-catering, it helps to understand what each type includes and how they complement your time in the bush.

Kruger Safari Vacation Packages: All-Inclusive vs. Self-Catering

What to Expect from All-Inclusive Kruger Safari Packages

All-inclusive Kruger safari packages are designed for guests who want a seamless, stress-free safari experience. With meals included and the option to book game drives plus airport transfers as well, these packages handle most of the logistics so that guests can focus on enjoying the wildlife and scenery.

At Kruger Gate Hotel, a halfboard option typically covers daily breakfast and dinner served at the hotel’s open-air restaurant. Meals are freshly prepared with a mix of local and international influences, and guests can dine while overlooking the Sabie River, where wildlife often gathers. Morning and afternoon game drives with expert guides can be booked separately, giving guests a deep dive into the rhythms of the bush. These offer the best chances to see lions, elephants, giraffes and—if luck’s on your side—a leopard tucked into a marula tree.

This type of package is ideal for first-time visitors, families, or anyone who prefers a well-structured itinerary. Having everything pre-arranged means you can relax without needing to organise meals, activities or transport after arrival. It also helps with budgeting, as most costs are paid upfront.

Benefits of Self-Catering Kruger Safari Packages

Self-catering Kruger safari packages cater to travellers looking for more independence and flexibility during their stay. These packages usually include accommodation only, with access to a kitchenette or nearby communal cooking facilities. At Kruger Gate Hotel, some units are equipped to support guests who enjoy preparing their own meals, while still benefiting from the comforts of a full-service lodge.

Choosing a self-catering option means you can set your own pace. Early risers might enjoy a quick breakfast on the patio before heading out on a self-drive safari, while others may prefer to return midday for a quiet lunch break in their unit. You’re free to shop for local ingredients and cook as you wish, or choose to dine occasionally at the hotel’s restaurant when you feel like taking a break from cooking.

Self-catering safari packages are often more budget-friendly, especially for longer stays or larger groups. They also appeal to returning visitors who are familiar with the area and want to explore more on their own terms. We also offer a halfboard rate for self-catering units which includes breakfast and dinner from our buffet. Guests do still have the option to have their own lunches in their own self-catering unit. If you’re planning to do a combination of self-drive game viewing and guided tours, this option offers the best of both worlds. 

Choosing the Right Package for Your Safari

Deciding between all-inclusive and self-catering Kruger safari packages comes down to your travel style. If you value ease and comfort, and want to make the most of every minute in the bush, all-inclusive is a natural choice. It allows you to join scheduled game drives, enjoy guided insights, and return each evening to prepared meals and full hospitality.

If you’re more independent, enjoy cooking your own meals, or plan to spend parts of the day relaxing by the pool or exploring at your own pace, a self-catering option offers the freedom you’re after. It gives you the chance to create a more personalised schedule and can stretch your travel budget further.

Keep in mind that both package types at Kruger Gate Hotel provide access to world-class facilities, including a rim-flow pool, spa services and beautifully landscaped grounds that blend into the surrounding bush. Regardless of your package choice, the setting places you right on the edge of Kruger National Park, with wildlife encounters possible from the moment you step outside your room.

Things to Consider Before Booking

Before selecting your preferred package, consider the time of year you’re travelling. High season months like June to September tend to book quickly, particularly for all-inclusive Kruger safari packages. If you’re visiting during school holidays or planning a romantic break, it’s a good idea to reserve early.

Also think about how active you’d like your days to be. If you’re keen to join multiple game drives, bush walks or other excursions, an all-inclusive package might offer better value and convenience. For a slower-paced trip with flexible meal times and private down time, self-catering can provide just the right balance.

Both types of Kruger safari packages aim to enhance your experience of South Africa’s iconic wildlife and landscapes. Whether you’re watching elephants bathe at a riverbank or enjoying a peaceful evening under the stars, the right package helps you connect more deeply with the rhythms of the bush.

Conclusion

At Kruger Gate Hotel, we believe every traveller should be able to tailor their safari to match their needs. Whether you prefer the ease of all-inclusive Kruger safari packages or the autonomy of self-catering Kruger safari packages, our team is here to help you make the most of your time in one of Africa’s most celebrated national parks.

