Grow With Partners Riseingsouthernstar-africa | Website Templates Free CSS Templates | HpBk-TemplateWorld | KRUGER NATIONAL PARK | THE FIRST SETTLERS | THE NINE PROVINCES | THE BATTLE OF BLOOD RIVER | THE GREAT TREK | THE VOORTREKKER MONUMENT | HIGHLIGHT SOUTH AFRICA | WHITE GENOCIDE SOUTH AFRICA | OUR LINK PAGE | THE WHITE WOLFS | DIE NUWE SUID AFRIKA | RISEING-MOTOR-CLASSICS | OUR BLOGGER SOUTHERNSTAR AFRICA | SOUTH AFRICAN JOKES | SOUTH AFRICA DUSK NATURE | EUGENE TERRE BLANCHE | OUR PETITION SITE | | Klick mich! Partner Links Use this website to find other interesting web sites related to South Africa and the subject matter of this Homepage. Additional useful links to web sites of interest are listed in sections on pages where they are relevant. Should you choose one of these links you will be leaving the Southernstar - Africa Homepage. 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Copy and paste it, adding a note of your own, into your blog, a Web page, forums, a blog comment, your Facebook account, or anywhere that someone would find this page valuable. Guide to South Africa Tours and South Africa Travel and Tourism Our Homepages and Partner Links. South Africa Link and Partner Link Pages Diving Dive Sites: South Africa , World Valley Bushveld Safaris Professional Hunter and Safari Outfitter. An affordable and unforgettable hunting experience, which will remain with you for the rest of your life. We offer the hunter an opportunity to hunt a wide selection of game species. We cater for those hunters who want to rough it out in the African bush or those who need a relaxing getaway. CampsBayGlen - Camps Bay accommodation Campsbayglen is not only unique because of its incredible position on the edge of a glen and nature reserve. Also because of its natural river & waterfalls running through the garden fresh from the misty peaks of Table Mountain. Its also special because its simple, rustic and down to earth & affordable at our Camps Bay guest house in Cape Town. Stop Crime In South Africa Stop Farm Killing in South Africa Die Tuis Blad South African Boere Links Stay Alive in South Africa The South African Awb Leader Culture in South Africa The Flags of South Africa South African Foods South African Arts South African Guide The South African Nine Provinces South Africa Information South Africa's Independence is Tarnished by Apartheid Jan Christiaan Smuts brought the nation into World War II on the Allied side against Nationalist opposition, and South Africa became a charter member of the United Nations in 1945, but he refused to sign the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Apartheid—racial separation—dominated domestic politics as the Nationalists gained power and imposed greater restrictions on Bantus (black Africans), Asians, and Coloreds (in South Africa the term meant any nonwhite person). Black voters were removed from the voter rolls in 1936. Over the next half-century, the nonwhite population of South Africa was forced out of designated white areas. The Group Areas Acts of 1950 and 1986 forced about 1.5 million Africans to move from cities to rural townships, where they lived in abject poverty under repressive laws. South Africa declared itself a republic in 1961 and severed its ties with the Commonwealth, which strongly objected to the country's racist policies. The white supremacist National Party, which had first come to power in 1948, would continue its rule for the next three decades. In 1960, 70 black protesters were killed during a peaceful demonstration in Sharpesville. The African National Congress (ANC), the principal antiapartheid organization, was banned that year, and in 1964 its leader, Nelson Mandela, was sentenced to life imprisonment. Black protests against apartheid grew stronger and more violent. In 1976, an uprising in the black township of Soweto spread to other black townships and left 600 dead. Beginning in the 1960s, international opposition to apartheid intensified. The UN imposed sanctions, and many countries divested their South African holdings. Apartheid's grip on South Africa began to give way when F. W. de Klerk replaced P. W. Botha as president in 1989. De Klerk removed the ban on the ANC and released its leader, Nelson Mandela, after 27 years of imprisonment. The Inkatha Freedom Party, a black opposition group led by Mangosuthu Buthelezi, which was seen as collaborating with the apartheid system, frequently clashed with the ANC during this period. Apartheid is Abolished; Mandela Becomes President In 1991, a multiracial forum led by de Klerk and Mandela, the Convention for a Democratic South Africa (CODESA), began working on a new constitution. In 1993, an interim constitution was passed, which dismantled apartheid and provided for a multiracial democracy with majority rule. The peaceful transition of South Africa from one of the world's most repressive societies into a democracy is one of the 20th century's most remarkable success stories. Mandela and de Klerk were jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993.The 1994 election, the country's first multiracial one, resulted in a massive victory for Mandela and his ANC. The new government included six ministers from the National Party and three from the Inkatha Freedom Party. A new national constitution was approved and adopted in May 1996. In 1997 the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, chaired by Desmond Tutu, began hearings regarding human rights violations between 1960 and 1993. The commission promised amnesty to those who confessed their crimes under the apartheid system. In 1998, F. W. de Klerk, P.W. Botha, and leaders of the ANC appeared before the commission, and the nation continued to grapple with its enlightened but often painful and divisive process of national recovery. Mbeki Takes Over From Mandela Nelson Mandela, whose term as president cemented his reputation as one of the world's most farsighted and magnanimous statesmen, retired in 1999. On June 2, 1999, Thabo Mbeki, the pragmatic deputy president and leader of the ANC, was elected president in a landslide, having already assumed many of Mandela's governing responsibilities. In his first term, Mbeki wrestled with a slumping economy and a skyrocketing crime rate. South Africa, the country with the highest number of HIV-positive people in the world (6.5 million in 2005), has been hampered in fighting the epidemic by its president's highly controversial views. Mbeki has denied the link between HIV and AIDS and claimed that the West has exaggerated the epidemic to boost drug profits. The international community as well as most South African leaders, including Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu, have condemned Mbeki's stance. In 2006, 60 international scientists called the government's policies “disastrous and pseudo-scientific.” As expected, on April 15, 2004, the African National Congress won South Africa's general election in a landslide, taking about 70% of the vote, and Thabo Mbeki was sworn in for a second term. In December 2007, African National Committee delegates chose Jacob Zuma as their leader, ousting Mbeki, who had been in control of the party for the last ten years. Zuma was acquitted of rape charges in 2006. In late December, prosecutors reopened corruption charges against Zuma and ordered him to face trial for "various counts of racketeering, money laundering, corruption, and fraud." He was accused of accepting more than $440,000 in bribes in exchange for helping a friend, Schabir Shaik, secure $5 billion in an arms deal and other government contracts. Zuma's lawyers accused Mbeki of trying to sabotage Zuma's political career. A High Court judge dismissed the corruption charges against Zuma in September 2008, saying the government mishandled the prosecution. The judge also criticized President Mbeki for attempting to influence the prosecution of Zuma. Motlanthe Serves as "Interim" President; Opposition to the ANC Grows Under pressure from leaders the African National Congress (ANC), Mbeki announced he would step down just days after Zuma was cleared. While party leader's cited Mbeki's alleged interference in the corruption case against Zuma, Mbeki's resignation culminated several years of bitter infighting between Zuma and Mbeki, which led to discord in the ANC. On Sep. 25, Parliament elected Kgalema Motlanthe, a labor leader who was imprisoned during apartheid, as president. Zuma must be a member of Parliament before he can be elected president. Parliamentary elections are expected in early 2009. On his first day as president, Motlanthe acted to move beyond Mbeki's resistance to using modern and effective methods, such as antirretroviral medicines, to tackle its AIDS crisis by replacing South Africa's health minister, Manto Tshabalala-Msimang, who has suggested that garlic, lemon juice, and beetroot could cure AIDS, with Barbara Hogan. "The era of denialism is over," she said. More than 5.7 million South Africans are HIV-positive, the highest number of any country in the world. In November, about 6,400 dissident members of the ANC held a convention in Johannesburg and decided to form a new party that will challenge the leadership of the ANC. The delegates, many of whom supported former president Mbeki, expressed dissatisfaction with the leadership of the party, calling it corrupt, authoritarian, and "rotting." In December, the new party, the Congress of the People (COPE), selected former defense minister Mosiuoa Lekota as its president. Zuma Assumes the Presidency South African's Supreme Court reinstated corruption charges against Zuma in January 2009, saying that a lower court had "overstepped" its authority in dismissing the charges. However, the country's prosecuting authority dropped all charges against Zuma in April, about two weeks before national elections, citing “intolerable abuse” by investigators who were loyal to former president Mbeki. In April's general election, the ruling party, the African National Congress, won overwhelming support, taking 65.9% of the vote, just shy of a two-thirds majority, which is required to change the constitution. Parliament elected Zuma president in May. 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HICKING IN SOUTH AFRICA Camping and hiking have been popular outdoor activities in South Africa for many years. The country's diverse landscapes, from mountains to beaches, offer a range of opportunities for adventure seekers. Many national parks and nature reserves provide camping facilities, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the South African wilderness. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a first-time camper, South Africa has something to offer for everyone. The top 8 hikes in South Africa for stunning views Rhebok Hiking Trail Best summit hike 19-mile (31km) loop, 2 days, challenging ... Otter Trail Best multi-day hike 28 miles (45km), 5 days, moderate ... Blyderivierspoort Hiking Trail Best canyon hike ... Leopard’s Kloof Hiking Trail Best hike for families ... Olifantsbos Shipwreck Trail Best history hike ... Platteklip Gorge Trail Best urban hike ... Rim of Africa Best bucket list hike 403 miles (650km), 61 days, challenging ... Drupkelders Hiking Trail Tripadvisor (61) · Wanderpfad Queen St, Knysna · website routenplaner Kranshoek Hiking Trail Tripadvisor (35) · Wanderpfad Harkerville · Geschlossen · Öffnet morgen um 08:00 website routenplaner Shipwreck Hiking & Canoe Trails Tripadvisor (15) · Wanderpfad Sea Mist Drive, Port Alfred · website routenplaner Wathaba Hiking Trail - Day Tours Tripadvisor (10) · Wanderpfad R541, Machadodorp, Badplaas · Geschlossen · Öffnet morgen um 08:00 website routenplaner Magoebaskloof Hiking Trail Tripadvisor (27) · Wanderpfad R71, Tzaneen Swellendam Hiking Trail Swellendam Hiking Trail Tripadvisor (26) · Wanderpfad Marloth Nature Reserve, Swellendam · Wathaba Hiking Trail - Day Tours Wathaba Hiking Trail - Day Tours Tripadvisor (10) · Wanderpfad R541, Machadodorp, Badplaas · Geschlossen · Öffnet morgen um 08:00 Hennops Hiking Trail & Mtb Hennops Hiking Trail & Mtb Wanderpfad R511, Pretoria · CAMPING IN SOUTH AFRICA Reinheim River Chalets & Caravan Park Bloemfontein Tripadvisor (23) · Campingplatz Off N1, Masselpoort And Glen Turnoff, Bloemfontein · website Reyneke Park Tripadvisor (15) · Campingplatz 5 B Brendar St, Bloemfontein · 24 Stunden geöffnet website Camp Aquila Campingplatz R523, Soutpansberg website CAMPING SOUTH AFRICA Limpopo Province is located in the far northern part of South Africa and shares borders with … North West Province Campsites in North West South Africa. Best Camping in North West on SA … Campsites in KwaZulu Natal Camping Blog. Travel Tips; Contact Us. Resort owners; Home; Locations; … The Six Principles of Safety on the Trail - Hiking in South Africa You are responsible for yourself, so be prepared: With knowledge and gear Become self-reliant by learning about the terrain, conditions, local weather and your equipment before you start. By reading our guidebook, you already have taken important steps in preparing for your hiking adventure in South Africa. To leave your plans Tell someone where you are going, the trails you are hiking, when you’ll return and your emergency plans. Don't forget to write down your cell phone number for the person you leave the trail description with. To stay together When you start as a group, hike as a group, end as a group. Pace your hike to the slowest person. Try avoiding hiking by yourself. If in doubt, take a local guide with you. To turn back Weather can change quickly in the raining season. Fatigue and unexpected conditions can also affect your hike. Know your limitations and when to postpone your hike. Be especially cognizant of the danger of weather changes in the mountains. For emergencies Even if you are headed out for just an hour, an injury, severe weather or a wrong turn could become life-threatening. Don’t assume you will be rescued; know how to rescue yourself. To share To share the hiker code with others. Based on http://hikesafe.com We also recommend that you do not pick flowers or other plants, that you don't play loud music, that you do not disturb animals and that you do not litter while on the trail. You can improve the hiking experience of others by collecting some litter as well. Check out this great video which was produced as part of the Hike Safety Project. Although it was developed for hiking in the green mountains of New Hampshire in the US, the lessons learned from the hikers in the video are equally relevant to hikers in South Africa. 11 safety tips for your next South African hike The murder of Ukrainian hiker Ivan Ivanov, 43, on a popular hiking trail in Cape Town has prompted safety concerns for travellers heading for hikes within the country. IOL Travel spoke to Rim of Africa ’s Galeo Saintz on what safety tips travellers should take when going on their next hike. Have the right gear Depending on the type of environment, carry items that are appropriate for the terrain and destination. For example, hikers should invest in quality hiking boots than walking barefoot or using flip flops. Always carry a space blanket and extra water A space blanket is a low-weight, low-bulk blanket made of heat-reflective thin plastic sheeting to help with thermal control. The blanket comes in handy during emergencies. Hikers should always carry extra water in their bags. Always carry a charged cellphone and power bank in your hiking bag Having battery power on your phone is necessary, especially if you are embarking on longer hikes. More on this 3 off the beaten track paths for your next hiking holiday PICS: 7 essentials you need to pack for a hiking holiday Hike in groups Hiking is an enjoyable activity best enjoyed with company. Try to hike with a few people for safety and when in remote regions. It is advisable not to hike alone. Research the route Thanks to the power of online, searching for information about your hiking routes is a click of a button away. Things to consider are the dangers common to the trail, criminal incidents and types of reptiles and animals to watch out for. Carry food and energy snacks Some hikes take longer than expected, and the last thing you want is to be without some food when the hunger pangs strike. Warm clothing in the event of unexpected change in weather A jacket or two comes in handy- especially if the weather takes a turn for the worse. Alert people about the hike details Tell people where you are going and your expected time of arrival. Carry a small stove to make hot water This rule is for longer hikes. It comes in handy for emergencies like boiling water, or reheating meals. Choose hikes according to fitness level While it is tempting to choose a popular hiking trail for the “gram”, one should also take their fitness level into account. Do not attempt challenging hikes if you haven’t hiked before. Be vigilant Capturing every moment of the hike may seem ideal, but one has to make sure that they are vigilant at all times. Is Going on Safari Dangerous? Every safari has an element of danger; that's what makes it exciting. While many of the animals you'll encounter can be dangerous , the four that you really have to watch out for are—elephant, lion, buffalo , and hippo (add crocodiles to that list if you're near water). Most safari operators and guides at the various lodges and game reserves will stress basic precautions you need to take while game viewing. It will also help if you follow basic safari etiquette. If you are on safari in smaller, more remote game parks or encounter wildlife outside of game parks, here are some general rules to follow: If You Are in a Vehicle Always stay in your car. When driving in a game park remain in your vehicle. Only get out at designated "hides" and follow the rules that will be posted. There have been several fatalities that occurred because a hapless tourist has wandered out of their vehicle, camera in hand, to get a closer shot of an elephant or lion. It may sound silly, but it happens. Don't stand up or stick anything out of the car. Many safari vehicles are open-topped, and the wildlife is generally accustomed to these. But, if you stand up or wave something around on the side, some animals will get annoyed and consequently aggressive. You also have to remember that poaching is rife in many areas, and anything that looks like a gun can trigger a very nasty response from a wild animal. Drive slowly and carefully. During the wet season, the grass can get quite high, and it's not always possible to tell when a large buffalo or elephant will decide to step into the middle of the road. Remember, you have to stop if this happens. Buffalos and elephants are not in the least bit afraid or impressed by you or your car. Keep your windows up. If you are in a car with windows, it's better to keep them closed. You could end up being harassed by baboons as you drive through the more popular game parks. They are so habituated to cars they are not afraid to leap upon them and dent the roof. You don't want one inside your vehicle. If You Are on Foot If you are on a walking safari, you will no doubt be briefed on safety by your guides. But, there are times when you'll be walking in Africa and encounter wildlife without a guide. You could run into elephants even in the middle of town. Baboons are also a menace in many places and a lot larger than you think. Here are some basic tips if you encounter wildlife eye to eye: Try and stay downwind from the animal. If the animal catches your scent, it will know you are there, and you have no idea whether this will make it angry or afraid. If an animal you approach looks hostile, make sure you are not in the way of its escape route. Give the animal a clear birth and don't make any noise to aggravate the situation further. Walk away slowly. If you encounter an animal that doesn't like your presence move back slowly and quietly. More Tips Avoid swimming in rivers or lakes unless you are absolutely sure there are no hippos or crocodiles. Hippos are the most dangerous of all the big animals. They feed on the banks of the river, and if they sense danger will charge and attack whatever lies in their path in order to get back to the safety of the water. If you are camping out in the open, always make sure you have something covering you even if it's just a mosquito net. Hyenas like to check out camps for leftover food and are especially attracted to protruding objects, so keep your feet and nose inside that tent or net. Always wear boots and socks when walking around the bush. There are plenty of venomous snakes and scorpions around that could bite you. Don't walk around at night in areas where you know there is wildlife present that can be potentially harmful to you. That includes the beaches and around lakes where hippos graze between tents on a camping safari. Also, be careful in towns. Hyenas wander around freely in the capital city of Lilongwe in Malawi, so always be cautious. Wild Camping in South Africa: Why not to do it, and alternatives We know, you’re an off-the-beaten track kinda person. That’s why you’re here. You’re on of us, and we appreciate that. Sometimes, though, we need to approach adventure with a mindful attitude to keep safe. Read on to find out what we mean… Are you yearning for an adventure that goes beyond overcrowded holiday camp grounds? Maybe dreaming of an off-the-grid escapade that promises raw, untouched nature and a true sense of solitude? Then it’s likely you have heard of wild camping – the kind of camping that takes you far from the designated campsites into the uncharted territories of South Africa’s stunning landscapes. It sounds like a thrilling prospect, doesn’t it? The allure of discovering hidden corners and secluded vistas is irresistible. You might even think it’s the Camp Master dream. But before you barrel off into the countryside, hold on just a moment! While the idea of venturing into the wild may seem enticing, it comes with its own set of challenges, particularly in South Africa. It’s also – and we can’t stress this enough – pretty illegal and dangerous in many parts of our country. In this article, we’re covering why wild camping is risky, and the alternatives you can try that are much safer AND satisfy that urge for a truly backwoods adventure. You can have the best of both worlds, and be sure of your safety while doing it. The Risks of Wild Camping in South Africa Legal Implications Yes, we know, in theory nature is boundless and belongs to nobody.. Here’s the thing, though – most of the land in South Africa is privately owned or protected, which makes it a legal no-no to set up your camp without proper authorization. Trespassing on private property or protected reserves can land you in serious trouble, including fines that might dent your wallet and your plans. You might also disturb delicate protected areas or cause issues in biomes that you didn’t know were delicate. How would you like it if someone came to camp in YOUR front garden unannounced and declared it public property? Safety Concerns Let’s talk about safety. Picture this: you’re in the middle of nowhere, setting up your tent under the vast African sky, when suddenly you hear rustling in the bushes. While the romantic in you might hope it’s just a harmless critter passing by, South Africa’s wilderness is known for its diverse and, at times, dangerous wildlife. Being far from designated camping areas also means being far from immediate help in case of emergencies. If nobody knows where you are, in the event of an accident, nobody will even know something has gone wrong. Not only are you risking your own life, but you’re also wasting the resources and time of those who may be forced to go far out of their way to rescue you because you didn’t listen to your favourite Camp Master team members… Environmental Impact Let’s not forget the impact of pitching a camp where you’re not supposed to on the environment. Unfortunately, the thrill of exploring untamed regions often comes with unintentional consequences. Trampling on delicate flora, leaving behind non-biodegradable waste, and disturbing the natural ecosystem can result in irreversible damage to the very landscapes we set out to admire. You can’t claim to be a nature lover if your actions are risking a habitat’s well-being for a night or two of fun in the bush. The Appeal of Designated Camping Sites So, does that mean you should abandon your remote and free-spirited outdoor dreams altogether? Absolutely not! You’re in the perfect location to have a wild camping adjacent experience that’s safe for you and the environment. South Africa is replete with designated camping sites that offer the perfect balance between adventure and sustainability. These sites ensure that you can still experience the untamed beauty of nature while having access to basic amenities and emergency services, and because there are so many of these sites around our country, you will always be able to find a spot that’s remote and uncrowded if people are what you want to get away from. Plus, they promote responsible tourism, emphasizing the importance of preserving the environment and respecting local communities. And toilets. Don’t forget the toilets. To summarise, here’s why you should be picking a camping spot: Safety: Designated camping sites often have safety measures in place, including game ranges, security patrols, and emergency services in case of any unforeseen incidents. Facilities: These sites typically offer facilities such as toilets, clean water, fire pits, picnic tables, and sometimes even showers, making the camping experience more convenient and comfortable. Legal Compliance: Camping in designated areas ensures that you are adhering to local regulations and laws, minimising the risk of fines or legal complications that may arise from unauthorized wild camping. Environmental Protection: Designated sites are usually chosen and maintained to minimise the impact on the surrounding environment, ensuring that the natural beauty of the area remains preserved for others to enjoy. Let the experts choose where you step. Community Support: By utilizing designated camping sites, you contribute to the local economy and support the maintenance of recreational areas, which benefits the surrounding communities and encourages sustainable tourism practices. Keep it local and lekker! Top Off-the-Grid Wild Camping Alternatives in South Africa Now, let’s talk about some of the most breathtaking, off-the-grid camping spots in South Africa that will satiate your thirst for adventure without compromising on safety. These are as close to wild camping as you can get without any of the disadvantages, and you’ll still feel like you’re answering the call of the wild with a resounding “howzit!” Richtersveld Transfrontier Park (Northern Cape) Immerse yourself in the grandeur of a remote desert landscape where the silence is broken only by the whispers of the wind. The Richtersveld Transfrontier Park in the Northern Cape offers designated camping spots that give you the feeling of being marooned in a tranquil oasis of sky and sand. Make sure to equip yourself with Campmaster’s rugged range of canvas tents and coolers to ensure your comfort and safety in this rustic terrain. Tankwa Karoo National Park (Western Cape) For those seeking an otherworldly experience, the Tankwa Karoo National Park in the Western Cape presents an arid wonderland, where the stark beauty of the landscape is matched only by the brilliance of the starry night sky. With its secluded campsites equipped with basic amenities, it provides the perfect blend of adventure and convenience. Don’t forget to carry Campmaster lanterns and portable grills to enhance your camping experience under the cosmic symphony. The Tankwa is protected and pristine, so we highlighly recommend practising the “Leave No Trace” principles on your trip. Find out more about sustainable camping in our blog. Baviaanskloof Wilderness Area (Eastern Cape) If you’re in search of rugged terrains and spectacular biodiversity, look no further than the Baviaanskloof Wilderness Area in the Eastern Cape. Seriously, the Eastern Cape is incredibly underrated. Its serene landscapes and diverse flora and fauna promise an immersive camping experience that might make you feel like you’re on another planet. The area offers several campsites catering to varying levels of comfort, ensuring that you can find the perfect spot to pitch your tent and soak in the raw beauty of nature. Be sure to bring along Camp Master all-terrain sleeping mats or If you’d like to be WILDY comfy, one of these nifty air beds: Queen Airbed Combo Single Airbed Double Airbed and Pump Tips for Responsible Camping Before you embark on your next outdoor expedition – in a designated campsite, of course – here are some crucial tips to ensure a responsible and safe camping experience: In this case, asking for forgiveness ISN’T better than asking for permission. Always seek permission before setting foot on private or protected lands. Respect the rules and regulations set forth by the authorities and landowners. Adhere to the “Leave No Trace” principles, which means that you should leave the campsite just as you found it. Dispose of waste properly and minimize your environmental impact. We know a thing or two about sustainable camping here at Camp Master… Be wildlife-aware. Store your food securely, maintain a safe distance from wild animals, and educate yourself about the potential risks associated with the local fauna. There’s nothing wuite as statling ans an unexpected critter, for you AND the critter. Go wild – SAFELY – with Camp Master As you gear up for your next outdoor escapade, remember that responsible and safe camping doesn’t mean sacrificing the thrill of adventure. If anything, addin an element of reassured safety makes it even MORE fun. South Africa’s breathtaking landscapes are waiting to be explored, and with the right preparation and mindset, you can embark on a journey that is both exhilarating and respectful to your environment and the dedicated people who take care of it. So, pack your bags, set your compass, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in the heart of South Africa’s natural wonders. As you head don’t forget to equip yourself with durable, high-quality, and affordable camping gear from Camp Master. You can kit up at a Game, Builders’ Warehouse or Makro near you. Camping Safety Advice to Ignore at your Peril Camping in South Africa is a great way to de-stress and reconnect with nature, but it can be dangerous if you are unprepared and things go wrong. The key to a successful trip is awareness and planning. Camping is a safe activity that is done by millions of people every year who want to escape city life and experience the great outdoors. However life out in the bush can be dangerous and to have a successful camping trip you need to have some basic bush and camping knowledge. One of the best things that you can do is be prepared. Camping safety starts long before you leave. You will need to take many things with you to make your trip comfortable. One of the most important things that you need is to have an understanding of the possible dangers in the area where you will be camping. This includes knowing what dangerous animals, snakes and scorpions you may encounter - learn to identify them and how to avoid them. Remember, most animals are more scared of humans than you are of them and will only attack if they feel threatened or trapped. Do not approach wild animals too closely or attempt to feed them as this is when most incidents happen. Before you leave Take with you a well equipped first aid kit and make sure that it contains the basic as well as anti-histamines, antibiotics, nausea medicine and Imodium. You need to make sure that any medicines in your kit have not passed their expiration date. Make sure that there are at least two family members who know how to use the kit and have knowledge of first aid. Learn to recognise the symptoms of serious injuries so that you know when to get help. Tell some friends or family where you are planning on travelling and when you are due back. When you arrive at the park or reserve you should register with the park administration. You will probably have to pre-book camping spots and check in. The reason for this is if there is an emergency and you do not return someone will come looking for you. When camping, prepare for the unexpected. Make sure that you have a detailed map or GPS maps of the area you will camp in. This will help you find your way if you get lost. Take along a whistle, pocket knife and matches or waterproof fire starter. Take some extra food and water along in case you get stuck for any reason. Check the weather before you leave for your entire trip and pack appropriately. Be sure to pack for both hot and cold weather, but do not over pack - you don't want to be lugging to much stuff along. Re-wear clothing during the trip so you do not have to carry to much luggage. If you are out hiking, take a jacket with you. Keep an eye on the weather as it can change quickly. Once you arrive Leave early on the first day of your trip so that you arrive at your destination with plenty of daylight left to set up your camp. If you have not pre-booked a camping spot and are free to camp where you like choose your site carefully. Make sure there are no stumps or sharp sticks, poisonous plants, ants and other insects close by. Trees - more dangerous than you think It is advisable that you do not camp under a tree. If you want to camp under a tree for shade make sure that the tree has no dead limbs that are likely to fall. Check to make sure that the tree has not been hollowed out by termites, as in the middle of the night you do not want a huge tree branch falling down on top of you. Check that your chosen camping spot is not in the middle of a well used game trail as you do not want the local wildlife blundering over your tent in the middle of the night. Find your water source. Many campsites in South Africa have clean and drinkable water on tap. If you do end up drinking from streams or rivers, make sure that the water is fast flowing. You can purify it with purification tablets with you. There are some camping destinations where you will have to take your own water with you. A camp fire not a bush fire Build your fire in a designated fire pit or well away from your tent. The last thing you want is the wind to pick up sparks and blow them onto your highly flammable tent. Build your fire well away from any dry grass, twigs and nearby bushes - the last thing you want to start is an out of control wild fire. Follow all the park and reserve regulations regarding fires. Last thing at night make sure that the fire is completely out by pouring water over the embers. Never leave a fire unattended. Animal magnetism To avoid attracting animals such as Baboons and Honey Badgers, make sure that you do not leave food lying around. Any rubbish should be placed in bins provided or if there are no bins in the area where you are camping, you should pack the rubbish and take it away with you. 5 of the Best Camping Spots in South Africa Choose a camping holiday and reboot your connection with nature. Find inspiration and peace in surroundings that 'speak' to you. Camping spo...more Nature Reserves Travel Guide Before planning your holiday read these useful Travel Tips & Advice for going on a getaway to South African Nature Reserves....more BACK TO TOP

