Our rates are inclusive of Dinner, Bed and Breakfast.

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

Good👍

Posted on 29/09/2025 by Google

My husband and I have never been on a safari and after doing a lot of research we settled on the Kruger Gate Hotel. The service experienced was 10/10 absolutely attentive, from the moment we arrived the stay was nothing short of incredible. Rhandzu made our stay a memorable one he was personable, and always remembered the details. It was lovely to chat with him at the end of a busy day, aside from the impeccable service - the property was absolutely stunning. The amenities were fresh, clean and inviting ! We spent lots of time at the infinity pool, where we saw buffalo as well as a mom and baby elephants. We also visited the spa where we had a couples treatment that was amazing - so amazing I fell asleep. They also had a convenience / souvenir store onsite, a coffee shop and games like chess and mini golf. I will definitely be coming back!

Posted on 26/09/2025 by TripAdvisor

We had an absolutely amazing experience at KGH!
The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful throughout our stay. The hotel itself is top-notch, with stunning views and a fantastic ambiance, especially at night.
A huge shoutout to the ladies at the spa - they provided exceptional treatment and made us feel truly welcome. Thanks to the entire team at KGH for making our stay so special!
Thank you

Posted on 28/09/2025 by TripAdvisor

O hotel é lindo, a comida maravilhosa e o atendimento de toda a equipe foi incrível! Também amamos os safaris, principalmente pela duração mais longa do que eu via em outros lugares, porque isso proporcionou irmos para áreas mais distantes no parque. Pretendo voltar com certeza!! Esse hotel vai fazer parte das lembranças da viagem mais maravilhosa da minha vida!

Posted on 01/10/2025 by Booking.com

Super mooie omgeving. Mooi hotel met een fantastisch ontbijt en diner. Ruime kamers

Posted on 28/09/2025 by Booking.com

スタッフのサービスが抜群に良い‼︎
Safariツアーも親切にBIG5見させてもらえる。

Posted on 27/09/2025 by Booking.com

Fantastic location, great food, great staff

Posted on 27/09/2025 by Booking.com

Just loved the new pool area looking over the river !

Posted on 27/09/2025 by Booking.com

We loved Kruger Gate Hotel so much we came back again spontaneously and booked an even more expensive room! The staff were exceptional - helpful, playful (hello cheeky lady;) and efficient. The booked safari was next level as safari drivers share intel on animal locations so travelers see more and ours shared stories and information about the animals that you don’t get on a self drive. We now know how the myth of the elephant’s graveyard came about. Incredible. Loved the chalet we stayed on first night. Great design. Especially the mudroom, outdoor private showers and shared chalet pool. Mmmmmmmm

Posted on 26/09/2025 by Booking.com

De gerenoveerde kamers zijn prachtig, het ontbijt fantastisch en het diner in de boma een echt feest.
Het uitzicht over de crocodile river is geweldig en de afstand naar de gate perfect.
Het vriendelijke personeel wat ons welkom terug heette met een grote lach (waren hier zeven jaar geleden ook) en voor ons gaat dit zeker niet de laatste keer zijn in dit fijne hotel! We gaan eind half oktober weer 🥰

Posted on 28/09/2025 by Booking.com

Wir hatten einen rundum perfekten Aufenthalt im Krüger Gate Hotel. Schon die vorab gebuchte Abholung vom Flughafen verlief reibungslos.
Die Mitarbeiter waren jederzeit freundlich, zuvorkommend und aufmerksam

Unser Zimmer war komfortabel, und die gesamte Anlage ist wunderschön und lädt zum Wohlfühlen ein.

Besonders hervorzuheben ist das abendliche Buffet, das mit seiner Vielfalt und Qualität absolut überzeugt hat – auch für Vegetarier gab es eine große Auswahl. Das Frühstück war ebenso ausgezeichnet. Die abendliche Atmosphäre mit Feuerstelle und teils musikalischer Begleitung war außergewöhnlich und gleichzeitig angenehm unaufdringlich.

Ein absolutes Highlight war unser vorab gebuchtes Boma Dinner mit privatem Dining – kulinarisch hervorragend und sehr stimmungsvoll. Ein besonderer Dank an Excellent :) Ein schönes Erlebnis war das phantastische Geburtstagsständchen, das uns unvergesslich bleiben wird.

Auch die Safari-Ausflüge ( ein Highlight) ließen sich unkompliziert buchen. Wir unternahmen eine Ganztagessafari sowie eine Nachmittags-Safari. Bei der Ganztagessafari gab es morgens vor der Abfahrt einen Kaffee und zusätzlich eine Lunchbox für unterwegs.

Fazit: Wir können das Krüger Gate Hotel uneingeschränkt empfehlen und würden bei einem erneuten Besuch im Krüger Nationalpark definitiv wieder hier übernachten.

Posted on 28/09/2025 by Booking.com

Schöner Blick in den Park. 2min Fahrzeit zum Paul Kruger Gate. Geführte Safaris einfach über das Hotel buchbar (am besten vor der Reise anfragen). Super freundliches Personal. Eine unglaubliche Auswahl an Speisen zum Abendessen und Frühstück.

Posted on 28/09/2025 by Booking.com

De tudo! Este hotel é espetacular, simplesmente sensacional em tudo, da arquitetura, a hotelaria, dos atendentes e equipe até os safaris!

Posted on 23/09/2025 by Booking.com

Très bien placé à quelques mètres de la Kruger gate. Variété et qualité des plats du buffet

Posted on 29/09/2025 by Booking.com

Atendimento maravilhoso, ótimas acomodações e muito bom restaurante .

Posted on 29/09/2025 by Booking.com

Hôtel juste incroyable !
La piscine offre un panorama sublime, les chambres sont propres et vraiment agréables, et le personnel est au top, que ce soit pour le safari ou au sein de l’établissement. Le petit-déjeuner est très bon, et le buffet du soir aussi (seuls les desserts étaient un peu décevants). L’endroit est luxueux, calme et parfait pour profiter du cadre exceptionnel du Kruger.

Posted on 29/09/2025 by Booking.com