Our rates are inclusive of Dinner, Bed and Breakfast.

Why a South African Safari Costs Less Than a UK Zoo Trip

The dream of a South African safari is more attainable than you might think. You can access the unprecedented beauty of Kruger National Park without breaking the bank with the Kruger Gate Hotel offering exceptional packages tailored to various budgets. 

A woman with binoculars on a game drive after paying the South African safari cost

Have you ever been curious about the cost of a South African safari? Contrary to common beliefs, the cost of a Kruger park safari may be less than a day-trip to a UK zoo. The variety of options, from self-drive routes to guided game drives, makes this iconic park more accessible than many travelers realise.

South African safari cost: Affordable adventures await

Kruger Park safari options for every budget

The affordability of a South African safari is largely due to the flexibility in exploring. Here’s how:

  • Self-drive safaris in Kruger National Park: Pay a conservation fee and chart your own path along well-maintained routes in Big Five territory. Avoid tour costs and strict schedules.
  • Guided drives: Guided drives are available for those who enjoy a more structured tour. Each safari is designed keeping your convenience and budget in mind, whether it’s early morning drives or mystical night drives.

Breaking down the typical South African safari cost

Staying at the Kruger Gate Hotel means the South African safari cost includes more than just accommodation. Packages ranging between R6,000 (£252)* and R9,000 (£378)* normally include:

  • Spacious rooms overlooking the park
  • Meals

These additional amenities not only increase your comfort but also boost the overall value of your adventure. The hotel’s safari concierge can also assist in planning the right safari for your preferences, schedule, and budget.

South African safari Cost: Excellent value for money

When the high UK zoo entry fee is compared to the cost of a Kruger park safari, it’s clear that the latter offers more time, freedom, and genuine wildlife experiences. Standard tickets for a peak-time weekly visit to the London zoo can set a family of 4 back £125*. This does not include extras like transportation and meals. Considering South Africa’s favorable exchange rate and lower cost of living, the cost of a South African safari is not only reasonable but also represents excellent value for money. It’s a memorable adventure in luxury that is definitely worth every penny.

South African safari cost vs. UK zoo prices: An unexpected comparison

You might be in for a surprise if you’ve ever wondered how the South African safari cost matches up against a family day out at a UK zoo. A stay near Kruger National Park can cost less while offering much more bang for your buck. A single night at the Kruger Gate Hotel not only includes meals and comfortable accommodations but also provides direct access to the wildest part of nature — a bonus a mere zoo ticket can never offer.

Factors influencing the South African safari cost

The cost of a South African Safari is shaped by a variety of factors that can work to a traveler’s advantage.

  1. Infrastructure and accessibility
  • Kruger National Park spans an extensive area. Thanks to its well-established infrastructure, game drive adventures are feasible. This gives you the flexibility to plan a Kruger park safari that meets your circumstances.
  1. Authentic wildlife signings
  • Compared to a UK zoo, where you might spend nearly the same amount on entry fees alone, a Kruger park safari offers authentic wildlife encounters in their natural environment.

Affordable luxury in the wild

Choosing to stay at the Kruger Gate Hotel strikes a smart balance between value for money and comfort.

  1. Economical high-end accommodation
  • The hotel offers the feel of a high-end lodge without the typical hefty safari trip prices. The rates are reasonable thanks to the local economy and lower operating costs in South Africa.
  1. Luxury amenities
  • The overall South African safari cost becomes even more compelling when luxury amenities like a secluded African spa, private dining, and views into the park are part and parcel of the total price.
  1. Inclusion of meals
  • Daily rates can cover breakfast and dinner, which drastically lessens your additional costs. Plus, experiencing the wonders of nature while lounging by the pool or enjoying your early morning coffee? Now that’s a perk you absolutely won’t find at a zoo.

Why opt for a Kruger Park safari over a zoo day?

