Paula Marais, Author at Lukimbi Safari Lodge

Kruger National Park Game Drives

Kruger National Park Game Drives Are Not Just for the Wealthy!

The Kruger National Park is one of the most desirable destinations in South Arica – not only for international tourists, but also for local South Africans. This game reserve is huge; it covers around 7 500 square miles of natural, unadulterated African bushveld that stretches from Limpopo over into Mpumalanga, and it is one of the largest protected game parks in the world. The fauna and flora to be encountered in the park are at the heart of any lover of natural scenery, and one of the main activities here is the game drives. This game reserve is one of the few places in the country where the Big Five can be seen. People come from far and wide to enjoy the game drives and luxury accommodation on offer at the Kruger National Park.

There is, however, a perception that these game drives are only for the very wealthy locals and international tourists who can afford luxurious outings. While there are many luxurious options when it comes to accommodation and game drives, it is also possible to experience the Kruger National Park on a smaller budget, which is good news for locals.

Kruger National Park game drives are usually conducted around the park by people visiting in private vehicles, but it is much better to go on an organised game drive with a guide and a tracker. Often, the vehicles are specifically designed for maximum visibility of the area around the vehicle, and because there are many different organised game drives around the park, the rangers tend to keep radio contact with each other to alert others about interesting sights, such as a recent kill or the location of certain animals, such as the Big Five. This means that you have a much better chance to encounter interesting sights and spot the animals that you want than if you conduct your own game drive in your own private vehicles. These game drives can often be booked at the rest camps or other types of accommodation throughout the park and in close proximity to the park. Even though most of the luxury establishments, such as Lukimbi Safari Lodge, game drives as a standard part of their packages, it is also possible to book a game drive if you choose to stay at one of the many budget accommodation options throughout the park.

Rest camps offer a wide choice of places to stay that will suit most budgets, and the game drives they offer their guests often cost a lot less than you may think! It is therefore possible to choose an accommodation option that suits your pocket, and then treat yourself and your family by booking one of the guided game drives on offer. The rangers and guides who conduct these game drives are very knowledgeable about the fauna and flora, and provide interesting information about the surroundings and the animals throughout the drive. They will also ensure that you remain safe during your trip to the Kruger National Park.

There are also many private operators that offer Kruger National Park game drives from locations outside of the park. This means that you can stay in budget accommodation that suits your pocket outside of the park, but also get to enjoy the great scenery and learn interesting facts from within the park.

If you choose to stay at Lukimbi Safari Lodge, however, you will be offered game drives as part of your stay. In addition to some of the most luxurious accommodation in the Kruger National Park, the game drives are the main attractions. After all, people come here to encounter wildlife at its best, and it doesn’t get much better than being only a few metres away from some of the most spectacular animals and wildlife in Africa!

If you are looking for professionally conducted game drives in the Kruger National Park, stay at Lukimbi Safari Lodge, and our highly experienced guides will provide you with an experience you will never forget. Our vehicles are specially adapted to provide you with an outdoors experience within the safety of the vehicle. Book your stay with us today and we will provide you with a memorable game drive!

Kruger Park Lodge Weddings

4 Tips for Organising the Perfect Weddings at a Kruger Park Lodge

The Kruger National Park is one of the most sought-after destinations in the world, and many people who enjoy wildlife say that this is one of the best places for a safari! The Kruger National Park is massive – it is roughly the same size as Wales, which means that there are many different regions and areas that provide different habitats for a wide variety of animals, birds, and plants. Moving from one end of the park to the other will provide you with an all-round view of indigenous African wildlife, and even if you decide to stick to one particular rest camp or lodge, you will have no problem spotting wild animals in their natural setting.

Another reason why people love this area so much is because it is an incredibly romantic place; there aren’t many things on earth as romantic as an African sunset, and as a result, weddings have become big business here. Many couples simply cannot resist the charm and romance of the park, while still feeling close to the rawness of the African bush, and the lodges in the park are usually well equipped to pull off some of the most spectacular weddings.

