Kruger
National Park - A Guide by Stephanie Bayliss
The Kruger National Park
is an incredible expanse of wilderness, being home to a vast array of wildlife;
from the big five (Lion, Leopard, Buffalo, Elephant and Rhino) to the smallest
of animals and birds.
A Brief History Of Kruger
National Park Kruger has developed out
of the Sabie Game Reserve; an area between the Crocodile and Sabie rivers,
which was proclaimed to be a Game reserve in 1898, thanks to the tireless
conservation efforts of Paul Kruger, born into a farming family in 1825
and eventually made President in 1883.
In May 1926, with the emergence
of The National Parks Act, both Sabie and Shingwedzi Game Reserves were
merged to become the Kruger National Park that we know today.
At 380km long and at an average
60km wide, Kruger National Park presents 20,000km² of rich and diverse
animal, bird and plant life. From open savannahs, to densely wooded areas
and all fed by 6 rivers, Kruger National Park is made up of a huge variety
of Ecosystems.
The best time for game viewing
in Kruger National Park is the winter months of April - September. Vegetation
is less dense allowing good visibility and access to water is restricted
to waterholes and rivers, where wildlife can be found congregating.
During Summer time, (October
to March) the rains ensure that the landscape is lush, green and very beautiful.
This is an excellent time for watching birdlife.
Kruger National Park is loosely
split into 4 regions; the Southern Region, Central Region, Northern Region
and Far Northern Region.
The Southern Region Krugers Southern region
is bordered by the Crocodile River in the south and the Sabie (pronounced
Sar-bee) River to its North.
Khandzalive, at 839 metres
is the highest point of Kruger National Park and lies in the South-western
corner of the Southern Region.
Most of the White Rhino in
Kruger are found in the Southern Region, the majority of sightings around
Pretoriuskop, Mbyamiti River, and south of Lower Sabie. Thanks to abundant
food sources and the protection of the national park, Kruger has the largest
population of White Rhino in Africa, with over 2600 in residence.
Rainfall is high in the Southern
Region, up to around 718m, therefore the area is largely lush woodland.
Although the woodland does not sustain large herds of game, reasonable
numbers of impala, kudu, zebra, giraffe, buffalo, white rhino and elephant
are present in in the area. Numbers of Wildebeest and Zebra are low in
the region, and as they are the preferred prey of Lion, number of Lion
are low in the region compared to the Central Region.
The low numbers of Lion in
the area means that there are reasonable numbers of wild dog and cheetah;
in fact, figures suggest that half of Kruger's cheetah occur in this region.
The rare Wild Dogs are most
common in the mountainous land near Berg-en-dal, and can often be seen
on the road between Berg-en-dal and Skukuza.
Leopards are also found in
the dense bushwillow woodland, however these cats are rarely seen thanks
to their excellent camouflage. A sighting of one of these wonderful cats
should be treasured!
The Sabie river to the north
of the region is home to around 600 Hippos and a large population of crocodiles,
and is excellent for bird watching.
The Central Region The Central Region extends
from the Sabie River in the South, to the Olifants River in its north.
This region accounts for
approximately only 30% of Kruger National Park, but supports the largest
populations of impala, buffalo, giraffe, kudu, wildebeest, zebra, waterbuck
and sable and also supports almost half of Kruger's Lion population. Leopard,
Hyena and Cheetah numbers are also substantial in the region.
More than 60 lion prides,
with an average of 12 lions to each pride, ensures that the region is exceptionally
popular with tourists. This number of Lions has caused a negative impact
on Cheetah and wild dog numbers in the region. Lion attacks account for
around a third of wild dog pups deaths.
Marula (Sclerocarya birrea)
and Knobthorn (Acacia nigrescens) trees dominate the savannah in the region.
The leaves and bark of the Marula are eaten by Elephants who are widely
distributed through the area, whilst Giraffe and Kudu are partial to the
leaves of the Knobthorn, though by grazing at different heights, they avoid
competition for their food.
Black Rhino exist in stable
numbers in the region, though they are rarely seen.
