Zululand Parks and Reserves

Hluluwe-Imfolozi

Set in the heart of Zululand the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve is the oldest game park on the African Continent. The reserves lie adjacent to one another and are openly linked together. The area was made famous by Ian Player and ‘Operation Rhino’ in the 1950’s and 60’s where white rhino were strictly conserved and brought back from the brink of extinction where today there are healthy populations in a few countries. Together the reserves cover 96 000 hectares of pristine bush with an exceptional assortment of fauna and flora. Over 300 species of birds are found in the area and the Hluhluwe River is the one of the few areas in Southern Africa where Pink Throated, Orange Throated and Yellow Throated Longclaws can be seen together. Of the abundant large mammals in the reserve some of the species that one can see are elephant, white and black rhino, zebra, giraffe, lion, cheetah, buffalo, leopard, hippo, wildebeest, impala, nyala, spotted hyena, warthog and wild dog.

Topography on the reserves differs vastly and this is one of the main reasons for the diverse and productive numbers of animal, reptiles, birds, trees and plants. Hluhluwe is made up of high rolling hills with the altitude ranging from 80 metres to 540 metres above sea level. The high ridges support riverine and coastal forest while as one gets lower down valley bushveld becomes more prevalent. Terrain in Umflozi ranges from lowlands of the Umfolozi River to hilly, rocky country with large, open valleys in between. Vegetation is made up mostly of grassland with a fair amount of acacia savannah and woodland.

Please note - The Hluhluwe- Imfolozi Game Reserve is a malaria area and those wishing to visit the region should consult with their GP’s as to the precautions which should be taken.

Imfolozi Wilderness Trail

Lying between the Black and White Umfolozi Rivers covering some 30 000 hectares is the Imfolozi Wilderness Area. The area is totally natural with no human development and the only means to access the region is on foot, horseback or by canoe. Thanks to the vision of Dr Ian Player and the former Natal Parks Board (now Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife) in the 1950’s the first wilderness area in Africa was born. Guests taking part in the trails carry only their back packs and clothes on their back as they explore the Big 5 region under the guidance of armed rangers and undertake a truly African ‘wilderness experience’.

There are five different trails that one can choose, ranging from a 3 night base camp trail to a 4 night Primitive Trail where there is no accommodation and guests sleep out in the wilderness under the stars. All are fully catered for and include trails guides and cooks (except the Primitive Trail).

Accommodation

Hluhluwe:

Hilltop Camp

Hilltop Camp is the flagship camp in the Hluhluwe Game Reserve and the winner of the ‘British Airways Tourism For Tomorrow Award’. The camp, which is the oldest in KwaZulu- Natal, rests on the crest of a high hill amongst thick coastal bush with panoramic views of the surrounding reserve. Hilltop Camp has a slightly cooler climate compared to the rest of the area because of the altitude and this can be a welcome relief, particularly in the hot humid conditions of summer. Accommodation ranges from a luxury lodge to a number of self catering chalets giving a decent selection for budget travellers to those looking for a little more quality and service.

Facilities include:

• 20 rondavels (round chalets) with communal ablutions and kitchen.
• 7 two bedded chalets.
• 22 four bedded chalets
• 20 two bedded chalets which are not self catering.

The camp has an a la carte restaurant, pub and comfortable lounge as well as a curio shop and convenience store.

Muntulu Bush Lodge

The very comfortable Muntulu Bush Lodge is set on a steep bank and offers enchanting views of the meandering Hluhluwe River from the main lounge which is linked to the rest of the lodge by wooden walkways. A chef and game guide come with the camp, which must be booked out exclusively. Visitors must bring their own food and drinks and the chef will prepare all meals accordingly. Guests can accompany their guide on daily bush walks however the minimum age for this is fourteen years old.

• The very comfortable Muntulu Bush Lodge is set on a steep bank and offers enchanting views of the meandering Hluhluwe River from the main lounge which is linked to the rest of the lodge by wooden walkways. A chef and game guide come with the camp, which must be booked out exclusively. Visitors must bring their own food and drinks and the chef will prepare all meals accordingly. Guests can accompany their guide on daily bush walks however the minimum age for this is fourteen years old.
• 4 two bedded en suite chalets.

Mtwazi Bush Lodge

Situated close to Hilltop Camp in the shade of a grand Sycamore Fig, the thatched Mtwazi Lodge is the perfect self catering option. The eight bedded lodge is decorated with historic memorabilia from the days when the reserve warden used to call the dwelling his home. The elegant lounge and dining room stretch out on to the veranda which looks out onto the indigenous gardens of the lodge. The lodge is serviced once daily and the services of a cook are available, however guests have the option of eating at Hilltop Camp. Bush walks are offered from the lodge, minimum age is fourteen years, and visitors can also book game drives at Hilltop Camp.

Facilities include:

• 3 two bedded bedrooms each with their own private bathroom.
• Attached to each bedroom are annex bedrooms with their own shower and toilet.

Munywaneni Bush Lodge

This comfortable bush lodge overlooks the confluence of the Hluhluwe River and the Munywaneni Stream and lies adjacent to a large game trail resulting in great viewing of large numbers of game moving to and from the drinking areas. Large Sycamore Figs adorn the river banks and the fruits are a great draw card for good numbers of birds, monkeys, baboons and the elusive bushpigs. The open plan lounge and dining area are linked to the reed and thatch sleeping units by walkways. Visitors are attended to by staff who cook and clean as well as a game guide who can take them on daily walks, of which the minimum age for is fourteen years old. Groups must book out the lodge exclusively and also bring their own food and drinks with which the chef will prepare delicious meals.

Facilities include:

• 4 two bedded en suite sleeping units.

