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The Ultimate Guide to Wild Adventures: We Unpack Your Safari FAQs

Last week we delivered a series of frequently asked questions that really unpacked the essence of an African safari experience. Today we’re increasing our portfolio of questions to cover aspects such as historical origins, the ultimate length of a safari in Africa, and what to wear on a safari. We’re sure that you have questions about whether jeans are appropriate attire for safaris and whether black is a suitable hue for bushveld breaks (the answer is no). Without further ado, here are the safari questions you’ve been dying to find out the answers to. We’ve broken it into categories to make it easier. Let’s go!

These are our most popular general safari questions

What does the word safari mean?

Safari is a Swahili word from Kenya that means journey. It’s origins are from the Arabic noun safari, which is used when referring to a trip, tour or journey. Back in a bygone era, Kenya had firmly established trade relations with Arab countries. Swahili is a mix of the local language and Arabic.

What do you do on safari?

A safari is a mix of activities that centre around game viewing and exploring the surrounding landscapes. Each camp differs slightly when it comes to their activity offerings, especially when it comes to countries. For example, in Kruger activities are usually two game drives a day and/or a bush walk. In Botswana, at places like Mboma Island Expeditions, you get the best of both land and water based safari experiences. Botswana (especially the Okavango Delta) is ideal for boating on open waters, exploring small channels via mokoro and enjoying game drives in the famed Moremi Game Reserve. When you’re not out on activities, you’ll be spending a lot of time relaxing at camp or sitting around campfires at night in the traditional safari boma.

Why is a safari experience so famous?

Safaris are renowned for close encounters with diverse wildlife, including the Big 5 (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino), and the opportunity to immerse in the untamed rugged landscapes. Safaris are famous because they offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view mammals, reptiles, birds, and bugs all thriving in their natural habitat. It also gives visitors a chance to experience wide open landscapes of pristine bushveld and mind-blowing sunsets. Nambu Camp is a Kruger camp that certainly knows how to take advantage of stellar sunsets by offering unique sundowner setups. The one thing to remember: you will eat a lot on safari!

What happens on safari?

Each day on safari is different, even if the activity is the same. Activities usually start at first light when predators are most active. Guides and trackers will track predators and listen to the radio for sightings, ensuring guests get the optimal safari experience. When the air gets cooler in the late afternoon, a second activity takes place. Each day on safari holds a new chapter of discovery, with expert guides leading you to remarkable wildlife sightings, sharing their knowledge of the animals’ behaviours and the surrounding ecosystem. Nyala Safari Lodge’s guiding team are experts at tracking and guiding, especially when it comes to traversing their home turf in the Balule Nature Reserve. At Nyala, guests can spend their downtime relaxing on the expansive wooden balcony overlooking the seasonal Mohlabetsi River, a pocket of paradise that draws in a wealth of wildlife.

These are our most popular safari questions related to safari preparation

How long is a safari in South Africa?

The average length of a safari in Kruger is about 3 to 4 days. This allows enough time to spot big game as well as the smaller species. This equates to roughly 6-8 game drives and/or bush walks. You’d need to allow for travel time, so always opt for about 4 days. Because the in between times on safari can be sedentary, some people prefer to safari for a shorter period of time-unless the lodge has a host of on-site activities and a gym. For a camp like Chacma Bush Camp, we recommend the 4-day option. Chacma offers game drives, walks up to the koppie behind camp, and an incredible swimming pool where you can swim while watching wildlife congregate at the waterhole in front of camp.

Do you need special clothes for a safari?

You need to alter your wardrobe slightly and dress appropriately for the wilderness. Wear active gear and pack comfortable clothes. You don’t need full scale hiking gear, but typical walking gear is useful. You can bring jeans for the evening time, beanies and jackets for the crisp early mornings, swimming gear for camp’s with pools, and lightweight clothing.

What colours not to wear on safari?

Opt for earthy tones to seamlessly blend into the environment. Avoid colours like black and navy blue, as these are known to attract mosquitoes and bugs. Never wear bright colours or anything neon.

Can I wear sandals on an African safari?

You can wear sandals while relaxing around the pool or walking around the camp/lodge. When your feet hit the bushveld or wilderness soil, open shoes are best avoided! There are snakes, spiders, scorpions and ants that bite.

Where do most people go on safari in Africa?

Botswana and Kruger are popular choices. The Kruger is easily accessible and can easily be combined with a beach holiday to Cape Town. Botswana is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Okavango Delta, and offers the best of both land and water based safari experiences. The prices vary from country to country and camp to camp. Safari goers frequently consider budget before choosing a destination or camp. Here are a few examples of the cost involved in a safari in Africa:

Nambu Camp: Full board at R3,750.00 per person per night, inclusive of accommodation, all meals, and two daily game drives, teas & coffees.
Chacma Bush Camp: Full board at R5,050.00 per person per night, covering all meals, game drives, bush walks, and teas & coffees.
Nyala Safari Lodge: Full board at R7,200.00 per person sharing per night, including two daily game drives and teas & coffees.
Mboma Island Expeditions: Green Season ($690), Shoulder Season ($690), High Season ($805) packages include all meals, game activities, teas & coffees, park fees & taxes, and local beverages

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We Answer Your Kruger Safari FAQs

The word safari is synonymous with the Big 5, intrepid adventures and breathtaking golden sunsets melting behind horizons of endless savanna landscapes. A safari in Africa provides an opportunity for visitors to experience wildlife roaming free in their natural habitat, while indulging in iconic activities that you just don’t experience anywhere else in the world. Some of these iconic experiences include game viewing with a safari guide driving a modified, open-topped game viewer; spending endless nights sitting around a campfire in the boma; witnessing annual wildlife migrations; adventuring in mokoro canoes; and raising a glass to celebrate golden hour.

