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The Kruger National Park wildlife you can expect to see in June

Whether you dream of seeing the Big Five, rare predators, or simply soaking in the tranquil beauty of the bush, this is a month that delivers.

Beautiful dramatic shot of a giraffe standing under a tree at the Kruger National Park in May

June is a magical time at Kruger National Park. As the dry season begins to take hold, the landscape transforms, offering exceptional opportunities for wildlife viewing that even seasoned safari-goers cherish. Here’s what you can expect to see—and some expert insights that will help you make the most of the quieter months at the Kruger National Park with a June safari.

Why June is exceptional for Kruger National Park wildlife viewing

June marks the transition from the lush, rainy summer to the crisp, dry winter. Daytime temperatures are mild, with cool, comfortable mornings and evenings. Rain is rare, skies are clear, and the humidity drops. This combination means the bush thins out, visibility improves, and animals are drawn to the permanent water sources, making sightings more frequent and memorable.

The Big Five: Predictable and Present

Elephants are especially abundant in June. As water outside the park dries up, large herds make their way to rivers and dams, often gathering in impressive numbers. Expert guides note that late mornings and early afternoons are prime times to see these gentle giants at waterholes, sometimes in herds of over a hundred.

Lions become easier to spot as the grass recedes. Central Kruger, with its open grasslands, is home to large prides that are often seen lounging in the shade or stalking prey drawn to the remaining water sources. With prey animals more concentrated, lion activity is often heightened, and you June even witness a pride on the move during early morning or late afternoon drives.

Leopards are more visible in June, especially in the south and central regions. With less foliage, look for them draped over tree branches or lurking near riverbanks. Guides often find them feeding on stashed kills high in the trees—an expert tip is to scan the lower branches of large leadwoods and marulas for a tell-tale tail or dangling limb.

Buffalo herds are frequently encountered, sometimes numbering in the hundreds. These herds are often seen stirring up dust at riverbanks or grazing on the open plains, especially near permanent water.

Rhinos—particularly white rhinos—are most commonly found in southern Kruger. The sparse vegetation makes them easier to spot as they move between grazing areas and waterholes. Read our guide to spotting the Big 5 in the Kruger for more information!

Rare and remarkable Kruger wildlife sightings in June

June is a fantastic month for spotting elusive species. Wild dogs and cheetahs are more likely to be seen, especially in the southern and central regions. Packs of wild dogs often hunt during the cool mornings, and cheetahs, though rare, can be spotted scouting the open plains for prey.

Expert trackers recommend focusing on granite outcrops and open grasslands for these rare predators. Cheetah cubs, if present, are sometimes hidden in difficult-to-access areas, but patient observation and a bit of luck can reward you with a glimpse of these shy families.

Plains game and birdlife

The thinning bushveld is alive with zebra, giraffe, kudu, waterbuck, and wildebeest, many with young calves at this time of year. These herds attract predators and create dynamic scenes at waterholes and river crossings.

For birdwatchers, June is a treat. While migratory birds have departed, resident species thrive. You can expect to see raptors like the long-crested eagle, lizard buzzard, and African fish eagle, as well as colourful species like the white-fronted bee-eater and purple-crested lourie. Expert guides recommend focusing on river habitats and open plains for the best birding opportunities.

Expert insights: How to maximise your June safari

  • Waterholes are wildlife magnets: With surface water becoming scarce, animals congregate at permanent water sources. Plan your drives around these spots, especially in the late morning and early afternoon when herds and predators are most active.
  • Drive early and late drives to yield the best sightings: Cooler temperatures keep animals active longer. Dawn and dusk are prime times for predator activity, while midday is best for elephants and buffalo at waterholes.
  • Book guided bush walks with SANParks: June’s mild weather is perfect for walking safaris. Expert guides can help you track fresh spoor, spot smaller creatures, and appreciate the bush’s subtle signs—experiences often missed from a vehicle.
  • Fewer visitors, more Intimate encounters: June is less busy than peak winter months, offering a more peaceful experience and better photographic opportunities.

Conclusion

June in Kruger National Park is a time of abundance, clarity, and action. Whether you dream of seeing the Big Five, rare predators, or simply soaking in the tranquil beauty of the bush, this is a month that delivers. With expert guidance, patience, and a keen eye, your June safari will be filled with unforgettable sightings and moments that only Kruger can provide. Why not book a guided safari with the Kruger Gate Hotel and experience it for yourself?