Imfolozi

Mpila Camp

Mpila camp is well positioned in central Imfolozi and has great vistas of the surrounding Wilderness Area. Mpila is the largest camp in Imfolozi and the only rest point offering petrol (limited) and a curio/convenience store however there is no restaurant. A number of game species frequent the camp, feeding on the lush grass and vegetation, including species such as warthog, zebra and blue wildebeest and although guests can walk around the unfenced camp during the day extra caution must be taken in the evenings. There is a great variety of self catering accommodation available at Mpila Camp from chalets to the Safari Tented Camp and all of these are provided with limited amounts of electricity so guest are urged to bring torches and lamps.

Facilities include:

• 12 single bedroom units accommodating up to four people with a central kitchen and ablution blocks.
• 2 self contained three- bedroomed units each accommodating up to seven people with a chef.
• 6 self catering chalets accommodating up to five people. Included are two bedrooms, bathroom, kitchen and a lounge/dining room.
• Safari Tented Camp has seven, two bedded units which are en suite. Third bed is available on request. (Each unit is fenced and has a veranda as well as a fully equipped kitchen and dining room which are connected to the tents by wooden walkways)
• Safari Tented Camp also has two, four bedded en suite units. (Each unit is fenced and has a veranda as well as a fully equipped kitchen and dining room which are connected to the tents by wooden walkways)

Curios, alcohol, cold drinks and snacks can be bought at the convenience store however guests must bring their own meals and food with them.

Masinda Lodge

Situated twenty minutes from Mpila camp Masinda Lodge is positioned in the northern section of Imfolozi Game Reserve with sweeping views of the southern area. The impressive lodge has been completely refurbished with an African style which is fitting with the Zulu culture and heritage of the region. A cook is present at the lodge to prepare delectable meals with the food that visitors bring. Game drives can be booked at the Mpila Camp reception.

Facilities include:

• 3 en suite bedrooms.
• Jacuzzi

Gqoyeni Bush Lodge

Gqoyeni Bush lodge is well positioned on a peninsula overlooking the confluence of the Gqoyeni Stream and the Black Umfolozi which has a year round pool that attracts good numbers of game including elephant and buffalo. Guests are looked after by staff that cook and clean as well as a game guide who takes daily bush walks. Bedroom units are linked to a central lounge and kitchen by wooden walkways and the lodge must be booked out exclusively.

Facilities Inlude

• 4 two bedded en suite units.

Hlatikulu Lodge

Hlatikulu Lodge is situated in central Imfolozi Game Reserve in a Tamboti thicket overlooking the Black Umfolozi which is frequented by hippo and crocodile. The central area is made up of a kitchen, dining room and lounge linked to the bedroom units by wooden walkways. Guests are looked after by staff that cook and clean as well as a game guide who takes daily bush walks. Walks are particularly special at Hlatikulu as they take place in a remote section of the reserve that few people get to see. The lodge must be booked out exclusively.

Facilities include:

• 4 two bedded en suite units.

Please note visitors using Hluluwe and Imfolozi Game Reserve accommodation have to pay a R70 conservation fee per person per day.

Mkhuze Game Reserve

Mkhuze is a magnificent game reserve in Zululand nestled against the eastern slopes of the Lebombo Mountains. The area boasts extremely diverse terrain including acacia savannah, swamps, woodlands, riverine forest and a patch of a rare type of sand forest. The reserve is an extremely popular destination for serious birders and over 420 species of birds have been recorded in the region including pinkbacked and white pelicans as well as a host of other water birds. The 40 000 hectare reserve makes up the north western branch off of the Isimangaliso Wetland Park which is a World Heritage Site. Some of the game species seen are black and white rhino, elephant, giraffe, zebra, leopard, impala, buffalo and nyala amongst others. Cheetah, wild dog and hyena are some of the rare species seen. There are a number of fun and interesting activities available at Mkhuze Game Reserve with the three hides being the most popular with bird watchers and patient visitors. Night drives and bush walks can be booked at the camp office whilst guided birding walks are also available.

Please Note- Mkhuze Game Reserve is a malaria area and those wishing to visit the region should consult with their GP’s as to the precautions which should be taken.

Accommodation

Mantamu Camp

Mantamu camp has a great range of accommodation facilities and close by amenities including a swimming pool, small restaurant and a curio shop. Visitors staying at the camp must provide their own food and beverages.

Facilities include:

• 10 two bedded tented units with en suite bathrooms and kitchen facilities.
• 3 four bedded tented units with en suite bathrooms and kitchen facilities.
• 2 six bed cottages.
• 4 two bed chalets.
• 5 four bed chalets.
• 6 two bed rest huts with communal ablutions and central kitchen.

Nhlonhlela Bush Lodge

Nhlonhlela Bush Lodge is perfectly positioned on the pristine Nhlonhlela Pan which is frequented by large numbers of birds, hippo and crocodile and other species of wildlife. The pan is surrounded by a large stand of the green- yellow Fever Trees and a first- class birding spot (KZN Wildlife report that during drought periods the outlook of the pan is not as described). Guests are looked after by staff that cook and clean as well as a game guide who takes visitors on walks in the savannahs and sand and fig forests of the reserve. Guests must book out the lodge exclusively and bring their own food and drinks.

