The Kruger National Park is South Africa’s largest game reserve, spanning across two million hectares and boasting as many as 147 mammal species and more than 500 bird species. The Kruger is considered to be one of the top safari destinations in Africa, providing plenty of game viewing opportunities, particularly of the famous Big Five.
One always hears why a visit to the Kruger is a must but has anyone ever given you reasons why not to visit the Kruger? It is always good to be mindful of these when planning a trip.
- Feeling Isolated
The bush is an escape from the city – a destination suited to those who desire no traffic, fewer people and less distractions. The Kruger has you arrive at your chosen lodge or camp and not move for the next few days, except when venturing out into the bush for game drives and walks. The rest of the time is spent relaxing beside the pool or out on the deck of your suite with a good book, surrounded only by bushveld and wildlife.
- Game Drives
It is not like a zoo where you travel to a precise location and see a leopard and elephant within five minutes. Being on a safari means climbing into a vehicle and searching for wildlife that roam freely in the park. The lodges and camps offer game drives in the mornings and afternoons and average on 3 – 4 hours each. Although you have a break midway through, you are expected to stay seated in the vehicle whilst the guides track down various animals. You could be lucky and see the Big Five in one game drive or spend two or three game drives looking for a specific member of the group. One has to be prepared to sit back and simply enjoy the ride.
- The Elements
Game drives are conducted early morning and late afternoon to avoid the heat of the day and to offer the best game viewing opportunities. But it is important to understand that exposure to the natural elements is a given – rain, wind and sun. Although one can carry a raincoat, windbreaker, hat and sunblock; some travelers simply don’t enjoy being exposed for such long periods of time.
- Naturalist or Wildlife Enthusiast
A safari in the Kruger is for those who enjoy the outdoors or have a keen interest in animals and birds. It’s aimed at people who want to immerse themselves in nature and discover the diverse fauna and flora. Most of your day is spent exploring the bushveld, especially if you decide to partake in bush walks that generally take place after breakfast. It is important that travelers understand that they are not alone on game drives and walks but with other guests and a guide who has to be mindful of each individual’s interests. It can be challenging as one guest may be into birds while another wants to see lions. The guides are generally really good at finding balance but an interest in wildlife is a must when choosing the Kruger as a holiday destination.