South african Culture South African flag Songs Oranje-blanje-blou Oranje-blanje-blou (Afrikaans for Orange, white and blue) refers, of course, to the old South African flag used between 1928 and 1994. This song was popular especially among Afrikaners when this flag flew over South Africa. The tune is by Henry Hugh Pierson (they don't say whether it was borrowed from this composer), and the lyrics are by an Afrikaans poet who wrote under the name Eitemal. The attribution for the text reads: "EITEMAL na: ,,O.D., hoch in Ehren''. (There is a commonly used style of quotation marks, primarily German but often used in Afrikaans, that opens a quote with commas rather than the more familiar "inverted commas"). The title simply gives the colours of the 1928 South African flag, or, more strictly, the Dutch Princenvlag: orange, white and blue. (I am not certain of the derivation of "blanje", since it is not used in ordinary spoken Afrikaans, but I would guess that it is a form of the French "blanc", white). The text reads: Die Hoogland is ons woning, die land van son en veld, waar woeste vryheidswinde waai oor graf van meenge held. Die ruimtes het ons siel gevoed, ons kan g'n slawe wees, want vryer as die arendsvlug, die vlugte van ons gees. Chorus: Dis die tyd, (repeated) dis die dag, (repeated) om te handhaaf en te bou. Hoog die hart, (repeated) hoog die vlag, (repeated) hoog Oranje-blanje-blou! Ons gaan saam die donker toekoms in om as een te sneuwel of oorwin, met ons oog gerig op jou, ons Oranje-blanje-blou! (Note: In the sixth line [hoog Oranje-blanje-blou], there is an echo of "blou, blanje-blou!") Die ruwe berge-reekse staan hoog teen awendlug, soos gryse ewighede daar versteen, verstyf in vlug. En stewig soos die grou graniet ons Boeretrots en -trou, die fondament warop ond hier 'n nuwe nasie bou. (Chorus) Die God van onse vaders het ons hierheen gelei ons dien sy grootse skeppings-plan, solank ons Boere bly. Ons buig ons hoof voor Hom alleen; en as Hy ons verhoor omgord ons bly die lendene: Die toekoms wink daar voor. Translation (off the cuff - any improvements welcome). Note: the reference to Hoogland (translated here as highlands) is probably poetic licence for Highveld (Afrikaans Hoe"veld), a region which includes large parts of both the former Transvaal Province (Zuid- Afrikaansche Republiek) and the current Free State Province (the old Oranje Vrij Staat). The highlands are our home, the land of sun and veld, where wild winds of freedom blow over [the] grave of many a hero. The open spaces have fed our souls, we cannot be slaves [literaaly "we can be no slaves"] as freer than the eagle's flight, the flights of our spirit. Chorus: It's the time, it's the day, to maintain and to build. High the heart, high the flag, high Orange-white-blue! We go together into the dark future together to die or win, with our eye fixed on you, our Orange-white-blue! (Sneuwel means literally to die in warfare; oorwin means to win in battle.) The rugged mountain ranges stand high against the evening light like petrified grey eternities there, stiffened in flight. And firmly like the grey granite our Boer pride and loyalty, the foundation upon which we here are building a new nation. (The word awendlug [evening air] seems to be an error; it seems more logical to say awendlig [evening light]; awend is a poetic form [harking back to Dutch] for the more usual Afrikaans "aand"). The God of our fathers led us here, we serve his mighty creation plan, as long as we Boers remain. Webend our heads before Him alone; and if He hears us we gird our loins joyfully: The future waves us on. (Source: The FAK [Federasie van Afrikaanse Kultuurvereninge] Sangbunde). Mike Oettle, 06 Feb 2004. Ons Vlag Nou waai ons Vlag en wapper fier! Sy kleure is ons vreugde; hul skoonheid spoor ons harte aan tot ware, ed'le deugde. Oranje dui op heldemoed wat krag vind by die Here; die Blanje eis 'n rein gemoed; die Blou verg trou en ere. Ons Vlag bly steeds ons eenheidsband. Al kom ook sware tye; dis God wat waak oor Volk en Land, Suid-Afrika ons eie. Translation: Now our flag waves and flaps bravely! Its colours are our joy; their beauty encourages our hearts to true, noble virtues. Orange stands for heroic courage which draws strength from the Lord; the White demands a pure attitude; the Blue wants loyalty and honour. Our flag remains our bond of unity. Even if times get hard; it's God who watches over Nation and Land, South Africa our own. The forms "sware" (where "swaar" would be the usual way of speaking), "ed'le" (for "edele") and "ere" (for "eer") are poetic forms, adaptations to the scansion. The same goes for the word "meen'ge" in Oranje-blanje-blou, which would normally be "menige". (Source: The FAK [ Federasie van Afrikaanse Kultuurvereninge] Sangbunde). Mike Oettle, 10 Feb 2004 De Vlaamse Leeuw This song is an odd one to find in the FAK Sangbundel, since its title translates as "The Flemish Lion" and the language is Dutch, definitely not Afrikaans. Clearly, it was included because, centuries after the Eighty Years War, the symbol of Flanders still finds a resonance with Afrikaner descendants of those Protestant Flemings who fled Spanish rule and went to live in the Seven Provinces. The words are credited to T H van Peene, and the tune to K Mirij, arrangement by Dirkie de Villiers (son of M L de Villiers, the composer of the music to Die Stem van Suid-Afrika, the former South African national anthem). There are two verses and a refrain: Zij zullen hem niet temmen, de fiere Vlaamse Leeuw, al dreigen zij zijn vrijheid met kluisters en geschreeuw. Zij zullen hem niet temmen, zolang e'e'n Vlaming leeft, zolang de Leeuw kan klauwen, zolang hij tanden heeft. Refrain: Zij zullen him niet temmen zolang e'e'n Vlaming leeft, zolang de Leeuw kan klauwen, zolang hij tanden heeft, zolang de Leeuw kan klauwen, zolang hij tanden heeft. De tijd verslindt de steden, geen tronen blijven staan, de legerbenden sneven, een volk zal niet vergaan. De vijand trekt te velde, omringd van doodsgevaar. Wij lachen met zijn woede, die Vlaamse Leeuw is daar. Here's an attempt at a translation: They won't tame him, the proud Flemish Lion, even if they threaten his freedom with chains and shouting. They will not be able to tame him as long as even one Fleming lives, as long as the Lion can claw, as long as he has teeth. Refrain: They will not tame him, the proud Flemish Lion, as long as one Fleming lives, as long as the Lion has claws, as long as he has teeth, as long as the Lion has claws, as long as he has teeth. Time eats up the cities, no thrones last forever, the armed companies die in battle, a people will not disappear. The enemy goes out to war, surrounded by deadly danger. We laugh at his anger, the Flemish Lion is there. I have written the word een as e'e'n - each 'e' carries an acute accent. This emphasises the word, giving the meaning "even if only one Fleming is left alive". The word verslindt means to destroy by eating - this verb is used literally only of animals (never humans) and, poetically, of things that destroy in like manner. I am not certain that I have the right word for "kluisters" - I don't have a dictionary at hand as I write this - and would be grateful if some Dutch correspondent would check that. "Geschreeuw" can mean either shouting or screaming, but shouting seems more appropriate. In the second verse, "de legerbenden sneven" - "leger" means army, but "armed companies" seems to fit better with "benden" or bands. "Sneven" (in Afrikaans "sneuwel") means to die in war or in battle (rather than dying of disease, another common way in which soldiers have traditionally lost their lives). I have rendered "een volk" as "a people", but "a nation" could also be appropriate. "Trekt te velde" means literally to go out into the fields, but its application to an enemy means that it is out on campaign (after all, campaign comes from a word meaning "fields", also). Mike Oettle, 02 Mar 2004 Transvaalse Volkslied The Transvaalse Volkslied, although the official anthem of the Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek and when the territory was officially called Transvaal (1879-81and 1901 onwards), it was not well thought of by the authorities. The words and music of the Transvaalse Volkslied are by Catharina F van Rees, and it is dated 1875 - surprisingly it dates to the period before the annexation of 1879, since the emotions seem to blend well with those of the victorious rebels of 1881. Possibly this date accounts for the song's non-avoidance of the word Transvaal, which was the name of the state so strongly rejected in the uprising of 1880-81. The arrangement is by G G Cillie'. (There is an acute accent on the final letter in this surname; it is pronounced "Sil-yee". The surname is French, although its spelling is no longer authentically French; other members of this family spell it as Cilliers or Celliers.) The language is Dutch. (As mentioned previously, Afrikaans was the spoken language of all the 19th-century Boer republics, but was hardly ever written, and was not generally well thought of by those who had been educated in either English or Dutch.) Kent gij dat volk vol heldenmoed en toch zo lang geknecht? Het heeft geofferd goed en bloed voor vryheid en voor recht. Komt burgers! laat de vlaggen wapp'ren, ons lijden is voorbij; roemt in die zege onzer dapp'ren: Dat vrije volk zijn wij! Dat vrije volk, dat vrije volk, dat vrije, vrije volk zijn wij! Kent gij dat land, zo schaars bezocht en toch zo heerlik schoon; waar de natuur haar wond'ren wrocht, en kwistig stelt ten toon? Transvalers! laat ons feestlied schallen! Daar waar ons volk hield stand, waar onze vreugdeschoten knallen, daar is ons vaderland! Dat heerlik land, dat heerlik land, dat is, dat is ons vaderland! Kent gij die Staat, nog maar een kind in's werelds Statenrij, maar tog door 't machtig Brits bewind weleer verklaard voor vrij? Transvalers! edel was uw streven, en pijnlik onze smaad, maar God die uitkomst heeft gegeven, zij lof voor d'eigen Staat! Looft onze God! Looft onze God! Looft onze God voor land en Staat! Now for a translation (again lease excuse and correct! any errors): Do you know the people full of heroic courage and yet so long servants? It has offered possessions and blood for freedom and for justice. Come, citizens, let the flags wave, our suffering is past; be joyous in the victory of our brave ones; We are the free people! The free people, the free people, the free, free people are we! Do you know the land, so seldom visited, and yet so wonderfully beautiful; where nature has wrought her wonders, and profligately puts them on display? Transvalers! let our festival song resound! There were our people stood fast, where our gunshots of joy resound, there is our fatherland, That wonderful land, that wonderful land, that is, that is our fatherland! Do you know the State, yet still a child among the States of the world, but nontheless by the mighty British power truly declared as free? Transvalers! Noble was your struggle, and painful our suffering, but God has given the outcome, and praise for our own State! Praise our God! Praise our God! Praise our God! Praise our God for land and State! In the first verse, "wapp'ren" and "dapp'ren" are poetic forms that omit the middle vowel. The same goes for "wond'ren" in the second verse. "Geknecht" means "reduced to the state of servants" (not quite slaves). In the third verse the word Statenrij has no exact equivalent in English, although English occasionally uses the same construction of ending a word with -ry to form a noun from a shorter one, as in "heraldry". "Statenrij" is perhaps best rendered as "the multitude of States" or "the variety of States" (independent states, that is). "Door't" is a typically Dutch construction which has disappeared from Afrikaans, except in one or two idioms, where the definite object "het" is reduced to its final letter and (sometimes) tagged onto the previous word. (North country English has a comparable usage, although this is a shortening of "the".) Mike Oettle, 04 Mar 2004 Vryheidslied On flipping through the FAK book I came across a song. The title is Vryheidslied. The lyrics are by Jan F E Celliers, and the music by Emiel Hullebroeck. The words are: Vrome vad're, fier en groot Deur vervolging, ramp en nood, was hul leuse, tot die dood: Vryheid! Vryheid! Erf'nis van hul moed en trou is die grond waar ons op bou. Juigend tot die hemel-blou: Vryheid! Vryheid! Ere wie die dood mag lei om te rus aan hulle sy, met die sterwenswoord te skei: Vryheid! Vryheid! Op dan, broers, en druk hul spoor, voorwaarts, broers, die vaandel voor, laat die veld ons krygsroep hoor: Vryheid! Vryheid! Woes geweld mag hoogty hou, kettings mag ons lede knou, maar die leuse bly ons trou: Vryheid! Vryheid! Jukke mag vir slawe wees, manneharte ken geen vrees, duld geen boei vir lyf of gees: Vryheid! Vryheid! Now the English translation: Pious fathers (ancestors), proud and brave Through persecution, disaster and need their motto, to the death, was: Freedom! Freedom! The heritage of their courage and faith is the land we build on. Joyful to the blue heavens: Freedom! Freedom! Honours to those led by death to rest at its side, uttering their final word: Freedom! Freedom! Up, then, brothers, and follow their tracks, forwards, brothers, the banner in front, may the veld hear our battle cry: Freedom! Freedom! Brutal force might with the day, chains may chafe our limbs, but to this motto we are faithful: Freedom! Freedom! Yokes may be for slaves, the hearts of men know no fear, tolerating no shackles for body or soul: Freedom! Freedom! Notes: The word "vader" translates as "father", and its usual plural is "vaders" ("fathers"). The plural form "vadere" (here poetically shortened to "vad're") means "ancestors". The word "lede" means "members", but is here an abbreviation of "ledemate" ("body parts" or "limbs"). "Ledemate" is used also of members of a church community, a reference to St Paul's description of the Church as being the Body of Christ, made up of people with different functions. The ordinary translation of "vaandel" is "ensign" (a naval ensign is a vlootvaandel), but in the poetic context, "banner" seems more appropriate. Mike Oettle, 14 April 2004 Vaarwel aan die Vierkleur Here are the lyrics of Vaarwel aan die Vierkleur, as they appear in the FAK-Sangbundel (Fourth Edition 1979, sixth printing of 2002) published by Protea Boekhuis for the Federasie van Afrikaanse Kultuurvereniginge (FAK). I don't know if I've managed to turn out an acceptable rendition in English. The original is rather tearful I'm afraid. The word 'Vierkleur' I kept, 'Fourhue' rather sounds like a steed ridden by a LOTR character. To pronounce 'Vierkleur', say "veerckler" with -er as in 'her'. One strong image gets lost in translation, the word 'vlag' is feminine you see. Here goes: No longer may the Vierkleur wave, in tears we gave it up, it has been buried with our braves sunk into an honourable grave it has been buried with our braves sunk into an honourable grave. Happier those who fell when still the Flag was borne, than us who had to see and mourn it dragged into the dust than us who had to see and mourn it dragged into the dust. No happy morning for it there, we part from it forever now resting in the Nation's heart and dedicated to the Past now resting in the Nation's heart and dedicated to the Past. Blessed to those who bore it boldly to brave the prideful foe whose feeble arms to it did cling as they went to their death whose feeble arms to it did cling as they went to their death. Let Future Ages never forget them as long as men endure till even Heaven is outworn and Earth reels before its fall, till even Heaven is outworn and Earth reels before its fall. Jan Mertens, 30 Apr 2004 Die Vlaglied / The Song of the Flag Another flag song, this time abut the former South African flag called "Die Vlaglied" / "The Song of the Flag" which was composed by CJ Langenhoven, the composer of the former South African National Anthem "Die Stem van Suid-Afrika" / "The Call of South Africa". This song was sung by a Children's Choir at the dedication ceremony marking the establishment of the Republic of South Africa held at the Cape Show Grounds in Cape Town on 31 May 1961. The English and Afrikaans versions are as follows: "The Song of the Flag" Cradled in beauty forever shall fly In the gold of her sunshine the blue of her sky, South Africa's pledge of her freedom and pride In their home by sacrifice glorified. By righteousness armed, we'll defend in our might The sign and the seal of our freedom and right, The emblem and loyalty, service and love; To our own selves true and to God above, Our faith shall keep what our hearts enthrone - The flag of the land that is all our own. "Die Vlaglied" Nooit hoef jou kinders wat trou is te vra: "Wat beteken jou vlag dan, Suid-Afrika?" On sweet hy's die seel van ons vryheid en reg Vir naaste en vreemde, vir oorman en kneg; Die pand van ons erf'nis, geslag op geslag, Om te hou vir ons kinders se kinder swat wag; Ons nasie se grondbrief van eiendomsland, Uitgegee op gesag van die Hoogste se hand. Oor ons hoof sal ons hys, in ons hart sal ons dra, Die vlag van ons eie Suid-Afrika. Bruce Berry, 31 Aug 2007 DIE VLAGLIED Die betekenis van 'n eie nasionale vlag word nêrens mooier en treffender besing as in die woorde van C.J. Langenhoven se Vlaglied nie. Die Vlaglied is slegs die laaste strofe van die gedig “Ons eie vlag”. Dit is deur F.J. Joubert getoonset. Nooit hoef jou kinders wat trou is te vra: Wat beteken jou vlag dan, Suid-Afrika? Ons weet hy's die seël van ons vryheid en reg Vir naaste en vreemde,vir oorman en kneg; Die pand van ons erf'nis,geslag op geslag, Om te hou vir ons kinders se kinders wat wag; Ons nasie se grondbrief van eiendomsland, Uitgegee op gesag van die Hoogste se hand. Oor ons hoof sal ons hys, in ons hart sal ons dra, Die vlag van ons eie Suid-Afrika. Which I translate as follows: THE FLAG SONG Nowhere the meaning of an own national flag is expressed more beautifully and fittingly than in the words of C.J. Langenhoven's Flag Song. This is the last stanza of the poem “Ons eie vlag” (Our own flag). It was set to music by F.J. Joubert. Never your children so faithful need ask: What does you flag mean then, South Africa? We know it's the seal of our freedom and rights For neighbour and stranger, for servant and boss; The pledge of our heritage, from parent to child To keep for our children's children to be The writ of our nation of the right to the land. That was written on authority of the Highest own hand We'll hoist ov'r our heads, and we'll hold in our heart The flag of our dearest South Africa Peter Hans van den Muijzenberg, 31 Aug 2007 The Fallen Flag While this is not a song about a flag (it has no tune that I am aware of), it is very much a poem about the vierkleur of the Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek, and to my mind belongs with the South African flag songs which have already been posted to FOTW. This poem was published in England in 1902 as part of a collection entitled "Songs of the Veld". The book was banned in South Africa by the British military authorities at that time. A new edition of "Songs of the Veld" has just been published in Cape Town, with the addition of commentary and historical notes in both Afrikaans and English. The ISBN is 978-0-620-39432-1. THE FALLEN FLAG Inscribed to Albert Cartwright – The African Bonivard. Furl the fourfold banner, Lay that flag to rest; In the roll of honour – The brightest, bravest, best. Now no hand may wave it, O'er valley, pass or hill; Where thousands died to save it – The patriot hearts are still. It flew o'er proud Majuba, Where the victor farmers stood: O'er the tide of the Tugela – Dark-dyed with hostile blood. On Stormberg passes glorious – And o'er Ma'rsfontein* height, – Wher Cronje's host victorious Withstood the British might. But a prouder grander story Is the record of the band, Which surpassed all former glory, In the latest greatest stand. When ten to one outnumbered – Of hope and help bereft, On ground with graves encumbered, Defenders still were left. There were hero hearts to lead them, On the path where death was won; To float the flag of Freedom Where the eagle sees the sun. To keep the Vierkleur flying On every fortress hill; From the cold clasp of the dying There were hands to sieze it still. O Land, so fondly cherished – Endeared by patriot graves, – The soil where such have perished Is not the soil for slaves. From age to age your story Shall sound to other days: You leave your sons the glory That fallen flag to raise. O sacred smitten Nation, Crowned on thy Calvary, There's a day of restoration – An Easter Morn for Thee. Vierkleur, young hands shall grab thee – New armies round thee stand; Men whose fathers died shall clasp thee On the blood-bought Burghers' Land. * Magersfontein should thus be pronounced. [This footnote, explaining the spelling Ma'rsfontein, appears under the second stanza.] Mike Oettle, 18 Dec 2008 South African Music South African Music Afrikaans music Afrikaans music was primarily influenced by Dutch folk styles, along with French and German influences, in the early twentieth century. Zydeco-type string bands led by a concertina were popular, as were elements of American country music, especially Jim Reeves. Bushveld music based on the Zulu were reinterpreted by such singers as Marais and Miranda. Melodramatic and sentimental songs called trane trekkers (tear jerkers) were especially common. In 1979 the South African Music scene changed from the Tranetrekkers to more lively sounds and the introduction of new names in the market with the likes of Anton Goosen, David Kramer, Koos du Plessis, Fanie de Jager, and Laurika Rauch. Afrikaans music is currently one of the most popular and best selling industries on the South African music scene. SOUTH AFRICA MOVIE SHOWS The period after 1994 saw a dramatic growth in the popularity of Afrikaans music. Numerous new young Afrikaans singers (soloists and groups) released CDs and DVDs and attracted large audiences at "kunstefeeste" (art festivals) such as the "Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees - KKNK" in Oudtshoorn, "Aardklop" in Potchefstroom and "Innibos" in Nelspruit. Apart from dozens of new songs being introduced into the Afrikaans music market, it became popular for modern young artists to sing old Afrikaans songs on a stage or in a pub, with crowds of young admirers singing along. The reason for the dramatic increase in the popularity of Afrikaans music can only be speculated about. One theory is that the end of Apartheid in 1994 also meant the end of the privileged position that the Afrikaans culture had in South Africa. After losing the privileged protection and promotion of the language and the culture by the State, the Afrikaans-speaking community seems to have spontaneously started embracing and developing their language and culture. This was due to pop artists like Steve Hofmeyr, Nádine, Kurt Darren, and Nicolis Louw bringing a new fresh sound in Afrikaans Music. Many of the songs sung and/or written by these artist are similar in sound to Euro dance music. Critics would claim that all an Afrikaans pop artist needs for a song to be popular is a catchy tune and an easy beat. This is due to the massive popularity of a form of couples dancing called "langarm" or "sokkie". The dance halls where this takes place could be considered as night clubs but they play almost exclusively Afrikaans pop music. The Afrikaans pop music market therefore generates tremendous demand for new material. Bok van Blerk (Louis Andreas Pepler) born on March 30th 1978 grew up in Pretoria, South Africa. After finishing school at Die Wilgers, Bok van Blerk went to the Netherlands to play rugby for 9 months. He then studies construction and practised it for 7 years before starting his singing career. In 2005 he was approached by Sean Else and Johan Voster to become their production company’s first client (Mozi Records). In March 2006 he launched his first album “ Jy praat nog steeds my taal”. In October that year, the album got released again but under the title “De la Rey”. Since then this song has become hugely popular in the Afrikaner nation. The album became one of the top sellers in 2007. Up to know the album sold more than 200 000 copies, making it one of the most successful Afrikaans albums of all time. He won three Tempo awards, five Vonk awards and his video “De la Rey” won the MK music video of the year (2007) In 2007 Bok van Blerk helped produce the “Ons vir Jou” rugby music album, which sold over 90 000 copies. After the success of “De la Rey”, Bok van Blerk waited a quite a while before releasing his second album called “Afrikanerhart” which already achieved double platinum status. Since the start of his singing career in 2006, Bok has grown tremendously as an artist. That’s one of the reason he waited so long to release his second album, he wanted to wait for the right time to release it. Bok van Blerk as person loves nature, hunting, deep-sea fishing and music of course. He has made a huge impact on Afrikaner music in South Africa, not only did he provide us with brilliant music, Bok van Blerk helped bring the Afrikaner nation together again, he reminded us of our history and the “trots” we should have in being a Afrikaner that fought for our country. Bok van Blerk cds are making waves through out the country with his hot, orginal hits! Bok van Blerk cds oozes with wonderful culture. From the excellent hits like ’68 Cevy (Minki), Habana! En Hatfield right through to the heart warming “So waai die wind” and the powerful and unique hit for the nation….De La Rey. Currently Bok van Blerk cds include; “De la Rey” and “Afrikanerhart” but he also produced the rugby cd called “Ons vir jou Suid Afrika” The following Bok van Blerk cds are available to purchase: Bok van Blerk cds – De la Rey This is probably Bok van Blerk‘s most popular CD as it sold over 200 000 copies. It contains the popular song “De la Rey“. The Cd consist of the following songs: 1. Praat nog steeds my taal 2. De la Rey 3. Vodka en OJ 4. ’68 Chevy 5. Lenteblomme 6. Stuk van jou 7. Op Walvisbaai 8. Girls in bikinis 9. Die K*k moet end kry 10. Katie 11. Somer reen 12. Plek vir die maan 13. Habana 14. De la Rey (extended version) The CD was released in October 2006. Bok van Blerk cds – Afrikanerhart Bok van Blerk‘s second album “Afrikanerhart” was released in May 2009. The cd consist of the following songs: 1. Tyd om te trek 2. Afrikanerhart 3. Super Schalk 4. Brandewyn het nie brieke nie 5. Jou Pa is hier 6. Klaar met my 7. Die Kaplyn 8. My angel 9. Die kleur van my vel 10. Seilvis skoffel 11. Boeregirl 12. Miss U.S.A 13. Nooit weer gesien nie 14. Sink of swem 15. Pa en seun Bok van Blerk + Various Artists – Ons vir Jou Suid-Afrika This Cd is mainly dedicated to South African rugby. It contains some of the best South African artists including Bok van Blerk and Robbie Wessels. the cd consist of the following songs: 1. Ons vir jou Suid Afrika – Duet met Bok van Blerk en Robbie Wessels 2. Go Bokke! (“I’m gonna walk 500miles”) – Robbie Wessels 3. Spickerish – Bok van Blerk 4. Bokkoors (“Eye of the tiger”) – Robbie Wessels 5. Hak hom Blokkies – Theuns Jordaan 6. Dik nek en klein tandjies – Bok van Blerk 7. Habana – Bok van Blerk 8. Wie trou dan op ‘n final – Bok van Blerk 9. Shosholoza – Coleske 10. Hokkaai – Thys die Bosveldklong 11. Trek aan jou trui – Hugo 12. Is jy Bang – Eden 13. Bel, bel , bel man – Liani May 14. Boeremusiek RugbMedley – So speel die boere 15. Verewig Suid Afrika – Drie van die Beste Steve Hofmeyr (born 29 August 1964) is a South African singer, songwriter and actor. Hofmeyr married actress Natasha Sutherland, whom he had met on the set of Egoli: Place of Gold in 1998, they had two sons, Sebastian, born 13 December 2001 and Benjamin, born later (Hofmeyr also has a few children by other women.. In total, Hofmeyr has five children. The couple was divorced after reports of numerous affairs dominated Hofmeyr's time in the spotlight in 2008.In December 2008, Hofmeyr allegedly assaulted Miss Esmaré Weideman, editor of Huisgenoot, a popular Afrikaans magazine, by pouring a cup of cold tea over her at the Miss South Africa finals. He was said to have blamed her and two other journalists for his divorce from Sutherland. Miss Weideman subsequently dropped her accusations In January 2007 there were reports that one branch of the News Cafe restaurant chain would not play Hofmeyr's song Pampoen (Pumpkin). The managing director of the company that owns the franchise denies that this is company policy and points out that many Afrikaans acts, such as Karen Zoid and Arno Carstens have performed at News Cafe. On 12 May 2011, Hofmeyr released the lyrics to his new song called "Ons sal dit oorleef", which means "We will survive this". The song is controversial, because Hofmeyr has threatened to include the word "kaffir" (the common Arabic word meaning "infidel" used by the British and the Boers in the 19th and early 20th century to refer to blacks in the context of his song, but today a very derogatory name for the black population of South Africa) in the lyrics of the song should a judge rule in favour of Julius Malema. When the presiding judge, Leon Halgryn ruled that "... the publication and chanting of the words 'dubula ibhunu', prima facie satisfies the crime of incitement to murder," Hofmeyr removed the offensive word in his song also,citing that the word would offend his black friends and colleagues. Malema is currently on trial for the singing the song "Shoot The Boer", a song argued to be inciting violence upon ethnic Boers, white South Africans, particularly farmers. Some people see the murder of Eugène Terre'Blanche as an example of violence provoked by this song. Emo Adams Bobby Angel Arno Carstens Chris Chameleon Mimi Coertse Jacques de Coning Janita Claassens Zirk Bergh Helene Bester Bok van Blerk Piet van Blerk Jan Blohm Thys die Bosveldklong Mel Botes Danie Botha Piet Botha Louis Brittz Liza Brönner Clive Bruce Johan Brug Retief Burger Kurt Darren Izak Davel Al Debbo Tommy Dell Ray Dillan Dowwe Dolla Dozi Fanie de Jager Dennis East Erica Eloff Billy Forrest David Fourie Freda Francis Albert Frost Ghapi Anton Goosen Die Grafsteensangers Guillaume Theuns Jordaan is a South African singer and songwriter born on 10 January 1971. His first career moves had him spend long nights at restaurants in the area around the University of Stellenbosch, a university in the Western Cape Province, where he had been studying industrial psychology. His first performance was on 21 October 1992 at a local bar called Upstairs. Having had immersed himself in the local music scene, Theuns started composing his own lyrics, which resulted in five songs in his debut album, Vreemde Stad. After he completed his studies, Theuns spent a year as an entrepreneur. In October 1998 he moved from the Cape to Gauteng - specifically Pretoria. After gaining popularity in the city, he recorded his debut album, Vreemde Stad, in Stellenbosch. This album was released in 2000 at an arts festival, the Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees. EMI released Vreemde Stad shortly after this and the album surpassed triple platinum status (150 000 copies) in July 2003. He launched his second album, Tjailatyd at the Aardklop music festival in 2002, which also sold more than 150, 000 records. The South African guitar player, Anton L'Amour, performed with Theuns and was responsible for all the guitar tracks in Vreemde Stad and Tjailatyd.Theuns Jordaan's singing is characterized by his deeply emotive bass voice. His music has been said to be "faintly bluesly, radio-friendly", with his lyrics "infused with a mournful love of South Africa". Albums Vreemde stad (1999) Klein Verbond Onthou Jy Nog Skipskop Makiesakie Beautiful In Beaufort-Wes Sonvanger Visserman Skielik Is Jy Vry Vreemde Stad Lalie Hakieshart Sien Jou Weer Loslappie Mengelmoes Liedjieboer Mengelmoes Tjailatyd (2002) Soos Bloed Hanne Gesiggle Straattroebadoere As Ek Vra Tjallatyd Hoe Draai Die Wind Dan Nou Moenie Vermiste Mense Alleen Sonder Jou Buitekant Waar Was Jy Loslappie Medley: Dis Julle Wat Die Wind, Transkaroo, Coca-Cola-Nooi, Bloometjie Gedenk Aan My, Silver De Lange, Halala Afrika, Huisie By Die See, Pampoene Seisoen (2005) Jou asem Hillbrow Skadu in die nag Namibsroos Ek roep jou naam Stofpad Praat is te laat Wie weet Donkerpad Bietjie van my Huise van glas Jukebox medley:Kalbassies,Travel in Staail,Hex-Vallei,City/Stad,Meisie sonner sokkies,Die skoene moe Groet sonder woorde Juanita du Plessis Sonja Herholdt Laurinda Hofmeyr Steve Hofmeyr Karin Hougaard Hugo Rina Hugo Bobby van Jaarsveld Hennie Jacobs Lance James Joggie Johnny & Vivian Johrné Greta Jones Watkin Tudor Jones Arno Jordaan Theuns Jordaan Johannes Kerkorrel Carike Keuzenkamp Robbie Klay Lochner de Kock Koos Kombuis Gé Korsten Pieter Koen Karin Kortje David Kramer Joey Lane Riku Lätti Virginia Lee Kevin Leo Patricia Lewis Lienka Jakkie Louw Nicholis Louw Glenys Lynne Lucas Maree Lianie May George Meiring Trevor Nasser Nádine Nataniël Riana Nel Fredi Nest Rudi Neitz Nianell Joe Niemand Zak van Niekerk Jack Parow Jaco du Plessis Juanita du Plessis Gert Potgieter Jacques du Preez Karla du Plessis Koos du Plessis Vicki du Preez Jak de Priester Adam Tas Jacques Terry Jannie du Toit Laurika Rauch Barbara Ray Paul Riekert Mathys Roets Anneli van Rooyen André Schwartz Min Shaw Johan Small Piet Smit Pieter Smith Snotkop Christo Snyman Christa Steyn Etienne Steyn Gerhard Steyn Amanda Strydom Wynand Strydom Blackie Swart Valiant Swart Sonja Herholdt is an Afrikaner singer-songwriter and actress. Herholdt was born in the small Gauteng mining village of Nigel, Gauteng and at the age of three made her first singing performance at the local community recreation hall, singing the Afrikaans lullaby Slaap, my Kindjie.She attended the Afrikaans-medium Tienie Vorster Primary and John Vorster High School where she became Head Girl in both and followed her theatrical pursuits. She later obtained a diploma cum laude in Teaching after three years at the Johannesburg (Goudstad) College of Education. She gave up teaching to