If you are one of the romantics who would love to get married in the Kruger Park, you have to ensure that you have all the luxuries and amenities you and your guests will need. Here we provide you with some insight into organising your own wedding at a Kruger Park lodge.

Choose your location carefully: Ensure that the lodge you choose for your wedding is able to accommodate your guests, and that they are able to arrange accommodation elsewhere for additional guests if needed. The lodges in the Kruger Park are often quite intimate and very seldom offer accommodation for large groups of people. The budgets of your guests may also vary – and while you may want to splurge on an exclusive establishment, some of your guests may prefer to sleep over in one of the rest camps where they may find other accommodation options. This means that the lodge you choose for your Kruger Park wedding has to be located in close proximity to the rest camp.

Timing is important: Here we are not only talking about the time of year, but also the time of day. If you have invited guests that have to travel to a rest camp for accommodation, keep in mind that the rest camps have opening and closing hours. If you have guests staying outside of the park, the opening and closing times of the gates need to be considered. The time of year is also important when it comes to the type of wedding you prefer. During the winter months, it is typically colder at night, yet the days can be very ambient and comfortable. Because the vegetation is sparser, you are more likely to spot more wildlife if you are keen on game drives. In spring, it can be very hot, but this is the ideal time to check out all the newborn wildlife in the area.

Check out costs: Often, the Kruger Park lodges offer specials and promotions on their weddings, especially during winter times when the park is not that busy. If you can time your wedding to fall in line with one of these promotions, you can score a really fantastic wedding for much less money than you may think.

Consider amenities and activities: If you prefer to have your wedding for a small, intimate crowd, it is easy to find everything you need at one lodge. If you want to take full advantage of the true romance of one of these lodges, you simply have to choose an establishment with an executive or honeymoon suite. Here you will find luxuries and privacy that you may not find anywhere else, such as private balconies with their own swimming pools, rooms with large windows positioned to look out over an area such as a watering hole, or suites with hot tubs and baths made for two.

If you are looking for one of the best Kruger Park lodges for your wedding, you simply have to give our team at Lukimbi Safari Lodge a call. Located conveniently close to the gate of the park, we provide all the luxury and perks you will need for your wedding. Call us today to find out more about our packages.

Kruger National Park Best Accommodation

The Kruger National Park: The Best Accommodation Options for Your Budget

For many people, visiting the Kruger National Park is one of their bucket list items. Not only is it one of the popular tourist destinations in the country, but it also draws many visitors from other countries as well. Unfortunately, there is a general perception that the accommodation in the Kruger National Park is only for the well-heeled and rich tourists, but it is indeed possible to find accommodation that is good for your budget.

There are so many options to choose from and you will no doubt find something wonderful that will suit all your holiday needs. There are many rest camps situated throughout the Kruger Park, and accommodation is easy to find at one of these rest camps, but if you want to spoil yourself with a luxurious stay in the Kruger National Park, the best accommodation can be found at Lukimbi Safari Lodge.

Rest Camp Accommodation

If you plan to stay in one of the rest camps, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to Kruger National Park accommodation. Different rest camps offer different accommodation options, and these include something for every budget. If you are a keen camper, you can get some very good deals on one of the camping spots where you can pitch your tent on a ready-made raised platform, and share amenities, such as a kitchen and ablutions, with other fellow campers. This accommodation allows you to interact with others, so people often make new friends around campfires and while sharing cooking facilities. For those who like to camp, but prefer to be a bit more comfortable, there are tented camps. These are permanent tents and may include bathrooms and kitchenettes.

Rondawels and small cottages are also available for those on a budget, and these vary in terms of space, number of rooms, and amenities. There are also cottages that offer some of the best Kruger National Park accommodation for families, and these generally offer more comfort than the rondawels. The more upmarket guest cottages may cost a bit more, but they offer great value for money because they are private and fully equipped.

Privately Owned Safari Lodges

If you are into high-end accommodation, your most comfortable options include the privately owned safari lodges in the Kruger National Park. The best accommodation options include private suites with their own balconies overlooking watering holes, with some even including their own private swimming pools. Lukimbi Safari Lodge is one of the best options when it comes to luxurious Kruger Park accommodation, and here you will be able to immerse yourself in highly comfortable and relaxing surroundings. At Lukimbi Safari Lodge, we are very serious about hospitality, and our welcoming staff and superb service will take you to new heights when it comes to comfort and setting.

