According to the park's official website, there is strong evidence that prehistoric man roamed the area between 100,000 and 500,000 years ago and that more than 300 archaeological sites of Stone Age man have been found. The rocks in the park comprise the largest collection of San Art anywhere in the area. Evidence also shows that the Xhosa, Zulu and Ndebele all lived in the area at one time.
In 1898, Paul Kruger, the president of the Transvaal Republic, designated the area as Sabie Game Reserve, a protected place for flora and fauna. In the early 20th century, some members of the South African government began pushing for nationalization of the game reserves. In the summer of 1926, the South African parliament passed the National Parks Act, which nationalized the game reserves and created Kruger National Park, named after Paul Kruger.
The Big Five of Africa--elephant, rhino, lion, leopard and Cape buffalo--are among the creatures roaming the park. Many of the 29 game-viewing driving routes will offer visitors glimpses of the Big Five. The park staff can help arrange for car, SUV and truck rental for use in the park.
The park offers a variety of safari options. Packages range from luxury lodge safaris with catered meals and high tea to rustic safaris at bush camps. The park also offers designated family and disabled safari packages, accommodating the needs of almost any visitor.
More than 250 historical and cultural sites are within the park. Thulamela Hill is an active archaeological site with artifacts dating to the Iron Age. The restored Masorini Village has been reconstructed to allow visitors to experience a Stone Age village.
Packages to fit all budgets are available. The fully inclusive Deluxe African Safari Escape, which includes private chef, private games drives and daily massages, starts at roughly $1,500 per person per night. The camping sites are available for as low as $20 per person per night. Reservations for all accommodation options are available online through the park's official website.
