Kruger (South Africa) and Madikwe (South Africa) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Kruger | Madikwe | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | South Africa | South Africa |
| Type | National park | Reserve |
| Approx. area | 19,485 km² | 750 km² |
| Best time | July to September | July to September |
| Suggested stay | 3–5 days | 2–4 days |
| Main gateway airport | Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMI) | O. R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) |
| Big Five | Present | Present |
| Malaria | Low risk: check with a doctor | None |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Kruger | Madikwe |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| February | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| March | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| April | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| May | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| June | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| July | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| August | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| September | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| October | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| November | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| December | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ some rain |
How to choose
Choose Kruger if
- you want camping
- you hope to see crocodiles
Choose Madikwe if
- you are travelling in April and December
As both are in the same country, many travellers combine them in one trip.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Kruger or Madikwe?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Madikwe is stronger in April and December.
When is the best time for each?
Kruger: July to September. Madikwe: July to September.
Sources: SANParks - Kruger National Park · Britannica - Kruger National Park · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Skukuza · North West Parks Board · South African Tourism - Madikwe · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - South Africa (Mahikeng)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.