Travel Guide
& Accommodation in Kruger National Park & Mpumalanga Province -
South Africa
Kruger Travel Guide:
The
Kruger National Park, which measures a whopping two million hectares,
is approximately the size of the whole of Wales. Although there are still
fences between parts of the Kruger National Park and Mozambique and Zimbabwe,
so the planned Greater Limpopo Transfrontier Park is not quite yet a reality.
When it is, it will be spectacular. Actually, Kruger already is. Most of
the park is situated in the Lowveld. Restricted to broad valleys below
1 000m above sea level, the Lowveld is what many people consider to be
the 'real' Africa. In this low-lying subtropical climate, broad-leaved
trees and thorn trees co-exist happily in relatively open woodland, interspersed
with long grass - and, of course, game. Wildlife abounds.
In
the far north, it gets hotter and the vegetation changes to mopane woodland
and, right in the northern part of the country, huge baobab trees dominate
the landscape. The rivers here tend to be broad and slow-moving and may
consist of no more than a few unconnected pools at the end of the dry season
but that's when the game congregates around the few known water sources
- so it all evens out. You may have heard the cynical remark that Kruger
is 'too developed' with loads of town-like camps and other infrastructure.
Well, yes. The park does have a number of good accommodation options -
more than 20 SANParks camps and a few private luxury lodges as well. That
may sound like a lot - but remember that Kruger is the size of Wales -
and in all that space there is one town - the main camp, Skukuza, is virtually
a small town - about a dozen tiny hamlets with less than a hundred families
and a few out of they way camps that would probably relate to a small farmstead.
That leaves an awful lot of real wilderness.
You can do Kruger
as a self-drive or as a guided tour. Other exciting options include walking
safaris, mountain bike trails and a self-drive 4x4 trail. The nearest airport
to the park is the Kruger-Mpumalanga International Airport, just outside
Nelspruit.
The southern, more popular, part of Kruger is about four hour's drive from
Johannesburg, and a little less from Pretoria. The drive to the more remote,
far less utilised, northern part, takes a few hours longer, but it's not
on the same route. You could do a great circular tour if you had ten days
or so to spare. Fly in to KMIA and enter the park in the south, drive very
slowly to the north, spending a day or two at different camps en route,
and then drive back to Johannesburg. (Or the other way round, of course.)
Strangely - and contrary
to expectations - the northern part, which is truly wild, has less animals
than the south so don't feel you're missing out if you've only got a few
days in the more busy part of the park. As well as the Kruger National
Park, the lowveld is well endowed with private nature reserves, most of
which have luxury lodges, where guests are subjected to an outrageous level
of pampering and taken on fantastic game drives and optional walks by very
knowledgeable and attentive guides. Many lodges even have attached wellness
centres where you can fill in the time between morning and evening game
drives with a massage, facial or some other indulgent treatment.
Note: If you are planning
to travel to the Kruger National Park or Lowveld please be aware that this
is a malaria region. Consult your doctor or travel clinic for advice and
refer to our article on malaria.
Although
Mpumalanga is not the only province in South Africa with excellent game
viewing, national parks and luxury lodges, it's here that the safari experience
has been perfected. About half the Kruger National Park is in this lovely
province and there are so many private game reserves and lodges than you
will have a hard time choosing. Like Limpopo Province to its immediate
north, Mpumalanga straddles the escarpment between the Lowveld and the
Drakensberg, so the different parts of the province have different characters.
The Lowveld is hot and humid with broad-leaved forests and wide, slow rivers,
while the Highlands are cool and green, with rolling grasslands, pine plantations,
pockets of indigenous forest and cheerfully gurgling mountain streams and
waterfalls. Most of the game is in the Lowveld, while the attractions of
the Highlands include hiking, horse trails, river rafting and other adventure
activities, such as gorge swings and abseiling.
The
Restaurant at the End of the Universe, near the town of Waterval Boven,
is one of South Africa's most popular climbing destinations. The fly fishing
in the Highlands area is awesome, particularly near the pretty town of
Dullstroom, where there are loads of dams and streams well stocked with
fat trout. There are awesome birds to be spotted, both in the game reserves
and in the Highlands, where you're likely to see some montane grassland
species, including the rare and endangered blue swallow. For a bird's eye
view, rather than a view of birds, you can choose between microlight flights
and gentle floats in a hot air balloon. Mpumalanga also has some fantastic
paragliding and hang gliding launch sites - particularly along the escarpment.
The mountain biking is great. Even with so much to do, many people visit
Mpumalanga just to sight-see. The Panorama Route is a scenic meander taking
in some fabulous sights, including the Blyde River Canyon, Bourke's Luck
Potholes, the Three Rondawels, the Swadini Dam and many beautiful waterfalls
and spectacular vistas including one called God's Window.