A Kruger park safari promises an authentic encounter with elephants, lions, and a plethora of other wildlife in their natural habitat, creating a connection that a cage in a zoo can never replicate.

Besides all these attractions, the safari concierge at Kruger Gate Hotel can guide you in booking guided excursions within the park, tailored to your interests and budget.

Ultimately, the South African safari cost is about more than money. It’s about enjoying the wild in comfort and style, at a price point that’s remarkably worth every cent.

Understanding the South African safari cost: Why it’s more affordable than you think

A South African safari cost may seem expensive at first, but it’s often far more budget-friendly than expected, especially when compared to traditional outings like UK zoo visits. One major reason is the wilderness itself. Kruger’s wide-open spaces are already home to the wildlife, unlike zoos that need costly enclosures to mimic habitats, lowering the need for manmade structures or high maintenance costs. That natural setup means animals roam freely, offering authentic encounters at no extra charge.

What influences the South African safari cost in Kruger Park

The lower South African safari cost is also thanks to the country’s overall affordability. Basic services like food, fuel, and hospitality come at a fraction of UK prices. That makes indulgent experiences, including a Kruger park safari, far more accessible. For example, staying at a high-quality lodge like Kruger Gate Hotel means you can enjoy crisp linens, warm local meals, and modern conveniences in nature, all without inflated rates. Because operational costs are lower, safari packages can be priced to fit various budgets while still delivering remarkable value.

How Kruger Park safari options keep costs down

Flexibility also plays a big role in cutting the South African safari cost. Instead of locking visitors into rigid tours, options in and around Kruger are adaptable. A Kruger park safari can be tailored to fit your time and pocket, whether you’re visiting for a few days or planning an extended stay. Many accommodations offer game drives, breakfast packs for early risers, and even starlit dinners around fire pits that don’t stack up extra charges. These thoughtful inclusions help travellers get more from every rand spent.

Exceptional value at the edge of the park

One of the best places to get maximum value is just steps from the Kruger gate. Kruger Gate Hotel strikes a balance between comfort and cost-efficiency. It’s ideally located to make the most of your time at the Kruger park and offers unmatched accommodation packages. You’re right on the doorstep of Kruger National Park, meaning fewer transfers and more time in the wild. And yes, even extras like family-friendly onsite activities overlooking the bush are included—proving once again how the South African safari cost delivers impressive value compared to far less immersive experiences elsewhere.

Based in London and interested in learning more about staying with us? Visit our exhibition at Experience London 2025

Discover Your Unforgettable Safari Adventure

The dream of a South African safari is more attainable than you might think. You can access the unprecedented beauty of Kruger National Park without breaking the bank with the Kruger Gate Hotel offering exceptional packages tailored to various budgets. 

Don’t miss the chance to enjoy nature in style. Contact us to start planning your unforgettable journey into the heart of Africa’s wildlife. Embrace affordable luxury and authentic encounters today.

*Rates mentioned were accurate at the time of publication and are subject to change. For the latest rates and offers, check directly via the relevant platforms.

Guest Reviews

This property is a must if you are visiting Kruger. It’s very clean and the breakfast and dinner were delicious! There are many animals found right on the property. Sarah surprised us with a wonderful gift in our room for our anniversary and our friend’s rooms as well. We also booked a safari with the hotel and saw the big 5. If you are reading this, book now and you will not regret it.

Posted on 31/08/2025 by Google

What an incredible experience. Tspeho M saw to our private dining and he was absolutely amazing. Everything about this place is perfection!!!

Posted on 29/08/2025 by Google

(Translated by Google) A superb hotel, located right next to the park. We were lucky enough to be able to observe a herd of elephants with their babies and giraffes from our pool, not even 30 meters away. The staff is super nice and friendly, and the food is incredibly delicious. The rooms are simple but very clean. We'll definitely be back. It was a wonderful stay. Thank you.