Get in touch with our reservations team to explore current rates, seasonal offers and package availability. Your Kruger adventure begins with the package that fits your style.

Guest Reviews

Great experience ever

Posted on 29/07/2025 by Google

Kruger Gate Hotel is a magical place for a safari adventure! Let me start by saying that because of all the services Kruger Gate Hotel offers, we were able to plan a perfect safari experience for our family. In fact, once I found Kruger Gate Hotel, the trip almost planned itself. Its airport transport service made getting to and from Skukuza Airport so simple. From there, our adventure began. We booked three private guided safaris through the hotel – a full day, a morning, and an afternoon safari –and each was amazing. Justice (of Kurt Safari) was our guide each day and had an amazing ability to spot animals, including elephants, giraffes, buffalo, impalas, nyalas, waterbucks, wildebeests, warthogs, and hyenas, as well as the elusive big cats and rhinos. Just as amazing was the hotel itself – the perfect place for relaxing in between safaris. From its infinity pool one afternoon, we saw a herd of elephants, including baby elephants. Another day, there was a giraffe, and on our final day hippos in the distance. The hotel architecture was charming – a safari resort with all the modern amenities, and the staff was so welcoming. The rooms were spacious and comfortable. And the food was delicious – the best breakfast and dinner buffets I’ve ever experienced. Don’t miss the omelet station for breakfast, and the dinner selections (appetizer, main course, and dessert) were outstanding, all in a lovely outdoor setting. Remember to bring ear plugs because the baboons in the distance can make a sound that wakes you up. The trip of a lifetime!

Posted on 27/07/2025 by Google

I stayed at this hotel via nhlalala travel to join a two-days safari in Kruger National Park. It really faces Kruger National Park. It's a really wonderful hotel with a view of the Kruger grounds from the pool and terrace restaurant.
I was surprised that the hotel was cleaner and better equipped than I expected.
It took about 5.5 hours by car from Johannesburg airport.
The hotel room was spacious, had a bathtub, and was literally comfortable. Dinner was buffet style, and I was satisfied with the variety of dishes. There was also a show-like thing going on, which was very exciting. There was a barbecue? bonfire? so be careful after a shower as it smelled.
The next morning we left at 5:30, so they prepared a breakfast pack for us, which we were able to eat during the safari break.
It was a really wonderful hotel, and next time I would like to stay longer and enjoy the safari. I highly recommended it.

Posted on 25/07/2025 by Google

Hotel incrível, ao lado da entrada do parque, ótimo café da manhã, jantar, equipe super atenciosa, fomos muito bem tratados por todos funcionários. O passeio contratado foi ótimo. Recomendo e indico. Parabéns ao Hotel.

Posted on 23/07/2025 by Hotels.com

I would like to recommend the service of Mr. Excellent at the Pool bar.
He was so nice and helpful. We enjoyed every meal.

Posted on 27/07/2025 by TripAdvisor

My experience at this hotel was very good it was a nice hotel i stayed for 2 weeks at the hotel with my parents. There were some very nice people like Gibson, Karabo, Enoch, Enzo, Aleck, Freedom, Lucia, Dzunisani and Dion! Dion was verry good at driving and spotting he realy deserves it to be a ranger thats also he ‘s dream. The massage was also very good I had a Nice treatment with a manicure! So the hotel deserves 5 stars⭐️!

Posted on 27/07/2025 by TripAdvisor

Visited Kruger Gate Hotel for a big birthday, along with many family and friends. Firstly the resort is amazing in every aspect - watching a leopard, elephants and hyenas from the infinity pool blew us away. The rooms were all spacious and clean, we stayed in the Nkanyi suite which was beyond our wildest expectations- it comes with a private butler (Lawrence) who went out of his way to ensure the whole group had the most magical time. I can’t put into words how impressed we all were with him, he even helped arrange our activities in Cape Town (our next stop on the trip) and was always on hand to make everything smooth and enjoyable.
This visit exceeded all expectations, safari guide Dan was part comedian part animal guru and helped us find a leopard on 3 out of 3 trips as well as the rest of the big 5 and much more (including 12 lions feasting on a rhino)
All in all I can’t rate this hotel and team highly enough, but special mention to Lawrence who made this trip so memorable

