The Kruger Park in South Africa is an incredible experience of the bush and wildlife
in a 2 million hectare African wildlife reserve. Negotiating this alien environment
is a challenge for tourists unfamiliar with wildlife reserves in South Africa such
as the Kruger National Park. The Kruger ‘safari’ experience is made easier with tips
from locals who love searching for wildlife from the safety of a motor car.
We South Africans are lucky to have an iconic African game reserve like the Kruger
Park on our doorstep. Often when we go to the Kruger on holiday we are approached
by khaki-clad tourists seeking local help and advice because the wildlife reserve
experience in the Kruger National Park differs so much from day trips into small
commercial reserves or game farms near big cities. For example, no animals are kept
or fed in encampments, none may be touched and there are many rules that have to
be obeyed. Here are a few local knowledge pointers to help demystify the Kruger safari
experience.
The number of people allowed to be in the reserve at any time is strictly controlled
to protect the environment and enhance the bush experience for visitors. One needs
a day permit or accommodation booking to enter the Kruger. Gates close at specified
times and will not admit anyone who cannot reach the booked overnight camp before
the camp gates close. Before making accommodation bookings, the distance to be travelled
each day must be finely planned because one cannot speed between camps. Actual speeds
are normally slower than expected due to speed monitoring, game sighting and the
risk of animals lying on the road. Good sightings can be a mixed blessing for tourists
because no matter how exciting the sighting, motorists must still get to the next
camp or gate before closing time or they will be fined for breaking the Park rules.
Part 1, 2, 3