We can preserve our natural heritage by introducing you to local cultures and teach you about protecting endangered wildlife. A safari is an opportunity for you to enjoy a much needed sojourn for your soul. Today we’re going to delve into the most frequently asked questions from first time visitors to Africa, and focus on South Africa’s most popular safari destination: the Greater Kruger. A couple of questions we’ll unpack include “what is a safari in Africa?‘, “how much is a safari in Africa?“, and “when to go on safari in Africa?“.

Here are our top safari FAQs related to the Kruger

What is a safari in Africa?

Loosely translated, the Swahili word safari means journey. A safari is a journey into wild landscapes to observe animals in their natural habitat. You travel to your chosen destination and reserve, stay in lodges and enjoy daily activities that are centred around game viewing. Typically, these include game drives and bush walks. When you stay in private reserves, all of your activities are guided. This means you learn how to track wildlife, get introduced to the landscape and find out facts about your destination.

Most people come to a place like the Kruger to spot Africa’s famous Big 5 animals (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo). A safari is the perfect holiday/vacation for animal lovers who want to be in the wild observing nature and its inhabitants, while staying in comfortable or luxurious accommodations.

A popular lodge in the Greater Kruger is Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside, a hideaway located on the banks of the seasonal Sand River. This lodge is the epitome of what a Kruger safari is all about: comfortable rooms and suites, family-friendly, expert guiding and tracking, excellent game viewing opportunities and stellar views. It’s here that guests can spot Umkumbe’s most revered species—the leopard.

When should I go on safari in Africa?

Whatever time of year you choose to visit the Kruger, there is always something rewarding to see. During the winter time, the bushveld thins out and water sources become scarce. This means wildlife flocks to waterholes and—occasionally—lodge swimming pools to replenish their thirst. Seasonal rivers also become dry riverbeds. It’s easier to spot wildlife because of the sparse vegetation. Winter is roughly from May to August. May and June is also when the wild dogs become more sedentary as it’s their denning period, and coincides with the end of the impala rutting season.

During the summer (November to April), the bushveld turns into a myriad of lush green colours and migrant birds descend upon the area. The colours are simply astounding. Everywhere you turn, there is dense vegetation and full rivers. Summer is the rainy season, which means wildlife is more dispersed because of the readily available water sources. November is also when the impala lambs are born, and plenty of new life is introduced into reserves.

Spring and Autumn often bring the best of winter and summer in the bushveld, where you can experience a noticeable shift in patterns.

What are the best safari options in the Kruger?

The best safari options in the Kruger can be whittled down to your safari preferences. Safari preferences can be anything from personal taste to budget, wildlife bucket list, and level of fitness. The whole of the Greater Kruger offers a diverse game viewing experience where it’s possible to spot everything from elephants to African wild dogs, cheetah, leopard, lion, rare rhino, migrant birds, crocodiles, snakes, and more. Whatever safari option you choose, you won’t be disappointed.

For the more active crowd, we recommend a Kruger walking safari. Africa On Foot Wilderness Trails caters to nature lovers seeking an immersive walking safari experience. This mobile camp offers a rustic yet comfortable setup, allowing guests to explore the rugged terrain in the Greater Kruger. Trails is a 3-day adventure and combines the intrepid exploration atmosphere with more relaxed game drives. For something slightly more tamer on the walking front, you could opt for a stay at Africa on Foot in the Klaserie. Africa on Foot starts off the mornings with a relaxed 3-hour walk and finishes the day with a standard evening game drive.

For a more elevated and relaxed safari that sticks with the iconic two game drives a day experience, we recommend nThambo Tree Camp. With its raised accommodation on wooden stilts overlooking the wilderness, nThambo offers supremely comfortable accommodations.

What is the cost of a safari in Africa?

The cost of a safari in Africa is dependent on a number of variables. For the sake of this blog, we’re going to include the average cost of a safari across a few of our Kruger lodges. Our camps and lodges are located in private reserves, which means the price is all inclusive. The price you are quoted is NOT just for your accommodation. It usually includes all daily game viewing activities, local drinks, three meals a day, and tea and coffee. Here are a few price ranges for our four featured lodges.

Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside: From R4,675.00 per person sharing per night

Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside offers a family-owned atmosphere, comfortable accommodations, and expert guiding. The rate includes all meals, game drives, accommodation, optional weather permitting bush walks, and teas & coffees. The standard rooms provide a more affordable option, while the superior rooms offer additional amenities such as private balconies, seating areas and expansive room areas. This flexibility allows travellers to choose accommodations based on their budget without compromising on the safari experience.

Africa On Foot: From R4,270.00 per person sharing per night

Africa On Foot offers an opportunity to experience an activity-based and standard Kruger safari experience in the revered Klaserie Private Nature Reserve. The full board rate includes all meals, accommodation, afternoon game drives, morning bush walks, and teas & coffees. For travellers seeking a comfortable to mid-range safari experience, this camp provides a great balance between affordability and experience. Guests can enjoy guided walks and game drives, making it accessible for those looking for an authentic safari adventure without breaking the bank.

Africa On Foot Wilderness Trails: From R11,760.00 per person for 3 nights

Africa on Foot Wilderness Trails offers a comprehensive and immersive all-in-one experience. The rate covers all meals, accommodation, bottled water, bush walks, game drives, and teas & coffees. For adventure enthusiasts seeking a deep immersion into the African wilderness, this package provides a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience this in the Kruger. The extensive activities and guided experiences are just perfect for travellers passionate about exploring nature on foot.

nThambo Tree Camp: From R5,050.00 per person per night

nThambo Tree Camp provides an elevated safari experience with unique treehouse chalets. The rate includes full board, game drives, accommodation, optional weather permitting bush walks, and and teas & coffees. The personalised service, exceptional views, and eco-friendly approach make it a worthwhile investment for travellers seeking an exclusive and intimate wilderness adventure. We consider the Klaserie’s nThambo Tree Camp to be the luxury older sister to Africa on Foot.