Facilities include:

• 4 two bedded en suite sleeping units
• Sun deck and fully equipped kitchen

Ndumo Game Reserve

Ndumo is best known for its ridiculously high bird count (highest in South Africa) as well as their massive crocodile populations. Found close to Tembe Elephant Park and separated from Mozambique by the Usuthu River, Ndumo Game Reserve is one of the real gems of the country. Made up mostly of large pans, wetlands and stands of fever trees as well as acacia savannah and sand forest the reserve can boast as being one of the most unique game reserves around. Of the strong number of bird species the speciality are the aquatic birds including species such as the Black Egret, Pygmy Goose and Pelicans. Serious birders and twitchers will delight at the special species found in the region such as Pels Fishing Owl, African Finfoot, African Broadbill and Southern Banded Snake Eagle and will be kept busy spotting and identifying the tropical East African forms which use Ndumo as their southernmost range. Apart from the birds Ndumo also has decent numbers of game species such as nyala, black and white rhino, red duiker, suni, hippo and bushbuck as well as a massive insect diversity which is of great interest to entomologists. Visitors are allowed to drive themselves around certain parts of the reserve but more interesting areas can be seen on game drives run by knowledgeable guides. Walks are another option available to visitors.

Please Note- The Ndumo Game Reserve is a malaria area and those wishing to visit the region should consult with their GP’s as to the precautions which should be taken.

Accommodation

Ndumo Camp

Ndumo Camp has amazing views across the Phongola river floodplain and is dotted about with large Marula trees. A cool swimming pool brings welcome relief during the hot summer days in an area that is renowned for its high temperatures. Camp cooks prepare delicious meals with food that guests have brought in whilst game guides take visitors on informative and exciting drives and walks.

Facilities include:

• 7 two bedded squaredavels (square chalets) with air-conditioning and communal kitchen and ablution block.

• 8 campsites accommodating forty eight people that share the camps ablution facilities.

Tembe Elephant Park

Established in 1983 to protect the last remaining herds of free ranging elephant, which used to migrate seasonally between Maputaland and Mozambique, Tembe Elephant Park is one of the true ‘wild’ parts of South Africa. The reserve, lying on the border between Mozambique and KwaZulu Natal, has a collection of differing terrains entangled together including sand forest, woodland, grassland and swampland. Tembe falls within a transition zone between tropical and sub- tropical forms and is the main reason for the diverse vegetation in the region. Elephant is the major draw card here and there are approximately 150 in number as well as lion (recently introduced), black and white rhino, buffalo, leopard, suni, waterbuck, giraffe, hippo, kudu and many others. Being in close proximity to Ndumo Game Reserve gives one an idea on how good the birding is here. Over 340 species have been recorded in the area including rare specimens such as Rudds Apalis, Rufous- bellied Heron, Natal Night Jar and Woodwards Batis. The main activities in the park are morning and afternoon/evening drives which are taken in open 4x4’s exploring the unique and wild area.

Other activities include birding trips to Ndumo, boat trips on the Kosi Lake system, diving and snorkelling at Kosi Bay and Rocktail Bay and turtle watching in summer in the Isimangaliso Wetland Park. Accommodation in Tembe Elephant Park is available at the private Tembe Safari camp and Conference Centre.

Please Note - Tembe Elephant Park is a malaria area and those wishing to visit the region should consult with their GP’s as to the precautions which should be taken.

Much of the content and information involving the natural areas and game reserves of KwaZulu Natal is that of Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife. For additional information or booking details one can contact Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife at:

KZN WILDLIFE RESERVATIONS

Telephone: +27 (033) 845 1000

Fax: +27 (033) 845 1001

P.O. BOX 13069

CASCADES 3202

KWAZULU-NATAL

South Africa

email: webmail@kznwildlife.com

www.kznwildlife.com

Pilanesberg National Park

Situated only two hours north of Johannesburg and bordering the world famous gambling, golf and leisure resorts of Sun City and the Lost City, lies the malaria free Pilanesberg National Park. One of the largest parks in South Africa covering 55000 hectares, Pilanesberg is situated within the eroded remnants of an alkaline-volcanic crater – one of only three such craters in the world. Volcanic eruptions some 1 200 million years have resulted in three concentric ridges, terming the structure of the park as the “Pilanesberg National Park Alkaline Ring Complex”. The extinct volcano is a perfect example of an alkaline ring complex and is viewed as an ancient event even by geological time scales. The park rates highly amongst geologists as an outstanding geological phenomenon.

North West Parks had the foresight to begin the transformation from an economically depressed farming area surrounding Sun City in to a great conservation story. In 1979 localised farms in the Bophuthatswana homeland were declared a reserve, commercial farming came to an end and the restocking of game began which was to become known as ‘Operation Genesis’. At the time this was the largest and most expensive game stocking and land rehabilitation project ever embarked on in Africa.

Pilanesberg is located in the region where the dry Kalahari and wetter Lowveld vegetation types meet to form the ‘Bushveld’ zone. This creates unique overlapping habitat types which support a wide range of fauna and flora. In this zone animals favouring the more arid west such as springbok and camel thorn acacia trees can be found alongside impala and cape chestnut trees. The park’s gates are open to the general public and the park can become fairly congested during peak holiday season and long weekends.

The park has healthy numbers of the Big 5 as well as various endemic animals including brown hyena, cheetah, sable, giraffe, zebra, hippo and crocodile. The rocky outcrops, open grasslands, wooded valleys and thickets create a lovely setting. Visitors can drive around in their own vehicles or can choose to join one of the guided tours which have morning, afternoon and evening game drive times. The park boasts a healthy bird list of over 300 bird species and there are some excellent hides within the park for photographers and patient observers.

The roads are well maintained and the major roads are tarred, easily accessible for a small car and there is no need for a 4x4. In addition there are a number of picnic sites and view sites where day visitors can alight from the vehicles and enjoy the park from another point of view.