pursue music after meeting her future husband, FC Hamman. The couple married in 1976 and started a family, their youngest son later developed an extreme hearing impairment in 1993. Herholdt subsequently decided to start a school for hearing and linguistically impaired Afrikaans children, this was housed in the pre-primary section of Bryanston Primary School. This resulted in Herholdt returning to teach for a period of time. In 1996, Herholdt was involved in a serious car accident. She and her husband subsequently divorced after 21 years of marriage.In collaboration with Carel Cronjé, she released her autobiography in 2007 Sonja: Meisie van Nigel. Later that year she was injured in a robbery on the way home from Cronjé's Johannesburg home ,Herholdt has recorded several albums and singles since the 1970s; Albums Sonja (1976) Sonja Herholdt (1977) On stage/In die kalklig (1978) Waterblommetjies (1978) 'n Lied vir Kersfees (1979) Harlekyn (Gold) (1979) Grootste Treffers (1980) Waarom Daarom (1981) Reflections (1982) Liefdeslig (1984) Lofsang - Sonja Herholdt en Jan de Wet (1985) Dis net vir jou (1987) Sonja Herholdt sing die Jeugsangbundel (1987) Sonja Herholdt sing die Jeugsangbundel 2 (1988) Tuiskoms (1988) Die Klokkespel 'Vrede (1989) The Warrior is a Child (1989) 'n Ster Vanaand (1994) Tuiskoms (1995) More sal die son weer skyn (1996) Ritsel in die Rietbos (1998) Reconstructing Alice (2000) Sonjare 20 Gunsteling treffers Dis Kersfees Sonja Herholdt Skipskop Die mense wat ek liefhet*Gunsteling treffers (1992) Sê die engele moet kyk na my (1994) Die verhale van vrouwees She She The Princess Liefling die movie Pêrels Barbara Veenemans Bennie Veenemans Leonore Veenemans Michelle Veenemans André de Villiers Yolandi Visser Amor Vittone Jacques Viviers Casper de Vries Jody Wayne Robbie Wessels Richard van der Westhuizen Randall Wicomb Arina de Witt Piet van Wyk de Vries Gérard Korsten (popularly known as Gé) (6 December 1927 – 29 September 1999) was a South African opera tenor and actor who had a great influence on Afrikaans culture. Born in Rotterdam, the Netherlands as the youngest of eight children, Korsten and his family emigrated to South Africa when he was nine years old. He married Elna Burger and had five children, among them renowned conductor and violinist Gérard Korsten.Initially he worked as an electrician, but from the age of 20, started singing in choirs. However, he received his first formal vocal training in 1952, when he was well into his 20s, studying under Adelheid Armhold at the South African College of Music.In 1955 he moved to Pretoria, where he was one of the founder members of the Pretoria opera company. In 1956, he debuted as Canio in Ruggero Leoncavallo's Pagliacci. Korsten won a bursary to study in Vienna in 1962, where he received tuition under Judith Hellwig. During this period he had the opportunity to perform in Vienna and Munich, but he never sang professionally outside South Africa, mainly due to family considerations. It was only in 1970 that Korsten sold his business to devote himself to full-time singing. In the course of his operatic career, Korsten appeared on stage more than 3,000 times, playing 23 roles in most of the major operas. In 1965, Korsten started his career in light music, with his album Gé Korsten Sing Uit Die Hart (English: Gé Korsten Sings From The Heart), and soon became a best-selling recording artist, with a career spanning 40 years. Nine of his 58 albums achieved gold status. Most of his recorded work is light Afrikaans music, including the song "Liefling" (English: Sweetheart), which is still performed at rugby matches in Bloemfontein and Pretoria. His popularity as a singer also led to lead roles in films such as Hoor My Lied (English: Hear My Song), Lied In My Hart (English: Song In My Heart) and A New Life, all of which included singing scenes. He received six Sarie awards and, in 1979, an ARTES award for his TV program Gé Sing (English: Gé Sings). In his later life, Korsten was well known for his role as family patriarch Walt Vorster in the long-running South African soap opera Egoli: Place of Gold.In 1985 he was appointed the managing director of the Cape Performing Arts Board (CAPAB) in Cape Town, a post which he held until 1989. Kurt Darren is in Pretoria gebore en het aan die Hoërskool Lyttelton Manor matrikuleer. Hy het sy besondere sangtalent by sy ma geërf. Op skool het Kurt aan verskeie musiekspele deelgeneem, en meen dat hy al van jongs af in musiek belang gestel het.Wat min mense weet is dat Kurt ten volle tweetalig is, te danke aan sy pa wat Afrikaanssprekend en sy ma wat Engelssprekend is. Sy ongelooflike talent as liedjieskrywer en sanger, in beide tale, het sy gretigheid om in albei tale te vermaak, en mee te voer, verwesenlik. Na matriek is Kurt weermag toe en doen hy sy basies in Walvisbaai. Sy wens was om aan die weermag se vermaaklikheidsgroep te behoort, en dit gebeur toe ook so. So toer hy vir n jaar saam met die boere-orkeslede van die weermag, en besef dat hy sy lewenslange droom, om 'n sanger te word, wil najaag. Hy word toe afgeraai deur mense wat sê dat hy nie 'n bestaan kan maak deur 'n sanger te word nie.Hy probeer toe maar 'n paar ander beroepe, soos om 'n wildbewaarder te word in die Kruger Nasionale Wildtuin, (die natuur lê hom baie na aan die hart), en tree ook as toergids op. Met meeste van sy familie in die boubedryf, beproef hy dit ook, maar nie vir lank nie. Kurt besluit toe om voltyds te begin sing. Dertien jaar lank het Kurt, balladesanger, roerloos op 'n stoeltjie met 'n mikrofoon gesit by korporatiewe geleenthede, kroeë en ander klein vergader-plekke. Van die een dorp na die volgende, het Kurt sy eie klankgereedskap vervoer, afgelaai, opgestel, afgestel en weer opgelaai. Hy het ook sy eie klank gedoen. Kurt is trots om te noem dat hy deur sy sangloopbaan al deel was van 'n paar "groepe", hierdie sluit in, onder andere: "Deep Blue" en "Keep Your Day Job". Hy het altyd geweet dat sy deurbraak gaan kom. Toe tree hy drie maande lank op 'n passasierskip op, verloor 'n paar kilogram en sny sy hare (vir die wat nie weet nie, Kurt se hare was skouerlengte vir n hele rukkie). En toe is hy reg en energiek vir "Meisie Meisie" - en die roem - toe dit eensklaps oor sy pad kom in 2002.Deesdae toer Kurt die land vol, en selfs buitelands, op 'n groeiende basis. Sy eerste album "For Your Precious Love" was in 1995 uitgereik, en daarna het hy die uitsonderlike geluk gehad om al die volgende albums op te neem, wat in chronologiese orde gelys word: • 1997 - "Kurt Darren". • 1998 - "Just When I Needed You Most". • 1999 - "Since I Found You". • 2001 - "Net Jy Alleen". • 2002 - "Meisie Meisie". * Met sy album "Meisie Meisie" het hy sy deurbraak in die Afrikaanse musiekbedryf in 2002 bewerkstellig. Kurt se reuse treffer, Meisie Meisie, maak steeds duike in die dansvloer en was een van die Top3 treffers van 2002! Dit is gedurende die opname van hierdie album dat Kurt liedjies begin skryf het saam met twee ongelooflike, inspirerende en talentvolle mense: Don Kelly en Marc Brendon. Hierdie trio komplimenteer mekaar tot vandag nog met die samestelling van lirieke vir nuwe liedjies. • 2003 - "Sê Net Ja". • 2004 - "Staan Op". • 2005 - "Vat My, Maak My Joune". • 2006 - "Lekker Lekker". • 2007 - "Voorwaarts Mars". • 2008 - "Uit Die Diepte Van My Hart". Hy is al lank bedrywig met musiek en van sy grootste drome is bewaarheid. Naas 'n dosyn solo-albums, pryk sy trefferstem ook op vele saamgestelde CD's.Kurt is al vir sewe agtereenvolgende albums besig om die golf van sukses te ondervind, hy is van plan om nog vir n baie lang tyd in die bedryf te bly en mense te vermaak met sy musikale talent. Hy het 'n ongelooflike passie vir musiek, en wil sy Godgegewe gawe met ieder en elk deel. 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HOTELS IN SOUTH AFRICA South Africa is a country with a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking beauty. Whether you're looking for a luxurious or a budget-friendly stay, there are plenty of hotels to choose. From the bustling of Johannesburg to the stunning beaches of Cape Town, there's something for everyone. Let us help you find the perfect hotel for your South African adventure. B&BS in South Africa 1680 South Africa B&Bs. Good availability and great rates for bnbs in South Africa. … Guest Houses in South Africa 4961 South Africa guest houses. Good availability and great rates for guest … Hotels in Port Elizabeth Find hotels in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. Book online, pay at the hotel. Good rates … Hotels in East London Find hotels in East London, South Africa. Book online, pay at the hotel. Good rates … Service Name Service Name Service Name Service Name Vereeniging 47 Hotels Find hotels in Vereeniging, South Africa. Book online, pay at the hotel. Good rates … Durban South Coast 1381 Ho… On average, 3-star hotels in Durban South Coast cost £48 per night, and 4-star … Port Shepstone 1112 Hotels Find hotels in Port Shepstone, South Africa. Book online, pay at the hotel. Good rates … Port St Johns 19 Hotels Find hotels in Port St Johns, South Africa. Book online, pay at the hotel. Good rates … These are the 10 best hotels in South Africa right now The Dreamiest Luxury Lodges in South Africa | Travel Insider These are the 10 best hotels in South Africa right now Africa’s Top 10 Ultra-Luxurious Hotel Suites | Best Africa Accommodation Top 15 luxury hotels in South Africa with amazing views - Briefly.co.za Luxury Hotels in South Africa 2019/2020 | Sovereign One&Only Cape Town Hotel Review, South Africa | Travel Sheraton Pretoria Hotel - Arcadia, Pretoria, South Africa booking and map. These are the 10 best hotels in South Africa right now 5 Top Luxury Hotels in South Africa - 79985 Fairmont Zimbali Resort, Durban - Hotel Essence Photography The best hotels in South Africa The Palace of the Lost City – Sun City Resort and Casino – South Africa ... 5-Sterne-Hotels in Kapstadt 5-Sterne-Hotels in Greater Johannesburg 5-Sterne-Hotels in Overberg District 5-Sterne-Hotels in Johannesburg 5-Sterne-Hotels in Pretoria 5-Sterne-Hotels in Kapstadt Zentrum 5-Sterne-Hotels in Sandton 5-Sterne-Hotels in Durban 5-Sterne-Hotels in Overstrand 5-Sterne-Hotels in Camps Bay 5-Sterne-Hotels in Waterberg 5-Sterne-Hotels in Port Elizabeth 5-Sterne-Hotels in Knysna 5-Sterne-Hotels in Bloemfontein 5-Sterne-Hotels in East London 5-Sterne-Hotels in Stellenbosch 5-Sterne-Hotels in Plettenberg Bay 5-Sterne-Hotels in Saldanha Bay Municipality 5-Sterne-Hotels in Hermanus 5-Sterne-Hotels in Maruleng BACK TO TOP

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Kruger National Park Where nearly 2 million hectares of unrivaled diversity of life forms fuses with historical and archaeological sights – this is real Africa. The world-renowned Kruger National Park offers a wildlife experience that ranks with the best in Africa. Truly the flagship of the South African National Parks, this enormous and magnificent park is one of the most popular public-entry game parks in the world. Few visitors leave South Africa without visiting the Kruger National Park or one of the private reserves along its borders but it is also frequented by locals in their own vehicles, as you can drive yourself around and stay overnight in one of the many public rest camps . There are also a few exclusive private lodges that have been granted concessions within the Kruger National Park. Kruger has 12 main rest camps, 5 bushveld camps, 2 bush lodges and 4 satellite camps. The world-renowned Kruger National Park offers a wildlife experience that ranks with the best in Africa. Established in 1898 to protect the wildlife of the South African Lowveld, this national park is unrivalled in the diversity of its life forms and a world leader in advanced environmental management techniques and policies. Kruger is home to an impressive number of species: 336 trees, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds and 147 mammals. Man’s interaction with the lowveld environment over many centuries – from bushman rock paintings to majestic archaeological sites like Masorini and Thulamela – is very evident in the Kruger National Park. These treasures represent the cultures, persons and events that played a role in the history of the Kruger National Park and are conserved along with the park’s natural assets. Kruger National Park is a South African National Park and one of the largest game reserves in Africa . It covers an area of 19,623 km2 (7,576 sq mi) in the provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga in northeastern South Africa , and extends 360 km (220 mi) from north to south and 65 km (40 mi) from east to west. The administrative headquarters are in Skukuza . Areas of the park were first protected by the government of the South African Republic in 1898, and it became South Africa's first national park in 1926. To the west and south of the Kruger National Park are the two South African provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga , respectively. To the north is Zimbabwe and to the east is Mozambique . It is now part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park , a peace park that links Kruger National Park with the Gonarezhou National Park in Zimbabwe, and with the Limpopo National Park in Mozambique. The park is part of the Kruger to Canyons Biosphere , an area designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as an International Man and Biosphere Reserve. The park has nine main gates allowing entrance to the different camps. History Main article: History of the Kruger National Park Sabi Game Reserve (1898–1926) Sabi Game Reserve was initially created to control hunting and to protect the diminishing number of animals in the area. The reserve was located in the southern one-third of the modern park. James Stevenson-Hamilton became the first warden of the reserve in 1902. Singwitsi Reserve , named after the Shingwedzi River and now in northern Kruger National Park, was proclaimed in 1903. During the following decades all the native tribes were removed from the reserve and during the 1960s the last were removed at Makuleke in the Pafuri triangle. In 1926, Sabi Game Reserve, the adjacent Shingwedzi Game Reserve, and farms were combined to create Kruger National Park. During 1923, the first large groups of tourists started visiting the Sabi Game Reserve, but only as part of the South African Railways ' popular "Round in Nine" tours. The tourist trains travelled the Selati railway line between Komatipoort on the Mozambican border and Tzaneen in the then northern Transvaal. Kruger National Park Plaque in the park. Now and then people do get killed; however, this is extremely rare. Kruger National Park was proclaimed in 1918. Warden James Stevenson-Hamilton retired on 30 April 1946, after 44 years as warden of the Kruger Park. He was replaced by Colonel J. A. B. Sandenbergh of the South African Air Force .In 1959, work commenced to completely fence the park's boundaries. Work started on the southern boundary along the Crocodile River and in 1960 the western and northern boundaries were fenced, followed by the eastern boundary with Mozambique. The purpose of the fence was to curb the spread of diseases, facilitate border patrolling and inhibit the movement of poachers . The Makuleke area in the northern part of the park was forcibly taken from the Makuleke people by the government in 1969 and about 1500 of them were relocated to land to the south so that their original tribal areas could be integrated into the greater Kruger National Park. Pride of lions on a tourist road In 1996 the Makuleke tribe submitted a land claim for 198.42 km2 (19,842 ha), namely the Pafuri or Makuleke region in the northernmost part of the park. The land was given back to the Makuleke people, however, they chose not to resettle on the land but to engage with the private sector to invest in tourism. This resulted in the building of several game lodges from which they earn royalties. In the late 1990s, the fences between the Kruger Park and Klaserie Game Reserve, Olifants Game Reserve, and Balule Game Reserve were dropped and incorporated into the Greater Kruger Park with 400,000 ha (4,000 km2) added to the Reserve. In 2002, Kruger National Park, Gonarezhou National Park in Zimbabwe , and Limpopo National Park in Mozambique were incorporated into a peace park , the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park . Location and geography Geography of the Kruger National Park Olifants River Luvuvhu and Limpopo Rivers at Crookes Corner in Makuleke The park lies in the northeast of South Africa,in the eastern parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces. Phalaborwa , Limpopo is the only town in South Africa that borders the Kruger National Park. It is one of the largest national parks in the world, with an area of 19,485 km2 (7,523 sq mi). The park is approximately 360 km (220 mi) long,and has an average width of 65 km (40 mi). At its widest point, the park is 90 km (56 mi) wide from east to west. To the north and south of the park two rivers, the Limpopo River and the Crocodile respectively, act as their natural boundaries. To the east, the Lebombo Mountains separate it from Mozambique. Its western boundary runs parallel with this range, roughly 65 km (40 mi) distant. The park varies in altitude between 200 m (660 ft) in the east and 840 m (2,760 ft) in the south-west near Berg-en-Dal. The highest point in the park is here, a hill called Khandzalive. Several rivers run through the park from west to east, including the Sabie , Olifants , Crocodile, Letaba , Luvuvhu and Limpopo Rivers. Wildlife Species South-central black rhinoceros Blue wildebeest Plains zebra Bushbuck Common eland African bush elephant Giraffe Greater kudu Hippopotamus Impala Hartebeest Mountain reedbuck Nyala –300300 Roan antelope Sable antelope Common warthog Waterbuck 5, Southern white rhinoceros African wild dog Cheetah Nile crocodile – Leopard Lion Spotted hyena Kruger National Park Wildlife – All about the Animals in the Reserve Discover the incredible variety of Kruger National Park wildlife. There are over a hundred animal species! Watching Kruger National Park animals interact with their natural environment can be time consuming, but is definitely rewarding. Take an animal checklist with you on your safari to see all the mammals you could see in the park. If you own or can borrow a pair of binoculars, they’ll help you scan the bush for game and to identify birds. Plus you’ll find out if that distant rock is really a rock or an animal! On a visit to the park, people aim to see the big 5 . The big 5 were traditionally the most sought after hunting trophies: Lions Elephants Buffalos Rhinos Leopards Other common animals you’re bound to run into are: Baboons Crocodiles Giraffes Hippos Monkeys Warthogs Wildebeest Zebras Less common animals: Cheetahs Hyenas Jackals Mongooses Porcupines Wild dogs Nocturnal animals, all sightings of which are less common: Bushbabies Civets Genets Honey badgers Servals Spring hares Did you know, there is also a little five ? Antlions Eastern rock elephant shrews Leopard tortoises Red-billed buffalo weavers Rhino beetles On top of the little five, there are other little creatures to see in the park including: Dung beetles Mopani worms There are over 500 types of Kruger National Park birds ! The southern and central regions of the park have a higher concentration of animals. The northern region is dryer so fewer animals live there. Kruger National Park Wildlife What are the Big 5 in Africa? The Big 5 wildlife refers to the Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Elephant and Buffalo. These are often the most in-demand animals to see while on an African safari. By 1896 white rhino were extinct in the Lowveld, while elsewhere a relic 50 animals survived between the White and Black Umfolozi rivers in Zululand. Successful conservation measures made it possible to re-introduce 337 rhino from 1961 onwards, and the Kruger Park now safeguards the world's largest population. White rhino require a reliable supply of water, both for drinking (every two to three days). In Kruger National Park, 85 per cent of the white rhino population occurs in the Southern Region, where rainfall is higher than average and water holes are evenly distributed. Their senses of smell and hearing are good, but their eyesight is poor. A white rhino bull marks his territory by spray-urinating along its boundaries. Only territorial males do this; subordinate males are allowed to live within the territory so long as they remain submissive. Females are free to wander across the territories of several males. White rhino coat their hides in mud to reduce bites from irritating flies, and during the hot summer months mud wallows help to regulate body temperature. With a considerable body mass of up to 2 300 kilograms, and a vast surface area that is increased by folds of skin, white rhino can remove large quantities of mud from a wallow with each visit. Over the decades this has the effect of excavating significant depressions in the veld, which are rapidly filled during the rainy season to form pans. An elephant drinks from a pool in the Mphongolo River that still holds water during winter months. An elephant can draw 17 litres of water at a time. During winter, elephant are usually concentrated within six kilometres of water and drink on average every two days, consuming between 180 and 400 litres per visit.Two young elephants play on the soft, cool sandy bed of the Mphongolo River. Elephants live in well-ordered family groups that are usually led by the oldest female, the matriarch. In addition to the matriarch, the group consists of her older female calves, related females and their offspring. Males leave the herd from the age of 12 years.The elephant with its dexterous trunk, which is composed of 50 000 muscles, is able to carefully select leaves from among the thorny branches of a thicket of Delagoa thorns (Acacia delagoensis). Young buffalo depend on the structure of the herd for protection. Buffalo are almost exclusively grazers, and half the Kruger population occurs on the open savannas of the Central Region. These bovids consume large quantities of grass of a moderate quality, and in doing so play a valuable role in the ecosystem by reducing tall grasslands and opening up areas for the antelope that feed only on short grasses. As an adult can weigh more than 750 kilograms, buffalo comprise a quarter of Kruger's total biomass, or live weight of animals. Although lion working together can overpower an adult bull, the availability of sufficient grass is the most important limiting factor on herd size. Unlike most antelope species, male buffalo voluntarily leave the breeding herd and rejoin at a later stage. A herd does not occupy a fixed territory, and its favoured home range includes certain areas that are utilised during winter, and an expanded range that is used during summer. Typically, old bulls eventually become permanently separated from the herd to live a solitary existence, or form small bachelor groups. In winter, buffalo in Kruger National Park concentrate within eight kilometres of permanent water, especially along the Sabie, Olifants, Letaba and Shingwedzi rivers, and the sight of a herd of several hundred buffalo raising clouds of red dust as they trek to water is one of the most memorable that the Park can offer.A dominant buffalo bull asserts his position by holding his head high while pointing his nose towards the ground. Head-tossing and a hooking motion of the horns are also used. If this fails, the bull will batter his solid horn boss against that of his rival until he gives in.Under favourable conditions, when game concentrates around water holes and there is a steady supply of prey, a lioness can give birth to a litter of one to five cubs every two years. Within a pride most cubs are born at the same time, mostly between February and April when young prey animals are abundant.Since the establishment of the Park in 1898, lion have increased proportionately to a significant increase in their prey species. In the 1920s Stevenson-Hamilton counted 600 lion in the Park. Today, Kruger supports about 2 000, representing one of the largest populations in Africa.The mane of a dominant pride lion protects the head and neck from injury and deters rival males by making the lion appear more formidable. In East Africa the Maasai people have copied this mask, and warriors wear feathered headdresses to appear taller and more menacing.Lion keep a close watch on descending vultures in the hope of locating a potential meal. Lion are opportunistic predators that will also scavenge food from other predators, and in this instance were able to locate the vultures and the remains of a kill in less than 20 minutes.Although lion spend much of the day resting, a charging lion dispels any doubts about their strength, speed and agility. Most chases are short and do not exceed 200 metres, but a lion can attain a speed of 60 kilometres an hour in a final burst of speed before bringing down prey.Play activities within the safety of the pride prepare lion cubs for hunting success in adulthood. Young cubs display a pattern of brown spots and rosettes that is similar to the patterning on the coat of leopard, and may be useful as camouflage.A large male leopard can weigh as much as 70 kilograms, but females are much lighter at about 30 kilograms. Impala comprise 78 per cent of the leopard's diet in Kruger. An adult leopard requires prey equivalent to about 20 impala per year, so leopard predation is not a major limiting factor on impala numbers.As leopard are primarily nocturnal and active when lion and hyaena are about, these powerful cats have to face strong competition. In the Kruger Park they prey mainly on impala and aggressively defend their kills against rival predators. Essentially ground dwelling, leopard readily climb trees to escape from danger and to store their kills safely out of the reach of other predators.Long believed to be very scarce, in the 1970s an American researcher captured a surprising number of leopard within a few kilometres of Skukuza, and the estimate of the total number in the Park was revised to about 1 000. The number is believed to have remained relatively unchanged up to the present. This is because - barring major habitat changes and human interference - leopard populations tend to remain stable, kept in balance by the availability of prey species and the corresponding size of each leopard's territory. The Kruger National Park is home to many different species of antelopes, from Eland to small antelope such as Duiker and Steenbok. Impala are the most common antelope in the park with Kudu being the second most common. If you are lucky, you may see rare antelope such as Sable and Eland which are revered in many African cultures. During the rut, which takes place between April and June, adult impala males establish territories, which they defend by chasing away rival males. Guttural roars followed by protracted snorts can be heard throughout the day and night, as the dominant male defends his territory against intrusions by neighbouring males. If territorial displays are not effective in fending off rivals, the males resort to horn-clashing duels to determine dominance. A herd of impala approaches water. For impala, gathering together in a herd has many advantages: many pairs of eyes and ears are constantly alert to danger, and the chances of being caught by a predator are greatly reduced. In the Kruger Park there are approximately 10 000 impala herds with an average herd size of 11 animals. Impala gather at a water hole in acacia country near Lower Sabie. They have a marked preference for areas where there is a regular supply of water, short grass and dense thickets of shrubs and trees. These conditions are normally encountered near rivers where a concentration of larger animals, such as elephant and buffalo, further improves the habitat for impala. Impala are prolific breeders and are the most abundant mammal in Kruger, but these medium-sized antelope drink less than one quarter of the water consumed by the Elephants in Kruger National Park. Kudu are nonselective browsers and feed on no less than 150 species of trees and shrubs. They avoid trees with a high tannin content in their leaves, and favour acacia and combretum species. Although they prefer the same trees that are sought after by giraffe, competition between the two species is minimised by feeding at different heights. This beautiful large antelope is the most widely distributed of 20 antelope species in Kruger Park, but is most common in the Central Region where its favourite food plants are found in abundance. Although Kudu drink when water is available, in times of drought they are more susceptible to a lack of adequate browse than they are to a lack of drinking water. The female weighs about 160 kilograms, but males are much larger and weigh on average 250 kilograms. A kudu bull displays the longest horns of all the antelope that occur in Kruger. At the age of nine months a male kudu sports two short horns, which begin to grow and curve with age to form the corkscrew shape typical of mature bulls. The record length of 181 centimetres is more than twice that recorded for a close relative, the nyala. There have been several observations of jousting kudu bulls interlocking their spiral horns and being unable to disengage. Unable to disentangle their horns or flee, the helpless contestants soon fall prey to predators. Herds of female waterbuck and their young occupy a home range that coincides with the territories of several males. Relative to their small population size, more waterbuck are killed by Lion than any other antelope in Kruger, and 60 to 80 per cent of deaths can be attributed to these predators. Waterbuck are uncommon throughout their range in South Africa and currently number a modest 1 400 in Kruger. They favour open woodland near water.Of the 77 species of African antelope, only the waterbuck has a distinctive white ring around the rump. Grasses of a high nutritional quality and a regular supply of water are both essential habitat requirements for these animals. Cattle egrets, the only members of their family that are not closely dependent on water, feed on grasshoppers and other insects disturbed by large antelope. The regal sable, arguably the most beautiful antelope in the Park, has specific habitat requirements that include tall grassland and open woodland. An increase in zebra herds and prolonged drought has caused a considerable decline in sable in recent years. Blue wildebeest favour short grasses and need to drink less than other grazers such as zebra and buffalo. Although wildebeest are dependent on water, the severe drought of 1992/93 had little effect on their population, currently estimated at about 13 000. A blue wildebeest bull maintains his dominance by means of ritual displays intended to intimidate any intruder. When another bull approaches, the territorial bull's rocking-horse gait and swishing tail are meant to dissuade his competitor.If this display fails, the bull drops to his knees and engages in horn-clashing sparring (opposite below). No injuries result from these contests as the impact is absorbed by the bull's solid horn bosses. One of the bulls eventually surrenders and is chased off the territory by the victor. Males are territorial and even where herds migrate over long distances, temporary territories are established.In the Kruger Park bushbuck are associated with dense riverine bush, and the road between Skukuza and Lower Sabie offers the best sightings. They are solitary antelope and occupy home ranges that often overlap. Unlike most antelope species, bushbuck are exceptionally tolerant of each other and territorial displays are a rare phenomenon.The smallest of the antelope most commonly seen in Kruger, steenbok show a marked preference for the open plains in the eastern region of the Park, formed on volcanic basalt. There is some sexual dimorphism, with only male steenbok having horns, and the females being slightly larger than the males.A nyala male displays the stripes and horn shape typical of this antelope family. Nyala occur mainly north of the Letaba River, especially along the Shingwedzi and Luvuvhu rivers. Only males have horns. Females are a reddish ochre in colour and can be confused with young kudu.The roan antelope is classified as an endangered species in South Africa. Following the harsh drought of 1992/93, roan antelope nearly became extinct in the Park, and the population fell from 452 in 1986 to 44. Kruger mostly contains habitats that are marginal to their requirements, as roan survive better on wetter savannas. They occur only in open woodland with a well-developed cover of tall grass. Many animals, especially predators like the small spotted genet and even antelope such as bushbuck and grey duiker, are active mainly at night and depend on their keen senses of smell and hearing to locate food. A tree felled by an elephant provides a perfect vantage point for two cheetah males searching for suitable prey. Although they are ill-equipped for climbing, cheetah will climb trees with sloping trunks to survey the surroundings. Male cheetah, usually brothers, form co-operative associations that may last for years.A female cheetah rests after successfully catching and feeding on an impala, this cat's principal prey in Kruger. Cheetah hunt mostly in the early morning or late afternoon, but will also hunt at night when the moon is full. After bringing down an impala, cheetah feed quickly while keeping constant watch for rival predators, and even the arrival of vultures will dislodge them from a kill.Cheetah are usually solitary, but family parties of a mother and two subadult cubs are common. The cubs are always from the same litter, and leave the mother when about 18 months old and before the next litter is born. Cheetah occupy large home ranges and, despite an abundance of their favourite prey, in no region of the Park does their density exceed one cheetah to every 45 square kilometres.A cheetah and her two young cubs near Duke water hole south of Lower Sabie. Mother cheetah give birth in tall grass or dense cover. The cubs are carefully hidden for the first few weeks, and the mother moves them frequently to new hiding places to avoid detection by other predators. While the cubs are small, the mother is vulnerable as she has to remain and hunt within a confined area, and is thus less able to avoid attacks from lion.Members of a wild dog pack spare no time in devouring an impala that they have just caught. Aware of hyaena howling nearby, these dogs consumed their kill in under three minutes, and by the time the hyaena arrived on the scene there was no sign of the kill. Competition from