If you have any more questions, feel free to pop them in the comments section of this blog post. Alternatively, you can email reservations@sundestinations.co.za who’ll guide you through the process of booking a safari.

NEW: Sausage Tree Safari Camp in the Olifants West Nature Reserve

Sun Destinations would like to extend a warm welcome to the latest addition to their coveted portfolio of Kruger lodges: Sausage Tree Safari Camp. Located in the Big 5 Olifants West Nature Reserve, this charming and classic tented camp is a wonderful addition to our family of camps and lodges.

Sprawling across 9000 hectares of terrain in the Greater Kruger is the Olifants West Nature Reserve—a sanctuary for a wealth of free-roaming wildlife. The perennial Olifants Rivers courses through landscapes dominated by woody savannah and typical Kruger vegetation, providing a diverse habitat for a wealth of wildlife to thrive. Within this private reserve sits the impressive Sausage Tree Safari Camp, a tented camp with an iconic “classic” under canvas atmosphere. With 3500 ha of traversing rights, 5 kms of which stretches along the southern bank of the river, Sausage Tree offers a world of wildlife wonder on its doorstep.

Accommodation and Facilities: Getting to Know Sausage Tree Safari Camp

The camp is owner-run and managed by James and Sonja who, combined, speak over five languages. Staying at a Kruger safari camp that’s run by the owners adds a personal touch, sense of experience, and heart to your overall safari. Sausage Tree Safari Camp is a soulful destination.

Your accommodation is a choice of five expansive Meru-style tents built on raised wooden platforms with
views of the bushveld and the imposing Drakensberg Mountain Range. With its classic tented style rooms furnished with impeccable decor, Sausage Tree has certainly embodied that typical “out of Africa” atmosphere. Each tented suite has a private deck, outdoor shower, indoor bath, ample floor and storage space, and eco air conditioning. A perfect hideaway with hints of safari glamour!

From the tented rooms, there’s a network of rugged, lantern lit paths meandering their way towards the impressive main area. The elevated main area includes the swimming pool, poolside deck, and seating area with comfortable patio furniture. Adjacent to the pool is a scenic outdoor dining area under thatch, where sumptuous breakfasts are served. Overlooking the deck, is an open-plan bar service area overlooking the swimming pool, which gives off a unique pool bushveld vibe. There’s also an indoor lounge and private spa treatment area for those wanting to indulge in relaxation.

Top Facilities at Sausage Tree Safari Camp

Waterhole in front of camp teeming

Bushveld sky deck for romantic occasions

Spa treatment area

Swimming pool with decking, umbrellas and sun loungers

Two guided games per day with coffee (morning) and sundowner stops (evening)

Capacity to create special occasion safaris

Dinner is always served under the stars in the boma area

A modern bar stocked with craft gins and beers, and premium drinks

Safari Activities at Sausage Tree Safari Camp

Game drives: Two game drives take place per day. The morning drive takes place at first light when the predators active. Morning drives include a coffee stop in an open area. Evening drives take place when the air is cooler, and predators awake from their daytime slumber. Evening drives move into the nocturnal hours, and include a sundowner stop with a drink of your choice.

Skydeck, bush breakfasts and spa treatments: These added value activities take place in addition to the standard daily game drives. The Skydeck is used for private, romantic occasions and overlooks the entire
bushveld. This is the perfect place for big birthdays, celebrations and romantic declarations. Indulging in spa treatments is a fantastic way to relax after a day traversing the bushveld. Bush breakfasts are an optional activity that’ll need to be arranged prior.

Boma experiences: The boma is the archetype of any safari experience and provides a fantastic place to connect with guests and experience the true spirit of Africa. A crackling campfire sits at the centre of any true boma safari experience and is usually surrounded by a circle of canvas safari chairs. It’s an authentic and not-to-be-missed part of a safari at Sausage Tree Safari Camp.

Local Wildlife “Residents” to Spot on Game Drives with Sausage Tree

Sausage Tree’s traverse is home to all the usual suspects such as the Big 5, cheetah, African wild dog, giraffe, zebra, warthog, kudu and impala. While navigating valleys, hills and plains on game drive, it’s possible to spot all of these species. With the addition of the riverfront traverse, it opens up abundant opportunity to spot waders, the rare Pel’s fishing-owl, Goliath herons, saddle-billed storks and a variety of hornbills. Because of the water, visitors can also spot basks of crocodile and pods of hippo soaking up the splendour of the bushveld.

This is a safari destination where guests come to “live life”! Stay at Sausage Tree Safari Camp by contacting the Sun Destinations reservations team.

Navigating the Wilderness: Understanding Safari Suppliers and Sun Destinations

Embarking on a safari adventure is a dream for many, but behind the scenes, there’s a crucial player ensuring the seamless orchestration of these experiences – the safari supplier. As a key player in the travel trade, Sun Destinations stands as a pivotal link connecting discerning travellers to the heart of Africa’s wildlife. Mallory Kuyk-Michaels, Account and Human Resources Manager

Sun Destinations is a reservations and marketing company for camps and lodges across Southern Africa’s key safari destinations. These accommodation products make Sun Destinations a leading supplier of well-established lodges within the safari industry.

Demystifying the Role of a Safari Supplier

A safari supplier isn’t a travel agent or tour operator, yet their roles in the industry are interwined. There’s a symbiotic relationship among all key groups within the industry. Because there is often mass confusion about Sun Destinations’ role in the marketplace, we’re going to unpack this by shedding some light on the topic.

