A self-drive safari in Kruger National Park sounds like it demands a chunky off-roader, but for most visitors that's simply not true. South Africa's flagship game reserve has a public road network of tarred main routes and maintained gravel roads that ordinary sedans and hatchbacks can handle just fine, according to park operator SANParks.

In practice, that means you can drive your own everyday car in, cruise between the main rest camps, and cover a good spread of wildlife-viewing areas without ever engaging low-range gearing. A higher-clearance vehicle will make corrugated gravel sections more comfortable, but it's a nice-to-have rather than a requirement.

There are two caveats worth knowing before you set off. First, gravel conditions change - loose stones, potholes and muddy patches appear, especially after heavy rain, and some roads get temporarily closed. Slow down, keep your distance from the car ahead, and brake and steer gently. Follow any closure notices from park staff.

Second, vehicle types are restricted. Caravans, trailers, coaches and buses are limited to tar roads only. Motorcycles are banned outright, and anything with an axle load over 8,000kg is not allowed. If you're towing or driving something large, check the current restrictions with SANParks before your trip.

The one time you genuinely need a 4x4 is if you book one of the park's dedicated adventure trails, which leave the public network for remote backcountry. SANParks runs several: the Mananga 4x4 Adventure Trail, a 48km route near Satara; the Lebombo Eco Trail, a longer guided overland trip along the park's eastern boundary; the Mafunyane Eco Trail from Phalaborwa Gate; and the Malopeni Overnight Eco Trail, also departing Phalaborwa Gate. These routes can throw up dongas, riverbeds, steep climbs and mud - requirements vary by trail, so confirm what your vehicle needs before booking.

Why it matters: Kruger is one of the few places in the world where you can do a proper big-game safari in a rented economy car. Skipping the 4x4 rental saves real money and makes a self-drive safari accessible to travellers on modest budgets - just budget a bit more driving time and drive carefully on the gravel.