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Wildlife Encounters
We create unforgettable memories

Authentic Greater Kruger Safaris, Guided By Those Who Live It

From exclusive private reserve escapes to expertly planned group safaris, Wildlife Encounters connects you with the right safari experience backed by generations of local knowledge, professional guiding expertise, and trusted relationships throughout the Greater Kruger.

We are a family business of professional field guides and safari specialists based in the Greater Kruger. Having built, operated, and managed safari camps across many of the region’s premier private reserves, we know this wilderness intimately and we use that knowledge to craft seamless, unforgettable safari experiences tailored to you.

PLAN YOUR SAFARI

Local
Expertise

Guided by Those Who Know Greater Kruger Best

Handpicked Safari Experiences

The Right Safari for Every Traveller

Trusted Safari
Network

Access to the Region’s Finest Camps and Lodges

Born From Experience

Local Knowledge That Makes The Difference

  • Insider Expertise
  • Personally Tailored Safaris

Anyone can book a safari. Few truly understand the Greater Kruger the way we do. Wildlife Encounters was built by people who live and work in this region every day. Our experience spans decades of guiding, camp operations, lodge partnerships, and safari logistics across the private reserves bordering Kruger National Park.

MORE ABOUT US
THE TRUE KRUGER Experience

Because we are based here.
we stay closely connected to

This means your safari is not only well planned, but also personally matched to your expectations, budget, and travel style.

Wildlife
Insights

The best seasonal
wildlife sightings

Reserve
Updates

Lodge Developments
& Reserve Updates

Lodge
Expertise

Trusted knowledge of
lodge standards

Travel
Guidance

Current accessibility,
and travel considerations

Expertly Planned Around Your Needs

Tailored Safaris Across The Greater Kruger

Safari Planning & Reservations

We help you select the ideal safari lodges, camps, and reserves based on your travel goals, interests, and budget.

Private Reserve Safaris

Access some of the most exclusive wildlife areas in Africa with expertly curated safari experiences in the Greater Kruger’s renowned private reserves.

Logistics & Travel Coordination

From transfers and accommodation to multi-lodge itineraries and special requirements, we handle the details so you can focus on the experience.

Group & Specialised Safaris

We have successfully coordinated everything from university field groups on tight budgets to highly exclusive and confidential VIP safaris.

VIEW YOUR SAFARI EXPERIENCE
Travels That Touch Your Soul

Designed for the Way You Want to Experience Africa

We believe the best safari experiences come from genuine understanding, not packaged tourism.

Journey Impressions

We understand what truly creates an exceptional stay

Having owned and operated safari camps ourselves, we understand what truly creates an exceptional stay.

Our recommendations are based on firsthand experience and trusted relationships developed over years in the industry. Whether you are planning your first safari or returning to Africa for a specialised experience, we ensure every detail reflects your expectations.

Outstanding guiding

Exceptional wildlife areas

Personal service

Seamless logistics

The right fit between guest and lodge

Safaris Without Limits

From Budget-Conscious Adventures to Ultra-Exclusive Escapes

Wildlife Encounters has planned and managed safaris for

  • International Families
  • Corporate & Incentive travel
  • University & Educational Groups
  • High-profile VIP guests requiring discretion & privacy
  • Wildlife enthusiasts & photographers
PLAN YOUR SAFARI
Shaped by Life in the Greater Kruger

Why Travellers Trust Wildlife Encounters

  • We Live Here

We are based in the Greater Kruger and actively involved in the safari industry every day.

  • Professional Ranger Expertise

Our background as professional safari guides gives us deep insight into wildlife areas, lodges, and guest experiences.

  • Personalised Recommendations

Every safari is tailored around your interests, comfort level, travel style, and budget.

  • Trusted Industry Relationships

Years of operating camps and working within private reserves gives us access to trusted partners throughout the region.

  • End-to-End Service

From your first enquiry to your final transfer, we manage the process with care and attention to detail.