Travel agent (seller): A travel agent sells holiday packages that are usually inclusive of flights, accommodation and activities. These carefully curated packages are generally put together by tour operators.
Tour operator (creator): A tour operator tailor makes packages for travel agents or direct guests, using products from preferred suppliers. When dealing with direct guests they seek to understand the guests’ budget, personality, travel time, and safari needs. From this launching off point, they match suppliers to create various packages according to guests’ needs.
Safari supplier (product supplier): As its name suggests, this is the “supplier” who supplies direct guests and agents (tour operator) with their own products. A safari supplier constantly seeks to build trade relationships with tour operators, and lodge and camp owners. Agents usually get a reduced rate (STO) for a suppliers’ products. A supplier will while marketing themselves

A safari supplier is the linchpin that bridges the gap between travellers seeking a memorable safari experience and the intricacies of the travel industry. Essentially, we act as curators, carefully selecting and managing a portfolio of bush camps and safari lodges to deliver an unparalleled adventure to our clients.

As a safari supplier, what Does Sun Destinations do?

We chatted to Mallory about Sun Destinations’ role as a safari supplier, who elegantly defined the company’s role as the following.

At Sun Destinations, we take pride in serving as the voice of each individual property to the trade. Acting on behalf of these remarkable camps and lodges, our Reservations team is committed to handling direct and trade enquiries with seamless efficiency. This unique approach ensures that every guest experiences direct communication with their chosen camp or property, fostering personal connections and creating a foundation for enduring relationships with our valued trade partners.

Our agents can benefit from the following:

Offers a seamless reservations and booking system
Favorable STO rates
Quick turnaround time with provisional enquiries and bookings
Relationship building with key individuals within the reservations team
Hierarchy for when issues arise—easy to escalate problems
Emergency after hours contact number
Expert knowledge about each of the products
Continuous product updates and presentations

As a representation company for camps and lodges, what does Sun Destinations offer?

As discussed, Sun Destinations supplies the safari industry with a multitude of camp and lodge options in coveted destinations. When these camps and lodges join our portfolio, we represent them both online and offline, ensuring we are constantly pushing their brand forward while marketing our own brand. Camps and lodges have the option of joining the Sun Destinations “family”, where a marketing plan can be tailored to suit your needs. This can include anything from reservations to social media and digital marketing.

In this collaboration between Sun Destinations, our trade partners, and the individual properties, we see each piece coming together to form a cohesive puzzle. Together, we work harmoniously towards one shared objective: delivering successful and unforgettable experiences for our guests. Our trade partners are integral to this mission, playing a crucial role in shaping the narrative of every safari journey.

Our portfolio manager chats about Sun Destinations

As the Portfolio Manager at Sun Destinations, I’m proud to represent a leading supplier in the safari industry, specialising in two of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations: South Africa’s Greater Kruger and the captivating wilderness of Botswana.

At Sun Destinations, our carefully curated portfolio consists of 17 lodges, each offering an authentic bush experience and supreme safari adventures. Our commitment is to provide you with an authentic safari experience, characterised by intimate, owner-managed lodges that offer unparalleled encounters with Africa’s captivating wildlife. We are the driving force behind trade representation, marketing, and central reservations for these exceptional lodges. Our mission is to connect travellers with Africa’s hidden gems, ensuring unforgettable safari experiences while supporting conservation efforts and local communities.

Whether you’re a traveller seeking an extraordinary safari experience or a partner in the travel industry looking for representation, marketing, and central reservations services, Sun Destinations is your trusted partner.

Latest Big Cat Sightings in Botswana

From Kruger to Botswana, our guide and tracker chatter is buzzing with big cat sightings. Botswana and Kruger are two sought-after safari destinations in Southern Africa, one offers an easily accessible Big 5 bushveld experience and the other a remote land and water based safari experience. We’re lucky enough to represent five camps and lodges in popular safari destinations throughout the Botswana circuit. Today we’re shining the spotlight on three of our properties who’ve reported a plethora of big cat sightings. Below are of the highlights that have come through on our chatter. We’ve got leaping leopards in the Okavango Delta, the Savuti lions on an elephant kill, and burly beasts in the Kasane region.

Latest Big Cat Sightings in Botswana

Mboma Island Expeditions

The leaping leopard and the lion king

Mboma Island Expeditions is stylish mobile camp set in the heart of the Okavango Delta. With endless views of floodplains, waterways and wildlife; Mboma has cemented its reputation as being one of the finest mobile camps. Offering boating and mokoro activities, and game drives into the Moremi Game Reserve; Mboma knows how to provide abundant game viewing opportunities.

While the Mboma team was driving past the Mboma Island Boat Station office, a massive burly lion strutted past. He is one of the local legends and king of the area. Lion sightings aside, what impressed us most from last week’s sightings was this sequence of leopard images taken by owner Chase. Leopards enjoy elevated positions where they can scan their surroundings for imminent danger. They stash their kill in the tops of trees to avoid it being stolen by opportunistic predators and scavengers. This leaping leopard was either descending to replenish its thirst, or find a meal for the next few days.

Boteti Tented Camp

The well-documented Savuti lions on an elephant kill…a leopard on elephant carcass…a lion in a tree

Boteti Tented Camp is a quaint owner run and managed camp on the outskirts of Maun. Everything about this camp embodies the spirit of the community, and offers visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the authentic Maun way of life. The focus at Boteti is on day excursions and activities outside of the camp. In-camp, visitors can experience an introductory mokoro trip on the river in front of camp. Because there is one activity per day at Boteti, a 4-day stay means you’ll get to experience everything from the Moremi to Nxai Pan, the Okavango Delta and more.

While out on a day trip in the Moremi Game Reserve, owner Kavi said they spotted the burgeoning Xakanaxa Pride tucking into a buffalo kill. This is a pride that moves between Moremi and Khwai, and is 15 members strong. Because it’s a large pride, the pride is often seen in two groups.

One of the top sightings over the past few weeks was that of a lion climbing tree, which is always unusual. Lions do clamber up to lower level branches, but it’ quite rare to see. What makes this situation even rarer is the fact that there’s a leopard in the background. See if you can spot both cats in the tree!