The Northern Region The semi-arid Northern Region
extends north from the Olifants River. The region is blanketed in shrub
mopane which thrives in arid conditions.
Few browsers feed on the
leaves of the mopane, however elephants eat them as an important part of
their diet. The caterpillars of the emporer moth, often known as mopane
worms, also feed on the leaves of the mopane. These mopane worms are considered
a delicacy of the african people.
In the region, the Letaba
and Olifants rivers are home to 60% of the hippos found in Kruger. Half
of the Elephants in Kruger also reside in the region gathering aside the
Letaba, Shingwedzi and Mphongolo rivers.
Waterbuck, bushbuck, impala
and kudu are common in the region. Numbers of lion, leopard and hyaena
are concentrated in the area, where prey is abundant.
The Far-Northern Region This region extends to the
Limpopo River at its northern-most point.
The region is home to a number
of species only found here; including the Kruger knocking sand frog and
13 species of bat.
Five packs of the rare wild
dog have been observed in this region.
Bird enthusiasts consider
this region to be of great importance, with sightings of 29 species of
the birds recorded in the Park only occurring at Pafuri. These rare sightings
include the trumpeter hornbill, Cape parrot, tropical boubou, Mashona hyliota,
broadbilled roller, olive bush shrike, threebanded courser, cinnamon dove,
mottled spinetail and yellow white-eye.
Things you need to know... Malaria is prevalent in
the area, so precautions must be taken. An effective insect repellent is
a must, as are anti-Malaria tablets - this should be discussed with your
doctor or pharmacist before travelling.
Costs of Visiting Kruger
National Park Visitors to Kruger National
Park are required to pay a daily conservation / entrance fee of 120 ZAR
(South African Rand). (At the time of writing, this calculates to about
£12.) This fee is payable by both day visitors and by those staying
in accommodation in the park. All National Parks throughout South Africa
charge a conservation fee, with the funds raised contributing to the conservation
of the national and cultural heritage of the parks.
Accommodation in Kruger
National Park There are plenty of accommodation
options within Kruger National Park; from tented camps and bungalows, to
luxury accommodation.
About the Author - Stephanie
Bayliss has written many articles on travelling. Find the very best travel
information for
Kruger
National Park at the Travel Monkey Website.
KRUGER
SURROUNDS - LIMPOPO PROVINCE - BED & BREAKFASTS/GUEST HOUSES
Blue
Cottages, Guesthouse, Hoedspruit, Valley of the Olifants, NORTH KRUGER
PARK Set in a four-acre tropical
garden, with a magnificent Drakensberg escarpment backdrop, Blue Cottages
offers delightfully quaint accommodation in six individual cottages. The
original lampposts imported especially by Drury from London, can still
be seen on the road leading to Blue Cottages. The main farmhouse is next
to Monsoon Gallery & Mad Dogz Café, which is forms part of the
Blue Cottages. The stunning Blyde River Canyon route is nearby, as are
opportunities for rafting, hiking and bird watching. Romantic hot-air balloon
rides. Game viewing drives, etc. can also be arranged on request. Kruger
Park’s Phalaborwa and Orpen gates are an hour’s drive away.
Zuleika
Country House, B & B, Hoekspruit, Valley of the Olifants, NORTH
KRUGER PARK The Drakensberg mountain
range looms large beyond Zuleika’s garden, forming the lip of the Blyde
River Canyon. Thatched, with rich, dusky colors, Zuleika offers welcoming,
luxury, air-conditioned bedrooms fashioned after the latest word in organic
design. The 3 luxury suites with stunning canyon views, 7 semi-luxury rooms
and 5 units with self-catering option, all have en-suite bathrooms; satellite
TV, king-size beds, lofty thatch-ceilings, and garden views. A pool and
a range of outdoor activities, including hippo watching, available on the
premises.
Amukela
Game Lodge, Balule Nature Reserve, CENTRAL KRUGER Amukela is an exclusive
lodge with 4 African-style rondawels, accommodating maximum 8 guests. Each
rondawel has a king size bed with mosquito net and air-conditioning. The
en-suite bathroom has a toilet, shower and a basin.On request we can make
extra beds for children. Breakfast is served in the main building, where
you also find the lounge. Here we have sattelite TV (DSTV) as well as magazines
& books. From both the terrace and our swimming pool you have a view
on the bush. In the evening enjoy the boma-dinners (weather dependent)
under the breathtaking stars.
