The Top 10 Lookouts in Kruger National Park

When I visit Kruger National Park, my main goal is usually to spot wildlife. But did you know that the lookout points in the park offer something just as amazing? In fact, they are even more reliable than trying to find animals. Let me tell you why. While you might not always see the animals you were hoping for, you can always count on a breathtaking view when you visit one of these lookout points.

So why not take a break from searching for wildlife and instead enjoy a morning at one of these lookout points? You can relax, stretch your legs, and take in the stunning scenery from the comfort of your car or a designated bench.

The Top 10 Lookouts in Kruger National Park

(Please note that the lookouts are listed from south to north, not in any particular order of greatness.)

1. Hippo Pools, Crocodile Bridge

Welcome to a Unique View

Imagine standing by the majestic Crocodile River, which acts as a natural boundary for the park. On one side, you’ll see enchanting lodges and lush agriculture, while on the other side, you’ll witness the beauty of Kruger National Park. Take a moment to soak in this mesmerizing sight, and keep an eye out for the magnificent hippos lazily basking in the river.

Finding Your Way

If you’re entering through the Crocodile Bridge Gate, follow the H4-2 road northward for 3 kilometers. Then, make a left turn onto the S27 and continue on the gravel road for another 3 kilometers. Finally, take the left turn that leads to Hippo Pools. The GPS coordinates to guide you are -25.185059, 31.860352.

What You Should Know

Keep in mind that the hangout area is open only from Monday to Friday, between 08:00 and 15:00, and on Saturdays, between 08:00 and 12:00. Plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your experience.

Can You Explore?

Yes, absolutely! You have the freedom to step out of your car and explore the surroundings during the designated hours mentioned above. Take this opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of nature. Who knows? You might stumble upon some delightful surprises!

2. Steilberg Loop – Berg-en-Dal Rest Camp

Are you ready for an awesome adventure? I’m excited to tell you about the Steilberg Loop at the Berg-en-Dal Rest Camp! This trail is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers like you!

The Steilberg Loop is a fantastic hiking trail that will take you on an unforgettable journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes. With its diverse flora and fauna, this trail offers a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of nature up close.

As you embark on this trail, you’ll be surrounded by towering trees and vibrant vegetation. The air is filled with the sweet scent of wildflowers and the melodic chirping of birds. It’s a true paradise for anyone who appreciates the beauty of nature.

Along the way, you’ll encounter stunning viewpoints where you can marvel at the awe-inspiring vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. The panoramic views of the mountains and valleys will leave you in awe of the majesty of the natural world.

But the beauty of the Steilberg Loop doesn’t end with its breathtaking landscapes. This trail is also home to a variety of wildlife that you may encounter during your hike. Keep an eye out for game such as zebras, giraffes, and antelopes. It’s an incredible opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

When you embark on the Steilberg Loop, you’ll not only connect with nature but also challenge yourself physically. The trail includes some steep sections that will put your endurance and strength to the test. But don’t worry, the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel at the end is well worth the effort.

So, if you’re craving an adventure in the great outdoors, the Steilberg Loop at the Berg-en-Dal Rest Camp is the perfect trail for you. Get ready to immerse yourself in the wonders of nature, experience breathtaking landscapes, and encounter incredible wildlife. It’s an experience you’ll cherish forever.

What’s the view like?

If you’re visiting Berg-en-Dal Rest Camp, you’re in for a treat. This beautiful location is situated in the hilliest part of the park, which is why it’s named as such. And as we all know, hills offer some of the best views around. One of the highlights of this camp is the Steilberg Loop, a scenic route that takes you up to one of the highest points in the area. From there, you can gaze out at a stunning expanse of rolling hills and picturesque valleys. It’s a view that you wouldn’t normally expect to find in the Kruger National Park.

How do I get there?

Getting to the Steilberg Loop is quite easy. Starting from Berg-en-Dal, simply take the S110 tarred road until you reach the H3 intersection, which is about 9.5 kilometers away. At that point, make a left turn and continue for another 2 kilometers. Then, take a right turn onto the scenic Steilberg Loop. As you drive along this beautiful route for about 6.5 kilometers, keep your eyes open for the turnoff to the lookout point. Those are the GPS coordinates: -25.389706,31.509047.