All our suites have their own bathrooms and private decks from where you can watch the African wildlife coming in to quench their thirst at the end of the day, and the superior suites even have their own private swimming pools. Outdoor showers are provided and your package will include a range of activities, such as guided hiking tours and game drives. The catering is out of this world – our creative chefs use the best local produce and expertise to create cuisine that will satisfy the most discerning palate. We also stock some of the best wines in Africa in our private cellar.

If you are in search for some of the best accommodation in the Kruger National Park, Lukimbi Safari Lodge should be your establishment of choice. We pride ourselves on our high standards of hospitality, and we welcome couples, families, and children. Give us a call today to find out more about our accommodation packages in the Kruger National Park.

Kruger National Park Chalets

Choose Luxurious Kruger National Park Chalets or Lodges for an Unforgettable Experience

The Kruger National Park is the largest game reserve in South Africa. It is spread across more than nineteen thousand square kilometres. It spans across the borders of two provinces, Limpopo and Mpumalanga, and it is one of the main attractions for tourists and local visitors in the country.

The park was initially called the Sabie Game Reserve, but it was later renamed as the Kruger National Park when two adjoining parks, the Sabie Game Reserve and the Shingwedzi Game Reserve, were combined to form a large, protected area with the objective to prevent hunting and to provide a natural sanctuary for wild animals to live in a protected and authentic environment. It is home to a wide array of indigenous fauna and flora, and animal and bird lovers can enjoy some spectacular sights of rare and wild animals and birds. The main attractions are the Big Five (elephant, lion, buffalo, leopard, and rhino) and the Big Six Birds. The park is open for day visits, but a lot of people prefer to enjoy the luxury of staying at one of the wonderful Kruger Park chalets. These are usually situated on private concessions and run by companies or individuals, instead of the park authorities.

Overnighting in one of these luxurious Kruger National Park chalets is something that should be on the to-do list of everyone who wants to experience African nature in its true, natural form. Here you can spend your day game viewing, bird viewing, going for guided hikes with experienced and qualified trackers and guards, or just taking in the sights from one of the many balconies at one of the Kruger National Park chalets. The chalets and safari lodges are usually situated for the best game viewing, and often overlook watering holes or sites where animals regularly visit.

There is a wide variety of Kruger National Park chalets and lodges, and these are usually at the upper end of the budget scale, but every penny is worth it. There are also often specials and promotions that can be taken advantage of, and if you stumble across a good deal here, you should take advantage of it for an unforgettable experience. Some Kruger National Park lodges offer all-inclusive packets which cover your entire stay – everything from your accommodation, meals, and drinks, to activities such as game drives and exciting bush walks. Others tend to charge for accommodation, and then it is up to you to choose how much money to spend on food, drinks, and activities. This provides a more flexible approach to what you can afford. All-inclusive promotions, however, can save a lot of money too, so keep an eye open for any promotions by Kruger National Park chalets and lodges.

One of the favourite safari lodges in this game reserve is Lukimbi Safari Lodge. Here, you will find all the luxury and comfort you will ever need. The African ambience here is relaxing and authentic, and the spacious suites are well appointed for privacy. All the accommodation has outdoor showers and a private deck overlooking the bush below, and one can spend hours here just spotting game walking past or coming in for a drink at the end of the day.

It is quite common for Kruger National park lodges and luxury chalets to provide their guests with everything they need and a lot more. High-quality bed lined, comfortable lounges, swimming pools, underfloor heating, and private chefs – they can all be found at the right lodges and chalets, and you will be treated like royalty during your stay. Most of the Kruger National Park lodges also have spa facilities where you can be pampered.

If you are yearning for a stay at one of the best Kruger National Park chalets or lodges, give our team at Lukimbi Safari Lodge a call to make your booking.