other predators, and direct attacks by lion on both adults and cubs, reduces wild dog numbers even within optimum habitat.A complex social arrangement governs wild dog and they are able to live in large packs with few signs of conflict. Wild dog travel over vast distances, but are sedentary for a three month period when the pups are raised in an underground den. Some adult members of the pack leave the den site daily in search of prey. Here, the 'baby-sitters' encourage a returning hunter to regurgitate food, which is done for both the pups and their minders.The Kruger Park is a stronghold for the endangered wild dog, although nowhere can it be considered common. Researchers have identified 27 packs with an estimated total population of 360 for the entire park. Wild dog have a highly developed social system and produce large numbers of pups, but remain rare even in areas where their favoured prey animals are abundant.While diseases and lion predation are major limiting factors, research has shown that there is a lack of genetic variability in the Kruger population and this may have resulted in inbreeding.A wild dog pup displays some of the distinct markings that make it possible to identify individuals. Only one female usually breeds in a pack, but litters of up to 21 pups have been recorded. The pups are raised in an old aardvark or warthog burrow in a termite mound, and are carefully cared for by adults in the pack.Wild dog pups are born after a gestation period of about 70 days, and are suckled by the dominant female for three months, either in the den or near its entrance. Other adult members of the pack take an active part in cleaning the pups, and will return strays to the den. The pups begin to beg for meat from the age of 14 days, and when old enough are led by the adult dogs in search of prey.Juvenile wild dogs playfully interact at a den site south of Lower Sabie. Fighting among pack members is rare, and a relaxed tail indicates a dog's playful mood. The pups are boisterous, and the mother disciplines them by holding them down on the ground by their necks.The spotted hyaena's powerful jaws can crush bones and slice through thick hides, useful for a scavenger that often feeds on a carcass that has had the tender meat removed by lion. The hyaena's skull is shaped to accommodate the strong muscles that operate the lower jaw.A young spotted hyaena rests at a roadside den. Hyaena are largely nocturnal, and form clans dominated by females. Dominant females always feed first at a carcass and return to the den to suckle their pups, which rely on their mother's milk for the first nine months. A hierarchy also exists amongst males, but the highest ranked male is considered inferior to the lowest ranked female.Hyaena have learned to use the culverts under the main roads in Kruger as dens to raise their young. During the heat of the day, especially in summer, these concrete tunnels can become exceptionally hot and the cubs may emerge to rest near the entrance.Interesting comparisons have been drawn between the numbers of predators in Kruger and the hoofed animals on which they prey. In the Central Region, the ratio of lion to prey is 1:110, which is exceptionally high when compared to 1:1 000 in Tanzania's Serengeti. Lion in Kruger sometimes change their prey preferences during wet and dry cycles.During wet cycles it is easier to stalk and catch zebra and wildebeest, while in times of drought they tend to kill more buffalo, often animals that would anyway have perished from lack of food. Most predators are small in comparison to the mass of their prey. In Kruger, the combined biomass of the major predators is equal to just one per cent of their prey species. This is because between each feeding level in the food chain there is substantial loss of energy, so a 60-kilogram hyaena is dependent on 6 000 kilograms of hoofed animals, equivalent to a herd of 105 impala. The fate of all predators is therefore intricately interwoven with that of their prey.Young hyaena often rest outside their roadside dens. Hyaena clans are dominated by females, and a female pup inherits her mother's social status. Litters consist of one or two cubs, and if two females are born then one will invariably kill the other.A large Nile crocodile emerges from the water to feed on a hippo calf that had died in Sunset Dam. Crocodiles prefer fresh food, however, and catfish form the major portion of their diet. They perform an important ecological function in keeping the numbers of these hardy fish in check. During periods of above-average rainfall, crocodiles colonise dams up to 45 kilometres from perennial rivers.The black-backed jackal is a scavenger that is often seen on the fringes of a lion or cheetah kill, where it will wait for the opportunity to steal a morsel. An unusual behaviour pattern that has been observed is their tendency to follow larger predators, especially leopard, while emitting a repetitive yapping call that alerts other jackal to the possibility of a kill.A serval listens attentively for rodents scurrying through the dense grassland of a vlei near Orpen Dam. Serval prey mainly on rodents, especially vlei rats, and show a marked preference for tall grassland habitat situated near water.Many animals, especially predators like the small spotted genet and even antelope such as bushbuck and grey duiker, are active mainly at night and depend on their keen senses of smell and hearing to locate food. There is more action at night in Kruger than during the day. Hunters take advantage of the cover of darkness to stalk their prey, while grazers and browsers often feed actively at night because they experience less energy loss than during the day. Above: Terminalia at Dawn Late Afternoon Lions become restless; mothers play with cubs; pride energy levels rise in preparation for the night hunt; hyaenas emerge from their lairs; leopard get up from their day's rest; cheetah often hunt; wild dogs very active; impala move to the most open terrain around them; warthogs head for their burrows; baboons go to their roosts for the night; zebras seek a sleeping spot with minimal risk of ambush; rhinos become more active. Evening Lion and leopards begin hunting; hyaena hunt or scavenge; caracal are at their most active; cheetah settle down for the night; hippos emerge from rivers, often walking several kilometres away from water to graze, giraffe settle down to ruminate; impala rest as far from thick bush as possible; many antelope continue feeding; zebras settle down to sleep with one staying awake to watch out for predators; elephants browse; genets and civets do most of their hunting before midnight. Late Night Lion and hyaena hunt; cheetah and wild dogs usually asleep; impala get up for a late-night feed; bushbabies very noisy, zebra sleep; elephant often sleep at this time, sometimes standing up; lots of animals often feed, including buffalo, wildebeest and kudu. Pre-Dawn Lions often seen drinking at water holes or feeding on a kill; hyaena scavenge; prime hunting time for wild dog; cheetah - the most diurnal of the cats - get up to hunt; active time for serval which are also diurnal; impala rest. Daybreak Lions feed on the night's kill; hyaenas return to their dens; leopard often active for the first few hours of daylight before finding a good branch to rest on; impala feel safe enough to move back into wooded areas; hippos return to rivers to socialise and digest the night's food; cheetah hunt before the day's heat sets in; baboons wake up late. The Cheetah's body is built for speed. It's legs are relatively long compared to its greyhound-like body; it has a big heart and lungs and wide nasal passages. It is the fastest land animal, timed running at speeds of up to 114km/h. While the lion and the leopard rely on getting close to their intended prey before breaking cover, the cheetah's speed gives it an advantage in the more open savanna. Cheetahs are slightly taller than leopards but not as bulky, probably weighing between 40kg and 60kg. Can Cheetahs climb trees? Although cheetahs are members of the cat family, they have dog-like non-retractable claws. This limits cheetahs tree-climbing ability but gives them a speed advantage when charging. Typically, a cheetah will start a charge 60m to 100m from an antelope and, within seconds, will be racing at full tilt. If the buck is alerted in time, it will attempt to throw the cheetah off its trail by zigzagging and dodging between trees and shrubs. Using its long, heavy tail as a stabiliser, the cheetah will single-mindedly pursue its intended prey, trying to anticipate which way it will turn. How do Cheetahs kill their prey? At the right moment, the cheetah will knock the antelope off balance and grab it by the throat as it falls. Because of the relatively small jaws and teeth, cheetahs are not as effective in killing their prey as quickly as lions or leopards, and it can take between five and 25 minutes for its prey to die. The element of surprise in hunting is as important for cheetahs as it is for other big predators. While its speed gives it an edge, the cheetah's vulnerable point is its stamina. It will manage to run at top speed for only about 250m before it needs to catch its breath. After a high-speed chase, the cheetah desperately needs to rest for about half-an-hour - even before it eats its prey. This is when cheetahs are at their most vulnerable. They are often robbed of their kill by lions or hyaenas during this recovery spell. If the cheetah is unmolested, it normally devours its prey at the kill site. What do Cheetahs eat? A cheetah's food tastes are not as broad as that of the leopard, and it concentrates mostly on small and medium antelope. The cheetah's diet, comprises of the young of larger animals, as well as warthog, ground birds, porcupines and hares, as well as the smaller antelope. The cheetah's kill rate is hard to determine, but the consensus is that each cheetah kills between 30 and 150 animals a year, depending on its size, hunting frequency and the condition of the area. Experts believe a single cheetah ideally needs between one and three kilograms of meat a day to stay in shape. There has been some scientific discussion as to whether they should be classified as part of the dog family because of their non-retractable claws, but they exhibit too many cat-like features, including the ability to purr loudly. Cheetahs cannot roar but can growl and spit like a cat and sometimes they make a peculiar chirping noise. Unlike lions and leopards, cheetah don't define a territory to defend. They have a home range which they mark with urine, but will not actively fight off other cheetahs. Socially, cheetahs are somewhere on the scale between lions and leopards. They do not form prides as lions do but small groups of between four and six cheetahs can be common, particularly groupings of brothers. Cheetah probably live for between 12 and 15 years in the wild. Unlike most other major carnivores, they hunt during the day. Are Cheetahs dangerous? Can a Cheetah kill a human? Cheetahs are the most timid of the big cats and there is no record in southern Africa of a cheetah ever having attacked a human. The hyena is a shaggy, untidy and opportunistic carnivore with a distinctive, sloping back. It is a member of the dog family, weighing around 60kg (males can be heavier) and standing at about 80cm at the shoulder. Almost all hyenas in Kruger are the spotted hyaena. They are found throughout Kruger and the best places to see them are south-west Okavango, Savuti and Linyanti. The brown hyaena found in southern Africa's more arid environments. What do Hyenas do at night? The spotted hyaena hunts and scavenges by night and is closely connected in African folklore with the supernatural world. Anyone who has heard the sound of hyaenas in full cry around midnight would understand the animal's association with the dark arts. As a general rule, hyenas hunt more when they are the dominant carnivores in any particular habitat and tend towards scavenging when there are lots of other predators around. They are chancers of note, often taking great risks to snatch meat away from lions, and often being mauled to death in the process. Unlike the honest, authoritarian roar of the lion which resonates with purity and strength, the "laughing" hyena's utterances are hysterical and mocking, an eerie human-like giggling shriek that would not be out of place in a mental asylum. It's body parts command a premium price on the local muthi market, particularly the tail, ears, whiskers, lips and genitals. How do Hyenas hunt? Although hyenas sometimes hunt alone, they mostly hunt in packs. They have an almost uncanny ability to seek out the most vulnerable animal in a herd and isolate it from the others. Hyaenas are designed for the long haul and, as Kruger mammal expert Heike Schutze says, "they are high-stamina hunters relentless in the pursuit of their prey once they have tasted blood". Hyenas are mostly social, living in clans of between 10 and 40 animals, led by a dominant female. Social structures can be quite loose, however, with clan members shifting allegiances, breaking up and reforming. They are territorial, marking their hunting ground through communal defecation. Their territories vary in size depending on the amount of prey in the vicinity as well as the number of competing clans. The territory itself is not vigorously defended, but hyena clans will respond aggressively to other predators moving into their area. Hyenas are capable of short charges of up to 50km/h and can maintain a steady, fast pace in pursuing prey over several kilometres. Their prey usually succumbs to exhaustion and is pulled down and disembowelled by the pack. What do Hyenas eat? In packs, hyenas go for big game - wildebeest, zebra and kudu and, very occasionally, buffalo. When they hunt alone, they go for smaller animals such as baboons, guinea fowls, ostriches, snakes and tortoises. There is no love lost between lions and hyenas. Each will attack and kill the other's cubs, or elderly or sick individuals. Hyenas seem far less intimidated by lionesses than by lions, and are occasionally bold enough to try to bully lionesses off a kill if there are no males around. Are Hyenas smarter than lions? Hyenas are known for their cunning. They reputedly watch the skies for circling vultures to help them locate kills. They follow the path of least resistance in getting food and, as a result, have become quite ingenious - they've been seen trying to scoop out fish at drying water holes during times of drought. Spotted hyenas have the reputation of being scavengers, but studies have shown that, in Kruger, they tend to hunt more than they steal. Indeed, they are the second major group of predators in the Park after lion, probably accounting for more animal kills than leopard and cheetah combined. Hyena have tremendously powerful jaws, capable of crushing the thigh bone of a buffalo in one movement. If they are hungry, they will gorge themselves, eating up to a third of their own weight (15kg) at a single sitting! One of Africa's most unforgettable experiences is hearing the roar of a lion at night. When Ingonyama (Swazi) or Nghala (Shangaan) announces his presence with a deep roar that reverberates through the dark bush, everything within a five-kilometre radius pauses to take note. A thousand years ago, they roamed as far afield as southern Europe, the Middle East and Asia, but they are now found mainly in Africa and are generally restricted to the bigger game reserves. Lions have always had an association with royalty and leadership. Their power is reflected in their impressive size and the fact that their lifestyles allow them to sleep a lot - up to 18 hours a day. They are awesome animals, with males weighing up to 225kg and females up to 150kg. The lion's average lifespan in the bush is probably around 15 years. Lions are the biggest, and most social, of the African cats, living communally in prides. Pride leadership often shifts between several individual animals - male and female - but the social structure of the pride hinges around the bond between related lionesses, who collaborate in all tasks, from raising cubs to hunting. Male lions come and go - often in spectacular battles over territory or individual dominance - but the pride cohesion remains unaffected, firmly under female control. Lions favour open woodlands and thick scrub, the type of landscape that allows them to get as close to their prey as possible without being seen. In Kruger, the best chance of lion sightings is where the big game herds are. When do Lions hunt? As a rule, lions hunt mostly at night and rest during the day but are often active at dawn and dusk and on cooler days. During the day they rest in thorn thickets, often near water holes. How Often Does a Lion Hunt? How often do Lions eat? Lions are believed to feed every three or four days, and need on average between 5kg and 7kg of meat a day. How long can a Lion go without eating? Lions can go without food for more than a week and then tear into prey, eating up to 50kg of meat at a time - that's almost a quarter of the animal's body weight. How do lions hunt? Lions hunt either collaboratively or by themselves. Collaborative hunting usually involves the males approaching the intended prey upwind with the intention of driving it towards lionesses hiding in the bush downwind. Lions are not as fast as most of their prey so they rely heavily on the element of surprise when hunting. They will attempt to get to within 30m of their prey before charging. They don't have the inclination for a long chase and will not pursue their prey very far if the first attack fails. How do Lions kill their prey? In a successful hunt, the prey is knocked off balance, dragged down and then killed with a bite to the back of the neck or the throat. In some cases, a kill can be a bloody, drawn out procedure. Buffalo have been known to fend off lion attacks for hours before succumbing to loss of blood and energy. The strongest male lion will eat first, followed by other members of the pride. Lionesses will feed themselves first, with cubs getting the scraps. Ever wondered what animal can kill a lion? Lions sometimes become the victims of their intended prey. There have been instances in which lions have been killed by giraffe, buffalo, kudu, snakes and even porcupines. What Do Lions Eat? What does a Lion eat? The short answer is quite a lot. In Kruger, lions have a broad diet with 37 animal species on the menu, including ostriches, quelea nestlings, tortoises and small crocodiles. Their preference is for buffalo, giraffe, zebra and wildebeest among the bigger animals, and porcupine and warthog as smaller game. Natural history artist Charles Astley Maberly - who rode through the Park on his bicycle sketching the wildlife in the 1920s - said that, in his experience, lions had a particular preference for waterbuck. This was confirmed by a 1960s study by former Kruger Chief Ranger Tol Pienaar who measured the kill rate of lions in the Park against the relative abundance of particular prey. What Do Lions Hunt? He found that, although lion killed relatively few giraffe, giraffe meat accounted for almost a third of the average lion's diet. His study also found that, contrary to popular belief, lions are not so fond of impala. Kruger researchers suggest male and female lions may also have different prey preferences, with males being more disposed towards hunting buffalo, while lionesses prefer zebra or wildebeest. Another lion fact not commonly appreciated is that lions are not just hunters, but scavengers as well, often chasing smaller predators - like cheetah - off their kills. In some instances, up to 50% of a lion's diet can come from scavenging rather than hunting live prey. Lions on a Killing Spree During periods of drought, lions sometimes go on a killing spree when they come across herds of weak animals. During the particularly bad drought of 1964, a pride of lions killed 15 buffalo near Punda Maria - far more than they could have eaten. The territorial behaviour of lions is complicated because prides split up and re-unite, and hunting grounds shift as the seasons change and the game moves around. At any one time, a pride's territory in Kruger measures approximately 10 square kilometres. Territories may be defended vigorously by both males and females, but there are instances when prides share the same overlapping hunting zone yet deliberately avoid confrontation. Clashes occur between prides when game migrations force lions to move beyond their territories in search of food, or when nomadic males challenge pride hierarchies. Fights can take the form of symbolic aggression displays and/or ferocious physical clashes that often result in the death of one or more participants. If the challengers win, the defeated males are expelled and, in turn, become nomads themselves. The lionesses accept the new regime. Usually the conquering males kill all the cubs of the conquered pride. Within days of this infanticide the females come into oestrus and are ready to raise a new litter of the conquerer's cubs. Scientists believe that territorial challenges are good for the survival of the species - they ensure diversity in the gene pool and dominance of the strongest genetic characteristics. Lion Cubs Lionesses typically give birth to litters of between two and four cubs. They are kept hidden in the bush for about six weeks. During this time, the lioness hunts exclusively for her cubs. Males provide no help. By the time they are two years old, cubs will have learnt to hunt for themselves. At this time, male cubs are expelled from the pride while females are nurtured within it. These young males often form groupings of nomadic bachelors and either find new territories or challenge males in existing prides, and so the cyclical struggle for dominance goes on. How Do Lions Attack Their Prey? Lions hunt either alone or in prides. In collaborative hunts, it is usually the lioness who initiates the kill. Lions stalk their prey and, when close enough, attempt a short charge on their prey, trying either to pounce on their target or knock it over. How does a Lion kill its prey? Lions kill their prey by breaking its neck or suffocating it by clamping their jaws around its throat. The stomach is usually the easiest point of entry into the carcass, and this is the route most often taken by lions. It also gives them direct access to some of the most nutritious parts of the body, such as the kidneys and liver of the prey. Lions usually rest after an initial feed, lying a short way away from the carcass so that they can still defend their kill against scavengers. In a short time vultures are certain to begin to arrive. The first are usually the white-backed vultures and then come the lappet-faced and others. Scavengers like hyaenas and jackals will be attracted by the vulture activity and will patiently wait at a safe distance until the lions have had their fill. It can take over 24 hours before lions abandon their carcass and spectacular fights may occur among scavengers for the last scraps of food. Leopards are the least social - and perhaps the most beautiful - of the African big cats. They usually keep to themselves, lurking in dense riverine bush or around rocky koppies, emerging to hunt late in the afternoon or at night. How big is a Leopard? The leopard is a graceful animal with an elongated body, relatively short legs and a long tail. After the lion, the leopard is the next-biggest African cat with an average body mass of between 60kg and 70kg, standing about two-thirds of a metre tall at the shoulder. How long do Leopards live? Leopards in the wild may live up to 15 years. Unlike the lion, the leopard is a silent creature, only occasionally emitting a cough-like call. How do Leopards hunt? The leopard's hunting technique is to either ambush its prey or to stalk it. In either instance, it tries to get as close as possible to its target. It then makes a brief and explosive charge (up to 60km/h), pouncing on its prey and dispatching it with a bite to the neck. Leopards do not have the aptitude to chase their quarry over any kind of distance and will give up if the initial element of surprise is lost and the intended victim gets away. ©Robert Hofmeyr Leopard in a tree. What Does a Leopard Eat? Leopards eat a variety of food, from wildebeest to fish, but most of their diet comes in the form of antelope. How much weight can a Leopard carry up a tree? Leopards are capable of carrying animals heavier than themselves and will often drag their prey into the fork of a tree several metres off the ground. This tree "lardering" protects the carcass against scavengers and allows a few days of undisturbed feeding. Researchers believe that each individual leopard accounts for approximately 20 kills a year. Leopards eat on average about a third of the carcass of the animal they kill and this works out at roughly 400kg of meat per leopard each year. This means that leopards probably need just over a kilogram of meat a day. A leopard will often lick the fur off the carcass of its prey before it feeds, starting with the thighs or the chest. Leopard at night. Leopard Facts Leopards are highly adaptable creatures, capable of living in semi-desert conditions as well as dense subtropical bush. Their territories can also vary in size from 10 square kilometres, to several hundred square kilometres. Leopards scratch trees and use urine to mark their turf. A male leopard will defend his territory against other males, but will share territory with females. Baboons and leopards appear to be ancient enemies. Leopards will often stalk baboons sleeping in the trees at night, and try to carry off one of the troop. There has been a case recorded in which a leopard that tried to attack a baboon in broad daylight was torn to pieces by the rest of the troop, which quickly came to the shrieking primate's defence. Male and female leopards spend only a brief time together while they are mating and then go their separate ways. The female will then raise the cubs on her own. Leopards can survive for long periods without drinking, satisfying all their moisture needs from their prey. Ever wondered what eats Leopards? On occasion, Lions have been known to hunt and kill leopards. Name Side-striped Jackal [Canis adustus] Appearance The Side Striped Jackal (Canis adustus) is a nocturnal, dog-like carnivore, with a head and body length of 650-800 mm and tail length of 300-400 mm. Shoulder height 400- 500 mm, mass 7-12 kg. Timid and rarely seen the Side-striped Jackal is larger than the more common Black-backed Jackal. Grey to buff coloured body and with a darker back, the sides are marked with a white stripe with black lower margins. The dark tail is almost always tipped with white, whereas the ears are a dark buff colour. Diet The success of this omnivorous species can be attributed to its ability to live off a wide variety of food, changing its diet in response to environmental conditions. Diet includes small mammals, carrion, fruits, maize, reptiles, eggs and birds. The Side-striped Jackal is less predatory than the Black-backed Jackal. ©Roger de la Harpe Breeding Mating normally occurs during June-July, but some mating may take place throughout the year. After a gestation period of 57-64 days, four to six pups are born during August to November. Assistance with the rearing of pups is rendered by the previous year's offspring. Excavated termitaria and old Aardvark burrows are commonly used as dens. Both parents assist with rearing the young after weaning. They bring food to the pups in the mouth or regurgitate it at two to three hour intervals throughout the night. Behaviour During the breeding season a pair remains in close proximity. It is a highly territorial species, and each territory is held by a monogamous pair and their recent offspring. Offspring will eventually disperse and find their own territories. The Side Striped Jackal inhabits open plains. Where Side-striped Jackal Are Found In South Africa the Side-striped Jackal distributions stretches from Northern KwaZulu-Natal to Mpumalanga, the Northern Province and Swaziland. Field Notes The Side-striped Jackal feeds exclusively on fruit in season and will often dedicate its diet to availability during particular seasons. The Side-striped Jackal seldom targets large prey and as such does not pose a threat to stock farmers that the Black-backed Jackal does. African reptiles guide to the reptile species found in Kruger National Park. This Africa Reptiles guide includes information and photographs on: Snakes Lizards Tortoise Crocodiles Wahlbergs Velvet Gecko A large Wahlbergs Velvet Gecko . The back is light to dark grey-brown, usually with irregular pale and dark crossbars. Wahlbergs Velvet Gecko diet consists of large insects, termites and millipedes... Variable Skink A medium-sized Variable Skink with a rounded snout and a window in each lower lid. Colouration is variable; the back may be blackish, olive, pale brown or red-brown, with or without black spots... Vine Snake This extremely thin snake has a lance-shaped head and large eyes with keyhole-shaped pupils. The body scales of a Vine Snake are feebly keeled, in 19 oblique rows at midbody. The tail is very long... Striped Skink This medium-sized Striped Skink has a window in each of the lower eyelids. The ear openings are lobed. Colouration differs between the subspecies... Spotted Thick Toed Gecko A Spotted Thick Toed Gecko is a small, gentle gecko with a fat body and a rounded snout. The back is grey to greyish-brown, with 4 rows of elongated, blackish spots that are not white-edged and occasionally fuse into irregular... Spekes Hinged Tortoise A medium-sized tortoise with a smooth, depressed carapace with a well developed hinge. The shell of a juvenile Spekes Hinged Tortoise has a zonary pattern with concentric light and dark zones... Southern Tree Agama A Southern Tree Agama is a very large agama with a broad head. Breeding males have a dull blue to bluish back, with bright blue (anteriorly) to straw-yellow (posteriorly) spines and a bright cobalt-blue head... Serrated Hinged Terrapin The largest hinged terrapin is the Serrated Hinged Terrapin . The carapace and bridge are uniform black in colour. The plastron is yellow-centered, with a sharply defined, black, angular pattern around the edge... Rough Scaled Plated Lizard A large, stout lizard, with a short head and large eyes. The Rough Scaled Plated Lizard back is straw- coloured to light brown. The chin and throat are light straw to cream, and the belly is smoky-grey to light brown... Puff Adder The thick, heavily built Puff Adder has a large, flattened, triangular head and large nostrils which point vertically upwards. The body is yellow-brown to light brown, with black, pale-edged chevrons... Pan Hinged Terrapin A small Pan Hinged Terrapin with a rounded, smooth shell and a small plastral hinge; no axillary. The head is large, with a blunt snout and smooth beak; there are usually 2 tentacles under the chin... Ornate Sandveld Lizard A large Ornate Sandveld Lizard with a blotched pattern in adults. Juveniles are blackish-brown on the back with 3 white longitudinal stripes. Adults are brown dorsally with irregular black blotches... Olive Grass Snake An Olive Grass Snake is a large, robust snake with a non-flattened snout and a long tail. The back is olive-brown (paler towards the tail), sometimes with black-edged scales, forming thin black lines or with scattered... Leopard Tortoise A Leopard Tortoise may exceed 700 mm in length and 40 kg in weight. The carapace is domed and not hinged, with scutes only faintly raised. The nuchal is absent. The beak is sometimes hooked... Red Lipped Snake A small snake with a broad, obvious head and a short tail. The scales are in 19 rows at midbody and are dull; the head is iridescent when the skin is freshly shed. The back of the Red Lipped Snake is olive... Giant Plated Lizard A large lizard with a flattened head and body, an adult Giant Plated Lizard back is dark brown to black. The throat is dirty white, and the belly is light brown. Juveniles are black... Flap Neck Chameleon A large chameleon with a continuous crest of small, white, triangular tubercles on the throat and belly. The Flap Neck Chameleon colouration varies, from pale yellow through green shades to brown. The belly crest... Rainbow Skink A large, beautifully coloured skink with a small, transparent window in each lower eyelid. The relatively long forelimbs and hind limbs overlap when pressed against the body. The colouration of the Rainbow Skink is varied, depending on its sex and age... Cape Wolf Snake A small snake that grows larger in the southern part of its range, the Cape Wolf Snake has a flattened head. Colouration is usually uniform dark brown to black, sometimes with each scale white-tipped... Brown House Snake A large Brown House Snake has an obvious head and small body scales. It is uniform red-brown in colour. Large, old snakes are darker, almost black. There are 2 pale yellow streaks on the side of the head... Boomslang A large snake with a distinct head, and very large eyes with round pupils. Colouration of the Boomslang is very variable. They may be leaf-green, bright green or black with dark grey, black-edged belly scales, or brick-red to rust-red... Black Lined Plated Lizard A large, thick-bodied Black Lined Plated Lizard has a large, robust head. The back is reddish-brown with well-defined, black-edged, yellow dorsolateral stripes, and often with yellow streaks down the backbone... Black Mamba A large, streamlined snake with a narrow, coffin-shaped head and smooth scales. The back is uniform gunmetal to olive-brown but, despite its name, a Black Mamba is never really black. The belly is pale grey-green, sometimes... African Rock Python Africa's largest snake is the African Rock Python . There is a large spearhead mark on the crown of the head; dark and light bands radiating from eye to lip. The body is grey-green/-brown, with dark-brown, black-edged bars and blotches on top... Crocodile Given the wide distribution range, a number of population differences between Crocodiles have been observed, and several subspecies proposed. These are rarely differentiated in the literature, however, and they are... Vegetation Vegetation Plant life consists of four main areas, which correspond roughly to the four quadrants of the park. The main veld types are determined by the rainfall gradient (400 to 750 mm per annum) and geological substrates. Shrub mopane veld Shrub mopane covers almost the entire northeastern part of the park. Red bush-willow and mopane veld This area lies in the park's western half, north of the Olifants River. The two most prominent species here are the red bush-willow (Combretum apiculatum ) and the