On our first visit to the country, we learnt that often when locals refer to ‘the bush’ what they really mean is Greater Kruger. It’s not only one of South Africa’s best safari destinations, but it’s part of the country’s national identity, and renowned worldwide. So what is it about Greater Kruger that makes it so amazing?
Well, South Africa was the first country to conserve land in Africa, in 1895, and the second to nationalise the parks system, proclaiming the Kruger National Park in 1926. As such, it has a wealth of experience to draw on when it comes to protected areas.
For safari lodges, this translates to a magnificent guest experience, while for the Kruger guides and trackers, it’s resulted in truly honed skills that all but guarantee you excellent sightings.
The place names in the Greater Kruger even sound like a roll call of safari highlights: Sabi Sands, Lion Sands, Timbavati. This is Big Five country par excellence, and your chances of seeing iconic – and more unusual – African species is better here than almost anywhere else on the continent.
Furthermore, the sheer size of the Greater Kruger area – larger than Switzerland – enables it to contain a range of intact ecosystems.
In the prime big-cat habitats of the Sabi Sands, a winning formula has been perfected. It’s here where you’ll find the best of the best: lavish accommodation, impeccable service, spectacular food and the finest guides and trackers in the business, which all add up an unparalleled safari experience.
This experience extends far beyond the conventional (but still wonderful) game drives. Tracking animals on foot is an almost primaeval pleasure, as well as being something of an adrenaline rush (although the presence of an armed and experienced guide means you’re completely safe).
And if you can bear to tear yourself away from your suite, a night sleeping under the Milky Way in a Greater Kruger treehouse can elevate your experience from five stars, to a million.