Ezulwini
Billy's Lodge, Balule Nature Reserve, CENTRAL KRUGER Ezulwini, the Zulu word
for “Place of Paradise” where Africa remains unspoiled. Here, the emphasis
is on friendliness and informality.Your personal game ranger will share
his experiences of the bush and animals on drives in an open safari vehicle.
At dusk he'll take you into the world of nocturnal creatures on a night
drive, stopping for sundowners as the sun drops over the Drakensberg Mountains,
to be replaced by a blanket of stars. Back at the camp, the swimming pool
invites you to cool off and your charming African chalet with its thatched
roof invites you to take rest through the heat of the African day.
Honeyguide
Tented Safari Camps, Manyeleti Reserve, CENTRAL KRUGER Situated on both sides of
a riverbed, Honeyguide Khoka Moya offers an authentic African experience
without sacrificing luxury, safety or comfort. Simply designed and built
of corrugated iron, the large lounge and dining areas of the camp overlook
manicured green lawns leading to the swimming pool and outside bar. Guests
are accommodated in twelve large tents with views of untouched African
bush. The tents are adorned with contemporary but comfortable furniture
with double or twin beds. Cotton sheets and damask linen add style to your
comfort. Each tent is en-suite with double shower and separate toilet
Legend
Lodges Jackalberry Lodge, Thornybush Game Reserve, CENTRAL
KRUGER Jackalberry Lodge is situated
within the Thornybush Private Game Reserve, one of the worlds premier big
five game viewing areas. The majestic Drakensberg Mountains provide a spectacular
backdrop for this intimate camp, offering magnificent views, understated
luxury and restful, ethnic ambiance that blends harmoniously with nature.
The lodge is named after the beautiful Jackalberry Tree that occurs widely
in the bushveld. The bush around the lodge teems with game. More than 60
species of wildlife can be found in the immediate vicinity, including lion,
leopard, buffalo, rhino, hyena and cheetah.
Pungwe
Bush Camp, Manyeleti Reserve, CENTRAL KRUGER Pungwe Bush Camp is situated
in the southern portion of the Manyeleti Game Reserve, along the Pungwe
River course and is known for its exclusivity and rustic ambience. Manyeleti
forms part of the greater Kruger National Park. The unfenced camp consists
of 4 Luxury 'Out of Africa type' en-suite tented units sleeping a total
of 8 guests only. Rooms are uniquely positioned, to enhance this great
bush experience. Early morning bush walks and late afternoon game drives
in open Land Rovers will take you deep into the heart of the bushveld to
view the African wildlife in there natural habitat. Our speciality bush
walks where you can experience the true essence of Africa is a must for
everyone.
Shumbalala
Game Lodge, Thornybush Game Reserve, CENTRAL KRUGER Shumbalala, where the African
wild is spoiled only by the quiet appreciation of guests being pampered
in this exclusive five star graded private game lodge situated in a private
big 5 game reserve adjacent to the greater Kruger National Park. An African
safari experience in our unspoiled reserve is shared with an abundance
of birds and animals, including the big 5, as they roam the savannahs and
riverine forests. Guest’s exclusivity are guaranteed by accommodating
only a small number of guests at a time in our four Superior thatched suites
or our two bed roomed presidential suite, all of which includes fireplaces,
overhead fans, air-conditioning, 'picture window' bathrooms, two showers,
private viewing decks and individually furnished.
Tangala
Safari Camp, Thornybush Game Reserve, CENTRAL KRUGER Tangala is one of the last
remaining authentic experiences that have been a legacy of the Potgieter
family for more than 3 generations. This intimate and exclusive private
safari camp is situated in the 22 000 acre Thornybush Private Nature Reserve,
a prime ecological area abounding in wildlife. Tangala succeeded in maintaining
its earthy appeal after the recent upgrading of our facilities. We continually
strive to recreate the original down to earth hospitality of years gone
by. Early explorers created a legacy of adventure and discoveries, relive
the romance of old at Tangala in the comfort and security of our Safari
Camp.
