One thing you will notice when you visit us at Klaserie Drift for the first time is that it is impossible not to be impressed with the incredible natural beauty of the surrounding area. It is no surprise, therefore, that many of our guests like to extend their stay. Though the Kruger National Park is high on many people’s list, it’s not all about the Kruger! Why not spend a day (or...
Exploring the outstanding beauty of the Kruger National Park
Chances are, you’ve probably heard of the Kruger National Park. As the world’s largest and second oldest reserve, the Kruger National Park has become an iconic safari destination for local and international travellers alike.
Here at Klaserie Drift, we are proud to share unfenced boundaries with this area of outstanding natural beauty and cultural heritage. The reserve may be on the northeastern border of South Africa, but it plays a central part in the fabric of South African culture. For those of you joining us in the Klaserie in the future, you might want to consider adding a day or two in this iconic destination, just an hour’s drive from our nearest town and airport.
Home Of The Big Five
Open to the public for self-driven safaris, the heart of the Kruger’s appeal is the fact that it is home to Africa’s Big Five. In the long-gone days of famous big game hunters, the Big Five was the name given to a group of animals that are known to be the most dangerous to encounter on foot. They are leopard, rhino, elephant, lion and buffalo.
Fortunately, big game hunting is no longer allowed in the Kruger National Park region. Instead, concerted conservation practices and sustainable tourism are at the core of what makes the area so important. These conservation efforts have never been more vital as the Kruger National Park is home to the largest populations of critically endangered black and white rhinos on earth.
All Creatures Great And Small
The Big Five are not the only drawcard of the Kruger National Park. The plains are filled with varied species of antelope from kudu, waterbuck, and impala to the more elusive nyala, sable, and roan antelope. Herds of zebra graze in the open alongside wildebeest and giraffes. You will also find healthy populations of cheetah, hyena, and jackal, and even a rare sighting of the critically endangered wild dog.
If you are a true naturist, you will also appreciate the rich diversity of the Kruger’s birdlife. The lappet-faced vulture, martial eagle, and the ground hornbill are just a few of the majestic birds that are abundant in the region. We are sure there would be many who agree with us when we say one of the most iconic sounds of the bush is the call of the African Fish Eagle, which is indigenous to the area and a symbol of Africa’s waterways.
Life In The Slow Lane
If you ever need to escape the frenetic energy of city life, the Kruger offers an accessible experience that is the epitome of life in the slow lane. For foreign travellers looking to extend their stay in the area, consider hiring a car to drive along one of the many meandering rivers or watering holes to revitalise your soul as you connect with one of the rawest natural wonders on earth.
An Added Layer Of Luxury
While the Kruger National Park offers many overnight accommodation options, we are proud to host a more intimate and luxurious experience in the Greater Kruger. Klaserie Drift’s Misava Safari Camp nestles serenely along the banks of the Klaserie River and is an opulent haven that naturally blends into the African bushveld that surrounds us.
A small intimate camp, Misava has retained its historic heritage and marries modern luxury with age-old tradition. One of the many luxuries we offer is the opportunity to lounge in the cooling waters of the rimless pool overlooking the river- a chance to raise your glass to one of the many creatures that come down to the water in the late afternoon sun.
For an authentic, immersive experience in nature, the Greater Kruger is unparalleled in its offering. However, nature lovers looking to extend their stay in the area would be remiss to overlook the delights of the Kruger National Park! Find out more about the difference between the two here.
Words by Marian Geddes
Further Reading
At Klaserie Drift, we are proud to share the magnificent landscape and natural wonder of our reserve with photographic enthusiasts looking to capture Africa at her finest. Whether you are a complete newbie or a budding amateur wildlife photographer, a dedicated photographic safari will likely be on your bucket list. But what exactly does a photographic safari entail? Keep reading to find out…
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