National Parks and African Bushlands

Day 1

Arrive at Polokwane airport and transfer to Mapungubwe National Park. This recently opened Transfrontierpark has been declared a World heritage Site by UNESCO.

It links the Limpopo Sashe Conservancy  to the Botswana Tuli Block and the Tuli Safari area of Zimbabwe. Overnight at Forest Camp in Luxury Safari tents.

Day 2

The guided heritage walk will take you to the ruins and excarvations of this ancient kingdom that preceded the Great Zimbabwe culture. Enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the confluence of the great Limpopo and Sashe river before going on an open vehicle drive through the Tuli Reserve/ Botswana. Overnight at fully equipped chalets, Tuli Game Reserve.

Alternatively join the rangers of Mapungubwe National Park when they go “wilddog tracking”. The African wilddog is threatened by extinction and movement of hunting packs is carefully monitored. Stay additional night at Forest Camp.

Day 3

The Pafuri gate is the most northerly entrance to the world famous Kruger National Park. On the way pass one of the largest Baobab trees in the southern hemisphere. After settling in at Camp just outside Pafuri meet the local people of this remote settlement and take a guided walk through African bushland, passing cattle enclosures, villages and riverine areas. Hear stories of lions that roam outside Kruger Park and where shot by the local Chief while seated under large Marula trees and tasting traditional beer. Overnight Pafuri camp (swimming pool).

Day 4

Ready to go in search of the “big five” in Kruger National Park. The early morning hours are spent in search of predators like lions, leopard and cheetahs. The northern part of Kruger is more unspoilt and less frequented which makes the day-trip extremely special. Overnight at Mopani Camp in fully equipped chalets.

Day 4

Full-day game drive heading for Satara Camp which has the nick-name “lions camp”, as often the roar of lions  can be heard at nighttime. Optional nightdrives can be booked with Kruger Management and the evening will be rounded of with a traditional African braai, barbeque.

Day 5

Last chance to spot the leopard on way out via Hazyview. Transfer to Kruger International or Hoedspruit airport.

Photos

·         Lions

·         African village

Possible add on 1

Day 5

Leaving Kruger at Orpen gate following the gorgeous Abel Erasmus mountain pass. Arrive at the Blyde River Canyon  with spectacular views of the “Three Rondavels” a special rock formation resembling African traditional huts. Stop over at Bourke’s Luck Potholes with guided walk past the rock pools. Overnight Graskop.

Day 6

Visit “God’s Window” (weather permitting) and stop at “Lisbon waterfalls” or short drive to the Gold digger’s village of Pilgim’s rest. Transfer to Kruger International airport.

Or add on 2

2 days of cultural experience

Day 3 (of National Parks tour)

Leaving Mapungubwe National Park for Venda the cultural heartland of the Venda people. On the way pass the biggest Baobab tree in South Africa. The Vendas are the direct successors of the Mapungubwe culture which makes the visit to the Royal Court of the living King Kennedy Thsivhase very interesting.  Settle in at the basic Ivory Route Camp where drums and dance accompanied by a traditional dinner await you. Or overnight Thohoyandou.

Day 4 (of National Parks tour)

A day-trip to the heartland of Venda passing Tshatshingo Potholes as well as the Holy Forest and  Sacred Lake Fundudzi. Lunch will be taken at the house of a teachers family. Local specialties like “Mopani worms” and traditional beer can be tasted and a visit of the nearby school can be arranged. The tour comprises rich African mythology and folklore, personal experiences and stunning views that will make a photographers heart miss a beat.