Tintswalo
Safari Lodge, Manyeleti Reserve, CENTRAL KRUGER Tintswalo is an exclusive
safari lodge situated in the Manyeleti Game Reserve, within the Greater
Kruger National Park. The Manyeleti is a pristine wilderness reserve which
opens in the east to the vastness of the Kruger Park, abounding in big
five game and spectacular bird life. The reserve is unique for its minimal
vehicle density and so offering a true exclusive safari experience. Tintswalo
Safari lodge is situated along a seasonal river bed among an ancient sycamore
tree grove. The exquisitely appointed main lodge overlooks a waterhole
often frequented by a large herd of elephant and other big game.
Umlani
Bushcamp Timbavati Game Reserve, CENTRAL KRUGER Umlani Bush Camp is an exclusive
rustic lodge accommodating only 16 guests in en suite reed and thatch rondavels.
Early morning and evening game drives are in open four wheel drive vehicles
accompanied by experienced rangers and trackers. With a traversing area
of more than 10000 hectares, over 40 mammal and 350 bird species, this
is a wonderful wildlife experience. Umlani makes the whole event personalised
and specialises in guided walks into this unspoilt wilderness. Take your
walk on the wildside tracking the Big 5 on foot and experience the thrill
of following big game off-road in open Landrovers guided by our knowledgeable
rangers.
Dithaba
Game Lodge, Safari Lodge, Hoedspruit, KRUGER SURROUNDS At Dithaba we will ensure
that you will experience comfort, nature and exclusivity! You will enjoy
the sights and sounds of the magnificent Timbavati area and relax, away
from the city. These natural surroundings are as nature intended them to
be - peaceful and tranquil. Come with us, let us take you back in time
- you deserve it! Dithaba is the Northern Sotho name for 'Mountain' which
is your natural backdrop. Antelope are in abundance as well as many other
species of wild animal. Accommodation is modern and clean. A recreation
area is available with pool table, TV and Bar around the braai Boma
Drifters
Game Lodge, Hoedspruit, KRUGER SURROUNDS Drifters the premier African
Adventure tour operator now offers the luxury Drifter's Game Lodge for
the discerning bush lover. However the Drifters philosophy still stands;
an authentic African experience at a realistic price. So don't limit your
bush experience, take a few extra days to adjust to the smells, sounds
and taste of Africa. Our package includes: meals, accommodation, game drives,
walks, and pick-up and drop-off at Eastgate airport.
Gomo
Gomo Game Lodge, Hoedspruit, KRUGER SURROUNDS Gomo Gomo Game Lodge is
a private and intimate camp situated between the prestigious Timbavati
and Klaserie nature reserves, giving you best traverse viewing of both
worlds. Timbavati now forms part of the greater Kruger National Park with
a common unfenced boundary. Our traversing area is approximately 8000 hectares
(19000 acres) of the reserve, offering guests varied landscapes with an
excellent possibility of coming face to face with the Big 5 (lion, leopard,
buffalo, elephant and rhino) and numerous other mammals and bird species
in their natural habitat. Early morning, late afternoon and evening game
drives are conducted in open 4x4 Land Rovers with qualified and experienced
field rangers and trackers, ensuring an exciting and informative safari.
Karula
Lodge, Hoedspruit, KRUGER SURROUNDS Karula Lodge is a small,
intimate game lodge built to host a maximum of 14 people (7 tents). The
individually named units nestle discretely under a canopy of trees in the
natural bush to ensure solitude and privacy. Each Tent is built on a wooden
platform raised in the trees on sturdy stilts. The lodge is fully electrified
& all tents have their own en suite bathroom & private deck. You
have a choice of twin, double or queen sized beds. All bedrooms are fully
insect proofed as we are situated in a low risk malaria area. We have spared
no effort to ensure great comfort.
