[Willem Fick]

Kruger is vast (approx 7500sq mi), and given its size there really is a lot of diversity in as far as what you can see and experience. I am not a great fan of the whole "safari" concept, so my visits there are mostly limited to single day excursions. Even then you can see a huge number of animals in a very short space.

I personally would not spend more than a week there, especially with a 6 year old as it can become a bit mundane too. In my opinion the best time for animal spotting is the dry season, as the less dense vegitation makes visibility better. As it is a very warm part of the country, winter is really also best from a personal comfort perspective - during summer temperatures are in the high 30's to 40 degrees (Celcius) which is very unpleasant if you aren't used to it.

The points regarding private game reserves are quite valid too, though I think Kruger is still the experience to have!

Someone mentioned security concerns here;

Not too much of an issue just yet, though admittedly it isn't exactly a garden teaparty down here either. As long as you don't attract unnessecary attention or do anything really stupid you'll be fine though. Travel by car is as safe as anywhere really and as long as you stick to the beaten path you'll be absolutely fine.

South Africa is a far way to travel to just to see Kruger though. Do you have any other sightseeing in mind perhaps?

I'll PM you my contact details - please feel free to be in touch if you need a local perspective or some assistance/advice!

Willem