Activities in the various sections of the park include:

• Game drives
• Elephant Back Safaris
• Bird Hides
• Hot Air Balloon Safaris
• Bird watching
• Sun City

Accommodation

Bakgatla Resort

• Chalets
• Caravan sites
• Camping Facilities

Manyane Resort

• Chalets
• Caravan sites
• Safari Tents
• Camping Facilities

Private Lodges

In addition there are luxurious private camps on concessions within various sections of the park which include:

Ivory Tree Game Lodge

There are also several hotel styled resorts on the perimeter of the park and various hotels that form part of the Sun City complex where people not wanting to spend a night in the park can stay.

Addo Elephant National Park

Addo Elephant National Park is located in the malaria- free Eastern Cape about an hour’s drive from Port Elizabeth. The 164 000 hectare park was opened in 1931 combining seven of South Africa’s major vegetation zones including five of the worlds seven biomes. These are forest, sub- tropical thicket, grassland, fynbos and nama karoo. There are few places in the world which can offer one the variety of vegetation, geology and wildlife that is found in this spectacular reserve. From the Zuurberg Mountains and the Alexandra Forests and a massive coastal sand dune belt, Addo has it all. There are plans in place to expand this park to 360 000 hectares in the near future. Addo is effectively split up in to a number of separate sections each offering something special. Addo’s main game viewing is located in a central section of the reserve consisting of 30 000 hectares where other fragments of the park are broken up or separated from this section. The climate in the area is generally quite pleasant with summer temperatures ranging from warm to hot (40’C) and winters being mild days to cold evenings. The annual rainfall is around 450mm and spread out throughout the year.

The diverse habitats of Addo vary from the beautiful Darlington Lake and pristine and ancient Zuurberg Mountains down to the dense valley bushveld of the Sundays River Valley and the indigenous forests of the Woody Cape. Addo Elephant Park is marketed as a ‘Big 7’ park. This includes the Big 5 as well as the Great White Shark and the Southern Right Whale. These two marine species can be seen (although not often) from the Woody Cape Section as well as Bird and St Croix Islands. Bird Island is home to one of the largest Cape Gannet Colony in the world and a large population of Cape Fur Seals. St Croix Island is refuge to an African Penguin Colony of around 60 000 in number. This island is also the best area to spot the Great White Sharks and Southern Right Whales. Elephants are the flagship species of the park with viewing of these grey giants being arguably the best on the African continent. The elephant population is approximately 450 strong (which is an extremely high density of the pachyderm for the size of area that they occur in). As well as these, there is a diverse number of mammals including black rhino, cape buffalo, lion, spotted hyena, red hartebeest, eland and kudu to name but a few. There are around 170 species of birds in the main game viewing area however up to 450 species occur over the entire region. Some of the wildlife species numbers include:

• 53 general mammal species
• 54 reptile species
• 19 amphibian species
• Over 174 bird species in main game viewing region

Activities in the various sections of the park include:

• Game drives
• ‘Eyethu’ hop on (guide joins you on drive in your own vehicle)
• Horse trails
• Hiking
• Canoeing
• Bird watching
• 4x4 trails
• Biking
• Restaurant

Accommodation:

Main Camp

• Hapoor or Domkrag Guest Houses: 2 units sleeping up to six persons
• Chalet: 22 units with two single beds and a sleeper couch
• Semi-detached Chalet: 6 units with two single beds
• Cottages: 8 units with two single beds
• Rondawel: 6 units with two single beds
• Forest Cabin: 10 units with four single beds
• Safari Tents: 5 units with two single beds

Matyholweni Camp

• Cottages with two single beds
• Family Cottage with two single beds and a sleeper couch

Apart from the above mentioned camps there are a number of other park camps offering a variety of accommodation types and activitites from hiking to canoeing.

Private Concession

In addition there are also several luxurious private camps on concessions within various sections of the park including:

• Gorah Elephant Camp
• Nguni River Lodge

Marakele National Park

Marakele is a stunningly picturesque park located in the centre of the Waterberg Mountains and forms part of the grand Waterberg Biosphere – an easy two to three hour drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria. The vast and majestic area is renowned for its visual beauty and superb biodiversity. Towards the beginning of the twentieth century most of the game in the region had been decimated by hunters, however thanks to the difficulties of farming in the area and the efforts of certain strong-willed personalities, the focus has shifted to conservation and ecotourism. Today most of the wildlife species found in the biosphere reflect closely what naturally used to roam this mountainous terrain.

Marakele National Park is made up of mountains, deep valleys and vegetated hills. ‘Marakele’ itself means ‘Place of Sanctuary’ and this is an accurate description as to what the reserve conserves and reflects. Marakele is located in a transitional zone between the dry western section of the country along with the wetter eastern section. This results in a great biodiversity of fauna and flora. Habitat types vary but are predominantly moist bushveld to mixed bushveld including unique species such as Yellow Wood, Transvaal Beech and the rare and threatened Waterberg Cycad. Although the reserve is abundant with wildlife it does not host the great numbers of game than some of its more famous siblings. It does however host high densities of both black and white rhino, a reasonable elephant population (including the famous Tuli Elephants that were rescued from appalling captive conditions and released back in to the wild), whilst lion, tsessebe, eland, leopard, cheetah and kudu are some of the other main large mammal species seen. Birding in the area is excellent with around 400 species frequenting the Waterberg region. Of particular interest is the massive Cape Vulture Colony (estimated at around 800 pairs) which can be viewed from the top of Marakele’s accessible mountains.

Marakele is one of South Africa’s youngest national parks and as such the facilities and road network are still a little basic. However the park is improving year on year and if you are looking to experience a less crowded national park and are interested in some of South Africa’s finest scenery, you will not be disappointed. The pleasant drive up to the top of the Marakele mountains is a must do and the views are simply to die for. There is a great range of activities in Marakele with most focusing around the safari aspect of the reserve. Some of these include:

• Both morning and afternoon or evening game drives
• Marakele 4x4 Eco Trail
• Bird watching and tours
• Picnic sites
• Bush walks
• Hiking trails
• Plans have been made to make the numerous Iron Age sites accessible to visitors in the near future.