Kruger National Park Accommodation

3 Things to Consider When Choosing Kruger National Park Accommodation

As one of the most important attractions in South Africa, the Kruger National Park is still one of the most visited and widely appreciated tourist destinations on the African continent. While there are many other game reserves across the country and the rest of the continent, the charm of the Kruger National Park, along with the variety of activities and accommodation options in the area, makes it one of the most interesting yet wild places to visit. Compared to the long and tedious (not to mention slow and bumpy) journeys to other game reserves such as those in Kenya or Tanzania, the journey to the Kruger is fast and convenient. The park is also close to various hospitals.

When it comes to Kruger National Park accommodation there are a few things you have to take into consideration before choosing where to stay. Take into account that some of the areas become Malaria zones during the summer. While very few cases of Malaria have actually been recorded, those who are particularly worried (such as pregnant women) should probably choose accommodation in areas of the Kruger National Park that are not classified as Malaria areas, or they should visit the Park during winter.

Choosing Kruger National Park accommodation is basically the same as choosing any other type of accommodation. First you have to figure out what your purpose for the visit is. If you visit the Kruger Park, chances are that you are on holiday and want to experience as much of the park as possible. You also have to consider your specific needs, and of course, your budget. Here are some tips on choosing the right Kruger National Park accommodation that will meet your specific needs.

Length of Stay: The Kruger National Park is a vast area and there is a lot of terrain to cover. If you have limited time, like only a weekend or a few days, don’t choose accommodation in different rest camps that are located too far from each other. This means that you will spend most of your days travelling from one camp to another, which could become stressful with the long trips and very slow speed limits. Book your accommodation at rest camps that are located in close proximity to each other and make sure that you stay at rest camps that are located closer to the Kruger National Park gates for your first and last nights. This will give you more time to relax and take in the sights. You will also have more time to stop when you encounter a particularly interesting sight. The best thing to do is to book Kruger Park accommodation at one of the privately-owned lodges for the duration of your stay and to explore the area around the lodge.

Number and Ages of Kids: Remember that even the most interesting road trips can become quite boring for kids, especially if they are small. If you have a baby or toddler, you should ideally book Kruger National Park accommodation that doesn’t require hours and hours on the road, and allow for plenty of rest stops along the way. Children can also get bored during the holiday, so book your accommodation in a rest camp or private lodge, such as Lukimbi Lodge, that offer family-friendly activities and accommodation where everyone can relax and enjoy their stay, while still being able to view the wild animals from the lodge patio.

Budget: Probably one of the most important things to consider is your budget. Kruger Park accommodation includes anything from camp sites to luxury safari lodges. If you do some research, you are bound to find something that suits your pocket. For an incredible experience, you can also save up and treat yourself and the family to a luxury lodge such as Lukimbi Safari Lodge. The lodge is extremely well run and conveniently located close to the gate. We will provide you and your family with fun activities, great food, and accommodation that offers luxury and comfort.

To book your accommodation for your trip to the Kruger National Park at Lukimbi Lodge, give our hospitable team a call today to find out more about how we can make your stay in the Kruger Park one you will never forget!

7 Interesting Things to Do During Your Kruger Park Visits

If you want something spectacularly interesting to do during your next vacation, you should consider a visit to the Kruger National Park. This massive national game reserve is located in Mpumalanga and is famous for its wide array of indigenous fauna and flora. They also have the Big Five, which is one of the biggest attractions in the world when it comes to wild animals. The Kruger National Park is only a few hours’ drive from Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International airport, which makes it the ideal tourist vacation spot in the province. It is also possible to arrange a private flight to Hoedspruit and to drive the short distance from there to visit the Kruger Park. The park itself is steeped in history and there are several heritage sites that are considered extremely valuable and interesting. Along with game viewing, there are also several other interesting things you can do during your Kruger Park visits.

Stay at a Fabulous Safari Lodge: There are few things as pleasurable as staying in a privately owned, luxury safari lodge in the African bush. You will find around fifteen of these lodges in the park, but if you want to stay at one of the best safari lodges in the area during your Kruger Park visits, choose Lukimbi Lodge. The lodge is located in a spectacular spot and has luxury suites, superb services, delicious food, and as much comfort as a proper five-star lodge can provide. Various activities can be arranged, and the romantic element of staying in this lodge will remain with honeymooners forever.