Can I explore on foot?

While the Steilberg Loop offers incredible views, it’s important to know that it is closed to caravans and buses. This is because the road can be quite steep in certain areas, and there’s loose gravel present. However, you can still enjoy the sights from the comfort of your car and take in the beauty of the landscape without any worries.

3. Mathekanyane Lookout – Skukuza Rest Camp

Hello there! Today, I want to tell you about an exciting place called Mathekanyane Lookout, located within the Skukuza Rest Camp. Skukuza Rest Camp is a serene destination known for its natural beauty and amazing wildlife.

When you visit the Mathekanyane Lookout, be prepared to be awed by the breathtaking views that surround you. As I stood there, I couldn’t help but marvel at the magnificent landscapes stretching out before me. The lookout offers a captivating panorama of the lush African bushveld and the sparkling Sabie River.

One of the things that struck me the most during my visit was the abundance of wildlife that can be spotted from the lookout. The park is home to a variety of animals, including elephants, lions, zebras, and giraffes. It was truly a surreal experience to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

If you’re a nature lover like me, you’ll be delighted to know that Skukuza Rest Camp offers various accommodation options to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer camping under the stars or staying in a cozy bungalow, there’s something for everyone. The camp provides all the amenities you’ll need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

In addition to the Mathekanyane Lookout, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained during your visit. You can embark on a wildlife safari, go bird watching, or simply relax by the pool. The camp also offers guided tours and educational programs, which are perfect for those who want to learn more about the flora and fauna of the region.

As you plan your visit to Skukuza Rest Camp and Mathekanyane Lookout, keep in mind that the park is dedicated to conservation and sustainable tourism. It’s important to respect and appreciate the natural environment, ensuring that future generations can also enjoy its beauty. Remember to follow any guidelines or regulations in place to protect the wildlife and preserve the ecosystem.

So, if you’re looking for an adventure in the heart of nature, I highly recommend visiting Mathekanyane Lookout at Skukuza Rest Camp. With its stunning views, incredible wildlife, and comfortable accommodations, it’s the perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts like you. I guarantee you’ll have a memorable experience exploring this remarkable corner of the world.

The Incredible View

Imagine yourself on top of a hill, surrounded by nature’s wonders. That’s exactly what you’ll find at the breathtaking Mathekanyane Lookout. Perched on a hill, this lookout offers an ideal spot to witness the majestic beauty of a late afternoon sunset. As the sun starts to set, it casts a mesmerizing glow over the vast stretch of bush below you. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

How to Get There

If you’re staying at Sukuza Rest Camp, getting to the Mathekanyane Lookout is a breeze. Simply hop onto the H3 road and head south for approximately 10 kilometers. Look out for the Mathekanyane sign and make a left turn. Next, embark on a short but steep 500-meter climb to reach the top. It’s that easy! If you’re using GPS, the coordinates are -25.06720, 31.55152.

Can You Step Out of Your Car?

Absolutely! The Mathekanyane Lookout welcomes you to step out of your vehicle and fully immerse yourself in the splendor of nature. Although there are no benches, the massive rock boulder that marks the lookout has a convenient slope that provides surprisingly comfortable seating. Rest assured, you’ll be able to take in the stunning views in comfort.

What You Need to Know

Before visiting the Mathekanyane Lookout, here are a few things to keep in mind. Remember to bring your camera to capture the magical sunset moments. Additionally, make sure to wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking on the boulder’s surface. Finally, don’t forget to pack some snacks and water, so you can relax and fully enjoy your time at this extraordinary destination.

Hey there! Just wanted to give you a heads up that this place doesn’t allow buses and caravans. The road to the top is super steep and has some big cracks. Better not risk it! Also, keep in mind that it takes at least 20 minutes to get back to camp, so don’t get too lost in the sunset and forget about the gate. Safety first, right?

4. Renosterkoppies – Skukuza Rest Camp

The Awesome View

Wow! When you go to Renosterkoppies, you can experience something amazing. You can stand on the edge of the bush and look down into a beautiful valley below. It’s like you have a secret window to the world!