mopane tree (Colophospermum mopane ). Thorn trees and red bush-willow veld This area lies between the western boundary and roughly the centre of the park south of the Olifants River. Combretums , such as the red bush-willow (Combretum apiculatum ), and Acacia species predominate while there are a great number of marula trees (Sclerocarya caffra ). The Acacias are dominant along the rivers and streams, the very dense Nwatimhiri bush along the Sabie River between Skukuza and Lower Sabie being a very good example. Knob-thorn and marula veld South of the Olifants River in the park's eastern half, this area provides the most important grazing land. Species such as red grass (Themeda triandra ) and buffalo grass (Panicum maximum ) predominate while the knob-thorn (Acacia nigrescens ), leadwood (Combretum imberbe ) and marula (Sclerocarya caffra) are the main tree species. Local vegetation communities Several smaller areas in the park carry distinctive vegetation. The Pretoriuskop sourveld and Malelane mountain bushveld receive relatively high rainfall. Here sickle bush and silver cluster-leaf (Terminalia sericea ) are prominent. The sandveld communities northeast of Punda Maria are equally distinctive, with a wide variety of unique plant species. The bush-clad hills along the Levuvhu River also shelter an interesting floral diversity and some near-endemic species. Mammals Mammals Male lion African leopard South African cheetah African bush elephant crossing a road A pair of Southern white rhinoceros All the big five game animals are found at Kruger National Park, which has more species of large mammals than any other African game reserve (at 147 species). There are webcams set up to observe the wildlife. Kruger supports packs of the endangered African wild dog , of which there are thought to be only about 400 in the whole of South Africa. Birds Birds Harlequin quails (C. delegorguei) are irruptive migrants and late summer breeders in the grassy plains. They are plentiful nomads after good rains, but almost absent during dry years. Yellow-billed oxpeckers (B. africanus) are obligatory symbionts of large mammal herbivores. After an absence of over 80 years, they made an unaided comeback starting in 1979. A fairly uniform aggregate of bird species is present from the southern to central areas of the park, but a decline in diversity is noticeable in the mopane -dominated flats northwards of the Olifants . Most species breed in summer when rains sustain most vegetable and animal food, but the larger birds of prey conversely breed during the dry winter, when their prey is most exposed. Out of the 517 species of birds found at Kruger, 253 are residents, 117 non-breeding migrants, and 147 are nomads. Constituting the southern lowveld , the park's avifaunal affinities are mainly with the tropical north. Some representatives of this group are the African openbill , hooded vulture , Dickinson's kestrel , white-crowned lapwing , brown-necked parrot , Senegal coucal , broad-billed roller , trumpeter hornbill , Böhm's spinetail , tropical boubou , Meves's starling and scarlet-chested sunbird . Some 30 waterbird and wader species are dependent on the rivers or associated dams, including the African finfoot , white-backed night heron , white-crowned lapwing and water thick-knee . Other species are limited to riparian thicket or forest, including African goshawk , crested guineafowl , Natal spurfowl , Narina trogon , Pel's fishing owl , bearded scrub robin , terrestrial brownbul and black-throated wattle-eye . This habitat is often reduced by drought[ or floods or the understorey is opened up by elephant. Some of the larger birds require large territories or are sensitive to habitat degradation. Six of these birds, which are by and large restricted to Kruger and other extensive conservation areas, have been assigned to a fanciful grouping called the "Big Six Birds". They are the lappet-faced vulture , martial eagle , saddle-billed stork , kori bustard , ground hornbill and the reclusive Pel's fishing owl , which is localized and seldom seen. The 2011 aerial survey found 22 martial eagle nest sites, the 2015 survey an additional 17, while the 2020 survey found 70 nest locations in all, though the activity of these has yet to be determined. There are 25 to 30 breeding pairs of saddle-billed storks in the park, besides a handful of non-breeding individuals. In 2012 178 family groups of ground hornbills roamed the park and 78 nests were known, of which 50% were active. A 2013 study estimated that 904 pairs of white-backed vulture , 78 pairs of lappet-faced vulture and 60 pairs of white-headed vulture breed in the park. Other vertebrates Kruger is inhabited by 126 species of reptile, including black mambas , African rock pythons , and 3,000 Nile crocodiles . As yet, knowledge of the densities and distributions of the reptiles, especially on smaller spatial scales, is limited by sampling bias and a strong dependence on the park's public infrastructure is evident. Thirty-three species of amphibians are found in the park, as well as 50 fish species. A Zambesi shark, Carcharhinus leucas, also known as the bull shark , was caught at the confluence of the Limpopo and Luvuvhu Rivers in July 1950. Zambezi sharks tolerate fresh water and can travel far up rivers like the Limpopo. Invertebrates A seasonally fluctuating biomass of arthropods is observed in response to the summer rainfall regime and the mostly deciduous vegetation, as shown by sampling during 11 months in grassland near Satara Camp. 219 species of butterfly and skipper are native to the park. The fastest and most robust of these belong to the genus Charaxes , of which 12 species have been recorded. Genera Papilio and Acraea are also well-represented, with about 10 and 15 species respectively. The total number of Lepidoptera species in the park is unknown but could be in the order of 7,000, many of which range widely in African savanna . The mopane moth in the northern half of the park is one of the best known, and communities outside the park have at times been given permits to harvest their caterpillars. The park has a high diversity of termites and 22 genera are known to occur, including the mound-building genera Macrotermes , Cubitermes , Amitermes , Odontotermes and Trinervitermes . A new species of woodlouse , Ctenorillo meyeri, has been discovered inside termite nests , east of Phalaborwa and near Mopani Rest Camp. It is the first instance of a termitophilous species from the family Armadillidae . Many species of mosquito occur in the park, including the Culex , Aedes and Anopheles genera which target mammals. A. arabiensis is the most prevalent of the 9 or more Anopheles species in the park, and their females transmit malaria . As of 2018, 350 species of arachnids , excluding ticks and mites, are known from Kruger. These are mostly true spiders , including 7 species of baboon spider , but also 9 scorpion and 7 pseudoscorpion species, 18 solifugid species (sun and roman spiders), 2 species of harvestmen and 1 species of tailless whip scorpion . There are 54 species of snakes found in Kruger Park, only nine of which are deadly poisonous. Although the black mamba is often portrayed as the most dangerous snake in Africa, 90% of bites to humans are actually by the Mozambique spitting cobra and the puff adder.The largest African snake - the python - is fairly common, but difficult to see. It can grow up to five metres in length and kills its prey by wrapping its body around the victim and crushing it. It's very rare to come across snakes in Kruger, even during the guided wilderness walks. Snakes tend to shy away from humans and only attack if they're caught by surprise. Nonetheless, one should be cautious at camps and lookout points. If you come across a snake in a camp, please alert the camp staff immediately. The Killer Snakes of Kruger African Rock Python (Python sebae) Characteristics Largest snake in Africa - up to 5m long; crushes its prey to death; generally nocturnal but seen during the day Prey Dassies, hares, cane rats, birds; has been known to take impala and young antelope and warthogs Habitat Mixed woodlands near water; very good tree climbers Egyptian Cobra (Naja haje) Characteristics Largest cobra, approx 1,5m long; when disturbed it rears up and displays a broad hood; very fast moving striker with toxic venom Prey Small mammals, birds and their eggs, frogs Habitat Mixed woodlands near water Black Mamba (Dendroaspis polylepis) Characteristics One of the most poisonous snakes in Africa; about 2m long; very fast strikers and can slither at speeds of up to 15km/h Prey Birds, rodents, dassies and other small animals Habitat Dry lowveld bush; lives in abandoned termite hills, animal holes and among rocks; loves basking in the sun Puff Adder (Bitis arietans) Characteristics Responsible for more human bites than all other African snakes combined - most attacks are because it is trodden on; front fangs make venom delivery extremely effective; sluggish, fat snake about 1,5m long Prey Rodents, birds, other snakes; a puff adder has once been recorded killing a tortoise Habitat Very fond of lying in the sun; found in all Kruger habitats - one of the most widely distributed snakes in Africa Mozambique Spitting Cobra (Naja mossambica peters) Characteristics One of the most poisonous snakes in Africa; rears up two-thirds of its body length when disturbed, displays hood and spits venom with amazing accuracy (they can spit venom into the eyes of an aggressor three metres away);average length approximately 1m Prey Birds' eggs, small mammals and reptiles Habitat Mixed savanna woodland; favours hollow trees and abandoned burrows near water Twig Snake (Thelotornis capensis) Characteristics Slender, fast-moving tree snake about 1,3m long; can stay motionless for long periods of time; well camouflaged and very poisonous Prey Birds and their nestlings and eggs Habitat Mixed woodland near water Boomslang (Dispholidus typus) Characteristics Highly venomous, greenish tree snake, about 1,5m long Prey Birds' eggs, small mammals and reptiles Habitat Thick woodlands near water Other notable reptiles in Kruger are two species of monitor lizards (leguaans), the water and the rock monitors. The water leguaan can be up to two metres long and is found at permanent water sources in Kruger. It feeds mainly on fish, crabs, mussels, small animals and birds. Rock monitors can be found quite far from water in rocky outcrops and crevices. They grow up to 1,5m and feed on small mammals, birds, eggs, other reptiles and insects. Illustration: Chris Snaddon Africa Snake Guide African Rock Python The African Rock Python is Africa's largest snake. There is a large spearhead mark on the crown of the head; dark and light bands radiating ...more Black Mamba A large, streamlined snake with a narrow, coffin-shaped head and smooth scales. The back is uniform gunmetal to olive-brown, but never real...more Brown House Snake Brown House Snake [Lamprophis capensis]. A large house snake with an obvious head and small body scales. It is uniform red-brown in colour....more Cape Wolf Snake The Cape Wolf Snake is a small snake that grows larger in the southern part of its range. It has a flattened head. Colouration is usually un...more Egyptian Cobra Egyptian Cobras may be a uniform light brown, black, or a light yellowish brown colour. The Egyptian Cobra is found throughout North Africa ...more Olive Grass Snake The Olive Grass Snake is a large, robust snake with a non-flattened snout and a long tail. The back is olive-brown (paler towards the tail),...more Puff Adder Puff Adder [Bitis arietans]. The Puff Adder is an aggressive snake and is known to attack with little warning. Puff Adder venom is cytotoxic...more Red Lipped Snake The Red Lipped Snake is a small snake with a broad, obvious head and a short tail. The scales are in 19 rows at midbody and are dull; the he...more Rhombic Egg Eater The Rhombic Egg-Eater is a slender, solid snake with a small, rounded head. The tail is short; males have shorter tails. The back is slate-g...more Spotted Bush Snake Spotted Bush Snake [Philothamnus semivariegatus]. A very slender snake with a flat, distinct head and a long tail. The body is bright green...more Vine Snake Southern Vine Snake, Twig Snake, Bird Snake [Thelotornis capensis capensis]. This extremely thin snake has a lance-shaped head and large eye. An extraordinary and colourful history of the Kruger National Park including the San people, Voortrekkers and various gold prospectors.The first explorer to set foot in the region was the Dutchman François de Cuiper who led a Dutch East India Company expedition to explore. However, the expedition was attacked and driven by local tribes-people near Gomondwane. Only around 1838 Voortrekker expeditions led by Lous Trichardt and Hans van Rensburg were able to successfully establish forward outposts.Hundreds of Europeans and farmers came to the Lowveld lured by rumours of gold and the great quantity of valuable commodities such as ivory and skins. This caused the number of game to dramatically decrease due to hunting and trading of animal skins and horns.President Paul Kruger was told about the rapid destruction of wildlife in the area by hunters, after which he succeeded to persuade the Transvaal parliament to establish a protected area for wildlife in the Lowveld region.The very first ranger in the reserve was Paul Bester who made his residence in a rustic rondavel (hut) which is now the site of the headquarters camp, Skukuza. Documents concerning the History of the Kruger National Park can be viewed at the Skukuza Library.Half a million years ago, the first stone age hunters roamed the plains in search of game. Later the plains were inhabited by modern day bush men who have left fascinating rock paintings all over the Republic of South Africa. The Kruger National Park contains over one hundred sites of these paintings. The Kruger National Park is a living memorial to President Paul Kruger and those who have upheld his vision of a protected wilderness reserve which will forever remind us of that which we are so dangerously close to losing. Learn more about the fascinating history of Kruger National Park. Ancient Kruger Park History Kruger National Park embodies not only the spirit of wild Africa but is a window into the world that gave birth to humanity itself. Learn more about the Ancient Kruger Park History . History and Geography Kruger National Park is South Africa's largest and second oldest safari park, spanning over 19 455 square kilometres. Find out more about the History and Geography of Kruger Park . Historical Landmarks History enthusiasts are spoilt for choice with a number of monuments, memorials and gravesites throughout the park that dates back to the 19th century. Explore Kruger Park Historical Landmarks . Forefathers of Kruger Park Explore this overview of some of the early Forefathers of Kruger Park including Paul Kruger who first proclaimed the National Park while he was president and James Stevenson Hamilton, the park's first warden. Vintage Ranger Journals After the majestic Big 5, the Vintage Kruger Park Ranger Journals are the true treasures of the Kruger National Park. Read more about Vintage Kruger National Park Ranger Journals . African Culture Southern Africa is a land of old tales and vibrant history. Kruger Park visitors can learn about local people who made their home in South Africa. Find out all you need to know about African Culture . Threats The park's ecosystem is subject to several threats, including intensive poaching, urban development at its borders, global warming and droughts, animal overpopulation, and mining projects. Light pollution produced by rest camps and nearby towns affects the biodiversity of Kruger National Park. In particular, it alters the composition of nocturnal wildlife and the hunting behaviour of predators. In 2022 it was announced that Nkosi City, an R8 billion development is planned near the western border of the park. Floods or raising of the walls of the Massingir and Corumana dams in Mozambique could potentially damage, by silting, the pristine gorges of the Olifants and Sabie rivers respectively. The Olifants River Gorge has a deep, single thread, pool-rapid structure which is home to many crocodiles, besides hippos and fish. The fish population of the Olifants has already been diminished by hundreds of dams in its upper reaches. Anti-poaching measures See also: Rhinoceros poaching in Southern Africa Kruger is not exempt from the threat of poaching that many other African countries have faced. Many poachers are in search of ivory from elephant tusks or rhino horns, which are similar in composition to human fingernails. The park's anti-poaching unit consists of 650 SANParks game rangers , assisted by the SAPS and the SANDF (including the SAAF ). As of 2013, the park is equipped with two drones borrowed from Denel and two Aérospatiale Gazelle helicopters, donated by the RAF to augment its air space presence. Automated movement sensors relay intrusions along the Mozambique border to a control center, and a specialist dog unit has been introduced. Buffer zones have been established along the border with Mozambique, from where many poachers have infiltrated the park, as an alternative to costly new fences. The original 150 km long fences were dropped in 2002 to establish the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park .The national anti-poaching committee oversees all activities and coordinates interested parties. Poachers Kruger's big game poachers operate with night vision instruments and large caliber rifles, fitted with suppressors and sophisticated telescopic sights .They are mostly Mozambique citizens that initiate their carefully planned incursions from the border region of South Africa and Mozambique. In 2012 some 200 poachers were apprehended, while about 30 were killed in skirmishes In July 2012, a Kruger game ranger and policeman were the first to die in an anti-poaching operation, while other employees reported intimidation by poachers. A Kruger personnel strike affected some anti-poaching operations, and some employees have been directly implicated. Rangers in and around the park have been pressured or blackmailed by poaching syndiates o provide intelligence on the whereabouts of rhinos and anti-poaching operations. In December 2012, Kruger started using a Seeker II drone against rhino poachers. The drone was loaned to the South African National Parks authority by its manufacturer Denel Dynamics , South Africa. In June 2019, a Helix surveillance aircraft system was deployed on night missions in the park, and apprehended half a dozen suspected poachers. Other threats to poachers include the dangerous nature of the park itself. In February 2018, a poacher was believed to have been trampled by elephants and then eaten by lions, leaving rangers to later find only a human skull and a pair of trousers, alongside a loaded hunting rifle. In December 2021, two accused poachers were arrested in the Kruger National Park's Skukuza after they were discovered in possession of unauthorized rifles and ammunition. Rhino Poachers make no distinction between white and black rhinos, but losses of black rhinos are low due to their reclusive and aggressive nature. Rhino horn fetches between $66,000 and $82,000 per kilogram, and the CITES ban has proved largely ineffectual against the trade in rhino horn. The second horn is sometimes also hacked from the skull to obtain about 100 ml of moisture that is sold locally as traditional medicine . Poaching rhino horn escalated in the 21st century, with 949 rhinos killed in Kruger in the first 12 years, and more than 520 in 2013 alone. A memorandum of agreement is seen as a necessary milestone in stemming the tide between South Africa and Vietnam, in addition to the one with China, while negotiations have not yet started with Thailand. The amount of rhino horn held in storage is not publicly known.Since 2009, some Kruger rhinos have been fitted with invisible tracing devices in their bodies and horns which enable officials to locate their carcasses and to track the smuggled horns by satellite. South Africa's 22,000 white and black rhinos represent some 93% of these species' world population, 12,000 of which are found in Kruger. Elephant Kruger experienced significant elephant poaching in the 1980s. Due to international and national efforts, including a worldwide ban on ivory sales beginning in 1989, the poaching was abated for many years, but a sharp rise in 2014 has continued and the numbers of elephants poached per year in the park is growing at an alarming rate. Following approval by CITES, 47 tonnes of stockpiled ivory from Kruger were auctioned on 6 November 2008. The sale fetched approximately US$6.7 million which was allocated to increased anti-poaching measures. The intention was to flood the market, crash prices and make poaching less profitable. But instead, the legal sale was followed by "an abrupt, significant, permanent, robust and geographically widespread increase" in elephant poaching, as subsequent research showed. The latest Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES), summit voted down proposals for further one-off ivory sales from stockpiles for having led to increases in poaching across the continent. Across the continent the African elephant population decreased 30% in the period between 2007 and 2014. Other It is foreseen that the placement of wire traps to procure meat would eventually become the most challenging form of poaching. A scheme has been proposed to reward adjacent communities with the proceeds of game sales in return for their cooperation in game preservation.The larger communities include Bosbokrand, Acornhoek, Hazyview, Hoedspruit, Komatipoort, Malelane, Marloth Park, Nelspruit and Phalaborwa. Communities along the northern boundary have complained about a number of issues that affect them, including livestock killed by escaped predators. In 2021 and 2022 there were cases of poisoning of carcasses near Punda Maria, evidently to obtain the body parts of scavengers. Gates to the Kruger Park North & South Gates Kruger National Park Pafuri Gate (northernmost entrance to the park) Punda Maria Gate (another northern entrance) Crocodile Bridge (a southeastern entrance to the park) Phabeni Gate (a southwestern entrance to the park) The Kruger Park has the following gates: NameRoadFrom TownCoordinates Crocodile Bridge Gateon the extension of Rissik Streetfrom Komatipoort 25°21′30″S 31°53′37″E Malelane Gateon the R570 off the N4 near Malelane 25°27′43″S 31°31′59″E Numbi Gateon the R569 roadfrom Hazyview 25°9′19″S 31°11′51″E Phabeni Gateon the road off the R536 from Hazyview 25°01′30″S 31°14′29″E Paul Kruger Gateon the R536 road from Hazyview 24°58′53″S 31°29′7″E Orpen Gateon the R531 road from Klaserie24°28′33″S 31°23′27″E Phalaborwa Gateon the R71 roadfrom Phalaborwa 23°56′44″S 31°9′54″E Punda Maria Gateon the R524 road from Thohoyandou 22°44′18″S 31°0′33″E Pafuri Gateon the R525 road from Musina 22°24′1″S 31°2′29″ Rainy Season (October to March) The subtropical climate has hot rainy summers starting in October and ending around March. The summer rains transform the arid park into a lush flowering paradise, but the increased foliage does make animals harder to see. Dry Season (April to September) The winter months from April to September are extremely pleasant with warm dry days and cold nights. Traditionally, the best game viewing is in the winter as the vegetation becomes sparse and water is restricted to rivers and water holes. Visitors going on night-drives will require warm clothing. Sighting the “Big Five” has become something of a quest for many people when on safari, and the Kruger National Park has more than its fair share of these, with an estimated 1,500 lion, 17,000 elephant, 48,000 buffalo and 1,000 leopards. It should certainly not be a pre-requisite of a safari to see these or even a priority, as there are plenty of other fascinating animals and birds in the African bush. Kruger is one of the premier game-watching destinations in the world. Approximately 147 mammal species occur in the park. It is possible to see all the classical African big game, including elephant (KNP Elephant Census Summary), black and white rhino, hippopotamus, giraffe, zebra, buffalo, warthog and many antelope species. Large carnivores include lion, leopard, cheetah, wild dog and spotted hyena. There are also many smaller mammals equally enticing species. Kruger National Park is best known for its big game sitings and large expanses of wilderness; however, Kruger has a unique cultural and historical landscape and diversity, with well over 255 recorded archaeological sites ranging from early Stone Age (roughly 1 million years ago) to various Iron Age settlements and recent historical buildings and sites. Many of these sites hold cultural and spiritual importance, while others reveal an exciting and romantic history of the area. Conservation of these sites is imperative due to their cultural and spiritual value and the historical importance. As national stewards of the conservation of the area we are legally bound to protect these sites. Sites that are currently open to the public are: Albasini Ruins Masorini Ruins Thulamela IWildlife South Africa Albasini Ruins The remains of the 19th century trading post of the famous Portuguese trader, Joao Albasini is found at the new Phabeni Gate, 10 km from Hazyview. Over the ages trading activity has taken place in the south-eastern region of Africa. Lourenco Marques, now known as Maputo (Mozambique) would have been the starting point (or end point) of many of the ancient trading routes that criss-crossed the countryside. When Albasini arrived in the, then Portuguese occupied, port in the early 1800’s, he began setting up his trading business. He set up a network of trading routes that reached the inland as far as the Lowveld and by 1845 he had established a trading post at Magashula’s Kraal (now known as Albasini Ruins). This trading post was conveniently positioned along two of these ancient trade routes. It is popular belief that Albasini’s settlement at Magashula’s Kraal was the first European settlement in the disease ridden Lowveld. He only stayed here for a short time and moved to the growing town of Ohrigstad, where he married 18year old Gertina Maria Petronella Janse van Rensburg. Shortly after, they moved to the new town at the foot of the Soutpansberg Mountains, Schoemansdal. Here Albasini established himself on the farm “Goedewensch” which proved to be a very prosperous time him and his family. In 1858 he was appointed vice-consul of Portugal in the ZAR as well as a superintendent of the Native tribes in and around the Schoemansdal area. His election as vice-consul made it necessary for a postal service to run from Goedewensch to Lourenco Marques every month by a Portuguese soldier, the Boer government was offered the to make use of the opportunity. He remained in service as vice-consul until 1872. Albasini most probably inherited his adventurous spirit and business sense from his father, who was an ivory trader under the Portuguese flag. When Albasini was 17 years old he accompanied his father on one of his trading journeys to Brazil and Lourenco Marques. According to legend their ship was stranded on the east coast of Africa and Albasini, with the help of his father and his determination began setting up his own trade business. His father left for Lisbon shortly afterwards never again to see his son. Under the difficult conditions of poor trade and threat of the deadly diseases, such as malaria and tsetse fly, Albasini was determined to make a success of his career. He began trading the merchandise his father left him and annually, during the safer winter months, he would take clothes, beads, knives and mirrors along the ancient trade routes into the interior of the sub-continent and exchange them for ivory. He would return laidened, when the dangerous summer months began approaching. This ivory was then traded with visiting ships for ammunition, merchandise and foodstuffs. On his first trip to the newly established Boer (Afrikaans) town, Ohrigstad, Albasini bought some land from the Kutswe chief Magashula for 22 head of cattle. Here he established his first mentioned trading post. This post was conveniently positioned along two ancient trade routes and offered wonderful opportunities of trade with both the local black people and the Boers. He would transport goods from Lourenco Marques through the tsetse fly area to Magashula’s kraal for the Boers, who would then travel down the escarpment to collect their goods. Albasini also appointed two headmen to run two other posts, one at the foot of Manugukop (just south of Pretoriuskop), which was run by Manugu, after whom the koppie was named. The other was run by Josekhulu near Ship Mountain (along the Voortrekker Road). Albasini only stayed at Magashula’s Kraal for two years, as he was drawn by the growing settlements on the escarpment. In 1847 he bought a farm outside Ohrigstad and opened a shop there. Magashula’s Kraal was renowned for its fine white bread, which was made from grain grown at the post Albasini was born to an Italian father and Spanish mother in Lisbon in May 1813. He enjoyed his childhood with his parents and brother and sister in Lisbon. In 1830 at the age of 17 years he arrived on the East Coast of Africa. He had a strong personality, sharp intellect and determination and due to this he became a personage in the Portuguese Port of Lourenco Marques (Mozambique). He played an important role in establishing this port as the gateway to the seas for the Zuid Afrikanshe Rebuliek (ZAR) and was the first Portuguese to trade with the Boers (Afrikaners) in Ohrigstad. Masorini Ruins This late Iron Age site can be found on a prominent hillside just 12 km from the Phalaborwa gate on the tar road to Letaba rest camp (39km from Letaba on the Phalaborwa road). The site was inhabited by the Sotho speaking BaPhalaborwa during 1800’s, who developed an advanced and sophisticated industry of mining, smelting iron ore and trading in these iron products. Dome shaped clay furnaces found on the site were used to smelt the iron ore. Skin bags attached to the end of clay piping were used as bellows. These clay pipes led into the dome furnaces through 2-3 openings. The ore would flow into the middle of the furnace due to the inward sloping floors and once cooled would be removed and stored. When there was enough smelted ore for production it would be reheated, beaten (to remove impurities) and moulded into the desired products such as spears, arrowheads and simple agricultural implements. For over a thousand years trading was an integral part of life on the sub-continent with trade taking place inland between different groups and along the coast with Arab and Chinese merchants. Due to this various trade routes were established, with an important one bypassing Phalaborwa where metal was worked and traded for glass beads, ivory, animal products and food. Trade between the BaPhalaborwa at Masorini and the Venda in the North and the Portuguese on the east coast increased smelting and ensured a greater independence for them. Through archaeological and ethnographic investigations the site has been reconstructed as truthfully as possible. The huts have recently been renovated by local BaPhalaborwa people living on the borders of the park. There is a site museum and picnic area at the foot of the hill and guided tours to the top where the reconstructed huts and furnace can be seen. Thulamela Thulamela is a stone walled site is situated in the Far North region of the Park and dates back to approximately 450 – 500 years before present (BP). This late Iron Age site forms part of what is called the Zimbabwe culture which is believed to have started at Mapungubwe. Mapungubwe’s decline coincided with the increase of Great Zimbabwe’s importance. When Great Zimbabwe was abandoned about 300 years later, possibly due to political break down, several groups moved south across the Limpopo river into the North Eastern areas of South Africa (and Northern Kruger) and established new smaller chiefdoms such as Thulamela. Sacred Leadership It is believed that the notion and system of sacred leadership developed both from an increase in trade along the east coast and in the interior as well as from an increase in population at Mapungubwe. According to oral histories the Nyai division of the Shona – speaking Lembethu occupied Thulamela and believed that there was a mystical relationship between their leader and the land. They believed that the ancestors of the leader (or Khosi) would intercede on behalf of the nation. The Khosi, who was an elusive figure and could only be seen by certain individuals, lived in a secluded hilltop palace in view of the commoners as an indication of his sacredness. The Khosi had a number of officials working for him, some of the most important included: The Messenger – a close and trusted confident who kept the chief informed of all court proceedings and visitors Personal Diviner and Herbalist – safeguarded the Chief’s health and scrutinized the intention of the visitors Makhadzi (ritual sister) – the chief ruled together with her. Her function was that of national advisor and had to be kept informed of all decisions taken by the council. She was also instrumental in the appointment of a new chief. Khotsimunene (brother) – legal expert in charge of the public court. If a commoner wished to meet the Khosi he would go to a special chamber with two entrances (one from the Khosi’s hut which he would use and the other for the visitor). The chamber was divided probably by a central wall separating the visitor from the Khosi and so emphasis the Khosi’s sacredness. Trade at Thulamela Trade was an integral part of life at Thulamela and trade networks extended though the interior of the continent to include Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Central Africa (evidence given by the iron gong on the site) At the time that Thulamela was occupied trade on the Indian Ocean was dominated by Muslim Traders which facilitated movement of goods from the Middle East, India, South East Asia and China. Ivory and gold were often traded along the east coast (possibly at Sofala, present day Biera) for glass beads, clothe and glazed ceramics. Thulamela Trail Cost: R240 per person payable at Punda Maria camp. Booking: It is advisable to make a prior booking at least one week in advance. Age group: 12 years and above. Group size: minimum of 2, maximum of 8. Pick-up point: Punda Maria and Pafuri picnic sites. Departure time: 07:00 Transport: Provided in the form of a ten-seater open safari vehicle. Own transport is also allowed. Refreshments: No food or drinks are