Weather is generally pleasant all year round with warm to hot summers occurring during the rainy season and winters being mild to cold with warm afternoons and chilly evenings and mornings. Annual rainfall averages in at around 500- 700mm.

Accommodation

Tlopi Tented Camp

Furnished tents containing two beds and a private bathroom and kitchen overlooking a magnificent dam in the centre of the park with stunning mountain backdrops. Two additional small beds can be placed in the tented rooms for children.

Bontle Camping Site

38 sites with electricity and great ablution facilities. The unfenced campsite is situated on a separate 4000 hectare section of the park that is predator free.

Private Concession

Marataba Safari Company

Luxurious lodge on a massive private concession of 23 000 hectares with fifteen luxury tented suites.

Marakele National Park is 250km from Johannesburg and whilst the reserve is accessible by normal sedan a 4x4 is recommended for certain roads or tracks in the park.

Kgaladi Transfrontier Park

Africa’s first formally declared transfrontier park was effectively launched in 2000. The Kgaladi Transfrontier Park is a union of the Kalahari Gemsbok National Park in South Africa and the Gemsbok National Park in Botswana. In total the park makes up a giant of 3.6 million hectares and is made up of rolling red dunes, a barren landscape with slight vegetation and the grass covered dry riverbeds of the Nossob and Auob. The Kalahari Desert sand plains are some of the largest in the world and stretch from South Africa in the south all the way up to the fringes of the Congo in the North. The temperatures in this region are extreme with very hot and dry days (up to 40’C) and freezing evenings (sometimes falling below 0’C). The area is extremely arid with annual rainfall sits around 200mm with January- April being the “wet months”.

The Kalahari is an excellent game viewing destination and was once the venue for some of Africa’s greatest migrations involving ungulate species such as wildebeest, springbok and eland before relentless hunting took its toll. The dry riverbeds with their sparse vegetation are particularly favoured by the mammal species, as food and shade are more common here, as well as large numbers of bird species - especially in the rainy season. This region is renowned for its spectacular bird of prey populations and species such as blackbreasted snake eagle, pale chanting goshawk, lappet-faced vulture and the pygmy falcon (smallest raptor in Africa). The area also has large numbers of sociable weavers which make massive nests which create interesting backdrops to the open landscape. Some of the fauna and flora numbers in the area include:

• Over 215 species of birds
• 400 plant species
• 55 reptile species
• 58 mammal species

Of the mammal species ground squirrels and meerkats (suricates) are some of the more commonly seen species. However other unique mammals in the area include pangolin, bat- eared fox, honey badger and aardvark. If one is lucky they could have the privilege of seeing a wild black maned Kalahari lion which are generally endemic to this area. Cat viewing in the park is exceptional due to the open landscape. Great cheetah and lion sightings can be expected.

One must note that the Kgaladi Transfrontier Park is generally not sedan friendly (although one can get by) and the use of a pick up (bakkie) or a 4x4 is recommended.

Activities in the park include:

• 4x4 trails
• Wilderness Trail (Done in vehicles)
• Predator Centre
• Restaurant
• Picnic spots
• Star Gazing (area is known as big sky country)

Accommodation

Mata Mata Rest Camp:

• Campsite with 20 units
• Chalet with 3 units
• River Front Chalet, 4 units with two single
• River Front Chalet, 4 units with four single beds
• River Front Chalet with disabled facilities

Nossob Rest Camp

• Campsite with 20 units
• Chalet, 7 units with two single beds
• Chalet, 1 unit with three single
• Chalet, 2 units with disabled
• Chalet, 4 units with two single beds and a bunk bed
• Chalet, 1 unit with six single
• Guest House, 1 unit with four single beds
• Family Cottage, 1 unit with six single beds

Twee Rivieren Rest Camp

• Campsite with 24 units
• Cottage, 2 units with disabled facilities
• Family Cottage, 21 units with four single beds
• Family Cottage, 1 unit with four single beds and disabled facilities
• Family Cottage, 1 unit with six single beds
• Family Cottage, 6 units with two single beds and one sleeper couch

In addition to these there are a variety of bush camps, camp sites and lodges spread out throughout both Parks.

Mapungubwe National Park

Meaning ‘Place of the Stone Wisdom’, Mapungubwe National Park is a fascinating combination of rugged bush lands and rich African cultural heritage. Located at the confluence of the Limpopo and Shashe Rivers, Mapungubwe shares a border with both Botswana and Zimbabwe. The park is 28 000 hectares in size and is part of the proposed Shashe Transfrontier Park which will include the Tuli Block in Botswana and the Tuli Safari Area in Zimbabwe. Mapungubwe was declared a World Heritage Site in 2003 as a result of the cultural landscape, history and archeological importance of the region.

The cultural landscape reflects the transformation of human values which led to significant cultural and social changes in Southern Africa hundreds of years ago. The people who inhabited the region (pre Shona) between 900 AD and 1300 AD were cattle and crop farmers who had participated in Indian Ocean Trade with Egypt, China, Persia and India. This was the largest Kingdom at the time on the African sub- continent and it was evident that these people were prosperous with much of their focus being put into agriculture as well as iron, copper and gold works. The highlight of the park is the archeological site (Known as The Lost City) where the famous ‘Gold Rhino’ and other artifacts were found. There are also over 150 rock art sites which were left by the San hunter- gatherers during the Stone Age period.