The
Blyde River Canyon is the biggest vegetated canyon in the world. Second
in size only to the Grand Canyon in the USA, and the Fish River Canyon
in Namibia, it is lush and green with a plethora of plant and animal life
and is a major centre of endemism. It's also where Antarctica and Madagascar
split away from Africa a few million years ago during the break-up of the
super-continent Gondwanaland. Also in the canyon, is Bourke's Luck Potholes
- a fantastically contorted area of scenic potholes, and deeply scoured
canyons. The Blyde is a great river to raft, with some pretty challenging
rapids, but it also offers fun family paddling on a gentler section. The
Three Rondawels are three conical hills and the Swadini Dam at the end
of the canyon is a lovely stretch of water. Also on the Panorama Route
is the rather cutesy museum town of Pilgrims Rest.
The
mines were active until the 1970s when they became terminally unprofitable,
and the whole town was bought up by the provincial authorities to be converted
to a tourist attraction. Museums, cute craft outlets, coffee shops, restaurants
and the original hotel with its characterful bar bring the gold rush era
vividly to life. Pilgrims Rest was the venue for the World Gold Panning
Championships in 2005.
Mpumalanga's
cultural attractions are particularly colourful. The iconic Ndebele artwork
that is almost synonymous with South Africa is produced in the museum village
of Botshabelo. Colourful beadwork and small painted articles can be admired
and purchased while the magnificent painted buildings are - unfortunately
- not for sale as souvenirs. They're well worth photographing, though.
Kids will love the dinosaur park, just outside the deep and convoluted
Sudwala Caves. Mpumalanga has a very interesting technical freshwater diving
destination that will appeal to technical divers.
Note:
If you are planning to travel to the north eastern parts of Mpumalanga
or Swaziland please be aware that this region is malarial. Consult your
doctor or travel clinic for advice and refer to our article on malaria.
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.
MPUMALANGA
PROVINCE HOTELS & RESORTS/GAME LODGES - HAZYVIEW
Casa
do Sol Hotel & Resort, HAZY VIEW, MPUMALANGA Welcome
to Casa do Sol, House in the Rising Sun which has just undergone a
renaissance of major refurbishment and renovations during 2007. 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!
Summerfields
Rose Retreat & Spa, HAZY VIEW, MPUMALANGA This
luxury 5 star tented lodge, unique rose spa, gourmet restaurant and River
Café is nestled in a natural forest and plantations of litchis,
macadamia nuts and roses. Escape from the pressures of urban life at this
retreat of intriguing charm, defined by the bygone romance of percale linen
and roses in luxuriously appointed tented suites on the banks of the Sabie
River – a mere 10 km from the world renowned Kruger National Park. Voted
finalist Les Nouvelles Unique Spa of the Year 2008 and a member
of Crème de la Crème-hotels. The river
lodge consists of 12 exclusive tented suites under a canopy of Jackalberry
and Tambotie trees, surrounded by the music of nature – the sounds of cascading
water, amplified by a choir of bird calls and the occasional snort of a
hippo.
CENTRAL
KRUGER PARK & KRUGER SURROUNDS - LIMPOPO PROVINCE - GAME & SAFARI
LODGES
Amukela
Game Lodge, Balule Nature Reserve, CENTRAL KRUGER PARK The
last Rand-friendly game lodge in Big-5, owned and managed by Corné
and Miriam van Dongen. Amukela is located deep in the African bush,
in the 40.000 ha Balule Private Nature Reserve which is home of the Big-5
and many other animals and is now open to the Kruger Park. Offering affordable
accommodation in Big 5 area this exclusive lodge is truly unique and a
great place to discover the magic of South Africa! Experience the
bush on a game drive and/or a bushwalk. All in Big-5 Balule Nature Reserve,
under the guidance of a highly qualified field guide. Book early, as these
activities are popular.
Jackalberry
Lodge, Thornybush Game Reserve, CENTRAL KRUGER PARK 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 ambience 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 cheeta. Jackalberry
is also a paradise for birdwatchers, where more than 280 species have been
recorded. Experience the comfort of chalet style rooms offering understated
luxury, sumptuous en suite bathrooms with feature bath, double handbasins
as well as indoor and outdoor showers. Choose from the Luxury Suite, the
Family Room or 5 Standard Chalet Style Rooms.
Kapama
Lodge, Luxury Safari Lodge, Kapama Game Reserve, CENTRAL KRUGER PARK Sweeping
views across a tranquil lake create a sentiment of feel-good as soon as
you arrive at 5-star Kapama Lodge. Rambling natural growth at the water’s
edge contrasts with tended gardens and lawns nibbled by wandering nyala
antelope. Thatched viewing decks overlooking the water ensure instant relaxation
here at Kapama Lodge. Set along stone pathways among leopard orchids,
aloes, and fever trees are Kapama Lodge’s twenty thatched chalets. The
two honeymoon suites at the water’s edge offer a few extras, but all bedrooms
have the ability to make you gasp as you walk in; fresh white bedding plump
with cushions is surrounded by four great swathes of mosquito netting creating
a fairy-tale four-poster effect. The rooms are spacious, air-conditioned
and decorated to reflect the rich textures and colours of Africa.