But that’s not all. If you’re interested in history, you can also visit the Stevenson-Hamilton Memorial. It’s a special place where you can learn about the past. And even if you’re not a history buff, the view from Renosterkoppies is still pretty stunning.

How to Get There

If you’re staying at Skukuza Rest Camp, it’s easy to get to Renosterkoppies. Just head south on the H1 for 5 kilometers, and then take a left onto the S114 road. Follow the signs for the Stevenson-Hamilton Memorial for about 6 kilometers. After that, you’ll drive along the S22 road for about 3 kilometers. Then, you’ll turn left and start going up a steep hill. Almost there!

GPS coordinates: -25.10411, 31.59614

Can I Get Out of the Car?

Absolutely! Once you arrive at Renosterkoppies, you can stretch your legs and get some exercise. Just follow the winding path around a big boulder, and you’ll reach the lookout point. It’s a great opportunity to take a walk and enjoy the fresh air.

Things to Keep in Mind

When you reach the final stretch of the road, you’ll notice that it gets steep. Don’t worry, because the view you’ll see at the end will make it all worthwhile. Finding a parking spot shouldn’t be too difficult, but there’s only one spot where you can look past the bushes and get a clear view of the valley. You might have to wait your turn since this lookout isn’t very crowded.

5. Lower Sabie’s Nkumbe Lookout

A Different Perspective

Imagine driving along a road that cuts through a ridge, standing out in a flat landscape. This unique path provides an opportunity to see breathtaking views that stretch for miles across the western region of the park. The grassy vegetation adds a touch of smoothness to the land, creating a serene and beautiful ambiance.

How to Get There

If you’re starting from Lower Sabie, your journey begins by heading north along the H10 for 35km. Afterward, take a left turn towards the Nkumbe Lookout.
Remember these GPS coordinates: -23.674713, 31.574707

Exploring Beyond the Car

When you arrive, you’ll have the chance to step out of your car and stretch your legs. There’s a cozy thatched shade with comfortable cement benches where you can sit back, relax, and even enjoy a meal or a drink that you bring along.

What You Should Know

When you’re driving from Nkumbe, go 1km further north and you’ll come across another viewpoint on the right side of the road. This particular viewpoint feels like it’s even higher than the previous one, and the view stretches far across the eastern part of the park, all the way to the Lebombo Mountains. It’s truly an amazing sight.

6. N’wanetsi – Satara Rest Camp

Awe-Inspiring Views

Wow, let me tell you about this incredible spot called N’wanetsi. It might sound like just a picnic spot, but I promise you, it’s so much more. When I arrived at the lookout point, I couldn’t believe my eyes. The sight took my breath away. From up high, I looked down onto a massive natural dam in the N’wanetsi River, surrounded by a vast expanse of beautiful bush.

How to Get There

Getting to N’wanetsi is pretty straightforward. Just follow these simple directions from Satara Rest Camp. Head south on the H1 road for about 5 kilometers, then make a left turn onto the H6 road. Keep going until you reach the end of the road, which is about 20.5 kilometers. You’ll see clear signs pointing you to the N’wanetsi Picnic Spot. When you arrive, look for a steep little pathway on the left side of the thatched sitting area. This path will lead you up to the viewpoint.
GPS coordinates: -24.45774, 31.97633

Explore and Picnic

Once you reach N’wanetsi, you’ll be thrilled to know that you can actually get out of your car and have a picnic. It’s the perfect spot to relax, enjoy nature, and have a delicious meal in the great outdoors.

What You Should Know

When you’re up at Bobbejaankrans in Orpen, Tamboti, or Maroela, don’t forget to bring your binoculars. You might just spot some amazing animals in the distance. But even if you don’t, simply taking in the vast expanse of land before you is a delight in itself.

A Breathtaking Vantage Point

Perched high above the mighty Timbavati River, Bobbejaankrans offers an awe-inspiring view that showcases the park’s natural beauty. This prominent river serves as a popular watering hole for a variety of animals, making it a fascinating sight to behold. You can access two different lookouts, both of which go by the same name, and indulge in the mesmerizing panorama of the river below.