Another noteworthy sighting was that of the Savuti lions, a notorious pride of savage lions who take down elephants. Seeing them in action was yet another notch in terms of Botswana big cat sightings. These lions are well-documented and are the ultimate survivors of the lion kingdom. They can be spotted while traversing through the Savuti on one of Boteti’s full day drives.

…A mega-pride of 30 lions in the Savuti region of Chobe National Park were forced to adapt and survive when the Savuti channel dried up and caused mayhem in one of the wildest regions of Africa. The lack of water and succulent abundant greens led to a rapid decline in ungulate population numbers, which drastically affected the supply of food for predators. Combined with the lack of water, was the double-blow of the harsh and unforgiving winters of the Savuti. This mega-pride of lions knew that they had to survive against all odds, so they targeted a species in abundance in Botswana : elephants. And so the elephant killing lions of the Savuti were born out of necessity for survival.

Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge

Lion takes down massive kudu bull and lioness spotted at waterhole in front of lodge

Set deep in the heart of the Kasane Forest Reserve lies Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge. The reserve is in an enviable location bordering the Zambezi National Park, yet is only a short drive away from Chobe National Park. There is a thriving waterhole in front of the lodge, which is visited regularly by herds of elephant and other general game.

However, there are predators that also visit the “drinking hole”. While guests were spending their downtime at the lodge, a lone lioness came down to drink from the waterhole. She didn’t seem to be in a hurry, so she hung around while guests snapped a few photos. Chobe Mopani Lodge’s concession is a relatively unexplored concession, which means there’s abundant opportunity to spot a variety of species from the comfort of the lodge.

While a rewarding sighting, the lion sighting at the lodge didn’t take centre stage in terms of recent sightings. The highlight of the week was spotting a lone lioness taking down a huge kudu bull in the Chobe National Park! Luckily, one of the guides was there to film it (see video below). When you stay at Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge, there are two activities included in your stay. One of these activities is a game drive into the national park, which is either a 3-hour morning drive or 6-hour full day drive.

The full day safaris include a picnic stop at a scenic location in the park. The other activity includes a boat cruise along the Chobe River where it’s common to spot bloats of hippo on the banks of the river and predatory Nile crocodiles in search of their next victim.

Chacma Bush Camp: Where Safari Dreams Come True

We can confirm that it’s not called “charming Chacma” without good reason. Chacma is a serene camp built around a small pan in the uncrowded and wildlife-rich Maseke Game Reserve, which forms part of the Greater Balule region. The landscape here is unique – one can expect undulating terrain strewn with boulders and flecks of mica in certain areas. There is a high density of elephants in the area, which regularly frequent the grounds in front of camp. Chacma’s huge drawcard is it’s on-site pan/waterhole that almost feels like it’s in camp! Elephants, kingfishers, plains game and the occasional curious big cat can be spotted at the pan. This is the camp to visit if you enjoy languid days sitting on poolside patios watching wildlife. With just three rooms, guests are always ensured a hands-on, personalised safari experience at Chacma Bush Camp.

The camp lifestyle at Chacma Bush Camp

There is a slow pace of life at Chacma Bush Camp, where downtime is spent swimming or relaxing on the sun loungers around the pool. During the midday heat, it’s not uncommon to see large animals like elephants and buffalo making their way down to the waterhole in front of camp. More active individuals choose to make their way up to the koppie behind the camp to enjoy the views. Evenings are spent relaxing in the boma area around the campfire, under the star studded night sky.

The safari accommodation offerings at Chacma Bush Camp

Chacma sleeps a maximum of 10 people in total, in a variety of room configurations.

Best for multigenerational families or friends travelling: The Klipspringer chalet is the largest chalet and comes complete with a refreshing outdoor shower. There is an ensuite toilet for privacy. In total, this room has capacity to sleep four adults or two adults and four children. The bed configuration comprises a King size bed/converter, sleeper couch and two stretcher beds. It works well for a close-knit family. Views are of the swimming pool and wilderness; and it’s the first room you see upon entering the property.

Best for families with small kids/teens: The Grysbok chalet is adjacent to Klipspringer. This chalet has two separate bedrooms, which is great for those wanting more privacy. It can work for friends travelling who are comfortable sleeping in bunk beds. The main bedroom is perfect for two adults, and the smaller bedroom has bunk beds ideal for two children. Bathroom wise, there is a large indoor shower and en suite bathroom. The view is of the wilderness, pool and main area.

Best for Romantics: The Steenbok chalet has a bedroom that overlooks a patio and portion of the pan/waterhole. There is an expansive bathroom leading off from the main bedroom. This chalet can sleep four people and has exquisite direct views of the waterhole. It adjoins the main area and is not a freestanding chalet like Klipspringer and Grysbok. Although it can sleep four, two of them will be on a sleeper couch bed.

The safari experience at Chacma Bush Camp

There is a set schedule for the safari experience at Chacma, but allowances are made for special occasions. The safari experience centres around two game drives per day, each one conducted during prime predator time. The evening game drive moves into the night, taking advantage of the opportunity to spot nocturnal predators as they rouse from their daylight slumber. Morning drives you will spot a plethora of birdlife and early-morning antics from plains game. The drive departs early enough for you to potentially spot crepuscular creatures. Morning drives stop for coffee and evening drives stop for sundowner drinks of your choice. In-camp activities include koppie walks to the backdrop of camp to enjoy vistas from above. Extra activities include a traditional braai, special occasion setups, sundowners experiences, bush walks and/or bush breakfasts.

Cool ways to experience Chacma Bush Camp

Combine it with a dedicated 3-day Kruger walking safari at Africa on Foot Wilderness Trails
Bring the family and book all the rooms – sleeps
Propose to a loved on in front of elephants on your private patio of the Steenbok Chalet
Bring your camera and walk up to the koppie behind camp – insane bird’s eye view of the Greater Kruger
Do some lengths in the pool while the elephants splash and make a noise at the adjacent pan/waterhole at camp. So surreal!