Guest Reviews

Our experience was phenomenal..the stay was amazing from the security at the gate to the help desk and the management team were very friendly and helpful…ohh I can not forget Refiloe and Miguel and the team at large…they were exceptional…

Posted on 20/10/2025 by Google

(Translated by Google) Really friendly staff.

(Original)
Todella ystävällinen henkilökunta.

Posted on 13/10/2025 by Google

Sim

Posted on 16/10/2025 by Hotels.com

The room was amazing..food was great from breakfast and dinner and lunch..the staff was friendly ohhh Refiloe who has made our stay extraordinary and the team at large

Posted on 20/10/2025 by TripAdvisor

From the moment we stepped into Kruger Gate Hotel it was like stepping into paradise.
I cannot praise the staff enough, thoughtful cheerful very friendly, the catering staff presented a variety of beautiful dishes every day.
The facilities were brilliant, rooms were spacious with extremely comfortable beds. And the view from the pool area onto the safari park were amazing.
I would highly recommend Kruger Gate Hotel to anyone visiting South Africa, especially first time visitors wanting to experience the Safari Park.

Posted on 16/10/2025 by TripAdvisor

We had a great experience at Kruger Gate Hotel. Since we made the reservation we felt that they were very kind and welcoming answering all our questions and support us. When we got here, Dion, the driver who took us from the airport was very nice and helped us to find the animals in our way to the hotel. The hotel has an excellent location and the Safari was perfect! Prince was our tour guide for the Safari and we also loved it. Staff are very friendly and kind. Cleaning is very good . It is a beautiful and big hotel. For sure I will come back!

Posted on 14/10/2025 by TripAdvisor

Wonderful hotel with an excellent viewing terrace to watch the comings and goings of the local wildlife...1st day, we spotted an a bush elephant and nile crocodile, with so many different species of antelopes at the waters edge. Food excellent and rooms very spacious. The staff were so helpful.

Posted on 17/10/2025 by TripAdvisor

Breakfast buffet was excellent
Location of the facilities was excellent
Tea/coffee/water facilities at reception was a great touch
Staff all fantastic
Lunch menu was great

Posted on 21/10/2025 by Booking.com

The entire experience was dreamy, we had a wonderful time. Between game drives that were amazing, we enjoyed all the hotel’s amenities, and they all contributed to our amazing Safari experience. The room was great, and so was the spa and the gym. The food selection is very big and the pool has amazing view (we even had some elephants who visited!). The staff is amazing and very welcoming! Highly recommended.

Posted on 14/10/2025 by Booking.com

Wir haben das Hotel als Start in SA gewählt und es war absolut die richtige Entscheidung.
Für uns perfekt!!!

Posted on 22/10/2025 by Booking.com

Na porta do Paul Kruger Gate, staff cordial, quarto confortável, comida deliciosa, e vista para a savana que permite ver bem pertinho a vida selvagem do viewing deck do hotel (vimos girafas, elefantes, hipopótamos, impalas, macaquinhos, sem precisar sair do hotel).

Posted on 21/10/2025 by Booking.com

Staff were excellent, dinner in the Lapa was amazing with so many options. The pool overlooking the Sabi riverbed was especially great. We spotted a number of different wildlife including hippos and elephants whilst enjoying our morning coffee.

Posted on 19/10/2025 by Booking.com

Fantástico. A cordialidade da equipe, especialmente do gerente Miguel, é impressionante. A qualidade e variedade da alimentação, tanto no café como no jantar, é espetacular. A localização, a limpeza, a estrutura, tudo nota 10.

Posted on 16/10/2025 by Booking.com

Fantástico. A cordialidade da equipe, especialmente do gerente Miguel, é impressionante. A qualidade e variedade da alimentação, tanto no café como no jantar, é espetacular. A localização, a limpeza, a estrutura, tudo nota 10.

Posted on 16/10/2025 by Booking.com

I can\'t fault this place. Everything was amazing, from the rooms and facilities to the location, views and food. Seeing animals wander by whilst swimming in the infinity pool is just incredible.

Posted on 15/10/2025 by Booking.com

Everything was GREAT ❤️

Posted on 16/10/2025 by Booking.com

O lugar é perfeito não encontrei nenhum defeito

Posted on 16/10/2025 by Booking.com