Game Viewing: It goes without saying that some of the most popular activities during Kruger Park visits include game drives and hikes. People usually spend most of the day game spotting – driving slowly through the park to see how many different species they can encounter. The main goal is usually to spot the Big Five, which consists of the five largest and most dangerous animals in Africa, namely the elephant, rhino, lion, buffalo, and leopard. The leopards are especially well camouflaged, and it is indeed a treat to see one. Because of rhino poaching, their numbers have dwindled considerably, which often makes them the number one priority to see when it comes to game viewing.

Check Out the Rest Camps: The Park has a long list of rest camps that are safely fenced in and provide accommodation, restaurants, swimming pools, curio shops, and other interesting attractions. You can spend a night at Lukimbi Lodge and then spend the day following the map from one rest camp to another, spotting game along the way, before taking a refreshing break or enjoying a delicious lunch in one of the rest camps.

Visit a Cultural Village: People have been living in this area for centuries. Some of these cultural villages still exist where the people live off the land. Visits to these interesting villages can be arranged, and you can learn more about their way of living during your Kruger Park visits by eating with the villagers, watching how they make their different crafts, dancing, and learning more about their traditions.

Stop at a National Heritage Site: The Kruger National Park is home to several conservation areas that protect and preserve sites that are of historical value. Here you will find an Iron Age village, graves, artefacts, drawings, and other interesting things that were part of normal life on the land centuries ago.

Braai in the Bush: This may seem scary for most – having a barbeque in the wild without being protected by fences and guards. However, it is very safe and also one of the most incredible experiences you can have. A guide will drive you out to a location where lanterns and fires light up the area. Here you can sit and enjoy the wild sounds at night while traditional South African food is prepared for you over an open fire. It is a fun and thrilling experience you should consider during any of your Kruger Park visits!

Hot Air Balloon Rides: In the world of romance, there aren’t many things that can beat a hot air balloon ride over the African bush. Most of these take place at sunrise or sunset when it is cooler, and more animals can be observed.

There are many other activities that you can enjoy during your Kruger Park visits. The area around the park also provides a variety of unusual places to see and many activities you can try as well! To book your stay at Lukimbi Lodge, just give our team a call.

Luxury Lodges in Mpumalanga

8 Good Reasons to Stay at One of the Luxury Lodges in Mpumalanga

If you are a fan of great views and natural spectacles, Mpumalanga is the place to go. Here you can encounter canyons, mountains, some of the most abundant and impressive indigenous fauna and flora in the country, a large number of heritage sites that will blow your mind, and of course, the famous Kruger National Park that stretches through the provinces of Mpumalanga and Limpopo. Mpumalanga is one of the most impressive and beautiful areas in South Africa, so spending some time here is an experience that will not be easy to forget, especially if you manage to spend some time at one of the fantastic luxury lodges in Mpumalanga.

There are so many different highlights and attractions in this delightful province, which include:

Game viewing: One of the most impressive attractions is, of course, the world-famous Kruger National Park, which is probably the biggest drawing card for South Africans and foreign tourists alike. People love the park for the plentiful small game, the luxury lodges in and around the reserve, and of course, the Big Five.

Superb angling: For those who like to flick a line in a fresh, clear lake or river, there are plenty of wonderful places to fish. Trout streams are abundant, and the trout are large and plentiful – any angler’s dream!

Cultural heritage: Pilgrim’s Rest is one of the oldest historic villages in the country, and some of the original buildings still stand there. Originally a mining town, it was finally abandoned when the mines stopped yielding gold, and then turned into a tourist attraction much later, with some museums, cafes, a bar, and the original old hotel – which is quite different to the luxury lodges in Mpumalanga!

Delicious fruit: Some of the best tropical fruits in the country, such as litchis, mangos, bananas, and pineapples, are grown here – most of these are sold to establishments in the area, and a lot of these end up on the lavish fruit platters of the luxury lodges in Mpumalanga.