Chacma Bush Camp is a safari hideaway in the Maseke Balule Game Reserve, and is a place where safari dreams come true.

Letting Life Unfold at Magical Mboma Island Expeditions

There’s no denying that the Okavango-based magical Mboma Island Expeditions has stolen our hearts and captivated safari-goers from around the globe. There’s something about being located in the depths of the Delta’s remote waters that brings a certain enigmatic avenue to the safari experience: it’s unrivalled and soul stirring. The thing is, Mboma doesn’t just focus on the water based safari experience. It offers a fantastic holistic safari experience where everything from traditional mokoro experiences to boating and game drives forms part of your safari. Mboma Island Expeditions redefines the Okavango Delta camping experience, ensuring an air of luxury is added to the iconic Okavango Delta mobile safari that we’ve all come to know and love.

Magical Mboma has 5 light Meru-style canvas tents equipped with twin beds and en suite, open-air bathrooms. Everything about this mobile expedition camp is eco-friendly, from the sole use of solar-power, to bucket showers, and chemical eco-friendly toilets. Tents are fully furnished using the finest linen and kitted out in the creature comforts from home. Decor is in perfect harmony with the surrounds – neutral tones are interrupted by bold pops of colour that reflect the colourful spirit of Botswana. Because Moremi’s ecosystem is so diverse, the team at Mboma have ensured that all aspects of safaris are covered, from mokoro to boating and game drives.

5 ultra-cool, quick facts about Mboma Island Expeditions

Located in the depths of the Okavango Delta waters in the Moremi, overlooking the Okavango Delta floodplains

Completely remote, off-grid and eco-friendly destination

Elephants frequently walk through camp and you can hear the honking of hippos at night

Offers the best of both worlds: land based game viewing and water based game viewing

For a low impact camp, Mboma Island Expeditions is ultra-stylish and effortlessly cool

Now that you’re armed with smidgen of information about this magical Delta camp, we’re going to expand your knowledge further by unpacking the finer details.

How Life at Mboma Island Expeditions Unfolds

It’s easy to describe to features and facilities of camp, but we thought we’d approach this with a different angle to create all the “feels”. We asked our portfolio manager, Chelsea Lee, what life was like at camp and she gave us a rough account of how life unfolds at Mboma.

Mornings start with the “iconic” early wake-up call, where everyone heads to the campfire. While taking in the gentle hues of sunrise, you are rewarded with a morning cuppa along with the FAMOUS jaffles cooked over an open fire. For those who can’t stomach eating so early, the team will gladly pack your jaffle for you to eat en route. Because of the dangers of being in the Okavango Delta at dawn, your morning activity usually starts a bit later.

The morning tends to meander into a boating activity where you can spot big game on the reed-lined banks, African fish-eagles, and an array of wading birds. From here, you can enjoy game drives into the Moremi Game Reserve. Because the day is filled with an array of activities, you will stop in a scenic open area to enjoy lunch with a view. It’s so rugged and wild out there, with such high concentrations of birdlife and big game. After a day spent exploring the World Heritage Site, guests return to enjoy a unique outdoor bucket shower experience in the open air. The showers are amazingly powerful and offer an opportunity to experience the wild from a unique vantage point while being at one with nature.

Once showered and fresh, a delectable high tea is served—you can have your sponge cake while kicking back and relaxing in the lounge area under a small canvas canopy overlooking the calm waters of the Delta. During the free time, guests often wander around camp taking photos of the setting or simply relax with a book. As the day draws to a close, the group is whisked off to a palm-fringed beach like area for a sundowner session. Celebrating the sizzling colours of a Botswana sunset is a must. A spread of canapes and drinks of your choice is carefully laid out for your enjoyment. Then, it’s back to camp for an alfresco dinner under the stars and endless boma nights around a roaring campfire.

The above is subject to change according to weather, group dynamics and the needs of guests.

The Sleeping Set-up at Mboma Island Expeditions

This is “levelled-up” glamping, with a focus on a high level of comfort. Your Botswana safari accommodation for the duration of your safari is in 5 Meru-style tents, each with their own rustic small outdoor seating area (safari chairs and table). At no stage does the Mboma team compromise on style, offering hints of luxury when it comes to soft furnishings such as warm-hued rugs and scatter cushions. Kitted out with swag beds, storage space and ensuite bathrooms; Mboma’s tents set a new standard of mobile camping luxury.

Activities at Mboma Island Expeditions

Aside from the added value in-camp activities such as stargazing, sundowner set-ups, boma nights, and high tea; Mboma offers the best of both land and water based safari activities. Mokoro adventures take place in the narrow channels and boating activities on the open waters. Game drives are conducted in the world-renown Moremi Game Reserve, where it’s possible to spot a plethora of game. Because the area is diverse, your birding and wildlife bucket list should be extensive.

Your safari to magical Mboma awaits. Contact reservations@sundestinations.co.za to book an iconic Okavango Delta safari.

Wildlife Getaways at nThambo Tree Camp: Book Your Safari Adventure!

Approximately eight days ago, guests and guides at nThambo Tree Camp awoke to a sound of scuffling, rallying howls and high-pitched twittering. Drowning out the chorus of morning birdsong, these alarmingly sounds meant one thing: the African wild dogs were in town. Camp manager Ingrid sent through a remarkable image of a mega-pack of wild dogs circling the waterhole in camp, with one of the chalets in the background. This is just one of many mind-blowing “wildlife in camp” scenes experienced at nThambo Tree Camp.

Shortly after the wild dog extravaganza, a herd of elephants descended upon the swimming pool at camp, and spend a considerable amount time jostling at the poolside for their place in the sun. There’s was trumpeting, slurping and a whole lot of comical behaviour from our grey giants. If you think the close-up, in camp sightings are a major drawcard, you should see the accommodation.

