Kruger re-visited

It has been several years since we last visited the Kruger National Park and how wonderful it was to be back in the bush once more.

Our two-week trip through the park took in four separate camps. We entered the park at the Malalene gate and worked our way eastwards toward lower Sabie we meandered along the many optional routes and were treated to wonderful sightings of a variety of game. Large families of elephants stopped us several times on the way, and these stops were made all the more special with the sight of many newly born calves learning the ropes of 'elephanthood'. It is said that there are around 17,000 elephants in the Kruger and we certainly had our fill of these magnificent and highly intelligent animals appearing around many a corner during our journey.

Lower Sabie rest camp has a choice of accommodation and we had reserved a riverside bungalow and were not disappointed. The unit was well equipped with all we needed and although by no means 5 star it provided everything required to make for a comfortable and casual stay. We prefer to self-cater and had stocked up on supplies at the Spar in Malalene although there is a well-equipped shop at the camp with most essentials. For a meal out or merely to sip a cappuccino whilst viewing game there is a magnificent Mug and Bean restaurant in the camp with arguably one of the best views in South Africa overlooking the Sabie river.

Lower Sabie riverfront cottages

Continuing our journey northwards our next stop was Skukuza rest camp, the largest of all the camps and also considered the most crowded due to its location and facilities. Once again, we opted for a riverside bungalow from which we were able to enjoy a never ending parade of game coming down to the river to drink throughout the day. This is also a popular elephant gathering place as families make their way down to the river at various times of the day. The Cattle Baron restaurant and coffee shop have a wonderful view over the river and offers a break from self-catering or a place to have coffee or cold beer and log into Wifi which is the only place you will find it in the camp.

Skukuza riverfront cottages

Elephants came up close at Skukuza

There are many different routes to take from these two camps if you are self-driving and although you may encounter a tangle of vehicles from time to time particularly if one of the big cats has been spotted you can also feel totally isolated and make your own unexpected discovery.

One our best sightings of leopard happened as a result of patience. Earlier in the day we had passed a tree on a lesser used route and were told by another visitor that a leopard had hauled his kill into a tree. The leopard however, remained hidden from all who tried to see it. Later that afternoon we returned to the tree and sat and waited whilst the day cooled. Almost an hour into our wait patience was rewarded as the leopard broke cover and leaped up the tree, no doubt after being harassed by the hyena who had made their presence felt and were lining up for a free meal. This was pure magic as the leopard is one of the most elusive of the 'big five'.

The journey continues in the next post