(Original)
Ein super schönes Hotel, direkt am Park gelegen, wir hatten das Glück und konnten direkt vom Pool aus eine Gasherde Elefanten mit ihren Babys und Giraffen beobachten, keine 30 Meter vor uns. Das Personal ist super nett und freundlich, das Essen war Mega lecker. Die Zimmer sind einfach aber sehr sauber. Wir kommen bestimmt wieder. Es war ein gelungener Aufenthalt. Danke

Posted on 25/08/2025 by Google

An amazing trip my family of 9.
Amazing food and room.
All the staff were really nice but a special thanks to the guest manager Sarah.

Posted on 29/08/2025 by Google

An exceptional trip at the Kruger Gate Hotel.
We were a family of nine for a great one-week stay with three safari days.
Upon arrival, we had a few technical issues with one of our rooms, but the hotel quickly managed to fix the situation.
The entire staff is amazing, everyone is very kind, but a special thanks goes to the guest manager, Sarah, who was truly wonderful and really made our week extraordinary.
Everything at the hotel is very well managed, the beds and rooms are very comfortable.
The food is excellent, and I especially recommend the private dinner, which is an incredible experience to share with family.
The safaris are very well organized, and if you’re lucky, you might even see a lion (or six).
We leave with stars in our eyes and the memory of a dream trip.
Once again, thank you to all the staff, and especially to Sarah, for her kindness and outstanding professionalism.

Posted on 27/08/2025 by Google

Fantastic rooms, great food and an awesome viewing area. Great place to stay!

Posted on 23/08/2025 by Google

Spent 3 nights here.. Its a huge hotel with over 400 rooms if im not wrong.. very clean place.. It a 1 min drive from PaulKruger Gate to the Kruger National Park..
Room was nice.. if you are elderly and don wanna take the stairs gor the the \'\'2\'\' rooms.. Our room was on the first floor beside the swimming pool.. Was big and had a sofa as well.. TV programs were not so good..
Awesome breakfast and dinner buffets.. nice wide spread.. all that was tried were simply very every tasty.. breakfast n dinner are at two different restaurants.. they are next to each other.. Dinners variety is very very good.. friendly staff.. There is a viewing deck where if youare lucky you can see animals at the sabie river.. we managed to see elephants and deers..
We tried the inhouse couple massage. 3-4 hours.. was amazing.. Thehotel has a mini golf course and the chest board to play.. Staff were vrey friendly and accomodating to any request..
Actually too many good things to say.. you got to try it..
In short i htink this hotel everyone would want if they were to the park.. Awesome place will return if im back there

Posted on 27/08/2025 by TripAdvisor

This was our second stay at the Kruger Gate hotel - every bit as excellent as the first. Rooms are spotless, beautifully maintained, tastefully decorated and spacious, with lots of storage , power points and lighting options; beds are very comfortable.

Every member of staff we encountered, from housekeeping and cleaning crew to waitstaff, spa therapists and reception were incredibly helpful and professional.

The food included in their dinner bed and breakfast rate is still excellent value - constantly freshly made and replenished and of a far, far higher standard than is usual for a hotel buffet. Cocktails, bar drinks and food are similarly delicious (and staggeringly good value!)

The gardens and walkways are lovely, and the infinity pool was a delight. I was pleasantly surprised by the temperature when I dipped my foot in the water on the very sunny August day we arrived - but disappointingly, the the weather was too cool for me to get in the next day! Still, spending hours on the deck there watching the animal drama quietly unfold in front of us while lunching and eventually moving on to their delicious cocktails was a joy regardless

Posted on 28/08/2025 by TripAdvisor

Everything you need for a great safari in a great location is at this property. We hope to be able to come again. The breakfast and lunch are excellent with a great selection. The rooms and entire resort are clean and there is wildlife everywhere at the property.