Anthropological sites: In the Kruger National Park itself, there are around 250 heritage sites where age-old communities lived, and their rock art and other artefacts can still be found. The local tribe, the Shangaan, have a cultural village here, and the colourful Ndebele homes are a feast for the eyes. In the museum village called Botshabelo, visitors can admire old artefacts and vibrant beadwork of the old indigenous tribes.

Unusual fauna: There are only two groups of wild horses to be found in South Africa, and one of these can be found on the grass plains of Mpumalanga. The highly endangered blue swallows also choose this area for their summer migration and breeding, and their large gatherings are a wonder to behold.

Adventure outdoors: For adrenalin junkies and activity fans, there are many things to do that will get the blood pumping. Rock climbing, microlight flying, hot-air ballooning, and white river rafting are only some of the fascinating things you can do to get your adrenalin fix.

Awesome luxury lodges: Some of the best accommodation establishments in the country are counted amongst the luxury lodges of Mpumalanga. Fifteen of these lodges are situated inside the Kruger National Park, and one of the best-loved establishments is Lukimbi Safari Lodge. These five-star lodges offer luxurious accommodation, pampering, relaxation, and comfort that you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you are planning a romantic honeymoon, craving quiet surroundings, want to eat gourmet food in fantastic surroundings, or just want to get away from everything and reconnect with African nature, these luxury lodges in Mpumalanga provide you with everything you need, and memories that will last a lifetime.

If you are planning to visit Mpumalanga or the Kruger National Park, book your stay at Lukimbi Safari Lodge – one of the most sought-after luxury lodges in the province.

Accommodation at Kruger National Park

Frequently Asked Questions about Accommodation at the Kruger National Park

One of the best experiences you will ever have is staying in prime accommodation at the Kruger National Park. Choosing accommodation here may be difficult because there are so many different types of accommodation to choose from. There are many questions that people normally have before they visit the park or select their ideal accommodation. Frequently asked questions include the following:

Which types of accommodation are available at the Kruger National Park?

You will find something for everyone – from small and basic, to large and luxurious, where your every whim is catered for. There are 21 rest camps within the reserve, and two private allocations of land on which 15 private game lodges can be found. Different rest camps will have different types of accommodation, so the best thing to do is choose a camp and check what they have available, thereafter choose the type of accommodation within your price range. In the rest camps, accommodation includes camping sites, caravan parks, self-catering cottages, chalets, rondavels, bungalows, and family-style homes. For those who prefer more luxurious accommodation, there are 15 luxury lodges to choose from. Here, you will be treated to around-the-clock entertainment, gourmet meals, a range of activities, and some of the best wines in the country.

Is the water in the Kruger National Park safe to drink?

Yes, the water is very safe to drink anywhere in the park. If, however, you choose to stay in one of the luxury lodges, such as Lukimbi Safari Lodge, you will be provided with bottled water.

Is the Kruger National Park a malaria zone?

Some areas in the park are indeed malaria risk zones, but the risk is very low. There are certain areas of accommodation at the Kruger National Park that are malaria free, such as the Lukimbi Safari Lodge. If you are concerned, take anti-malaria medication before your visit. Take note that even though there are millions of people visiting the park every year, only a few cases of Malaria have ever been reported, so don’t let the fear of malaria stop you from visiting!

Can I bring my pet with me?

No, you may not bring animals into the Kruger National Park. This is to avoid the risk of diseases spreading to other animals, and also for the safety of your precious pet. Exceptions can be made for guide dogs, but this has to be arranged ahead of time. If you absolutely have to bring your pet, you can stay at one of the pet friendly establishments outside the park with a dog-sitting service, and then visit the park as a day visitor.

Will I be charged conservation fees when I choose accommodation at the Kruger National Park?

Yes, conservation fees are charged at the gate for every day you stay in the reserve. These funds are used for the conservation of the park, heritage areas, and the facilities. This includes the maintenance of bird hutches, anti-poaching measures, and many other important things needed to keep this area operational.