available. Requirements: Water bottle, cap and camouflaged clothing. Safety boots are preferable. Food and Farming The site was most probably chosen due to the fertile soils of the area where various kinds of sorghum and millets were farmed. The grains from these crops would be ground to be used for porridge and beer. Clay spindle wheels would suggest that cotton was also cultivated for making cloth. The spindles were used to spin the thread by the women while men would weave the thread on low flat looms fixed to the ground. While the Khosi lived in a stone walled palace on top of a hillside, the commoners most probably lived near their fields The numerous potshards found on the site are the remains of discarded clay pots made by the women at Thulamela for cooking, eating and drinking. The pots were of various shapes and sizes, and often decorated. Graves During the excavations 2 graves were found beneath hut floors. Graves offer information about individuals of the past by reflecting belief systems from the burial itself, technology from the grave objects and from the bones diet, health, stature, sex and age. he first skeleton was that of a female and dates to around AD 1600. The person was aged between 45 -60 years and was + 1.73m tall. The roughly oval shaped grave had been dug through a hut in the wives area and the person was laid on her side. The second skeleton was that of a male which dated to around AD 1450, which could suggest that the person never lived at Thulamela. The skeleton was also broken and packed in a square shape, suggesting that the person did not die on the site. Start Now Experience a Kruger Park Safari of a Lifetime It doesn’t get much better than a Kruger Park safari. Home to the widest diversity of wildlife in South Africa and delivering some of the finest game viewing in the world, Kruger offers award-winning accommodation, smooth-running logistics and some of Africa’s best trackers and guides, ready to take you on Big 5 game drives and thrilling walking safaris. Among the World’s Very Best Big 5 Sightings If ticking off seeing the Big 5 – leopard, lion, elephant, rhino and buffalo – is on your bucket list, then choose a Kruger safari. It’s not unusual to see all five in one day. As one of the oldest conservation areas in Africa, Kruger regularly delivers fantastic wildlife sightings with healthy populations of sought-after species like cheetah and wild dog plus excellent birding. Up-close, reliable Big 5 sightings all year round Tracker-and-guide teams work together to find sightings No crowds at sightings (private reserves only) Few fences so wildlife can roam freely Show me the Big 5 A Safari for Every Traveller Kruger is ideal because of its excellent infrastructure, good travel network, professional guides and superb service. If you need creature comforts like Wi-Fi, air conditioning, exclusive-use vehicles or private plunge pools, then Kruger’s accommodation offers plenty to choose from. If you love being active on vacation, then Kruger’s lodges offer a wide variety of activities such as archery, wine tasting, star gazing, tennis, cooking lessons, yoga and specialist photography courses. Experience the Big 5 on a Kruger National Park family safari Ideal for first-time travellers Well-suited for wheelchair-friendly safaris Fall in love with Kruger on a honeymoon safari Build memories on a Kruger luxury safari Well-catered for kosher and halal-friendly safaris Find your safari Great Destination for Celebrations Just as Kruger is ideal for every type of traveller, it also lends itself to celebrations. Honeymooners will love the star beds and romantic sundowners while multi-generational families with children will feel safe and secure in fenced lodges with kids’ clubs. Whether it’s a marriage, an anniversary, a graduation or a family reunion, Kruger has enough accommodation and budget options to suit every occasion. Plus, there is much to do outside Kruger such as playing golf, going hot-air ballooning, visiting animal sanctuaries and hiking natural beauty spots. Plan your dream honeymoon with private plunge pools, romantic dining and couple’s spa treatments. Celebrate your children’s graduation at a family-friendly lodge. Mark your loved-one’s birthday with special sundowners in the bush. Experience a romantic Kruger safari for your anniversary. Celebrated a Significant Birthday in Kruger Go2Africa recently crafted a wonderful package in the Kruger and Mozambique for me and my partner to celebrate a significant birthday. Every detail was carefully taken into consideration. A safari & beach resort experience dreams are made of. - Fiona Proctor Read more reviews► Kruger Is Perfect for Walking and Guided Safaris The Kruger offers top-notch classic safaris where expert guides and trackers go in search of the Big 5 in customised 4×4 vehicles. For the truly adventurous, lodges like Rhino Post in the national park, Africa on Foot in Klaserie and Ngala Safari Lodge in Timbavati offer walking safaris, where your game drives can be replaced by venturing out on your own steam with a guide to discover Kruger’s fascinating ecosystem. Classic 4×4 safaris with tracker-and-guide teams. Adventurous walking safaris allow you to discover the smaller fauna and flora. Walk with an armed ranger through big game territory. Birders will enjoy ticking off almost 520 recorded species on game drives or walks. Private Reserves = Fewer Crowds For genuine exclusivity, low visitor numbers and sensational game viewing, we recommend a safari in Kruger’s private reserves including the Sabi Sands , Thornybush and Singita’s concessions. Leading the way in luxury safaris, these exclusive-use conservation areas are world famous for their virtually guaranteed Big 5 sightings. Other benefits and highlights of private reserve: Private off-road guided game drives Vehicle limit at wildlife sightings Luxurious lodges: star beds, spas, Wi-Fi and private pools Best safari food in Africa (award-winning chefs) High concentration of leopards Area known for seeing all the Big 5 in a single day Convenient Travel Logistics & Easily Combined with Other Destinations The Greater Kruger area is one of the most easily reachable wildlife areas in Africa. After jetting into the main hub of OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, you can either take a short-haul flight onto one of the three airports outside Kruger or be driven in air-conditioned comfort. Once you’re there, moving between lodges is by vehicle, which doubles as a game drive. The private reserves are compact and transfer times are comparatively short, meaning you spend more time on safari and less time travelling. The plethora of air connections allow you to easily merge your Kruger safari with other destinations. Easily combined with island holidays: Mozambique and Mauritius Easily accessible to: Cape Town and Victoria Falls OR Tambo to Kruger about 450 kilometres / 280 miles by road (we will arrange a qualified driver-guide) Best Kruger Tours & Safaris Apart from its breathtaking scenery and amazing wildlife, the beauty of the Kruger National Park is that it’s so accessible. Just a few hours drive from Johannesburg and boasting its own international airport for easy connections to Cape Town and Mozambique’s Indian Ocean coast, Kruger offers exceptional Big 5 game viewing and luxurious accommodation without being too far off the beaten track. Moreover, a safari in the Kruger can be whatever you want it to be. Enjoy a romantic and decadent escape in one of Kruger’s legendary private reserves while enjoying a Kruger Park honeymoon safari or revel in the thrills of a guided walking safari and track big game on foot. Our selection of Kruger Park tours and safaris also includes fly-in safaris for those who have less time to spare, affordable self-drive vacations for the independently-minded, and Kruger Park family safari complete with tailored kids activities. Why not combine your Kruger safari with a few days in Cape Town, a beach break in Mozambique or an adventure at Victoria Falls? If you can’t find the combination itinerary you want in our range of Kruger holidays, simply contact us and one of our African Safari Experts will tailor-make a trip to your interests, budget and specifications. Prolific Big 5 Game Viewing Encountering Africa’s iconic Big 5 (elephant, rhino, lion, leopard and buffalo) is a major item on any safari goer’s bucket list. Kruger National Park is one of the very few places on earth where you’re able to tick off all five in one day. Our Top 3 South African National Parks for Winter Game Viewing As the South African winter air falls upon our mountains and fills our valleys, the once vibrant wilderness transforms ever so subtly. Crisp morning air embracing your skin, filling your senses with natural aromas and a tranquility like no other. The rich African sky is decorated with fine mist that promises to lift later on in the morning, raising the curtain on a new day and a new adventure. It is here, amidst the silence, that the soul of the South African outdoors begins to reveal itself in a unique, breathtaking way. The first hints of sunlight pierce through the frosty air, casting a pale gold hue on the frost-kissed grass. In its stillness, though the cold, the landscape begins to come alive. Each blade of grass glistens in the morning light — a glimmer of hope that temperatures are rising soon. As the croaking of the nearby army of frogs quiets down, the polite chatter of a pair of Scarlet-chested Sunbirds can be heard in the distance. You’ve just woken up in the Kruger National Park, the largest national park on the continent and the oldest in South Africa. It’s one of the most popular parks to view our big five, and it’s in your very own backyard. Winter in the South African National Parks is a captivating spectacle, a time when the parks display a different side, a side that is calm, tranquil, and yet strikingly beautiful. Brush the frost off your boots, and let’s set out on a journey across three of our hand-picked national parks that are perfect for winter game viewing experiences. Let’s explore Kruger National Park , Addo Elephant National Park , and Marakele National Park . Winter Game Viewing Delight in Kruger National Park Kruger National Park is a vast wilderness situated in the north-eastern corner of South Africa, offering a pure African bush experience for all those who are lucky enough to grace the park with their presence. The park spans across the Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces and borders Mozambique and Zimbabwe. Wildlife to Expect: Kruger is renowned for its abundant wildlife, which becomes even more visible in winter. The reduction in natural bushveld owed to a drop in seasonal rainfall, along with the dry weather lure animals to the waterholes, providing excellent game viewing opportunities. All members of the Big Five — the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo — can be found here. Cheetahs, wild dogs, and a host of herbivores, including Impala, zebra, and giraffe, can be seen roaming the wilderness. The little five also adorn the park’s grounds. These are the Buffalo Weaver, Elephant Shrew, Leopard Tortoise, Ant Lion, and Rhino Beetle. Additionally, over 500 common, rare, and endemic bird species inhabit the park. The big six of the birding world to look out for are the Ground Hornbill, Kori Bustard, Lappet-faced Vulture, Martial Eagle, Pel’s Fishing Owl, and Saddle-bill Stork. Other Winter Experiences: Kruger National Park presents a variety of winter experiences. Game drives are a staple, with both day and night drives offering unique wildlife viewing opportunities, with warmth to be found beneath blankets atop of land cruiser vehicles and hot chocolate the reward at the end of your safari. The cooler temperatures make bush walks particularly enjoyable, providing the opportunity to get up close with nature. For a different perspective, consider taking a hot air balloon ride over the park at sunrise. Kruger National Park also offers 4×4 Trails and 4×4 Eco Trails , Mountain Biking , Birding , and golf . For the curious, the Elephant Hall at Letaba Rest Camp is a great place to learn more about our incredible South African giants. The Honoured Big 7 at Addo Elephant National Park Located in the Eastern Cape, Addo Elephant National Park is the third-largest national park in South Africa and stretches from the semi-arid Karoo area in the north around Darlington Dam, over the Zuurberg Mountains, through the Sundays River Valley, and down to the coast between Sundays River Mouth and Bushmans River Mouth. Wildlife to Expect: True to its name, Addo Elephant National Park is home to hundreds of elephants, offering ample opportunities to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat. It’s also one of the few places where you can see the Big Seven — the Big Five, along with Southern Right Whale and Great White shark off the coast of Algoa Bay. The winter months provide excellent viewing opportunities as animals gather near water sources, and the park’s diverse landscapes make it a hotspot for a wide variety of bird species. With up to 450 bird species inhabiting the park, bird watchers will be in their element. Other Winter Experiences: For those seeking adventure, the Bedrogfontein 4×4 Trail presents a combination of breathtaking views and historical relevance. This 45km trail is situated between the Kabouga and Darlington areas of the park and offers an unforgettable journey through areas of significant Anglo-Boer War battles and sites of ancient rock art. Nature walks and hikes are another fantastic way to explore the park’s distinct biomes, each home to unique flora and fauna. The Alexandria Hiking Trail , a two-day circular trail stretching over 32km, provides an immersive experience of the park’s landscapes. Marine enthusiasts will appreciate the park’s coastal section between Sundays River Mouth and Bushmans River Mouth. Here, you can bask in the sun on one of the warmer winter days, relax on the sandy shores and enjoy a picnic. Alternatively, book a chartered cruise from the Port Elizabeth harbour and go in search of marine wildlife such as the Southern Right Whale and Great White Shark. The Bird and St. Croix islands in Algoa Bay are vital breeding areas for marine birds like Cape gannets, African penguins, and rare roseate terns. The Sanctuary that is Marakele National Park Marakele National Park is situated approximately a 2.5 hour drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria, making it the ideal reserve to visit if you are not wanting to drive too far for a weekend getaway. In Tswana, Marakele means ‘a place of sanctuary’, and Marakele National Park offers just this. Located in the heart of the Waterberg Mountains, summer weather conditions offer a hot summer’s day without the stifling humidity that can be expected of lower lying regions in South Africa. Winter offers cool, crisp mornings and evenings with very pleasant daytime temperatures – making Marakele the ideal mind-winter break destination. Make a day trip to Marakele and enjoy the spectacular scenery from the viewtop at the top of the mountain, alongside the Cape Vulture Colony. Wildlife to Expect: In winter, expect to encounter a host of mammals such as elephants, Black and White rhinos, leopards, lions, brown hyenas, and a vibrant antelope population. Sable, Kudu, Eland, Impala, Waterbuck, Tsessebe, and smaller species all occur in the park. Moreover, Marakele forms part of the world’s largest colony of the endangered Cape vulture, so keep your binoculars at the ready for these magnificent birds. Other Winter Experiences: Aside from game drives and bird watching, Marakele also offers morning and sunset bush walks and a two-night 4×4 eco trail . For a breathtaking sunrise, a drive to the Lenong viewpoint on top of the Waterberg Mountains is a must. Some information to note before we set off on our winter exploration… Handy Information Winter game viewing in South Africa’s National Parks can be a thrilling experience, but it’s not your typical beach holiday. It’s crucial to come prepared so your adventure can be comfortable, enjoyable, and safe. First things first: pack warm clothing. South African winter days can be sunny, but temperatures can plummet in the early mornings and late afternoons, especially on game drives. Pack jackets, beanies, scarves, and gloves. Don’t shy away from layering — it is your best friend in the South African winter. Remember, the colour of your clothing can affect game viewing, so opting for natural tones will help you blend in with the surroundings. Green, brown, khaki, and olive are perfect for blending in with the environment. Essential items to pack include a camera, binoculars, a torch, sunblock, sunglasses, hiking shoes, and any personal items necessary for your comfort. South Africa’s national parks offer a range of dining options. The restaurants at our National Parks serve a variety of dishes, including South African cuisine. Whether you want a hearty breakfast to start your day, a quick lunch between game drives, or a relaxing dinner under the stars, you will be well catered for. At Kruger Park, ample cafeterias and restaurants are available for casual dining throughout the park. For a truly unique dining experience, consider booking a Boma or Bush braai at any of the rest camps. View a list of restaurants . Addo Elephant National Park also offers a variety of restaurants, including a Cattle Baron Grill & Bistro . Unlike Kruger National Park and Addo Elephant National Park, Marakele National Park doesn’t have on-site shops, restaurants, or fuel stations, so be sure to pack in any supplies you might need or buy them in Thabazimbi before nightfall. Despite this, you can cater for yourself with the braai facilities . Game viewing experiences across the various South African National Parks offer the opportunity to truly immerse yourself in nature, rejuvenating your soul, reviving your mind and relaxing your physical senses. Wintertime is one of the best times of year to truly experience the beauty of our majestic landscapes, and get the very best game viewing experiences. Malaria As of late September 2017 we have noticed an increase in the amount of Malaria diagnoses in Kruger National Park. We therefore advise all travellers to cover themselves by taking chemoprophylaxis whilst visiting the Park. Your family physician will be able to advise you on the most suitable medication. The risk of contracting malaria is often a concern when visiting the Kruger National Park. The Kruger is one of the two South African National Parks that are situated in malaria risk areas. The other park is Mapungubwe National Park. It is important to note that the risk of malaria in both of these parks is usually low, even in the summer months. Malaria is mosquito borne disease transmitted exclusively through the bite of the female Anopheles mosquito. The highest risk period is between November and April – the end of the summer rainy season. Following the bite of an infected mosquito, an individual may remain asymptomatic for 12 – 35 days, depending on the species of malaria. This is known as the incubation period. Malaria should be suspected in patients with any unexplained fever after visiting an area where malaria is endemic. The symptoms of malaria include: Fever Chills Sweating Headaches Body aches Tiredness Stomach problems – These can include: Loss of appetite Nausea and vomiting Belly pain Diarrhoea Skin that looks yellow – This is called “jaundice” Cough Fast heart rate or breathing When malaria becomes severe, it can cause symptoms such as: Confusion Hallucinations Seizures Dark or bloody urine Most types of mosquito that are encountered will not carry the malaria parasite and if an individual is bitten it does not mean that they will contract malaria. The risk of malaria can be reduced by preventing mosquito bites. Mosquitoes most often bite between dusk and dawn. People are advised to stay indoors during this period, or cover exposed skin with light clothing or insect repellents. Remember to spray one’s ankles. Burning anti-mosquito coils and ensuring netted screens are kept closed will significantly reduce your risk for contracting insect bites. All of the accommodation available in Kruger is fitted with netted screens. Malaria prophylactic drugs can be taken that will further decrease the chances of contracting malaria. It is a difficult decision whether or not to take malaria prophylactics when visiting the Kruger National Park. The risk of contracting malaria needs to be weighed up against the side effects of the malaria prophylactic medication, and all the drugs available have various side effects. The choice of the appropriate drug that an individual should use is a decision that should be made in consultation with a medical doctor. There are three types of malaria prophylactic medications available for the strains of malaria occurring in South Africa, namely Doxycycline, Atovaquone/Proguanil and Mefloquine. It is also important to know that taking malaria prophylaxis does not guarantee that an individual will not contract malaria, it decreases the risk of contracting the disease. Malaria should be excluded in anyone who presents with unexplained fever within 12 to 35 days after entering a malaria area. A blood test is the most accurate, although rapid tests are available that are also very accurate. GPS Waypoints Select a park to view the GPS Waypoints: |Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park Addo Elephant National Park Agulhas National Park Augrabies Falls National Park Bontebok National Park Camdeboo National Park Garden Route National Park Golden Gate Highlands National Park Karoo National Park Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park Kruger National Park Mapungubwe National Park Marakele National Park Mokala National Park Mountain Zebra National Park Namaqua National Park Table Mountain National Park Tankwa Karoo National Park West Coast National Park Location of the park (red area) in South Africa LocationLimpopo and Mpumalanga provinces, South Africa Nearest cityMbombela (southern) Phalaborwa (central) Coordinates24°0′41″S 31°29′7″E Area19,623 km2 (7,576 sq mi)[1] [2] [3] Established31 May 1926[4] Visitors1,659,793 (1,277,397 day visitors, 382,396 overnight)[5] (in 2014–15 FY) Governing bodySouth African National Parks www.sanparks.org.za/parks/kruger/ Road Conditions Please take care when travelling to/from our Parks. Below are links to websites and Twitter feeds that will provide you with information regarding national road conditions, for your convenience. Websites Trans African Concessions (TRAC) N4 – For visitors travelling to the Kruger National Park via the N4 Toll Route AA – Road Conditions & Distance Calculator SANRAL – The South African National Roads Agency Twitter @netstartraffic – Provides traffic information on Gauteng, Durban and Cape Town. @TomTom_SA – Road/traffic information and updates, provided by TomTom SA. @N3Route – The N3 Toll Route from Cedara (Hilton) to Heidelberg, SA. Traffic updates, road safety and more. @TRACN4route – TRAC operates the N4 toll route between Pretoria in SA and Maputo in Mozambique. For help, info and traffic updates. @EWNTraffic – Eyewitness News’ traffic feed (Gauteng). @itrafficgp – SANRAL traffic updates (Gauteng) BACK TO TOP

To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key. South African Animal Rehabilitation South African Animal Rehabilitation SOUTH AFRICA´S Animal Rehabilitation Centers To Protect The Wild Life In South Africa. Welcome to Delta Rain, we hope you will join us for an unforgettable African experience. We provide quality, exciting and affordable mobile and mokoro safaris in the Okavango delta, throughout Botswana and further through southern Africa. Delta Rain is based at our own camp 'Sitatunga' located close to Maun Botswana. Delta Rain Ltd was established in 1997 by owner operators who have a deep love of Africa. Together we have over thirty five years experience in African tourism. Based at Sitatunga camp on the outskirts of Maun, Botswana, we offer Mokoro excursions into the beautiful Okavango Delta and tented mobile safaris throughout Botswana, Namibia and Zambia. There are itineraries to suit all tastes, levels of comfort and budget. Alongside our standard departures we offer bespoke tours created for individuals or groups. A number of our itineraries are specifically for families. Whether your interests are wildlife or culture, birdlife or photographic contact us to design your mobile safari. http://www.deltarain.com/index.php MammalMAP WHAT IS MAMMALMAP? The aim of MammalMAP is to update the distribution records of all African mammal species. Through collaborations with professional scientists, conservation organisations, wildlife authorities and citizen scientists across Africa, we consolidate all reliable and identifiable evidence (camera trap records, photographs) of current mammal locations into an open-access digital database. The database software automatically generates online distribution maps of all recorded species which are instantly visible and searchable. The information consolidated within MammalMAP will not only yield crucial information for species conservation policies and landscape conservation policies, but provides an excellent platform for educating the public about African mammals and their conservation challenges. THE WHERE AND HOW: The area of interest for MammalMAP is the whole of Africa. To achieve this we collaborate with scientists, conservation organisations, wildlife authorities and citizen scientists across the continent. Our methods involve consolidating evidence of mammal occurrence in a given location (camera trap records, photographs and other reliable records) into a digital database hosted by the Animal Demography Unit (ADU) at the University of Cape Town. In time, we will use the records in the database to generate distribution maps for all recorded species, in the same way that the ADU has done for birds, reptiles, frogs and butterflies Centre for Animal Rehabilitation and Education (CARE) The Centre for Animal Rehabilitation and Education (CARE), located in Phalaborwa, South Africa, and established by Rita Miljo in 1989, is a wildlife rehabilitation facility dedicated to the care, welfare, rehabilitation and protection of injured and orphaned indigenous wild animals.The centre specializes in the care of Chacma baboons, actively pursuing their rescue, rehabilitation and release. The centre currently houses over 400 baboons and is the only facility in Southern Africa that accepts orphaned or abandoned baboons and offers them long term care. C.A.R.E. has pioneered many firsts in primate care, and its rehabilitation programme has gained respect within scientific and animal behavioral communities. C.A.R.E also has an incredible track record in successfully rehabilitating hand-reared animals and releasing fully formed troops back into the wild. Address PO Box 1937, Phalaborwa, South Africa Postcode 1390 Telephone +27 (15) 769 6251 E-mail info@primatecare.org.za Website http://www.causes.com/causes/629140-c-a-r-e-centre-for-animal-rehabilitation-and-education The Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre - De Wildt The Centre was established in South Africa in 1971, in the past known as the De Wildt Cheetah Centre it has recently been changed to The Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre as a tribute to the woman who has devoted her life to the survival of the cheetah species. Mission: To ensure the long term survival of the Cheetah, African Wild Dog and other wild animals in general. Today the Centre can look back with satisfaction on a job well done in ensuring the survival of Acinonyx jubatus - the cheetah, successfully breeding the king cheetah in captivity for the first time in the world. While the cheetah breeding project was the base from which Ann launched her conservation ethic, it soon widened to include other endangered animal species, such as the African wild dog, brown hyaena, servals, suni antelope, and riverine rabbits. Many of these projects such as the suni antelope and riverine rabbits once successfully running have been handed over to other institutions to continue with. The Centre is an NGO and funds generated from tours and the adoption programme are used to subsidise our conservation projects. Address P O Box 1756, Hartbeespoort, South Africa Postcode 0216 Telephone +27 12 504 1921 E-mail cheetah@dewildt.org.za Website http://www.dewildt.co.za/ http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g312568-d578128-Reviews-The_Ann_van_Dyk_Cheetah_Centre-Gauteng.html Wildcare Africa The Wildcare Africa Trust was set up in 1986 by Karen Trendler. Since it's inception the Trust treated more than 70,000 cases at its small centre in Pretoria, with a further 50,000 treated in various locations internationally, and many more have been assisted through telephonic assistance. This advice has been given to game farmers, veterinarians and members of the public. Wildcare Africa unfortunately had to close down for personal reasons. All remaining animals have been seen through the rehabilitation process and have been released or placed in sanctuaries. The experiences and knowledge gained at Wildcare are being put to good use; founder and director Karen Trendler is now presenting training in all aspects of ex situ wildlife care and handling; assisting in policy and standards development. More information and updates are available on two blogsites: http://wildcareafrica.blogspot.com and http://wildlifewelfareethics.blogpost.com http://www.careforwild.co.za/ Address Pretoria, South Africa Telephone 0729694499 Website African Raptor Trust Situated 17 km from Pietermaritzburg on the east coast of South Africa, is the Predatory Bird Centre (PBC) of the African Raptor Trust.The PBC is a dedicated bird of prey facility, specializing in the captive breeding of Southern African raptors. The facility will assist, were possible, in any bona fide program or avian research that is beneficial to the long term conservation and survival of raptors. The centre also serves as a biological and genetic bank of southern African birds of prey. All birds that are utilized in the breeding programs are either captive bred or non releasable rehab birds. The centre has been operational for the past 5 years, and has grown from the original quarantine section of just five enclosures, to a facility with 36 enclosures. A further 12 enclosures are presently under construction.On Air Raptor Displays is the African Raptor Trust's education wing and their role is to introduce raptors, in all their magnificence, to the general public. People, both young and old, and from all walks of life come away with an appreciation of South Africa's fantastic diversity of raptor after witnessing the birds first-hand. Many sick or injured raptors are brought to the On Air raptor display centre simply because of the front-line bird of prey awareness and education work that is undertaken. For this reason On Air acts as a depo for these rescued birds and has a qualified member of staff to stabilize the raptor before sending it immediately to the African Raptor Trust's Raptor Rescue clinic.The African Bird of Prey Sanctuary does public free-flight shows/displays at 10:30 am, Tuesday to Sunday and public holidays, with an additional 3pm show on weekends and public holidays. onair@africanraptor.co.za Website http://www.africanraptor.co.za/cms/index.php?page=aboutus_africanraptortrust Address Lion Park Road, Camperdown, KZN, South Africa State KZN E-mail Campaign against Canned Hunting Campaign Against Canned Hunting Inc, (CACH) was founded by Chris Mercer and Beverley Pervan. After years of campaigning using their own savings, they established a not-for-profit Section 21 company, which is dedicated to getting all trophy hunting banned in South Africa. BAN TROPHY HUNTING - The mission is to get all trophy hunting banned in South Africa, since all trophy hunting in South Africa is canned to a greater or lesser extent. To that end, The Campaign Against Canned Hunting has put together a comprehensive audio visual presentation which has been shown to thousands of people from all walks of life in S.A.,Kenya and U.K. The presentation, which includes video clips and slides, with narration, is widely published on the Internet. GET ACTIVE - New regulations and policies are analysed and critical comment is then published to the media and to animal welfare organisations. View critical comment on the new canned hunting regulations. There is also a list of government addresses to whom you can send letters of protest. ETHOS - For ethical tourists who wish to ensure their tourist dollars do not fall into the hands of persons involved in the hunting industry, we offer a certification service whereby eco-tourism resorts are audited to ensure that there is no direct or indirect involvement with hunting. Learn more about ETHOS. Or, tell us about resorts involved in animal abuse. WILDLIFE SANCTUARY - The Campaign Against Canned Hunting is raising funds to purchase land to establish a Wildlife Sanctuary and Chris and Bev are prepared to put in Rand for Rand with donors. Find out more about the sanctuary. PETITION - Help sign the online petition that has been created to solicit help from the caring public world wide. In due course, this will be printed out and presented to government. Address P.O. Box 356, Wilderness, South Africa Postcode 6560 E-mail info@cannedlion.co.za Website http://www.cannedlion.org/ Global White Lion Protection Trust (WLT) The critically endangered White Lion has been naturally birthed in one place only on earth - the Timbavati region of South Africa. Its conservation value is paralleled only by its cultural value to indigenous communities of the region as a national symbol of unity, peace and hope. Many countries honour and protect 'sacred animals' by law: the 'Spirit Bear' of Canada, the 'Brahman Cattle' of India and the 'White Elephant' of Burma. Whilst the White Lion of the South Africa is not yet protected by law, concerted conservation efforts are underway to protect this rare national treasure on behalf of all South Africans - and indeed the world. Established in 2002 by world renowned author and conservationist, Linda Tucker, the Global White Lion Protection Trust (WLT) is a South African based non-profit conservation and community development organisation. Operating in the greater Timbavati bush region, the WLT is responsible for protecting the White Lions and developing the related cultural values that hold them sacred. The WLT is accountable to its Trustees and a panel of global advisors with representatives from the South African Government, local and international conservation groupings and the South