Dry season (May to September) gives you the clearest wildlife sightings since animals congregate around water. The heat's manageable and insect levels drop. You can go year-round, but check before you go as wet season occasionally affects road access to reserves.

2-3 week safaris fill up faster, especially during European winter. Booking 4-6 weeks ahead gives you real choice on dates and vehicle types. Last-minute spots pop up too, but don't count on it.

Absolutely. Your guide knows where animals actually are and can read the landscape - you'll see vastly more from an open vehicle with someone who knows Kruger than trying to self-drive. Plus most tours handle transport from Maputo, so there's no rental car hassle.

Most 2-3 day packages cover accommodation (often in rondawels or basic lodges), guided game drives, and transport from Maputo. Meals are usually included, but check before you go on what exactly - some tours add costs for extras.

Safari vehicles work for most ages, though very young kids need to be comfortable sitting still for several hours. Maputo Special Reserve tours tend to be shorter and less intense than Kruger - a solid option if mobility's a concern. Ask tour operators about specific accessibility details before booking.

Most safari tours include transport from your accommodation. For exploring the city between trips, taxis are cheap and plentiful but chaotic; ride-shares exist but aren't as reliable as in major cities. Your hotel can usually arrange a driver if you want something straightforward.

Three days gives you more wildlife encounters and less rushed feeling. Two days works if you're tight on time and want to combine it with coastal time at Calanga. Either way, you're looking at early starts and long game drives.