Kuname
River Lodge, Hoedspruit, KRUGER SURROUNDS Set in approximately 9000
hectares of pristine African bush, Kuname River lodge is a haven for those
in search of a unique bush experience. The premium five star safari facility,
built on the banks of the Kuvjename River consists of five luxurious chalets
nestled in dense African bush overlooking the majestic Drakensberg escarpment.
These air conditioned chalets all have en-suite bathrooms with outdoor
showers and private outdoor baths. The perfect spot to soak in a candlelit
bath beneath a canopy of stars and reflect on a day's experiences. The
magnificent views from the wooden decks on each of the thatched chalets
are truly awe inspiring. The premier suite's outdoor bathrooms is situated
in a secluded fairytale garden.
Kwenga
Safari Lodge, Umhlametsi Private Reserve, Hoedspruit, KRUGER SURROUNDS Located on the western boundary
of the Kruger National Park & Klaserie Game Reserve, it offers affordable
and personal service. The Game viewing is superlative. The reserve has
two perrenial rivers meandering through the area and draws a diversity
of wildlife and birds. White Rhino, Lion, Buffalo, Leopard, Cheetah and
a variety of Antelope and other African animals can be discovered on open
Safari vehicles. The reserve has a number of superb vantage points for
sundowners with views of the Drakensberg mountains and the surrounding
bushveld. At Kwenga Safari Lodge, personalised service is offered.
Pafuri
Rivercamp, Bush Camp, Pafuri Gate, NORTH KRUGER PARK Rustic tented treehouse
camp and secluded bush camp, on the banks of the Mutale River (tributary
to Limpopo) just outside the Kruger National Park. Located in rural Venda,
next to Makuya Nature Reserve and 4 km from the Pafuri Gate of the Kruger
Park, the lodge consists of 5 private camps, from 2 to 8 beds per camp,
each with own ablutions, kitchen, braai area and river frontage. The bush
camp, about 2km from the main camp, consists of two safari tents and a
private chalet, with en-suite facilities.
Choose from exploring, birding,
walking, or just relax in the friendly and informal atmosphere that keeps
our guests coming back.
Phuza
Moya Private Game Reserve, Hoedspruit, KRUGER SURROUNDS Phuza Moya Private Game
Reserve is situated on the confluence of the Olifants and Blyde Rivers
and overlooks the majestic Drakensberg Escarpment. The lodge offers an
ideal combination of unspoilt wildlife and modern elegant comforts. With
its personalized service and mouthwatering cuisine this small exclusive
lodge is truly a place to experience the untamed spirit of Africa. All
accommodation is en-suite and equiped with air-conditioning mini bars and
a private terrace. There is the option of three unique lodges available
Singwe
River Lodge, Balule Reserve, Hoedspruit, GREATER KRUGER PARK This
magnificent property situated in Balule Reserve, a 40,000 ha reserve in
the Greater Kruger National Park, is built on the banks of the Olifants
River, which provides many opportunities for game viewing even while in
camp ... watch families of elephants who have come down to bathe, lazy
hippos surfacing for a yawn, a skittish herd of impala drinking nervously
... and listen for the cry of a fish eagle. At Singwe River Lodge we provide
a memorable and affordable Big Five game experience in a low-risk malaria
area, with excellent accommodation, delicious food and warm African hospitality.
Shaded by giant fig trees, the beautiful, tranquil camp has accommodation
for up to 12 adults...
Tanda
Tula Safari Camp, Hoedspruit, NORTH KRUGER PARK Renowned as the most luxurious
tented camp in South Africa, Tanda Tula is set amidst thousands of acres
of pristine wilderness in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, adjacent
to the Kruger National Park. With a handful of visitors and a limited number
of game-viewing vehicles, and no fences between the Kruger Park and Timbavati,
the words 'private', ‘secluded' and 'tranquil' best describe the Tanda
Tula experience. Early-morning and evening safaris are conducted in open
Landrovers, and daily walks are offered with professional rangers and trackers.
Twelve luxuriously thatched East-African Tented suites, all with en-suite
bathrooms, outdoor showers and private decks are situated on the banks
of the Nhralumi River.