African business sector. The WLT campaigns for the protection of the critically endangered White Lion in its endemic wild habitat in the Timbavati at both provincial and national levels and is pursuing National - and indeed World - Heritage status for the White Lion site in the region. Address E-mail info@whitelions.org Website http://www.whitelions.org/ Addo Elephant National Park Deep within the shadows of the dense valley bushveld of the Sundays River region of the Eastern Cape lies the Addo Elephant National Park. Here, the evenings are punctuated by the strident howl of the black-backed jackal, and the francolin's call heralds each new dawn. Safe from relentless persecution in the past, the grey leviathans of the bush now roam in peace. The park was proclaimed in 1931, when only eleven elephants remained in the area – today this finely tuned ecosystem is sanctuary to over 200 elephants, Cape buffalo, a variety of antelope species, as well as the unique flightless dung beetle, found almost exclusively in Addo. But the Addo story has only just begun. Plans to expand the 164 000 ha Addo National Elephant Park into a 360 000 ha mega-park are moving forward at an exciting pace. This expansion is transforming Addo into the ultimate tourism destination. Some of its unique features already include: Unrivalled natural diversity, with five of South Africa's seven major vegetation zones (biomes). The Big 7 (Elephant, rhino, lion, buffalo, leopard, whales and great white sharks) in their natural habitat. Rich heritage of archaeological and historical sites. A wide variety of accommodation and activity options. In addition, plans include the proposed proclamation of a 120 000 ha (296 500 acre) marine reserve that includes islands that are home to the world's largest breeding populations of Cape gannets and second largest breeding population of African penguins. Address Website http://www.sanparks.org/parks/addo/ African Conservation Trust The African Conservation Trust is a South African based trust and registered non profit organisation which has a mission to conduct environmental, cultural and heritage conservation projects in South Africa.The African Conservation Trust encourages members of the public to participate in these projects. The mission of the African Conservation Trust is to conduct environmental, cultural and heritage conservation projects as well as provide a means for these projects to become self funding through active participation by the public. This gives ordinary people a chance to make a positive and real contribution to environmental, cultural and heritage conservation by funding and participating as volunteers. Address P.O. Box 310, Link Hills, South Africa Postcode 3652 Telephone Tel: +27-31-7675044 Fax Fax: +27-86-5117594 E-mail info@projectafrica.com Website http://www.projectafrica.com/ Rhino Rescue Project With the number of rhino's lost to poaching exceeding 300 in 2010 alone and over 300 to date in 2011, there is no doubt a solution for rhino poaching needs to be found.Our mission is to provide a sustainable, cost effective defensive strategy to protect rhinos in South Africa and elsewhere from poaching. Our all-inclusive, holistic protection program includes horn treatment, indelible dye, microchips, tracking technology and DNA sampling and storage. With more than 600 rhinos lost to poaching in South Africa to during 2010 and 2011 (to date) there is no more time to waste. Address Krugersdorp, South Africa Telephone +27 (0) 82 210 5678 Fax +27 (0) 11 957 0019 E-mail rhinorescueproject@gmail.com Website http://www.rhinorescueproject.com/ http://www.spots.org.za/ http://www.rhinolion.co.za/newsite/default.asp South African Safari Airports & Travel Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) operates this country’s ten principal airports, including O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg as well as Cape Town and Durban International Airports. The others are domestic airports in Bloemfontein, Port Elizabeth, East London, George, Kimberley, Upington and Pilanesberg Airport. For more information, contact ACSA Information desk: website: www.acsa.co.za. Airport Contact Details: Johannesburg: OR Tambo International Airport Cape Town: Cape Town International Airport Durban: Durban International Airport Kruger Park: Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport Other National Airports: Bloemfontein, East London, George, Kimberley, Pilanesberg, Port Elizabeth and Upington South African Airways (SAA) - Online Bookings Flysaa.com is the South African Airways travel portal offering everything one needs to travel to, from and within South Africa. The site provides a comprehensive range of interactive online services and useful information for local and international travellers. Over 1 million people visit the site every month and a high percentage of SAA ticket sales are booked directly on flysaa.com. Charter Companies Omni Charters is based at Rand Airport in the heart of the City of Gold, and is an established air charter company providing the convenience of charter flights to boundless destinations throughout Africa. General Travel in South Africa Languages: There are 11 official languages in South Africa, but most people speak English. Standard time: South African standard time is two hours in advance of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT + 2), one hour in advance of central European winter time and seven hours in advance of United States eastern standard time throughout the year. There are no time zone differences within the country. Electricity: 220/230 volts AC at 50 cycles per second. Three pronged plugs are universal, so take an adapter. Most hotel rooms have 110 volt outlets for electric shavers and small appliances. Banking, currency and money: The South African unit of currency is called the Rand and it is divided into 100 cents. Coins come in denominations of 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, R1, R2 and R5, and notes in denominations of R10, R20, R50, R100 and R200. South Africa has a very sophisticated banking sector and automatic teller machines (ATM’s) are widely available in the main cities and towns, although only a R1000-00 at a time may be drawn at an ATM. Credit Cards are widely accepted, except at gas stations. Traveller’s cheques (American and Visa) and credit cards (American Express, Visa and Master Card) are widely recognised and accepted. Road Travel: There is a well-maintained network of roads and motorways in populous regions. Traffic drives on the left. In non-residential areas, speed limits are 120kph, and 60kph in urban areas. Petrol stations are usually open all week, 07h00 to 19h00, and some are open 24 hours. Petrol must be paid for in cash. Wearing of seat belts is compulsory, and driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious offence. It is required that you carry a valid driver's license at all times whilst driving. Malaria & Health Malaria Many of the main tourist areas in South Africa are malaria-free, however, the Kruger National Park, the Lowveld of Mpumalanga and Limpopo, and the northern part of KwaZulu-Natal do pose a malaria risk in the summer months. Health care professionals recommend you take malaria prophylaxis. Consult your doctor for advice concerning malaria prophylaxis, and remember that the treatment requirements differ for different areas. A simple blood test can determine if you have malaria or not. Get tested when you get home. It’s just a pinprick and a drop of blood gets examined under a microscope. It will cut out the possibility of symptoms developing months later, and the faster you catch it, the better. The most important and most effective way of preventing Malaria is to prevent mosquito bites. The following preventative measures can be taken: always use mosquito repellent wear long pants, closed shoes and light long-sleeved shirts in the evenings and at night sleep under a mosquito net in endemic areas use insect repellent containing di-ethyl toluamide or DEET thin clothing should be sprayed with repellent, especially around the elbow and ankles apply insect repellents to exposed skin areas every 4-6 hours screened mosquito proof windows and doors guard against mosquitos entering your room. General Health Medical facilities: South African medical facilities are good in urban areas and in the vicinity of game parks, but they may be limited elsewhere. Pharmacies are well-stocked and equivalents to most American medicines are available. South Africa has some of the best doctors and hospitals in the world. Make sure you get travel insurance since quality healthcare is not cheap. Drinking water: South Africa’s tap (faucet) water is of a high quality and is both palatable and safe to drink straight from the tap. It is treated so as to be free of harmful micro-organisms, except in informal or shack settlements. In some areas, the water is mineral-rich, and you may experience a bit of gastric distress for a day or two. Bottled mineral water is readily available. Drinking water straight from rivers and streams could put you at risk of waterborne diseases, especially downstream of human settlements. Sun exposure: The African sun can be harsh, and you should wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat whenever you are out of doors, particularly between 10am and 4pm, regardless of whether there is cloud cover or not. Immunizations and vaccinations: You will need to make an appointment with your personal physician or travel clinic at least one month prior to departure to review pertinent health precautions including necessary vaccinations and medications. Make sure your doctor knows you are travelling to South Africa, not just Africa, so he can prescribe the right medication. Safari Packing Guide Equipment, Personal Care, Safari Clothing & Documentation Equipment: Binoculars Video camera Bird and animal check lists Camera in a dust resistant case, with a zoom, plenty of film, memory sticks, batteries etc Personal Care: Sunscreen / block Insect repellent Moisturizer Lip balm Water bottle Sunglasses A small first aid kit, for personal use, possibly containing a mild pain killer for headaches, Immodium for diarrhea, topical antibiotic for cuts, bites or sores, adhesive pads for blisters, a sufficient supply of any prescription medication you are on, etc A small bag to carry these essentials with you whilst on a game drive / walk Safari Clothing: Safari hat with a brim Long and short sleeved cotton shirts T-shirts Cotton shorts Cotton long trousers Jeans Sweater, jersey, pullover, safari jacket or windbreaker for the evenings Down jacket if you are susceptible to the cold Skirts, dresses, slacks for elegant eveningwear Swimwear Bandannas or handkerchiefs Woollen gloves Underwear and socks Walking boots, safari-type shoes, trainers, sandals and / or rubber thongs Neutral colours such as khaki, beige, olive, green and brown are the preferred colours to wear on safari, as you are less conspicuous to the animals, and therefore less threatening to them. Non-synthetic, comfortably fitting, cotton clothing breathes more easily, keeping you cooler under the hot African sun. Shorts and T-shirts are normally the order of the day, and are replaced with long sleeved shirts and trousers at night for warmth and protection from insect bites. Documentation: Valid passport Valid visa ID photo (eg driver's licence) Air tickets Expense money Travel insurance Recommended innoculations / Valid international Health Certificates. Travellers entering South Africa from countries where yellow fever is endemic are often required to present their yellow World Health Organization (WHO) vaccination record or other proof of inoculation. Photocopies of the above documentation, carried in a place separate to the original documents For up to date information on entry requirements and assistance with applying for visas, please visit the South African Department of Home Affairs website. A Typical Day At A Private Game Lodge Luxury game lodges provide a host of activities for you to enjoy on your safari, such as game drives, hiking, fishing, bird watching, canoeing, swimming, reading in the library, going to the gym or indulging yourself at the health spa. Many of the luxury safari lodges also offer adventure filled activities and various safari packages such as balloon safaris, tent camp-outs, area tours, quad biking, micro-light trips, golf, star gazing, horse riding, fly fishing, deep-sea fishing, 4 x 4 trails, children’s wildlife educationals, bush walks, helicopter trips, visits to traditional cultural villages, and then of course, more game viewing. In the mornings... In the mornings and evenings, open-topped vehicles will transport you on game drives accompanied by professional rangers and trackers. Morning game drives or walks start at dawn, after a quick snack, to catch the animals when they are most active and visible. Daily walking safaris, accompanied by rangers and trackers, are also normally offered. In the heat of the day... After your early morning game drive, you can look forward to a late breakfast or brunch, followed by some time for relaxation during the heat of the day. The animals become inactive during this part of the day and you won't be missing out on any action whilst relaxing at the lodge. Later in the afternoon / evening, it will become time for another game drive or walk, after which you can spend a magnificent African evening under the stars enjoying a sundowner on the deck of your game lodge. Just relaxing... And if none of this is on your personal agenda for the day, you may simply spend the day working out at the gymnasium, reading in the library or relaxing beside the swimming pool. Or spend the day indulging yourself at the health spa. Magical evenings... The tranquil surroundings of the African bushveld after an evening safari will give you a healthy appetite for the sumptuous cuisine being prepared for the evening meal. The day's eventful sightings will probably be the main topic of conversation as everyone unwinds in front of warm log fires at night, watching tribal dancers displaying their rhythm and dance. And before you know it, you will be preparing for bed to be well rested for when you wake up to another day of African adventure and enchantment. Wildlife Conservation The natural surroundings you will be visiting are home to our magnificent animal kingdom, and their environment needs to be respected. The lives of the animals depend on the health of their land. The animals themselves need to be respected and treated in a manner which does not frighten or disturb them: Animals do not like new and unexpected noises, and when you call or shout loudly, they become nervous and feel threatened. They will run for cover, robbing you of the enjoyment of watching them. Do not disturb their natural activities, such as hunting for food. To them It means danger in one form or another, and means that they may become aggressive towards you to protect themselves. They may especially become fierce when protecting their young ones. Do not tease, corner, or throw objects at the animals, as once again, they may feel threatened and attempt to protect themselves, at your expense. Don't shine bright lights on the animals at night, as this frightens them, disrupts their nocturnal activities, and causes them to become disorientated. Don't litter the environment. The animals might attempt to eat what you threw away, and it might choke or poison them. The environment is extremely sensitive, and off-road driving causes erosion and other problems that the animals then have to live with, adapt to, or move away from in search of new homes. BACK TO TOP

South African Road Trips South Africa offers some of the world’s most diverse landscapes, from sparkling oceans and stark deserts to snow-capped peaks and wildlife-dense savanna. But it’s not just the land that makes South Africa so enthralling – the wealth of the country’s diverse cultural groups, each contributing its own architecture, traditional cuisine and customs, adds to the alluring mix. Traveling by car, with the ability to stop, explore and wander on your own schedule, might be the ideal way to take in all this variety. Here's our pick of the six best road trips in South Africa. The Ultimate Road Trip Essentials Packing List (+ Free Checklist! I we went on my first road trip from Cape Town to Grahamstown Before that, I drove all the way along the Garden Route, up to Durban and then spent five days in the Kruger National Park before driving back down to Cape Town. Oh, and after both those trips, the wide-open road called my name once more, and I drove from the Mother City up to Johannesburg. All in all, (who only had 25,000 km before all this madness) is now cruising around on 32000 km and counting! Not sure what to pack for a road trip? I’ve got you covered! Below, you’re going to find a list of: • All the things to bring on a road trip (+ eco-friendly options) • Everything I didn’t know was important (like where to find your jack) • What I forgot Road Trip Car Essentials Spare Tire: Do not reverse your car out of the garage without a spare tire in your boot! During my epic road trip from Cape Town to Kruger National Park, we spent three days in Coffee Bay, and I got my first ever puncture. And ladies, make sure you know how to change a flat tire and where to find the spanner and jack in your car. Emergency Car Kit: You never know what might happen while you’re cruising down the open road. Be prepared for any kind of drama with an emergency car kit. It includes a breakdown roadside kit, a high visibility best, jumper cables, rope and much more. Emergency Puncture Repair Kit: If you’re stranded in the wilderness with a flat tire, you can use an emergency puncture repair kit to get you safely to a car repair shop. It can fix a flat tyre in seconds, BUT it’s only a temporary solution. Car Fluids: Some of the extra fluids you’ll want to keep in your car are a litre of water (in case it overheats), brake fluid, extra transmission fluid, oil and antifreeze. Drivers License: Probably one of the most important things on your road trip packing list. South Africa traffic cops love a good roadblock and issuing fines for every little thing. If you’re taking your car across borders, don’t forget your papers! Car & Travel Insurance: World Nomads Travel Insurance is one of the best insurance options for travellers. It covers extreme sports, protects all your gear and will pay out for any unexpected trips to the hospital. For car insurance, I recommend taking the tire & windshield if you’re renting. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance. Owner’s Manual: I won’t lie. The first time I opened my owner’s manual was four years after I bought my car. I had no idea where to find the jack in my car. If you’re renting or still learning new and wonderous things about your vehicle, double to check to make sure the owner’s manual is packed and ready for your trip! Roadside Assitance: When you’re planning a road trip in a foreign country (and your own!), it’s a good idea to have the phone numbers of roadside assistance. Portable Garbage Can: After a few stops at Wimpy and Steers, your car will start to look like a moving trash can. Keep your vehicle clean with a portable garbage can. It takes up hardly any space in your car and folds up when not in use. Sea Point Promenade Strolling along Sea Point’s wide, paved and grassy promenade is a pleasure shared by Capetonians from all walks of life. Once a white-only area, it’s now a great place to observe the city's multiculturalism. There are kids' playgrounds, a well-maintained outdoor gym and several public artworks. The coast here is rocky and swimming is dangerous, although you can get in the water at Rocklands Beach. If you’re too thin-skinned for the frigid sea, try the Sea Point Pavilion pool complex, towards the promenade’s southern end Sea Point to Hout Bay Sea Point blends into ritzier Bantry Bay and Fresnaye before culminating in the prime real estate of Clifton and Camps Bay, where white modernist villas climb the slopes above golden beaches. South of here, the stunning coast road passes beneath the Twelve Apostles range, and urban development is largely curtailed by Table Mountain National Park until you reach delightful Hout Bay. This harbor town has good access to both the city and, via Constantia Nek pass, the vineyards of Constantia. S A Road Link Bustouren 16 Park Rd, Willows, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa, Bloemfontein · +27 51 430 9061 The Garden Route The Garden Route is a must-see on the list of most visitors gracing the shores of South Africa. The beauty of this region stretches for miles from Mossel Bay to Storms River and is a self-drive destination that will beguile you with its natural beauty. It has a wonderful mix of awe-inspiring beaches, dappled forests, peaceful lagoons and quaint seaside towns. It’s easy-to-navigate roads and short driving distances makes it an ideal destination for independent, self-drive vacations. It’s also perfectly paired with safari adventures in the Eastern Cape. The Wild Coast, Eastern Cape The ruggedly beautiful and aptly named Wild Coast runs from the coastal city of East London in the south of the Eastern Cape to the border of Kwa-Zulu Natal some 350km to the northeast. As you drive across this region’s rolling hills, along its jagged coastlines or veer off the N2 onto the gravel roads that cut inland, you’ll often have the sense that little has changed here in the past hundred years. The hillsides are dotted with turquoise rondavels (round huts topped with thatched roofs) and small pastoral farming plots. Formerly known as the Transkei during apartheid, this region has a rich and often bloody history and birthed struggle icons including Nelson Mandela and Steve Biko, both of whose lives can be revisited at a number of local heritage sites . The Wild Coast also boasts the most idyllic and unspoilt beaches to be found anywhere in South Africa – at backpacking paradises like Coffee Bay or Port St Johns , you may find more cows lazing on the sand than people. The Kruger National Park South Africa’s biggest and best-known national park is home to the country's greatest diversity of animals and exquisite safari lodges on private game reserves. As one of the oldest conservation areas in Africa, it boasts healthy populations of wildlife and highly sought-after sightings of cheetah and wild dog. But the Kruger’s pièce de résistance is the almost guaranteed encounter with the super-celebrities of the safari circuit: Africa’s iconic Big 5. Eastern Cape The Eastern Cape’s biggest draw is its reserves. It is a Big Five, malaria-free destination that is geared for travelling families in search of safari escapades. The Eastern Cape’s best-known reserve is the Addo Elephant National Park, most famous for its gentle giants. For big cat sightings and luxurious accommodation, there are a number of private reserves that have award-winning lodges, big cat sanctuaries and some being home to the rare white lion. Route 62, Western Cape Route 62 is so-named for the R62 road that cuts across the countless lovely vineyards of the Cape Winelands , through dramatic mountain passes and into the heart of the Little Karoo , a wild and dusty region of open scrubland, livestock farms and quaint rural towns. Route 62 is considerably less popular and less developed than its coastal counterpart the Garden Route, but it has gained a cult following amongst South Africans for its beauty, untamed eccentricity and distinct lack of traffic. The historic spa town of Montagu is well worth a visit for its pretty colonial architecture and hot springs , while the charmingly arty Barrydale has a number of good roadside cafés, including the Diesel & Crème Diner, known for its milkshakes and nostalgic American memorabilia. The best of the raw semi-desert landscapes and spectacular star-studded night skies are to be found in the Karoo National Park , while the Breede River Valley is a favourite for riverside camping and kayaking excursions. Panorama Route Dipping in and out of Mpumalanga ’s Blyde River Canyon , the world’s third largest, this cloud-high drive takes you through and along magnificent natural features – cliffs, waterfalls and forests, with eagles soaring above – while offering plenty of places to get out and stretch your legs. It’s a short hike, for example, to God’s Window , an overlook peeking down through jungly, bird-filled foliage some 2745m (9005ft) below. The Three Rondavels are a trio of soaring, grass-topped peaks resembling indigenous cone-shaped huts. Trails wander around Bourke’s Luck Potholes , cylindrical holes formed over thousands of years by the swirling waters of the Treur and Blyde rivers. Travel advice for South Africa From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to South Africa Crime and personal safety tips South Africa Eating and drinking in South Africa Getting around South Africa: Transportation Tips How to get to South Africa Travel Tips South Africa for planning and on the go Best time to visit South Africa Weather in Johannesburg in May South Africa is a country with diverse landscapes and breathtaking scenery, making it the perfect destination for a road trip. Whether you prefer the comfort of a motorcar or the thrill of a motorbike, there are endless routes to explore. From the coastal roads of the Garden Route to the winding mountain passes of the Drakensberg, South Africa offers a unique and unforgettable experience for any road trip enthusiast. Explore the North of South Africa: Sun City and Madikwe game reserve Before you start your South Africa road trip, there are a few essentials that you’ll want to make sure are in your car: • Credit card to pay for tolls (or cash) • Soy milk if you’re lactose intolerant or vegan • Cellphone charger for the car • A downloaded road trip playlist from Spotify • Money to pay for entrance fees at national parks • A spare wheel, spanner and jack • Tyre repair spray for punctures For those short on time, staying close to Johannesburg may make sense. On this trip, you'll arrive and depart in Johannesburg and then transfer to the theme park Lost City before continuing to Madikwe for a few days of game drives to spot plenty of wildlife. One Day Cape Town Road Trip 1 day 130 km Car See the highlights of Cape Town through this one day road trip itinerary. Experience the beauty of Muizenberg, Cape Point,... A 1 Day Self-Drive Safari to Pilanesberg S... 1 day 448 km Car Explore the highlights of Pilanesberg through this 1 day self-drive road trip itinerary. Experience the beauty of Pilanesberg National park,... Kempton to Kenton: The Perfect Family Road... 1 day 1081 km Car Explore the highlights of South Africa through this 1 day Kempton Park to Kenton on Sea road trip itinerary. Experience... Quick and Easy 2 Day Road Trip to Cape Tow... 2 days 1405 km Car Explore the highlights of Africa through this 140 day Africa motorcycle trip itinerary. Experience the beauty of Gariep Dam, Richmond,... A Self-Drive Adventure: 3 Day Road Trip in... 3 days 393 km 4x4 See the best of the Etosha National Park through this 3 day road trip itinerary. Experience the incredible wildlife sightings,... Family Road Trip to Swakopmund 3 days 1755 km Car See some great destinations of Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa through this 3 day family road trip itinerary. Experience the... 6 Day Itinerary and Route for a Northern K... 6 days 1600 km Motorhome This fantastic 6-day Itinerary through Kwazulu-Natal explores highlights such as: Cape Vidal, Hluhluwe, iSimangaliso Wetland Park and much more. Find... Best of the Garden Route: a 9 Day Road Trip 9 days 1212 km Car See the best of the Garden Route through this 9 day road trip itinerary. Experience the beauty of Knysna, Storms... Roadtrip Along The R62 Route In South Africa 2 days 785 km Car Explore the highlights of Route 62 through this 2-Day South Africa Family Trip itinerary. Experience the beauty of the wildlife,... I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy. Windhoek to Cape Town Road Trip 2 days 1479 km Car Driving from Namibia to South Africa doesn't have to be boring. Check out this exciting 2 day journey from Windhoek... The Perfect 2 Day Sani Pass Road Trip 2 days 643 km 4x4 Explore the highlights of Lesotho through this 2 day Sani Pass road trip itinerary. Experience the beauty of Durban, Pietermaritzburg,... I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy. 3 Day Adventure Road Trip from Johannesbur... 3 days 868 km Car Explore the highlights of Africa through this 140 day Africa motorcycle trip itinerary. Experience the beauty of Johannesburg, Senekal, Ladybrand,... Worcester Wine and Olive Route R64 Road Trip 3 days 1140 km Car Explore the highlights of South Africa through this 2 day Worcester Wine and Olive Route R64 road trip itinerary. Experience... 4 Day Road Trip Through Limpopo and Mpumal... 4 days 1071 km Car Explore the highlights of South Africa through this 4 day road trip itinerary. Experience the beauty of Magoebaskloof, Route R71,... 6 Day Family Road Trip to the Kruger and B... 6 days 445 km Car See the best of the Kruger National Park through this 6 day road trip itinerary. Experience the beauty of Pilgrims... I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy. Namibia Road Trip: 12 Day Self-Drive Adven... 12 days 3500 km Car See the highlights of Namibia through this 12 Day road trip itinerary. Experience the beauty of Etosha National Park, the... Road Trip Accessories Umbrella or Raincoat: You can plan as much as possible around the weather, but a sudden downpour could always take you by surprise. A small travel-sized umbrella is one of those things you’ll always want to have in your car for a road trip. I’d also suggest investing in a raincoat that will easily fit in your day bag. Polarised Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the sun’s rays. You’ll need a pair of polarised sunglasses for bright white snow or long sunny days. I’m obsessed with Escape Society’s range at the moment! My favourite pair out of the three that I own are the Gold Vintage Round Lens. It comes with 100% UVA/UVB Protection and a microfibre pouch & cleaning cloth. Travel Pillow: Travel pillows aren’t just for long haul flights. Pack one if you’re planning on taking a few naps while on the road. If you’re not a fan of the traditional travel pillow, try the latest Trtl Pillow. It takes up half the space and science says it’s better for your neck. Day Bag: Whether you’re going hiking, camping or anything else, you need a road trip bag. If you’re in the market for a new day bag, I recommend splurging on the Rowdy Rucksack. It’s the perfect road trip backpack with enough space for a 15-inch laptop, all your camera gear and other essentials like your wallet, water bottle and sunscreen. If you’re looking for something smaller, I managed to fit my wallet, camera body and one lens in the Rowdy Sling. Waterproof Bag Cover: If you’re adventuring with a bag that’s not waterproof, protect your gear with a waterproof bag cover. They hardly take up any space, and it’s always nice to know you have it. Packable Down Jacket: When packing for a road trip in spring or autumn, bring along a packable down jacket. I used the white Lady Neva Insulated Jacket from Hi-tec during my Cape to Kruger trip. For colder climates, you’ll want something thicker, especially if snow is involved. Blankets: Get cosy in the backseat with a warm blanket. You can use it to block the sun while you’re sleeping, to combat the freezing air conditioning or for extra warmth in your tent or hotel. BACK TO TOP

Our Services KRUGER NATIONAL PARK BIG FIVE OF SOUTH AFRICA South African Endangered Wildlife South Africa Safari Information Kruger National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Africa. It covers an area of 19,485 square kilometres 7,523 sq mi in the provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga in northeastern South Africa, and extends 360 kilometres 220 mi from north to south and 65 kilometres 40 mi from east to west. The big five are among the most dangerous, yet most popular species for big game hunters to hunt.Safari Club International, an organization dedicated to trophy hunters, offers a trophy for hunting all five species, called the "African Big Five Grand Slam," along with 14 other Grand Slams for other species. South African Endangered Wildlife Our ancestors viewed the Earth as rich and bountiful, which it is. Many people in the past also saw nature as inexhaustibly sustainable, which we now know is the case only if we care for it. It is not difficult to forgive destruction in the past which resulted from ignorance. Today, however, we have access to more information, and it is essential that we re-examine ethically what we have inherited, what we are responsible for, and what we will pass on to coming generations. Many of the main tourist areas in South Africa are malaria-free, however, the Kruger National Park, the Lowveld of Mpumalanga and Limpopo, and the northern part of KwaZulu-Natal do pose a malaria risk in the summer months. Health care professionals recommend you take malaria prophylaxis. BACK TO TOP