Mapungubwe National Park is strikingly beautiful in a rugged and wild sense. The area is made up mostly of savannah highlighted by sandstone formations, mopane woodlands, massive baobabs (one of which has a circumference of 31 metres) and green riverine forests. The reserve’s northern border is the mighty Limpopo River and there are various look out points that provide majestic views over the river and surrounding flood plains and rugged bushveld. There is a diverse range of fauna and flora in the park and there are approximately twenty eight larger mammal species including elephant, lion, buffalo, gemsbok, giraffe, hyena and leopard. The park is considered one of South Africa’s birding hot spots with 400 species being found in the general area. Some of the more unique and sought after species include the Kori Bustard, Pels Fishing Owl and the Tropical Bou Bou. There is a fantastic tree top walkway providing great views of the riverine forest dotted with magnificent Fever Trees. The region is semi arid with an annual rainfall of approximately 350- 400mm which occurs mostly during the summer period. Temperatures can soar to 45’C in the summer months whilst winters are mild. Mapungubwe is a relatively new national park and as time progresses it is sure to become one of South Africa’s flagship parks.

Activities

Because of the cultural, historical and archaeological significance of the park much of the focus is put into these. Activities include:

• Guided tours to archaeological and cultural sites
• Tree Top Walk
• Bird and game hides
• 4x4 Eco Routes (Self Drive)
• Birding tours
• Game drives.

Accommodation

Leokwe Camp (The main camp)

• 14 Cottages with two single beds and a double sleeper couch
• 2 Family Cottages with two bedrooms with two bedrooms each

Limpopo Forest Tented Camp

• Forest tents with two single beds

Thugulu Lodge

• 6 rooms sleeping up to twelve

Vembe Wilderness Camp

Mazhou Camping Site

Mopane Bush Lodge

• 8 twin bedded chalets

Table Mountain National Park

The world famous icon, Table Mountain is situated in its namesake national park casting a protective shadow across the city of Cape Town. This Natural World Heritage Site incorporates two main segments - the Cape of Good Hope stretching magnificently out in to the Atlantic and Table Mountain itself. The park is situated on the south- eastern tip of Africa and is surrounded by the strikingly blue and icy cold waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The area is well known for its vast fauna and flora diversity which all exists within the metropolitan of Cape Town. There are exceptional hikes, walks and climbs all over the mountains. Fees are payable to get to the top of Table Mountain via cable cars but visitors can walk up the mountain for free on one of the many trails (ranging from easy to difficult ascents). The true beauty of Cape Town and the South Western Cape is best experienced sitting on top of Table Mountain on a sunny and clear summer day.

There are a number of activities within the Table Mountain national Park:

• Meet the penguin colony at Boulders Beach
• Cape Point – a massive peninsular with amazing walks, viewpoints and coves.
• Silver Mine – a great area for hiking with less crowds,
• Table Mountain
• Hiking Trails – there are just too many to name.
• Mountain biking and trail running – again there are a multitude of options.
• Climbing
• Hang gliding and paragliding
• Angling

Accommodation

There are limited accommodation options within the National Park itself but there is a huge amount of accommodation options available around the park due to its proximity to Cape Town and its southern suburbs. However there are a few options available for hikers and those looking to get out for a night or two but still be in the Mother City’s arms.

Cape of Good Hope

• Olifantsbos Guesthouse (3 bedroom cottage on a secluded beach)
• Eland and Duiker Family Cottages (sleeping 6 people each)

Table Mountain

• Wood Owl Cottage (in the heart of a Tokai pine plantation)

Garden Route National Park

The newest of the National Parks in South Africa, the Garden Route National Park is a merger of three older parks – the Tsitsikamma and Wilderness National Parks and the Knysna National Lake area that was established in 2009. The park spans 121 000 hectares of which some 52 000 hectares is newly proclaimed land and is part of the long term plan to have eight percent of South Africa under national protection. The area is a biodiversity hotspot and these natural areas are at risk of being harmed by urban development. The visual beauty of the various sections make this one of the more popular spots for international and South African visitors alike. As such it is vital that it is protected.

The park protects a wide variety of ecosystems from marine environments to massive forests. The Knysna and Wilderness estuaries are important eco-systems, while the park also includes 60 500 hectares of indigenous forest – the largest continuous collection of such forest in the country. The Garden Route also forms part of the Cape Floral Kingdom as it stretches across the meeting point of the Eastern and Western Cape. Along the Tsitsikamma coastline, the park boundary extends 5 km out to sea protecting a plethora of reefs, underwater creatures and inter-tidal life. This is a popular spot for dolphins and when it’s breeding season, the Southern Right Whales. This section of the park is where the famous four to five day Otter Trail takes place, rated one of the best hikes in the world. More than 280 bird species have been recorded in the area.

The Garden Route National Park is not a typical safari destination, but rather focuses on the spectacular scenery and its a great place for specialist species such as the cape clawless otter, blue duiker (a tiny antelope that stands at 35cm at its shoulder), knysna turaco and the african black oystercatcher. The Wilderness section of the park (situated between George and Knysna) is a combination of lakes, rivers, estuaries and beaches. Set against a backdrop of tall mountains and lush forests, projects three major zones of indigenous forest, four types of Fynbos and a few historic sites that are archaeologically significant. The lakes attract five types of brightly coloured kingfishers, grey herons, little egrets as well as the endangered knysna seahorse. For those lucky enough to find one, a pansy shell is one of nature’s great artworks.

