Safety
The main safety concern in the Kruger National Park is that of wildlife interaction. Following a few basic safety guidelines should prevent all dangerous encounters. The most important thing to remember is to never leave your vehicle (unless you are in a designated area). Furthermore, never startle or tease the animals (hooting is seen as particularly aggressive).
Malaria is a concern in the Kruger as it is one of only two places in South Africa that is a Malaria area.
Remember: always stay on the path; fill up petrol whenever you have the opportunity; don’t get out of your car (unless in a designated area); beware of thieving monkeys; roller skates, quad bikes, motorcycles and skateboards are prohibited; do not interact with the animal (feeding, etc.);no part of the body may protrude from a window or sunroof or any other part of the vehicle.
Remember: you are food!
Visa
Visas are required by all except nationals of the following for stays of up to 90 days: United Kingdom, other EU, Australia, Canada, USA, Japan, African Union Laissez Passer (except of Morocco), Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, Israel, Jamaica, New Zealand, Paraguay, Singapore, St. Vincent & Grenadines, Uruguay and Venezuela.
Nationals of the following countries and territories do not require visas for stays of up to 30 days : Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Benin, Bolivia, Cape Verde, Costa Rica, Gabun, Guyana, Hong Kong (SAR), Hungary, Jordan, Korea (Republik), Lesotho, Macau, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Poland, Peru, Seychelles, Slovakia, Swaziland, Thailand, Turkey, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Cyprus, as well as transit passengers provided they are continuing their journey by the same or first connecting aircraft and not leaving the airport.
Confirm with the South African Consulate or Embassy in your home country that you do or do not need a Visa before leaving for South Africa.
Medical
South Africa only has two Malaria zones, and the Kruger National Park is one of them. The highest risk of infection is from October to May (summer).
Consistent mosquito prevention (insect repellent, mosquito nets, prophylaxis) is essential, as is high SPF sunscreen to avoid sunburn (the African sun is extremely harsh).
Private hospitals are of a very high standard in South Africa, but public hospitals should be avoided. Tap water is completely safe to drink.
It is recommendable to have full travel insurance and to always travel with a first aid-kit.
Travel Insurance (for foreign visitors)
Travel insurance will give you the peace of mind to make your stay in South Africa more enjoyable and less stressful. Whether it covers simple elements like lost luggage or the extremes like emergency airlifts is up to the plan you choose.