Posted on 24/07/2025 by TripAdvisor

Kruger Gate Hotel is a magical place for a safari adventure! Let me start by saying that because of all the services Kruger Gate Hotel offers, we were able to plan a perfect safari experience for our family. In fact, once I found Kruger Gate Hotel, the trip almost planned itself. Its airport transport service made getting to and from Skukuza Airport so simple. From there, our adventure began. We booked three private guided safaris through the hotel – a full day, a morning, and an afternoon safari –and each was amazing. Justice (of Kurt Safari) was our guide each day and had an amazing ability to spot animals, including elephants, giraffes, buffalo, impalas, nyalas, waterbucks, wildebeests, warthogs, and hyenas, as well as the elusive big cats and rhinos. Just as amazing was the hotel itself – the perfect place for relaxing in between safaris. From its infinity pool one afternoon, we saw a herd of elephants, including baby elephants. Another day, there was a giraffe, and on our final day hippos in the distance. The hotel architecture was charming – a safari resort with all the modern amenities, and the staff was so welcoming. The rooms were spacious and comfortable. And the food was delicious – the best breakfast and dinner buffets I’ve ever experienced. Don’t miss the omelet station for breakfast, and the dinner selections (appetizer, main course, and dessert) were outstanding, all in a lovely outdoor setting. Remember to bring ear plugs because the baboons in the distance can make a sound that wakes you up. The trip of a lifetime!

Posted on 27/07/2025 by TripAdvisor

Nydelig hotell med god service og frokost. Flott utsikt over elven, der kom en flokk med 8 giraffer oppover. Vakkert spa der elefantene kan ligge utenfor vinduet. Aper løper i trærne på hotellet. Fin safaritur fra hotellet. Anbefales.

Posted on 23/07/2025 by TripAdvisor

We really enjoyed our stay at the Kruger Gate Hotel. From the moment we arrived till the moment we left everything was perfect. The whole staff is very friendly and always helpful. Especially the atmosphere during dinner was magical.

Posted on 23/07/2025 by TripAdvisor

High level structure but something DA improve given the price paid there is... The led lights above the bed that do not go out and it seems day even at night, I had asked for support but no one arrived. The staff who veiledly help you with everything to get tips is annoying, especially on a hotel of this level.
Finally the internal safari decidedly lower than that with the park guides. However the overall experience is excellent.

Posted on 26/07/2025 by TripAdvisor

El hotel es una excelente opción para visitar el Parque Kruger. Ubicado a pocos metros de la Puerta Paul Kruger, es ideal para quienes visitan por primera vez el Parque. Sus instalaciones son impecables y tienen todas las comodidades. Mención aparte para los Safaris que se pueden agendar en el propio hotel.

Posted on 29/07/2025 by Booking.com

Jantar único.

Posted on 24/07/2025 by Booking.com

The location is really nice - bordering Kruger National Park on the river near the Kruger gate entrance where you get nice views of animals during the day especially. Good range of facilities, very nice breakfast and great supper\'s. The staff were really helpful and good. The rooms are not very special, but they are more than adequate. Overall we had a fantastic stay.

Posted on 28/07/2025 by Booking.com

Equipe muito atenciosa, principalmente os funcionarios do Guest Relations, Sarah e Simpewhee.
Hotel muito bem localizado, quarto limpo e bem espaçoso. De frente para o Kruger Park e de facil acesso vindo de Joanesburgo de carro. Estrada tambem muito boa.

Posted on 28/07/2025 by Booking.com

Food excellent, lovely hotel well located

Posted on 25/07/2025 by Booking.com

Great location with views of the river and the wandering animals

Posted on 25/07/2025 by Booking.com

La ubicación justo en la entrada del Kruger, la habitación deluxe era increíble y el desayuno y las cenas muy buenos.

Posted on 24/07/2025 by Booking.com

Tolle Lage und wunderschöne Umgebung samt tollen Ausblick

Posted on 23/07/2025 by Booking.com