Posted on 31/08/2025 by TripAdvisor

We found Kruger Gate Hotel to be above our expectations, they were really accommodating, and the accommodations were beautiful, clean and with a clear attention to detail. The entire resort provides a great atmosphere for relaxation, rejuvenation and being an excellent location for entry into Kroger. We would definitely recommend this to others, especially those who only have one day, like it\'s, so they can afford the price and make their one night stay extremely worthwhile!

Posted on 27/08/2025 by TripAdvisor

This hotel is amazing excellant service nothing too much trouble always friendly and welcoming would like to visit again one day

Posted on 24/08/2025 by TripAdvisor

An exceptional trip at the Kruger Gate Hotel.
We were a family of nine for a great one-week stay with three safari days.
Upon arrival, we had a few technical issues with one of our rooms, but the hotel quickly managed to fix the situation.
The entire staff is amazing, everyone is very kind, but a special thanks goes to the guest manager, Sarah, who was truly wonderful and really made our week extraordinary.
Everything at the hotel is very well managed, the beds and rooms are very comfortable.
The food is excellent, and I especially recommend the private dinner, which is an incredible experience to share with family.
The safaris are very well organized, and if you’re lucky, you might even see a lion (or six).
We leave with stars in our eyes and the memory of a dream trip.
Once again, thank you to all the staff, and especially to Sarah, for her kindness and outstanding professionalism.

Posted on 27/08/2025 by TripAdvisor

Tout était incroyable ! De la chambre, à l’emplacement, au personnel en passant par le restaurant ! Et bien évidemment le safari ! Nous avons passé un séjour de deux nuits tout simplement merveilleux !

Posted on 31/08/2025 by Booking.com

Fantastic resort, lovely staff, excellent food and great location, kids loved the pool

Posted on 26/08/2025 by Booking.com

Pulizia e organizzazione oltre che alla posizione

Posted on 24/08/2025 by Booking.com

It’s a beautiful property with very friendly and attentive employees. The lighting is warm and inviting and the resort feels like a huge treehouse with wildlife everywhere. The property even went above and beyond helping us to celebrate our anniversary.

Posted on 31/08/2025 by Booking.com

Its deck overlooking Kruger park and the layout of hotel w all amenities

Dinner Buffet was excellent along w breakfast. Buffet. Service exceptional

Posted on 23/08/2025 by Booking.com

Absolutely impressed with everything here. The room was so big, everything new, we would wake up and see impalas in the garden.

Food was absolutely delicious. Like wow, so many options, for vegetarians as well. Would wait everyday for that dinner.

Kind staff, we had some great game drives with them.

So many options to chill, play boardgames, a gym that would compete with an actual commercial gym, so well equipped.

Terrace and pool wow, we spotted so many animals just from there.

Massage absolutely incredible, the view from the room was great as well.

Probably one of the best hotel we stayed. And it’s so close to the park.

Posted on 23/08/2025 by Booking.com

Posizione, attività, struttura

Posted on 31/08/2025 by Booking.com

Wegen der Renovierung des Pools und der Zimmer war es etwas eingeschränkt.Aber das Personal war echt top

Posted on 28/08/2025 by Booking.com

Ένα πακέτο που τα έχει όλα . Πολύ ευγενικό προσωπικό, εξαιρετική τοποθεσία και πάρα πολύ ωραία διακόσμηση.

Posted on 25/08/2025 by Booking.com

Amazing location and the food is great incredible.

Posted on 24/08/2025 by Booking.com

Sehr gutes Restaurant (Buffet). Kruger Gate Eingang Nationalpark nur 500m entfernt.Schöner Blick von der Bar-Terrasse auf den Fluss und Nationalpark. Schönes Zimmer.

Posted on 30/08/2025 by Booking.com

Las habitaciones son muy cómodas y espaciosas, el resort es su conjunto es muy completo ya que cuenta con distintas zonas donde poder disfrutar del entorno, los empleados son muy atentos y amables y la comida es variada.

Posted on 26/08/2025 by Booking.com