Where is the best luxury family accommodation?

If you are looking for luxury accommodation at the Kruger National Park that will suit the whole family, you should opt for one of the fifteen privately owned safari lodges in the reserve. One of the best lodges to visit and a firm favourite amongst discerning guests is Lukimbi Safari Lodge. Our lodge is malaria free, extravagant, and provides a fun-filled adventure for the whole family. Our lodge is also perfect for a romantic getaway, or for those who would like to get away from the hustle and bustle, and reconnect with nature again. It is a place of relaxation, luxury, comfort, and rejuvenation. Here, you can truly enjoy the time spent on your own or with loved ones, while surrounded by nature, heritage, and wonder.

Accommodation at Lukimbi Safari Lodge in the Kruger National Park includes 16 spacious suites with private decks overlooking the river and the bush. From here, you can enjoy spectacular vistas over the park. All suites include air conditioning, indoor and outdoor showers, large baths, mosquito nets, overhead fans, and mini bars. For those who want a really special experience, we recommend our larger suites, each with another bathroom with a large bath to share, and a private pool of their own.

If you are looking for family friendly, luxurious accommodation at the Kruger National Park, Lukimbi Safari Lodge is the place to be! Give our hospitable team a call today to make your booking.

Kruger National Park Safari

Important Dos and Don’ts During Your Kruger National Park Safari

The Kruger National Park is the home of prime safaris, and many people from all over the world visit this very special place every year. The point of going here is to enjoy the fauna and flora from the different regions of the park in a way that does not negatively affect the nature or the enjoyment of other people also visiting the park at the same time. All prime game reserves have rules and regulations, but sometimes there are some unwritten rules – let’s call it park etiquette – that allow people to enjoy the experience much more, and that prevent the natural order of the wild from being disturbed.

Adverse behaviour can cause all kinds of problems – from endangering personal safety to causing damage to the surrounding nature, so it is essential that everybody planning a safari in the Kruger National Park is aware of how to behave when visiting a nature reserve. While it may be extremely exciting to spot a leopard or rare animal on a game drive, screaming with enjoyment can disturb the animal and send it fleeing back into the bush, and then the experience is spoilt for everyone. Phones ringing loudly can have the same effect. Basic good behaviour is expected from everyone to maximise the enjoyment of the experience for everyone, so here we provide you with some of the basic rules to stick to when you go on a safari in the Kruger National Park.

Prepare before you go: If you are going in your own vehicle, ensure that you have all the basics in the vehicle, such as water, snacks, and clothing, in case the weather gets cool. When you are on a safari in the Kruger National Park, wear clothing that is comfortable – you don’t need to dress up (unless you are having a romantic dinner in one of the luxury lodges!). If you are going on game drives in open vehicles or on guided bush walks, stick to neutral colours and avoid bright colours. The point is to blend in, so that you are less likely to be spotted by animals. Remember to wear a hat and take a camera, binoculars, and of course, water. If you are planning to take pictures with your cellphone, ensure that the sound is switched off or you may miss some great sightings.

Know the rules: When entering the gate to start your safari, you will be given a set of rules that are specifically designed to prevent damage or injury to people, the environment, and the animals. One of the best things to keep in mind (if you are not residing at one of the rest camps or luxury lodges inside the park) is the closing and opening times of the gates. The opening times are set and cannot be changed, so those arriving late will incur fines. Also note that all the rest camps also have their own opening and closing times. This is to protect both people and animals.

Driving in game reserves: If you are doing a self-drive, there are strict rules. Firstly, be acutely aware of the speed limit and stick to it. When you see animals, don’t make a noise or block the road so that that others cannot pass. Do not stray off the park roads or follow obscure dirt tracks. You may get stuck or lost. Keep your windows closed as much as possible, especially when there are animals about. Keep your car doors locked. Avoid driving over any dung on the road – you may end up killing a whole group of dung beetles or other important insects! Keep your music in the vehicle on low volume, and never hoot your horn, except in an emergency. Never, ever leave your vehicle – even if it seems that there are no animals about!