Kapama
River Lodge, Luxury Game Lodge, Kapama Game Reserve, CENTRAL KRUGER PARK The
northern Drakensberg mountain range provides a majestic backdrop to the
largest private game lodge in the Greater Kruger National Park region.
Kapama River Lodge is situated within Kapama Game Reserve, and presents
the perfect blend between luxurious safari accommodation and a generous
bed capacity of 42 bedrooms. Although large, it is so stylish and roomy
and beautifully positioned along a dry riverbed, that guests fall in love
with it. Each spacious room at Kapama River Lodge features a full
en-suite bathroom and terrace with uninterrupted views into the leafy-green
Big 5 game reserve. The central guest entertainment areas include a large
rim-flow swimming pool with sun umbrellas and recliners for lazy afternoons.
Kuname
River Lodge, Karongwe Private Game Reserve, Kruger Surrounds, KRUGER PARK 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 bathroom is situated
in a secluded fairytale garden. The main lodge houses an elegant
lounge dining area which lead onto an elevated wooden deck. It's the perfect
spot to enjoy a cocktail or a cup of freshly brewed coffee while listening
to the song of the African bush.
Kwenga
Safari Lodge, Umhlametsi Private Reserve, Kruger Surrounds, KRUGER PARK Umhlametsi Game Reserve
meaning 'one days water' is a place where 'Time stops and Life begins...'
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 perennial 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. Experienced rangers will plan walking and driving safaris
to suit the guests needs.
Mohlabetsi
Safari Lodge, Balule Nature Reserve, CENTRAL KRUGER PARK Tony
& Alma invite you to experience the magic of Mohlabetsi. Situated in
the vast Balule Nature Reserve which is part of the Greater Kruger National
Park, this is Africa at its very best! At our small, intimate Lodge,
with only 20 beds, guests are assured of comfort and unobtrusive attentiveness,
combined with an intimacy with nature. Come and be especially close to
the African Spirit here. The Lodge is easily accessible, yet one
enters an entirely different world once within the camp. Life slows down
to the rhythms of nature and the rising and setting of the sun dictates
our movements. The emphasis here is upon close-up encounters with Africa’s
spectacular wildlife, from the mighty elephant, the impressive lion or
the miniscule termite.
Motswari
Private Game Reserve, Timbavati Game Reserve, KRUGER PARK Arrive
as a visitor and leave as a friend.” Set deep in the Timbavati, Motswari
game reserve promises rich game viewing as our boundary with Kruger is
open. In operation for 30 years and an original traditional game
lodge, which means bush as far as the eye can see and simple luxuries that
don’t intrude on your experience. Nature is unaffected by man’s need to
shape his environment and our family-owned reserve prides itself on our
conservation values, exquisite cuisine, award-winning wines and luxurious
accommodation. With 150 kilometres of wide horizons and untamed wilderness,
Motswari is an unforgettable experience. Open to the Kruger National
Park and playing host to Africa's Big Five is Motswari Private Game Reserve.
One of South Africa's jewels nestled within the Timbavati Nature Reserve,
this family-owned and operated four-star luxury safari lodge prides itself
on its warm atmosphere.
Pondoro
Game Lodge, Balule Private Game Reserve, CENTRAL KRUGER PARK Set
on the cool riverine banks of the Olifants River in the 40 000 ha exclusive
Balule Private Game Reserve inside the greater Kruger National Park, Pondoro
offers its visitors comfort, sophistication, elegance and a canvas on which
to create a truly unforgettable African safari. In this small, very
exclusive 12-bed lodge you will discover the only way to experience the
African bush. In addition to luxurious accommodation and the caring attention
from trained professionals, our visitors are lavished upon with international
fare and humble African hospitality. Meals are an extraordinary culinary
experience where Traditional African Cuisine fuse effortlessly with modern
European trends. Between game drives, nature walks and peaceful afternoon
naps, enjoy a dip in the sparkling rock pool, a spot of sun bathing or
browse through the library. The Pondoro bar is the ideal spot to quench
your thirst and grab a snack.
Royal
Legend Safari Lodge and Spa, Timbavati Private Game Reserve, CENTRAL KRUGER
PARK From
the moment you set foot in the entrance of Royal Legend Safari Lodge &
Spa, the comfort and elegance of the lodge reaches out and welcomes you.
This is in sharp contrast to the untouched bush surroundings, which is
home to the wildlife that will make your stay at Royal Legend Safari Lodge
& Spa so memorable. The lodge is located in the Timbavati Private
Game Reserve, which is part of the Greater Kruger National Park (near Hoedspruit
town in the Limpopo Province, South Africa). Nestled along the banks
of a seasonal river, Royal Legend Safari Lodge & Spa’s ten luxurious
chalets all command a magnificent view of the watercourse and it’s surrounding
lush vegetation.
Tangala
Safari Camp, Thornybush Game Reserve, CENTRAL KRUGER PARK 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. Accommodation at the camp will bring back memories of a time
long forgotten. The thatched chalets have en suite bathroom facilities
and paraffin lantern lighting. Tangala is authentic rustic luxury at an
affordable price.