Wildlife Getaways

Located in the heart of the Big 5 Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, this established lodge comprises unique treehouse style accommodation on stilts. Chalets are built from sturdy canvas and wood under a thatched roof, and are raised on wooden stilts. Each treehouse style chalet has its own private wooden balcony overlooking the open bushveld, with views that extend all the way across to Drakensberg mountains in the distance.

Going to sleep is also an adventure! When the nocturnal beasts come alive, you might awake from a deep slumber to hear lions contact calling or hyena scuffling beneath your stilted chalet. Not only does nThambo Tree Camp offer an unusual safari getaway for safari adventurers, but it also offers an opportunity for safari goers to experience wildlife getaways from the comfort of their own room.

Treehouse. Chalets. Adventure. Comfort at its finest. What more could you ask for from a Kruger safari experience?

A Lifetime of Safari Adventure

nThambo Tree Camp is the ultimate safari adventure, and offers a simple type of luxury amidst the rugged Klaserie bushveld. The convivial open-plan main areas provide a point to socialise with other guests and learn about the wild from guides. Meals are served around a communal dining table overlooking the small waterhole and the bushveld. This ambient dining area flows through the small lounge and bar area, laden with couches for added relaxation spaces.

Just a few metres from the bar is the small splash pool (sometimes we refer to this as the ellie’s waterbowl), which is surrounded by an intimate wooden decking area with ultra-comfy sun loungers. Because the nThambo team prioritises the safari experience and are known for their hospitality, they often use the pool deck for private romantic dining sessions. Of course, this needs to be arranged prior.

During the drier season, you might see elephants lumbering down to the camp swimming pool to replenish their thirst and engage in typical elephant-tomfoolery. Being creatures of habit, they usually come at the same time everyday: midday. We find that guests spot the grey giants when they’re settling down to eat their lunch.

During the day, guests find the pool area a great place to catch some rays and read a book. For those who aren’t used to the harsh rays of the African sun, there’s space for them in the shaded lounge area. For others, the private balconies in their rooms provide the perfect place to unwind. Each balcony has a small table and chairs, and is a fantastic perch for observing the birdlife.

After game drives, the rather enigmatic boma area calls. Guests are usually buzzing after drive and they’re filled with stories about sightings and usually have a ton of questions for guides. It’s customary to return to the bar and retire to the boma area for catch-up before getting ready for dinner.

The boma flows off from the main area and usually has those canvas chairs synonymous with the safari experience set up around a roaring campfire. After dinner is served, guests again tend to retire to the boma area, where they connect with others and stargaze the night away. There are times when guests often don’t ever leave the boma!

An experience at nThambo Tree Camp will provide you with a lifetime of safari adventure. It’s not hard to understand why guests return. nThambo leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of first-time visitors and seasoned safari goers. What are you waiting for? Come and stay with us. click here to look at live availability for nThambo Tree Camp.

Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside: 5 Cool Facts You Need to Know

Walk with us as we discover the fascinating world of Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside. In today’s blog, we’re going to take you on a journey through one of the more iconic lodges within our portfolio. Fringing the seasonal Sand River in the Sabie Game Reserve, Umkumbe’s claim to fame is its location in a premier reserve known for its leopard sightings. If it’s authenticity and a comfortable safari experience you’re after, Umkumbe should be your first stop. Without further ado, here is a rundown of the coolest facts about Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside that you might have missed on our Umkumbe fact sheet.

5 Cool Facts You Need to Know About Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside

We’re focusing on the lesser-known facts here. It goes without saying that Umkumbe has an exceptional boma area, a pool overlooking the Sand River, twice-daily game drives, optional bush walks, and a honesty bar complete with local beers.

It’s located in a sought-after reserve

The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) proclaimed the Sabie Game Reserve as being a major area of diversity when it comes to species of conservation concern. The reserves comprises several farms hugging the confluence of the seasonal Sand River and perennial Sabie River. Because of its variety of habitats, potential den sites and high prey density, the Sabie Game Reserve is a major drawcard for wildlife-seekers from around the world. Although the team at Umkumbe regularly enjoy lion, cheetah and elephant sightings; it’s the sheer abundance of leopard sightings that keeps guests returning time and time again. Most of these sightings—whether daily or weekly—are shared on their Facebook page.

It’s one of the most affordable accommodations in the wider area

The reserve is known for its high-end, luxury lodges offering only the privy few access to such a world of wonder. From famed celebrities to the more sophisticated safari-goer, the Sabie Reserve is renown for being a high-end destination. Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside offers an opportunity for more budget-conscious guests to experience the thrills of the Sabie Reserve. With a starting rate of just R4,675 per person per night, Umkumbe provides all the comforts in a premier reserve. For guests seeking something affordable and comfortable, but would like to ramp up their level of luxury, Umkumbe offers a choice of eight spacious Superior Suites each with their own private balcony.

There’s an on-site gym for fitness fanatics

If you’re a first time safari-goer, you should be aware that when you’re not spending time on game drives, you’re eating. Because lodges like Umkumbe are located in private reserves, you cannot walk around alone or simply go for a run. You’re out twice a day for 3-hours on a game viewer, enjoying plenty of sundowner and coffee stops. During your time-off, you’re either sitting down to a hearty meal or relaxing at the poolside. This is the safari lifestyle ere in the Lowveld (or..slowveld as it’s affectionately known).

Umkumbe understands that life slows down in the bushveld, but built a small gym for those who simply cannot remain sedentary for too long. The small on-site gym is furnished with treadmills, bikes and a few weight-bearing machines. Using the gym gives you plenty of freedom to tuck into a second helping.

Shoppers can delight in knowing that there’s a curio shop in the main area

It’s not only the gym fanatics that Umkumbe looks out for…Shopaholics, we’ve got you covered. There’s an adorable curio shop packed to rafters with African curios and plush toys. It’s always a great gesture to return home armed with a few souvenirs from a memorable time away. For children and family members you’ve left behind at home, we advise returning with a series of plush Big 5 toys. Our advice? Bring your credit card!