Customer Reviews

Crafted by People Who Know Safari Best

Mikayla
February 2026
Judy and her team organized an incredible safari experience at Umlani lodge in February 2026 for my friends and I on our trip to South Africa. From start to finish, she was professional, responsive, and provided years of expertise which ultimately allowed us to book the perfect safari experience. They were always quick to respond to questions, provided clear communication throughout the planning process, and made the entire trip feel effortless, which allowed us to fully unwind and enjoy the trip without any stress. We couldn’t have asked for a more memorable safari experience and would highly recommend Wildlife Encounters to anyone planning a trip to the Kruger area.
Berne & Philippe | Switzerland
December 2025
Reviews “We booked our safari in December 2025 through Wildlife Encounters. We spent the first three days at Baobab Ridge, which was a wonderful lodge. The atmosphere was friendly and welcoming, and the ranger in particular organized the game drives with great enthusiasm. We saw all the animals, including the Big Five – all on the same day. We spent the next three days at Thaba Mati Resort – an absolutely fantastic, newer lodge set amidst stunning scenery. At night, you could even watch the hippos at the pond and hear them loud and clear. Judy from Wildlife Encounters organized the trip with great care and everything went wonderfully including the pick-up and all transfers.
Jocelyn
October 2025
When we decided to go to South Africa, we knew that a safari was on our list. What we didn’t know was how to narrow down the numerous options available to us. We sent enquiries to several outfitters, but as soon as we received Judy‘s email, we knew that she could plan the perfect trip for us. We stayed at Xanatseni Private Camp (in Klaserie Nature Reserve) and Umlani Bush Camp (in Timbavati Nature Reserve). In staying at two different camps, we had both a luxury and an eco lodge experience, and two different styles of safari to view the area wildlife. Judy also planned a perfect private tour of Blyde Canyon with an overnight stay at Moholoholo Ya Mati. From the moment we stepped off the airplane to the moment we returned to the airport, everything was seamlessly planned with knowledgeable and professional drivers. We couldn’t have had a better time on this once in a lifetime trip, thoughtfully planned by Judy to ensure we had the best possible experience.
Josh | Canada
November 2024
Took our trip from a worry to an experience of a lifetime! Booking our safari experience was new and a little scary for us. Judy from Wildlife Encounters took all of our desires, gave us suggestions we would never have known to think of, and organized a trip of a lifetime! The communication was exceptional and clear, all of our questions were answered, and from the time we got picked up, to drop off - we didn't have a worry! You could feel Judy's passion, and as a result - our safari experience went beyond our wildest imaginations. nDzuti Bush Camp was one of our stops and a true highlight that we highly recommend experiencing! If you're looking for a communicative, helpful, kind, knowledgeable and a great, priced experience (who wouldn't) then look no further! Wildlife Encounters is truly for you! I have no doubt your experience with Wildlife Encounters will be as exceptional as ours was.
Lacey | USA
July 2024
This was our 1st safari with Wildlife Encounters but it won't be our last! We knew from our first correspondence with Judy, when we were trying to figure out which camp was the right fit for our family, that we were in good hands. Because we were traveling with younger children, we ended up staying at the Tuskers Safari Camp and basically had the place to ourselves. The camp is situated above a watering hole, and we spent countless hours mesmerized by the various animals that came and went right below us. It was amazing! JD is an expert ranger and Vusi a very knowledgeable tracker. They not only found us a variety of wildlife (even the elusive leopard) but also spent time teaching our children all about the bush. From learning fun facts about the wildlife and terrain to stopping the jeep to look at different animal tracks, our kids had so many stories to tell their friends when we returned home. The camp itself was clean and comfortable. Every meal prepared by Victory and her team was tasty and memorable. The staff went out of their way to make sure all our needs were met. We can’t recommend Tuskers and Wildlife Encounters enough!
Ana Paula | Brazil
June 2024
Exceptional Judy and Bruce are super attentive and welcomed us very well. Their campsite is stunning and during our stay elephants were nearby and we were able to watch them from the "balcony" of our tent. Sabre is an incredible ranger and we got to see a lot of animals and learn a lot about the savannah and how it works. We highly recommend it.
Camila Trautmann | Colombia
March 2024
I felt like I was part if the family! If I could give more stars to Judy, Bruce, Sabre, and Justin, I definitely would! I picked the “Best of both worlds” tour and I dońt regret it! Even since de beginning, when booking the tour, I felt I was being taken care of, Judy was so kind and so patient, and she made sure my tour was as incredible as I could imagine. The second place I stayed at is Ndzuti Bush Camp, which is run my Judy and Bruce, and it was amazing, I felt so safe and so welcome there, it being a family business truly makes a difference! I even felt part of the family. And I can’t describe what it feels like to see the animals roaming free, it really changes your life. And Sabre does such an amazing job as a guide! She makes sure everyone is comfortable and happy and is always ready to answer your question. I don’t have enough words to describe what an amazing experience I had, I can’t wait to come back!
Create an adventure in the Greater Kruger

Start Planning Your Greater Kruger Safari

Whether you are seeking a luxury private reserve escape, a family safari, or a specialised wildlife experience, Wildlife Encounters will help you find the right safari expertly planned from the ground up.

Book Now
WHATSAPP US
Create an adventure in the Greater Kruger

Start Planning Your Greater Kruger Safari

Whether you are seeking a luxury private reserve escape, a family safari, or a specialised wildlife experience, Wildlife Encounters will help you find the right safari expertly planned from the ground up.

BOOK NOW
WHATSAPP US
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