Finding Your Way

To reach Bobbejaankrans, take the H7 road eastward from Orpen. As you travel along this route, you’ll encounter the first lookout after 12km, followed by the second one at the 22km mark. It’s easy to navigate your way to this captivating destination.

GPS coordinates: -24.405985, 31.523659 and -24.40699, 31.57243

Step Out and Experience

Rest assured, you’ll have the opportunity to get out of your vehicle and spend time at both lookouts. While benches are available for a more relaxed experience, standing offers an unparalleled view that will truly take your breath away. Soak in the magnificence of the surroundings and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature.

What You Should Know

When I visited in May 2013, a portion of the H7 road was shut down due to the floods. You can still reach the first lookout by taking the H7, but for the second lookout, you’ll need to use the alternate S106 gravel road. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars because the river is located quite a distance below.

8. Olifants River Bridge – Olifants Rest Camp

What I see

As I look at the Olifants River, I notice that it divides the park into two distinct sections. It’s fascinating to see how the vegetation changes on either side of the river. The bridge that spans the river is quite impressive, stretching 300m and giving me a surreal feeling of being suspended above the water.

How to get there

If I want to visit the Olifants River, I can start from Olifants Rest Camp and drive west on the H8 tarred road for 9km. Then I just need to follow the H1 for another 6km. If I need the GPS coordinates, they are -24.013853, 31.651611.

Can I explore on foot?

Something really interesting about the bridge is that there are two yellow lines indicating a designated area where I can park my car and explore on foot. It’s a great opportunity to walk along the bridge, observe the birds and animals in the water, and enjoy a different perspective.

What you should know

As I continue northward, I cross the river and find myself on a road that runs alongside the Olifants River. It’s quite scenic, with several river loops where I can stop and admire the view from my car. These spots are particularly appealing if I want to escape the crowds on the bridge.

9. Letaba River Bridge – Letaba Rest Camp

My Perspective: The Bridge Over Letaba River

When I stand on the high-level bridge that spans the Letaba River, I can’t help but be captivated by the breathtaking view. While it may not be as wide as the Olifants River Bridge, it is no less impressive. From here, I can witness the majestic sight of hippos luxuriating on the sandy banks.

How to Get There

If you’re starting at Letaba Rest Camp, simply head towards the four-way stop and take a right onto the H1 road. Keep going north for about 5.5 kilometers until you arrive at the bridge. It’s that straightforward! If you need precise GPS coordinates, they are: -23.812124, 31.582131.

Exploring on Foot

Just like at Olifants, you have the freedom to step out of your vehicle between the yellow lines that mark the bridge. Although the area may be smaller in comparison, it still offers the opportunity for a delightful stroll along the bridge.

Number 10: Thulamela – Punda Maria Rest Camp

The Spectacular View

Up in the far north of the park, in the enchanting Pafuri region, lies an area adorned with gentle hills. While these hills may not rival the grandeur of the ones in Berg-en-Dal, this region is relatively flat, allowing for a small hill at the end of the Thulamela Road. From this vantage point, you can relish in the panoramic views stretching across the landscape.

Getting there is a breeze

To reach this delightful spot, simply drive 5km from Punda Maria Rest Camp and take a right turn onto a gravel road leading to the Punda Maria Gate. After driving for approximately 3.5km, you will come across the turnoff to your right, marked as Thulamela. Travel along this road for about 3km, making sure to keep left at the fork. A steep and straight road will lead you to the top, where you’ll find a small loop that serves as a parking area.
GPS coordinates: -22.722278, 31.003504

Unleash your adventurous spirit

Guess what? You won’t be able to walk this trail. Nope, you’ll have to stay in your car for this adventure.

What you need to know

When you reach the end of the gravel road, your view might be a little blocked by the plants. Unfortunately, you can’t get out of your car to see better. But don’t worry! Just drive back for about 1 kilometer and you’ll reach the top of the hill you just went up. From there, you’ll have a much better view of the landscape stretching out before you. It’s pretty peaceful up there, so there’s no need to fear traffic.