It’s leopard central

This might not be a new fact, but it’s certainly one that needs to be reiterated. Currently, the local legends of the area include the likes of Nweti, Ntsumi and Ndzanzeni. There are other leopards that wander over from neighbouring reserves in search of prey, females and den areas. Males tend to have a wide distribution, whereas females are drawn to areas with potential hideaways for cubs, access to water, and prey sources. Umkumbe’s concession has all of the above, making it an attractive destinations for these majestic rosette patterned cats.

Historically, Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside has enjoyed a plethora of sightings throughout the years. This is backed up by the various TripAdvisor reviews, one of which stated, ” We had incredible leopard sightings, seeing leopard on almost every game drive! They were able to drive off road so that we could have a better view of the animals.”

If you’d like to enjoy a wildlife experience in a premier reserve that’s budget-friendly, then Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside is a viable option. Click here to find out more and book your safari.

Nyala Safari Lodge: Experience the Best of Kruger Accommodation

Nyala Safari Lodge is an idyllic safari destination located in the Big 5 Balule Nature Reserve. Considered a high-end mid-range lodge, Nyala offers its visitors an opportunity to cocoon themselves in comfort while being surrounded by the unruly and untamed wilderness. The Mohlabetsi River snakes its way past the lodge, providing a refuge for wildlife. Nyala’s architects realised the importance of the river, and cleverly built the lodge in a prime position overlooking this wildlife drawcard.

One of the main highlights at Nyala is its elevated boma overlooking the river. The boma is synonymous with any African safari experience, and often takes pride of place at most camps and lodges. At Nyala, the boma area is taken seriously. It’s a cordoned off section complete with a roaring campfire overlooking a floodlit waterhole, and safari chairs set-up in a semi-circle. It’s the place where we connect with others, listen to the sounds of the bushveld, and observe the star-spangled clear night sky.

Now that we’ve set the scene for Nyala and waxed lyrical about the boma, it’s time to unpack the treasure trove of safari delights that the rest of the lodge has to offer.

Why Nyala is a Top Choice for Your Kruger Accommodation

Nyala Safari Lodge is ideal for a range of safari enthusiasts and nature lovers who crave time in the great outdoors while staying in lodges with an elevated sense of comfort. Nyala’s accommodation offerings straddle the divide between mid-range and luxury, ensuring guests get a taste of the feel-good safari lifestyle.

Nyala’s beautiful wooden deck area follows the course of the dry riverbed, and runs the full length of the lodge. Covered by a canopy of looming Boer-bean trees and ancient Jackalberry trees ensures the main section of the lodge enjoys respite from the heat during the lush summer months.

Here are our top 10 reasons why Nyala Safari Lodge should be on your Kruger bucket list:

5 iconic thatched chalets (rondawels) which are an archetype of Kruger accommodation
Location in the Balule Nature Reserve, a revered safari destination in the Greater Kruger
Abundance of convivial spaces like the viewing deck designed to enhance the safari experience
The floodlit waterhole that consistently brings in a world of wildlife wonder to Nyala’s doorstep
The boma (we can’t stop talking about it) overlooking the floodlit waterhole
Added value activities such as boma dinners and bush breakfasts
Two game drives a day, complete with drinks and canape stops
On-site swimming pool surrounded by decking and sun loungers
It’s an eco aware lodge, ensuring your carbon footprint is reduced when staying at Nyala (Grey water system, solar power, electric safari vehicles, and recycling system in place)
Small library area with an array of wildlife books
Lounge and bar area with flat screen TV

More About Nyala’s Safari Accommodation

The five well-appointed chalets are dotted among the riparian vegetation framing the riverbed, each furnished with sandy beige interiors and earthy tones designed to harmonise with the Balule Bushveld. Guests can expect Egyptian cotton linen, light wooden furniture, and ornate bathrooms, four of which have deep-set luxurious baths. While each room has a hint of uniqueness, all have indoor and outdoor showers and views of either the bushveld, pool or river. Chalets come in a range of configurations and are ideal for multigenerational families.

More About the Nyala Safari Experience

We’ve briefly touched on the safari experience at Nyala Safari Lodge, so now it’s time to elaborate. The Nyala team can tailor make your safari experience, but the standard safari experience includes:

Game drives with coffee stops and sundowners: Twice-daily game drives take place at first light and last night. Drives set off in the morning when the predators are most active, and halfway through drive there’s a coffee stop. Evening game drives set off late afternoon, and stop for sundowners when there’s a hint that golden hour is about to arrive. Sundowner stops include a drink of your choice, along with an array of delectable canapes.

Bush Breakfasts and Boma Dinners: Some of the evening meals are enjoyed in the elevated boma, above the floodlit waterhole. Guests can appreciate their surroundings while sitting around a crackling log fire under a starry night sky. A special bush breakfast may be arranged for the entire camp in the open bushveld. These are optional activities and only take place when it’s weather permitting.

More About the Wildlife in the Balule Nature Reserve

The Balule Nature Reserve shares unfenced borders with the national park and other reserves. Because of this, wildlife roams freely throughout which means guests are able to spot a diverse array of wildlife. Common sightings include leopard and lion, and occasional cheetah sightings. There are also sightings of local legend, Ezulwini the elephant, a huge Tusker that is considered goo luck to see in the wild.

In addition to the Big 5 and predators, there are a few of other local specials that include impala, kudu, zebra, giraffe, waterbuck, and a host of herbivores. Many of these species frequent the waterhole in front of camp, putting on quite a spectacle for onlookers. Smaller creatures in the reserve include mongoose, civet, warthog, and the ever comical honey badger.

Nyala Safari Lodge epitomises the essence of high quality safari experience, with a focus on enjoying the spoils of the Balule bushveld along with hints of luxury in each of the chalets. It’s a recommended choice for the ultimate in Kruger accommodation.

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