Tshukudu
Game Lodge, Hoedspruit, KRUGER SURROUNDS The Sussens family have
been devoted to developing their 5 000 hectare property as a true wildlife
haven since 1980. It is situated near Hoedspruit, an hour from Kruger National
Park. Tshukudu - the Sotho word for Rhino - is well known for raising orphaned
animals and re-introducing them to their natural environment. Enjoy an
open Land Rover safari while in search of the Big Five, or an early morning
walk through the bush with orphaned animals. Relax at the pool side and
enjoy excellent meals under the stars in our Boma.
Dithaba
Game Lodge, Safari Lodge, Hoedspruit, KRUGER SURROUNDS At Dithaba we will ensure
that you will experience comfort, nature and exclusivity! You will enjoy
the sights and sounds of the magnificent Timbavati area and relax, away
from the city. These natural surroundings are as nature intended them to
be - peaceful and tranquil. Come with us, let us take you back in time
- you deserve it! Dithaba is the Northern Sotho name for 'Mountain' which
is your natural backdrop. Antelope are in abundance as well as many other
species of wild animal. Accommodation is modern and clean. A recreation
area is available with pool table, TV and Bar around the braai Boma.
Leaves
Luxury Lodge, Guest House/Lodge, NELSPRUIT We
extend a warm welcome to come and experience this stylish, new five star
Lodge and Spa in Nelspruit, capital of Mpumalanga. Built on a granite
koppie you can enjoy the breathtaking views from your room over the ancient
indigenous forests and a murmuring mountain stream that runs through the
lush garden. Leaves Lodge is a birding hot spot with a short hiking
trail through the adjoining nature reserve - truly a must for nature lovers!
This impressive lodge and spa exemplifies the very best in modern architecture
and offers eleven spacious bedrooms, each with its own private balcony,
as well as all amenities on your wish-list: spa-bath or jet shower, extra
long beds with quality linen, DSTV on flat screens, mini-bar, wireless
internet throughout, and much more.
Casa
do Sol Hotel & Resort, HAZY VIEW Welcome
to Casa do Sol, House in the Rising Sun. This luxury estate hotel situated
in the beautiful Mpumalanga Region is a little Eden of tranquil pools,
deeply shaded glades and quiet flower gardens. The cobbled streets, exotic
gardens, coupled with enchanting sounds and smells of the bush and the
warm and friendly atmosphere make Casa do Sol a destination of choice for
a large variety of travellers. Just beyond the boundaries of the
hotel lie some of the jewels of creation - God's Window, the Blyde River
Canyon and many other scenic glories of Mpumalanga. And the world famous
Kruger National Park is just a hop away!
Cambalala
- Kruger Park Lodge (Ref: 55881) Self
catering cottage in Hazyview, South Africa Sleeps
8
- Serviced Daily. Our privately owned self catering guest house /
vacation rental is set in the award winning 4 star wildlife & golf
resort of Kruger Park Lodge - South Africa. Within easy access of the Kruger
National park and scenic sights of the Blyde River Canyon. Cambalala -
meaning "relax" in Zulu - is located in Hazyview, South Africa within the
award winning 4 Star golf and wildlife resort of Kruger Park Lodge, which
is a luxurious resort on the banks of the Sabie River in Mpumalanga.
There is abundant birdlife, free roaming Impala and other animals all around.
Cambalala is a spacious chalet which sleeps up to 8 adults. There are 3
spacious air-conditioned bedrooms. Sleeps 8.
Jabulani,
Kruger Park Lodge, Hazyview (Ref: 26379) self-catering
lodge in Hazyview, South Africa Kruger
Park Lodge is a secure, beautiful location with abundant birdlife and other
animals. The golf course is superb. Jabulani is situated in a quiet part
of the estate, close to the peaceful resident's pool, but when you want
more action, the bar, restaurant and main entertainment area is only a
5 minute walk away. It is a great base for exploring the Kruger National
Park - an area the size of Wales, teeming with wildlife, including the
big cats, elephant, giraffe, rhino etc. You can drive yourself on safari
- the Phabeni gate is only 10 minutes away. A car is essential.
Hazyview town is 10 mins away. Sleeps 6.