As the park has no formal fencing, it is open to the public and you may actually enter the park without being aware of it. The thickly forested area around Knysna is famed for hosting a small, isolated and elusive herd of elephants fondly known as the Knysna Elephants. These amazing animals have survived centuries of persecution by disappearing in to the protection of the forest. One of South Africa’s most famous novels was set here called ‘Circles in the Forest’ (originally written in Afrikaans titled ‘Kringe in ‘n Bos’) and is well worth a read if you would like to spend some time in the area.

Activities in the various sections of the park include:

• Camping
• Hiking Trails
• Mountain bike trails
• Forest trails
• Canoeing
• Scuba Diving

Accommodation:

Storms River Mouth Rest Camp

• Forest Huts
• Log Cottages
• Camp Sites

Nature’s Valley Rest Camp

• Forest Huts
• Camp Sites

Wilderness Rest Camps

• Log Cottages
• Camp Sites

Knysna Lakes Area

• Camping Decks
• Tree Top Forest Chalets
• Guest House

Augrabies Falls National Park

Best known for its 56 metre high waterfall plunging down a ragged cliff face, the national park is aptly named after the Khoi peoples term Aukoerebis which means ‘Place of Great Noise’. Although a popular stop off point for travelers on their way to the Kgalagadi National Park this park however is fairly unknown and not often visited. The reserve was proclaimed in 1966 and today sits at a massive 55 383 hectares in size straddling both the northern and southern banks of the Orange River. The landscape is rugged, barren and scrubby and gives off an almost moonscape appearance. Temperatures in Augrabies are extreme with blazingly hot days in contrast to the freezing evenings and early mornings.

The fauna and flora in the reserve have adapted themselves to live in these harsh conditions and because of this visitors will see unique species as well as differing behavior patterns. Of the larger mammals visitors have the chance of seeing the rare cape mountain zebra, giraffe, gemsbok, bat- eared fox, african wild cat, black footed cat, klipspringer, aardwolf and if one is lucky leopard. Reptiles are numerous but tend to disappear in the heat of the day. Of particular interest is the Broadleys flat lizard, which is endemic to the area, as well as the black spitting cobra. Vegetation growing in the area includes many succulents or species hardy enough to withstand the harsh conditions. One of the more unique trees is the Giant Aloe or Quiver Tree (Kokerboom) which creates eerie silhouettes in the late afternoon skies. Wildlife species in the park include:

• 46 mammals
• 186 bird species
• 45 reptile species

Accommodation

Augrabies Rest Camp

This is the only place to stay or eat inside of the park and includes 59 self catering chalets.

The Kruger National Park

In 1898, Paul Kruger – then president of South Africa - officially recognised a ‘Government Wildlife Park’ to control hunting and protect diminished natural resources. This park would later be known as the Sabi Game Reserve and was expanded into the Kruger National Park in 1926. Today the park is nearly two million hectares and is one of the most fertile and abundant wildlife sanctuaries in the world. It has recently been expanded to incorporate adjoining conservation areas in Mozambique and Zimbabwe to form the Greater Limpopo Transfrontier Park.

Five hours from Johannesburg and one hour from Nelspruit, the Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s iconic safari destinations. The Kruger is world-renowned as one of the most diverse and rich bio-diversity hotspots on the planet. Fauna and flora include:

• 336 tree species
• 49 fish species,
• 34 different amphibians,
• 114 reptile species
• 507 species of birds and
• 147 mammal species

The Kruger Park’s size and positioning in South Africa’s Lowveld region gives the reserve incredible variations in terrain and habitats which have spawned a multitude of life. It covers 19,633 square kilometres (7,580 square miles) and extends 350 kilometres (220 miles) from north to south and 60 kilometres (37 miles) from east to west which is a greater area than the size of Wales. The Kruger is one of the biggest on-going conservation initiatives in the world and is home to many leading scientists in their respective fields. All these men and women work tirelessly to keep this fragile ecosystem stable – making Kruger a pioneer in wildlife conservation management. While the Kruger Park is a malaria area and prophylactics should be taken, the risk is relatively low especially during dry months when water sources are scarce.

The Seasons:

Rainy Season:

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:

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.

Accommodation:

The Kruger National Park has an extensive array of lodging options within the park ranging from budget friendly campsites to award winning luxury lodges on private concessions in the park. Most of the ‘Main Camps’ have a range of self-catering huts, bungalows, guesthouses and cottages. In addition most of these camps have a number of camping and caravan stands with communal ablution and cooking facilities. The Main Camps can be rather busy during school holidays and long weekends but the atmosphere is warm and vibrant. In addition all of the Main Camps have a restaurant and/or cafeteria, a well stocked shop and a petrol station. For those looking to get away from civilisation the Bushveld Camps are a must. These camps are usually very simply furnished huts or cottages with basic facilities (no shops, restaurants etc) in and around the camp. The Bush Camps offer a more intimate nature experience. For those looking to be pampered whilst enjoying an exclusive safari experience there are a number of private lodges in the park. These lodges and camps are situated on private concessions in areas where the general public may not traverse. Game drives are taken in open game viewer vehicles and led by experienced and qualified guides and trackers. In addition to the above-mentioned lodges and camps there are numerous accommodation options on the periphery of the park ranging from large scale hotels to quaint backpackers lodgings. All usually offer the option of guided game drives in to the park. Most visitors to the Kruger choose to explore it in the comfort of their own vehicles.

Activities:

There are a variety of activities available within the park aside form the usual game drives. All the Main Camps offer night drives outside of the gate closing times which give visitors a great opportunity to view nocturnal creatures active and about. The Main Camps also have daily walks with armed guides that last a few hours and give visitors the opportunity to experience nature up close and personal. Although there is a chance you will encounter larger game the focus is on the smaller and less conspicuous fauna and flora that are often overlooked from a vehicle. If walking is your thing the Kruger has several exceptional wilderness trails lasting three nights and four days over-nighting in rustic accommodation. Trails are not run during the peak summer months of December and January.