Interactions with fauna and flora: During your safari in the Kruger National Park, you cannot, under any circumstances, interact or interfere with the animals. Don’t antagonise them by driving up too close, and be especially weary of getting too close to the bigger game species, like elephants. If you encounter these crossing the road, stop some distance away, and leave them to cross the road. If you are too close, you may even back away quietly to give them more space. Being too close may lead to them getting aggressive and storming your vehicle, and this is the last thing you want! Under no circumstances should you ever feed any animals, even if you are in a rest camp.

Extraordinary animal sightings: If you spot something well worth watching, like a lion kill, keep some distance away, and turn off your engine (especially if you have a diesel vehicle). When there are a few vehicles watching the same thing, ensure that there is a lot of space for the animals to leave. Never leave your vehicle or hang out of your window. Stay a while, enjoy the sighting, and then move on for others to also get a turn. Be polite – if you see other people on the road, flash your headlights for them to stop, move close to their vehicle, and very quietly tell them (through your window) where they can encounter this particular sighting.

If you choose a Kruger National Park safari, you have to stick to the rules! And if you need to find a wonderful place to stay during your safari experience, contact Lukimbi Safari Lodge for the experience of a lifetime.

Kruger Park Accommodation

Need Luxurious Lodge Accommodation in the Kruger Park? Choose Lukimbi Safari Lodge!

If you are one of the thousands of people who are planning a trip to the Kruger National park this year and looking for accommodation, you will find that there are a lot of options. These options include camp sites, rondavels, bungalows, family cottages, and many others. Regardless of the budget, guests will find some pleasant and suitable accommodation here.

If, however, you are looking for a truly memorable and special experience, you should treat yourself to a stay at one of the many privately-owned safari lodges in the Kruger National Park, such as Lukimbi Safari Lodge. At our perfectly positioned safari lodge, you will enjoy the highest standard of hospitality, stunning surrounds, delicious cuisine, and some of the finest wines around.

Our lodge is situated close to one of the southern gates of the game reserve, and we have gone to great lengths to make the lodge as unobtrusive as possible from the exterior, while creating an artistic and wonderful environment inside. Our stunning staircase will welcome you as you enter the lodge, and from here you can walk onto our deck that overlooks the river where animals come to quench their thirst during certain times of the day. Our guests really enjoy having “flame-lit” meals outdoors at our authentic African boma, and in our restaurant we take the time to re-arrange the tables to provide our guests with the opportunity to enjoy different views over the river while they dine on our delicious fare.

Our lounge is well positioned to overlook the river, and the bar includes a library with a variety of interesting reading materials. We have a unique wine list that is award winning, plus our own wine cellar. From here, you can pick and choose some of the best wines available in the country. Our wonderful deck provides stunning views of the surrounding nature and part of the river.

At Lukimbi Safari Lodge, our goal is to provide our guests with the ultimate in luxury accommodation with our suites. The Premier suites are positioned for maximum privacy and more space. They exemplify superb comfort – all suites have a lounge with separate dining area, large private balcony, outdoor shower, two bathrooms, and a large shareable bath, plus a wooden deck with a private pool overlooking the river. These suites are an absolute must and provide some of the best lodge accommodation you can find in the Kruger National Park.

Our Classic suites all enjoy close proximity to the surrounding trees and nature, and the high windows provide superb views. The bathroom is positioned to overlook the river, and the private deck extending from the lounge provides you with a feeling of being in the African bush. An outdoor shower adds to the experience. These suites contain a bath and shower, mosquito net, large, comfortable bed with high-quality linen, and air conditioning. We also provide a mini bar and a refreshment station for tea and coffee.

Our outstanding list of facilities includes a pristine swimming pool, bar, secure parking, child-minding services, gym, curio shop, laundry facilities, and much more! We truly provide some of the best lodge accommodation and facilities in the Kruger National Park.

If you are looking for the most unforgettable experience – whether you take some time out alone, or come with a partner or your family, Lukimbi Safari Lodge is the place to be. All you have to do is to give our welcoming team a call to book your ultimate Kruger Park adventure! Come stay at one of the best lodges in the park.