View Listing Boarding Schools of South Africa Contact Information Contact Boarding Schools Phone: 829 238 103 Visit Website More Information Boarding schools across South Africa have produced great leaders and sportsman. Even President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela went to a boarding school near Fort Beaufort, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa called Healdtown Methodist Boarding School now called Healdtown Comprehensive School. There is not much that is more important than a sound, well-rounded education that takes the whole student into account. The molding of true gentlemen and ladies, young minds, futures leaders and businessmen is an extremely significant undertaking and as a result not one to be taken lightly. These individuals will represent the next generation. Consequently much of this responsibility rests on our boarding schools. Boarding schools across South Africa create opportunities for children to: Achieve academically in addition to sports Gain confidence- but not arrogance Form lasting friendships Become independent Achieve on the sports field Boarding Schools Living and studying at a boarding school helps pupils to become more responsible and reliable, while their self-confidence is strengthened and Their manners and social skills which pupils acquire help them to develop talents in leadership, as well as learning to adapt to difficult situations. Most boarding schools are very strict about homework, so you can be confident that your child is getting it done in a distraction-free environment – often in designated time slots, so your child has no choice but to do it. Here you will find a school at which your child or children can receive board and lodging during the school term. Every parent wants to teach their child to be responsible for your actions and teach them small lessons in life because that will lay a solid foundation for adulthood. Most boarding school graduates look back at their years in school as a time when lasting friendships were established. Coupled with that is the building of a network of friends and acquaintances who know you and care about you. Consequently we make it easy to find the boarding school you are looking for. Before you enroll your child please makes sure you have all the facts. Victims of Crime Survey, 2016/2017 – About 13,9% of households that have children were prevented from allowing their children to walk to school due to the fear of crime. Cars New, Pre-Owned, Financing, and More New Vehicle Specials Sell My Car Vehicle Spares Used Cars Near Me The automotive industry in South Africa is vibrant and diverse, offering a range of new and second-hand car options to cater to various preferences and budgets. This article delves into the different aspects of car ownership in South Africa, including new car options, financing and insurance, the dynamics of the second-hand car market, relevant laws, popular car types and makes, and the world of classic car collecting and restoration. New Vehicle Options South Africa boasts a wide array of new car options from both local and international manufacturers. These options include sedans, hatchbacks, SUVs, and luxury vehicles, catering to different needs and lifestyles. Advancements in technology have brought numerous advantages, such as improved fuel efficiency, enhanced safety features, and modern infotainment systems. New cars often come with warranties, providing peace of mind to buyers. Value and Customer Satisfaction New car buyers appreciate the value proposition offered by modern vehicles. With lower fuel consumption and reduced maintenance costs, new cars are often more cost-effective in the long run. Additionally, the availability of extended service plans and maintenance packages adds to the overall value and customer satisfaction. Buyer Regret While most new car buyers in South Africa are satisfied with their purchases, buyer regret can occur due to various reasons, such as unexpected maintenance costs, depreciation, or personal preference changes. It is crucial for buyers to conduct thorough research, consider their needs and budget, and test-drive multiple options before making a purchase. New Car Financing, Trade-Ins, and Cash Options Buying a new car in South Africa can be facilitated through various financing options. Banks, financial institutions, and car dealerships offer financing packages with competitive interest rates and flexible repayment terms. Additionally, trade-ins allow buyers to use their existing vehicle as a down payment for a new car. Cash purchases remain a viable option for those who prefer to buy cars outright. Cost of Insurance The cost of insurance for a new car depends on factors such as the vehicle’s value, make, model, age, and the driver’s profile. Comprehensive insurance coverage is recommended to protect against theft, accidents, and natural disasters. Insurance premiums can vary, and it is advisable to compare quotes from different insurance providers to ensure the best coverage at an affordable price. Car Buying News Staying informed about the latest car buying news is crucial for prospective buyers. It helps them understand market trends, upcoming models, and potential price fluctuations. Various online resources, automotive magazines, and dealership newsletters provide valuable insights into the South African car market. Popular Car Types and Makes In South Africa, popular car types include hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, and bakkies (pickup trucks). Renowned international brands such as Toyota, Volkswagen, Ford, and BMW have a strong presence in the market. These brands offer a wide range of models with each having their strong suits: Toyota: Known for its reliability and durability, Toyota vehicles are highly sought after in South Africa. Models such as the Corolla, Hilux, Fortuner, and Rav4 are among the top choices for buyers. Volkswagen: Volkswagen cars are known for their quality engineering and European design. The Polo, Golf, Tiguan, and Polo Vivo are popular models in South Africa, offering a blend of style, performance, and comfort. Ford: Ford vehicles are known for their robustness and versatility. The Ford Ranger, Everest, EcoSport, and Fiesta are well-received in the South African market, catering to both urban and off-road needs. BMW: As a luxury brand, BMW offers a range of premium vehicles that combine performance, sophistication, and cutting-edge technology. Models like the 3 Series, X5, 1 Series, and X3 are popular choices among those seeking a luxurious driving experience. In addition to these brands, other notable car makes in South Africa include Nissan, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Hyundai, and Kia, among others. These brands offer a wide range of models to suit different budgets and preferences. Availability of Spares, Service Costs, and Dealer Presence One important consideration for car owners is the availability of spares and the cost of servicing their vehicles. Popular car makes in South Africa usually have a well-established dealer network and service centers, ensuring convenient access to genuine spare parts and reliable maintenance services. It is advisable to research the availability and cost of spares for specific car models before making a purchase. Dealerships and authorized service centers play a crucial role in providing after-sales support, including routine maintenance, repairs, and warranty services. Choosing a car make with a strong dealer presence can contribute to a smooth ownership experience, as it ensures easy access to professional assistance and quality service. As previously mentioned, renowned international car brands such as Toyota, Volkswagen, Ford, and BMW have a strong presence in the market, offering a wide range of models. These brands have established dealer networks and authorized service centers across the country, ensuring easy access to genuine spares and reliable maintenance services. Second Hand / Used Vehicle Market South Africa has a thriving second-hand car market, offering buyers an affordable alternative to purchasing new vehicles. The dynamics of the second-hand car market are influenced by factors such as supply and demand, vehicle age, mileage, condition, and market trends. Private sellers, independent dealerships, and certified pre-owned programs by manufacturers contribute to the availability of second-hand cars. Buyers in the second-hand market have a wide variety of options to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly entry-level vehicles to high-end luxury cars. While purchasing a second-hand car can save money upfront, it is essential to conduct thorough inspections, obtain a comprehensive vehicle history report, and consider factors like maintenance costs and potential repairs. Professional pre-purchase inspections and test drives are recommended to assess the condition and overall performance of the vehicle. Staying informed about car buying news in South Africa is vital for prospective buyers. Car buying news provides valuable insights into the latest market trends, upcoming models, pricing, promotions, and incentives. It helps buyers make informed decisions and take advantage of favorable market conditions. Online automotive portals, industry publications, and news websites are excellent sources of car buying news in South Africa. South Africa has specific laws and regulations in place for buying and selling cars. These laws aim to protect buyers and sellers and ensure fair and transparent transactions. When buying a car, it is important to ensure that the seller provides all necessary documentation, including the vehicle registration papers, roadworthy certificate, and proof of ownership. Buyers should also verify that the vehicle is not stolen or encumbered by outstanding debt. Sellers are required to disclose any known defects or issues with the vehicle and provide accurate information about its history. The Consumer Protection Act and the National Credit Act provide additional protections for consumers in car transactions. Applicable Laws for Buying and Selling Cars South Africa has specific laws governing the buying and selling of cars. Buyers should ensure that the seller provides all necessary documentation, including the vehicle registration papers, roadworthy certificate, and proof of ownership. It is also essential to verify that the vehicle is not stolen or encumbered by outstanding debt. The South African Police Service (SAPS) offers a platform to check the status of a vehicle’s ownership and legality. Classic Cars Classic car collecting is a popular hobby in South Africa, with enthusiasts passionate about preserving vintage vehicles and participating in various activities and events. Collectors often invest in classic cars for their historical significance, aesthetic appeal, and potential value appreciation. Restorations are undertaken to bring these classic vehicles back to their original condition, often requiring expertise and attention to detail. Once can find several accomplished home mechanics in residential areas of the country, particularly in the major provinces. Classic car shows, exhibitions, and rallies are organized across the country, providing platforms for enthusiasts to showcase their prized vehicles and interact with fellow collectors. These events celebrate automotive heritage and offer opportunities for the public to appreciate and learn about classic cars. Malaria Malaria South Africa is the only country in Africa that can officially offer a fully malaria-free safari experience. The assured malaria-free safari areas are the Eastern Cape , North West Province (including the Pilanesberg National Park and the Madikwe Game Reserve), and the Waterberg. Malaria transmission in South Africa is seasonal, with malaria cases starting to rise in October, peaking in January and February, and waning towards May. Malaria is caused by a one-celled parasite called a Plasmodium. Female Anopheles mosquitoes pick up the parasite from infected people when they bite to obtain blood needed to nurture their eggs. Inside the mosquito the parasites reproduce and develop. Malaria Malaria parasite – Plasmodium is a genus of unicellular eukaryotes that are obligate parasites of vertebrates and insects. Malaria is a life-threatening mosquito-borne blood disease caused by a Plasmodium parasite. The parasites travel to the liver where they mature and reproduce. Malaria has been recognized since the Greek and Roman civilizations over 2,000 years ago. Malaria causes symptoms that typically include fever, tiredness, vomiting, and headaches. The malaria parasite is not in an infected person’s saliva and it is not passed on from one person to another. The only way you can catch malaria from a person is through blood transfusions or organ transplants. For most people, symptoms begin 10 days to 4 weeks after infection, although a person may feel ill as early as 7 days or as late as 1 year later. Two kinds of malaria, P. vivax and P. ovale, can occur again (relapsing malaria). If the right drugs are used, people who have malaria can be cured and all the malaria parasites can be cleared from their body. In general, it takes about two weeks of treatment to be cured of malaria. People traveling to areas where malaria is common typically take protective drugs before, during and after their trip. Treatment includes antimalarial drugs. Malaria is often also incorrectly diagnosed as flu. Without proper treatment, malaria episodes (fever, chills, sweating) can return periodically over a period of years. After repeated exposure, patients will become partially immune and develop milder disease. Treatment of malaria depends on the number of different factors that include disease severity, the particular species of Plasmodium infecting the patient and the potential for drug resistance of the various species and strains of Plasmodium. In general, it takes about two weeks of treatment to be cured of malaria. Malaria is a life-threatening disease. It’s typically transmitted through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito. Infected mosquitoes carry the Plasmodium parasite. When this mosquito bites you, the parasite is released into your bloodstream. The most common antimalarial drugs include: Chloroquine (Aralen) Quinine sulfate (Qualaquin) Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) Mefloquine. Combination of atovaquone and proguanil (Malarone) Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as: severe or uncontrolled vomiting or diarrhea; fever, mouth sores; problems with speech, balance, or walking; severe skin rash; nausea, stomach pain, loss of appetite, dark urine Choosing the Anti-Malarial Medication That’s Right for You: Atovaquone/proguanil. Brand Names: Malarone, Malanil. Chloroquine. Brand Names: Aralen, Resochin and Dawaquin. Doxycycline. Brand Names: Vibramycin, Monodox, Periostat, Vibra-Tabs. Mefloquine. Brand Names: Lariam, Mephaquin, Mefliam. Primaquine. Brand Names: Primaquine. Make sure you take the right antimalarial tablets at the right dose, and finish the course. If you are sick within one hour of taking your daily tablet, you need to take another dose to make sure you remain protected against malaria. Some drugs are not effective because the parasite is resistant to them. Medicines to prevent malaria that you take daily include doxycycline and atovone/proguanil (Malarone). All prophylactic drugs should be taken with unfailing regularity for the duration of the stay in the malaria risk area, and should be continued for 4 weeks after the last possible exposure to infection, since parasites may still emerge from the liver during this period. Diagnosis of malaria involves performing blood smears. For a blood smear, a drop of blood is applied to and spread onto a glass slide. It is then treated with a special stain and examined under a microscope for the morphology of infected blood cells and the parasite. In early stages only red blood cells get affected. Later, Malaria mostly affects liver and spleen causing hepato and spleenomegaly. Anemia is common in patients with malaria, in part due to the effects of the Plasmodium parasite on the red cells. It is extremely uncommon for malaria to cause skin lesions or rash. In the vast majority of cases, malaria is only transmitted via the bite of an infected mosquito. However, if a pregnant woman becomes infected with malaria, she can pass the parasite to her unborn child via the placenta, or via blood transfer during childbirth. Bite prevention – avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellent, covering your arms and legs, and using a mosquito net. All travelers should be advised that personal protection from mosquito bites between dusk and dawn is their first line of defense against malaria. Check whether you need to take malaria prevention tablets – if you do, make sure you take the right antimalarial tablets at the right dose, and finish the course. General Health Risks: Malaria Malaria is transmitted by the night-time – dusk to dawn – biting female Anopheles mosquito. Malaria – Overview How to Protect Yourself Against Malaria World Malaria Risk Chart Risk is absent in most of the country; risk exists only in specified areas: Risk is present in the northeastern provinces of Limpopo , the low altitude areas of Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal as far south along the coast to the Tugela River. Peak risk period: October to May. Note: Travellers visiting Kruger National Park and Tembe National Park are advised to take malaria suppressive medication during the peak risk period. Take meticulous anti-mosquito measures from dusk to dawn year round. High risk months for Malaria are: January to December Malaria transmission vector(s): A.funestus, A.gambiae Incidence of Plasmodium falciparum Malaria: 90% Of the five species of human malaria parasites, Plasmodium falciparum is the most dangerous. The remaining percentage represents malaria infections that may be caused by one or more of the following parasites: Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium ovale, Plasmodium malariae, and Plasmodium knowlesi. Areas with drug resistant Malaria: Multidrug resistant P. falciparum malaria is present in all malarious areas of South Africa. The antimalarial medications listed below are effective for this country. Suppressive Medication Guide All malaria infections are serious illnesses and must be treated as a medical emergency. In offering guidance on the choice of antimalarial drugs, the main concern is to provide protection against Plasmodium falciparum malaria, the most dangerous and often fatal form of the illness. Regardless of the medication which has been taken, it is of utmost importance for travellers and their physician to consider fever and flu-like symptoms appearing 7 days up to several months after leaving a malarious area as a malaria breakthrough. Early diagnosis is essential for successful treatment. In addition to the suggested antimalarial medication, use a mosquito bed net and effective repellents to avoid the bite of the nocturnal Anopheles mosquito. VIA: https://www.iamat.org/country/south-africa/risk/malaria International Association for Medical Assistance to Travellers. IAMAT South Africa is one of 14 African countries to have received recognition for its fight against malaria during the 2016 African Leaders Malaria Alliance (Alma) meeting on 30 January as part of the 26th African Union Summit in Ethiopia. South Africa’s progress In South Africa, cases of malaria have decreased by 82%; and the malaria related death rate has dropped by 71% since the year 2000 to date. The decrease is attributed to a sound malaria vector control programme, in which the country has used dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane or DDT odourless insecticide for indoor residual spraying, coupled with other World Health Organization recommended interventions. The key to a better malaria vaccine The malaria vaccine was invented more than a century ago — yet each year, hundreds of thousands of people still die from the disease. How can we improve this vital vaccine? In this informative talk, immunologist and TED Fellow Faith Osier shows how she’s combining cutting-edge technology with century-old insights in the hopes of creating a new vaccine that eradicates malaria once and for all. OR Tambo International Airport OR Tambo International Airport OR Tambo International Airport in Kempton Park , Ekurhuleni is the largest and busiest airport in Africa. A thoroughly modern and state-of-the-art airport OR Tambo International handles more than 19 million passengers per year and employs more than 18,000 people. OR Tambo International is Africa’s gateway to the world. No other airport in Africa can handle as many domestic and international flights and the airport boasts one of the world’s longest international runways. All of the world’s major airlines land at OR Tambo International and you can catch a flight to any regional and most international destinations from the airport. The airport was founded as Jan Smuts International Airport in 1952, replacing Palmietfontein International Airport that had handled European flights to South Africa since 1945. With South Africa’s transition to democracy in 1994, the name was changed to Johannesburg International Airport and on October 27, 2006, the airport was renamed again in honour of the anti-apartheid activist and former African National Congress president Oliver Tambo . Ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ the airport underwent a major facelift to increase handling capacity, parking and retail space. OR Tambo International has two terminals handling domestic and international flights. Terminal A handles international traffic and Terminal B domestic flights. Both terminals consist of two levels, with departures on the upper level and arrivals on the lower. OR Tambo International Airport, IATA Code: JNB and often shortened to ORTIA, lies 5,558 ft / 1,694 m above sea level in the Johannesburg suburb of Kempton Park, 23 km east of Johannesburg city centre and 46km south of Pretoria. There is no shortage of shopping opportunities for visitors at OR Tambo International Airport and it easily compares with some of Johannesburg’s bigger malls in terms of shopping and dining options, both before and after you pass through security. South Africa has extremely good cell phone network coverage and the country’s leading cell phone network operators have stores at the airport offering cell phone rentals. There are also four currency exchange offices – Absa, Rennies, Master Currency and American Express, where you can also cash traveller’s cheques. Local Government in South Africa Local Government in South Africa Local Government in South Africa Local government is one of the three spheres of government in South Africa, along with national and provincial government. Local government is responsible for providing services to communities, such as water, sanitation, roads, and electricity. It also plays a role in planning and development, and in promoting economic growth. There are three categories of municipalities in South Africa: metropolitan municipalities, district municipalities, and local municipalities. Metropolitan municipalities are the largest municipalities, and they cover major urban areas such as Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban . District municipalities are responsible for areas that contain several local municipalities. Local municipalities are the smallest municipalities, and they cover smaller towns and rural areas. Each municipality has a council that is elected by the people who live in the municipality. The council is responsible for making decisions about how the municipality is run. The mayor is the head of the municipality, and they are responsible for representing the municipality to the public and to other levels of government. Local government is an important part of South Africa’s democracy. It provides a way for people to have a say in how their communities are run, and it helps to ensure that services are delivered to all communities, regardless of their size or location. Here are some of the key functions of local government in South Africa: Providing basic services: Local government is responsible for providing a range of basic services to communities, such as water, sanitation, roads, and electricity. Planning and development: Local government plays a role in planning and development, and in promoting economic growth. Providing social services: Local government provides a range of social services, such as housing, education, and healthcare. Enforcing by-laws: Local government is responsible for enforcing by-laws, which are rules that are designed to protect the public and the environment. Representing the community: Local government represents the community to the public and to other levels of government. Here are some of the challenges facing local government in South Africa: Inadequate funding: Local government is often underfunded, which can make it difficult to provide basic services and to implement development plans. Corruption: Corruption is a problem in some local governments, which can lead to mismanagement and waste. Lack of capacity: Some local governments lack the capacity to effectively deliver services and to implement development plans. Political interference: Political interference can sometimes make it difficult for local governments to make decisions and to implement policies. Despite these challenges, local government is an important part of South Africa’s democracy. It provides a way for people to have a say in how their communities are run, and it helps to ensure that services are delivered to all communities, regardless of their size or location. News from the World Heath Organization News from the World Heath Organization News from the World Heath Organization: EXPLAINER | How freezing embryos plays a crucial role in IVF Source: News Published on 2024-04-19 Former SANDF general accused of R2.1m fraud granted bail Source: News Published on 2024-04-19 Stock Market Outlook for April 19, 2024 Source: Equity Clock Published on 2024-04-18 USDZAR Price Forecast: Rand Remains Steady after Local CPI Inflation - DailyFX Source: USDZAR Published on 2024-04-18 USD/ZAR Forecast: South African Rand Continues to See Pressure - DailyForex Source: USDZAR Published on 2024-04-18 SA is facing a fast escalating heroin crisis — and it’s being misunderstood Source: News Published on 2024-04-18 Helen Suzman Foundation rejects white paper on immigration legislation Source: News Published on 2024-04-18 Life imprisonment for man who raped girl, 7, walking home from school Source: News Published on 2024-04-18 20.3461 ZAR = 1 EUR 2024-04-18 ECB Reference rate Source: EURZAR Published on 2024-04-18 USD/ZAR forecast: 3 catalysts for the South African rand - Oil & Gas 360 Source: USDZAR Published on 2024-04-17 Stock Market Outlook for April 18, 2024 Source: Equity Clock Published on 2024-04-17 USDZAR price forecast: rand remains steady after local CPI inflation | IG South Africa Source: USDZAR Published on 2024-04-17 USD/ZAR forecast: 3 catalysts for the South African rand | Invezz Source: USDZAR Published on 2024-04-17 COMMENT-Power of the cloud twist provides the rand with relief - TradingView Source: USDZAR Published on 2024-04-17 20.2752 ZAR = 1 EUR 2024-04-17 ECB Reference rate Source: EURZAR Published on 2024-04-17 Explore Network Useful Links Useful Links from Explore South Africa to make the most of your stay in South Africa. Mozambique, Africa The fastest growing tourist destination in Africa! Cheap Flight South Africa All you need to know about booking cheap flights to South Africa. Guide to Wines of the World All you need to know about the many different countries who produce Wine from South Africa to California. South African Travel The South African Travel Corporation focuses on groups of like-minded individuals looking for an authentic WOW South Africa travel Experience ™. We offer safari trips, city packages, winelands tours, corporate travel, golf tours, and more! South African National Anthem Learn the South African National Anthem. Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika (God Bless Africa) Maluphakanyisw' uphondo lwayo, (Raise high Her glory) Yizwa imithandazo yethu, (Hear our Prayers) Nkosi sikelela, thina lusapho lwayo. (God bless us, we her children) Morena boloka setjhaba sa heso, (God protect our nation) O fedise dintwa le matshwenyeho, (End all wars and tribulations) O se boloke, O se boloke setjhaba sa heso, (Protect, protect our nation) Setjhaba sa South Afrika - South Afrika. (Our nation South Africa, South Africa) Uit die blou van onse hemel, (Ringing out from our blue heavens) Uit die diepte van ons see, (From our deep seas breaking round) Oor ons ewige gebergtes, (Over everlasting mountains) Waar die kranse antwoord gee, (Where the echoing crags resound) Sounds the call to come together, And united we shall stand, Let us live and strive for freedom, In South Africa our land. Travel info Links Eating and Going Out Eat Out – Johannesburg and Sandton is home to a huge culinary scene that you wouldn’t expect. There are hundreds of restaurants and some very top notch spots. Eat Out is probably the closest thing South Africa has to Yelp in the US. They also have an app for the iphone but it is not at the level that Yelp is in the states. I’d however, associate Eat Out with more of a Zagat equivalent than Yelp. Dining Out – Another restaurant website with a more archaic design but provides in depth coverage of the restaurants in the area. Food 24 – Another great restaurant resource that is similar to NYC’s nymag.com Table Magic – This is without a doubt South Africa’s equivalent to Opentable in the US and TopTable in the UK. Neighbourgoods Market – Every Saturday, there is a food market in Joburg and Capetown Market on Main – Similar to Neighbourgoods Market, there is another food market on Sundays in Joburg. Car Purchasing Autotrader.co.za – The equivalent of Autotrader in the US. Best website to buy a used car. Cars.co.za – Equivalent to cars.com in the states. Carfind – Another informative new and used car website. Automart – Another great resource for buying/selling cars Fitness Clubs Virgin Active – One of two large chains of gyms in South Africa. Planet Fitness – The other gym in town. Planet Fitness Platinum – A very high end gym in Sandton that costs more than 2x the regular gyms. Extremely nice however. Buying/Renting a home Property 24 – Probably the largest and most commonly used website to find houses/apartments for sale/rent. Gumtree / OLX – Just like craigslist in the US, Gumtree and OLX are jack of all trades and many people post their properties for subletting, lease, or sale Private Property – Another solid option for finding housing. Online Shopping Woolworths – A large chain store that is like a smaller version of a walmart super store. Groceries and clothing both available. Online website caters to non-food goods Kalahar i – A very small version of Amazon.com. Amazon is unfortunately not in South Africa but they do ship internationally here for a premium. Kalahari is about as close of an alternative as it gets to Amazon. Bid or Buy – Closet thing to eBay as it gets in SA. Safaris and Overland Tours Tour Operators – These companies actually put on the tour so you’d be booking straight from the source Acacia Africa – One of the most reputable companies for safaris and overlanding. I have a few trips booked with these guys in the future. Specializing in Eastern and Southern Africa Nomad Tours – Another very reputable company for overland tours. Specializing in Eastern and Southern Africa Drifters – Tour company based out of South Africa that also specializes in Eastern and Southern African tours. Very reputable. Intrepid Tours – A big international tour company with tours all around the world. I find that because these guys are not based out of SA, their tours are generally a bit more expensive than Nomad and Acacia G Adventures – Another big tour company with trips all around the world. Prices are all quoted in USD and inclusive of local payment. I’ve seen their trucks all over my trips so they’re clearly reputable but they are considerably more expensive. Tour Agents – Think of these as the Kayak search of Safaris and Overland Tours: One site consolidates tours from multiple operators African Budget Safaris – I’ve actually talked on the phone with these guys a bunch, sometimes the best way to get information is to call instead of email. These guys are very helpful and seriously have access and information on any tour out there. Their name is budget but they also have more expensive and non-budget options available. The tour agents can generally offer you a discount vs the operator’s website and I’ve already booked a tour through them already. Detour Africa – Similar premise as the above website. I’ve also been on the phone with these guys and they are also very helpful. South Africa Airlines Flight Centre – This seems to be the go to website to search for flights around South Africa and Africa. They also have very cheap tour packages around the area. Kulula – This seems to be South Africa’s equivalent to Europe’s Easyjet. They generally have cheaper flights than say South African Airways to places like Durban and Cape Town. Mango – Another Budget Airline that flies within South Africa. FlySAFair – The newest budget airline of South Africa, this airline offers easily the lowest fairs between Joburg and Cape Town! Additional Links Oyster Worldwide – Gap year planning specialists Golf Escapes South Africa – For planning golf related trips in South Africa Holiday Place – Travel experts with a wide array of experience and offerings to plan your next holiday in Africa Taxi2Airport – My preferred method of arranging taxi pickups at airports around the world True Luxury Travel – Experts in luxury travel planning adventure around Africa Wayfairer Travel – Specializes in offering luxury holidays and safaris which are authentic, meaningful and socially responsible, and which thereby also benefit local communities and conserve environments. Pettitts – Pioneers in planning and organizing self-drive tours around different parts of the world Useful Links – Tourism Travel Department of Tourism https://www.tourism.gov.za/ South African Tourism http://www.southafrica.net/ Tourism Indaba http://www.indaba-southafrica.co.za/ Meetings Africa https://www.meetingsafrica.co.za/ Federated Hospitality Association of Southern Africa http://fedhasa.co.za/ Tourism Business Council of South Africa http://tbcsa.travel/ Tourism Grading Council http://www.tourismgrading.co.za/ Regional Tourism Authorities Eastern Cape Tourism http://www.visiteasterncape.co.za/ Free State Tourism http://freestatetourism.org/ Gauteng Tourism http://www.gauteng.net/ KwaZulu-Natal Tourism http://www.zulu.org.za/ Limpopo Tourism http://www.golimpopo.com/ Mpumalanga Tourism http://www.mtpa.co.za/ North West Tourism http://www.tourismnorthwest.co.za/ Northern Cape Tourism http://experiencenortherncape.com/ Cape Town & Western Cape Tourism http://goto.capetown/home Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism http://www.nmbt.co.za/ Joburg Tourism http://www.joburgtourism.com/ Animals & Plants South African National Parks https://www.sanparks.org/ Kruger National Park http://www.krugerpark.co.za/ Cape Nature Conservation http://www.capenature.co.za/ South African National Biodiversity Institute http://www.sanbi.org/ Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden http://www.sanbi.org/gardens/kirstenbosch Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa http://www.wessa.org.za/ Geography and Climate Mapping South Africa http://www.mapstudio.co.za/southafricamap.php South African Weather Service http://www.weathersa.co.za/ Getting Around South African Airways https://www.flysaa.com/ SA Express http://www.flyexpress.aero/ Airports Company South Africa http://www.airports.co.za/ Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa http://www.prasa.com/ South African National Roads Agency https://www.i-traffic.co.za/ Gautrain Rapid Rail Link http://www.gautrain.co.za/ Rea Vaya Bus Rapid Transport http://www.reavaya.org.za/ MyCiti Bus Rapid Transport http://myciti.org.za/ MetroRail http://www.metrorail.co.za/ BACK TO TOP