If 4x4ing is your thing there are several self drive 4x4 trails in the park to test your skills on whilst enjoying fantastic game viewing in remote areas. There are a number of museums, information boards and archaeological (both Stone Age and Iron Age) sites situated throughout the park. In addition to the various rest camps there are a number of picnic stops where visitors can stretch their legs, have a quick tea or coffee or cook up a lunch time feast over a fire. Day trips in to the Kruger are also popular. The Kruger offers something for everyone.

Gate Times:

Gate times vary throughout the year depending on the season. The summer months are from October to April, the winter from May to August.

The Kruger by Area

The Kruger National Park covers such a vast area and variety of ecosystems that is best to split the colossal park in to 3 core sections: Northern Kruger, Central Kruger and Southern Kruger.

1. Northern Kruger

Northern Kruger is a very different section of the park but equally as rewarding to visitors with outstanding birdlife and iconic South African panoramas. Wide open spaces and typically dry Mopane bush scrub make it easy to spot a great number of birds, mammals and reptiles during the dry winter months. Northern Kruger is a birdwatcher’s paradise and most of Kruger’s flagship bird species are found up here including many rare species and ‘lifers’.

There are two main access and exit points through the Pufuri and Punda Maria gates as well as two border posts with the newly formed Limpopo National Park of Mozambique. Large herds of elephant reside in the North and the notoriously large ‘tuskers’ that have tusks greater than two metres in length are often encountered here. There is generally less game in the north than in the south and central areas, making it more difficult to encounter say, the Big 5, but the advantage is having fewer vehicles in the area and a less crowded wildlife experience. This area is ideal for Kruger enthusiasts wanting a little space and freedom away from the ‘traffic’ of the south. The north also offers adventurous guests the chance to overnight in two sleepover hides on the Pioneer and Sable Dams.

Camps in the north:

Main Camps:

• Punda Maria Rest Camp
• Shingdwedzi Rest Camp
• Mopani Rest Camp

Bush Camps:

• Sirheni Bush Camp
• Bataleur Bushveld Camp
• Tsendze Rustic Campsite

Private Concessions:

• Pafuri Camp

2. Central Kruger

The Central section of the Kruger is most noted for its sprawling savannah woodland which supports a vast number of herbivores and healthy populations of predators. The Ivory Route is great for elephant sightings and Letaba Camp is home to the Kruger’s well known elephant museum, celebrating these great pachyderms and the legendary super tuskers that have roamed the park. The spectacular Olifants River has three breath-taking lookout points which offer guests good chances of seeing a variety of game making their way to the river. One will notice an incredible diversity in terrain from the seemingly symmetrical Mopane woodland belt in the north to the more rugged knob-thorn and marula veld of the central plains around Satara.

The main access and exit points are through Phalaborwa (a serene mining town with good back packer options just outside the park), Orpen Gate and the Giriyondo Border Post (40 km east of Letaba) which enters Mozambique’s newly formed Limpopo National Park and offers an exciting venture into the Mozambique section of the Trans-frontier Park. The central areas are renowned as being great big cat country with exceptional lion viewing – especially around Satara. Good size herds of general game, some large buffalo herds and healthy elephant populations make this a sought after section of the park.

Camps in Central Kruger:

Main Camps:

• Olifants Rest Camp
• Satara Rest Camp
• Orpen Rest Camp
• Letaba Rest Camp

Bush Camps:

• Balule Satellite Camp
• Maroela Camp (Caravans & Campers only)
• Tamboti Tented Camp
• Talamati Bushveld Camp
• Roodewal Bush Lodge
• Shimuwini Bushveld Camp

Private Concessions:

• Singita Lebombo and Sweni Lodges

3. Southern Kruger

The more densely populated south is understandably the most popular and active tourist area in the Kruger with a huge amount of game concentrated in the lush and fertile terrain around Skukuza, Lower Sabie, Crocodile Bridge and the open plains south of Pretoriouskop. While sightings of the Big 5 are frequent, one can expect to see a good deal of other creatures in this area as well. Cheetah, African wild dog and sable antelope are often seen in the south. The south also hosts high densities of white rhino. The epicentre of the Kruger is its headquarters at Skukuza Camp where most of the parks doctors, vets, park rangers and scientists are based. The entrance at the nearby Paul Kruger gate is an impressive starting point in to the Park with a bridge running over the magnificent Sabi River and an imposing monument of the former President Paul Kruger overlooking an open area where game often graze. Two other ‘main’ gates at Malelane and Crocodile Bridge allow access from the south of the park. The southern part of the Kruger National Park has a rich history that can be traced back over the centuries. The area includes a number of archaeological sites showcasing fine examples of Bushman art and artefacts - the only remnants of a bygone era of the San People who once lived and hunted in this area. There are various other cultural sites showcasing elements of South Africa’s old trade routes and local tribes who once lived in the area.

Camps in the South:

Main Camps:

• Skukuza Rest Camp
• Lower Sabie
• Crocodile Bridge
• Berg-en-Dal Rest Camp
• Malelane Satellite Camp
• Pretouriouskop Rest Camp

Bush Camps:

• Biyamiti

Private Concessions:

• Rhino Walking Safaris
• Jock Safari and Little Jock Safari Lodges

Camdeboo National Park

Camdeboo National Park is found in the dry expanses of the Nama Karoo flowing in to the foothills of the Sneeuberg Mountains. The park is 19405 hectares in size and includes the 1000 hectare Ngweba Dam (when full). The Valley of Desolation is staggering with the erosion of sedimentary rock beds having left dolerite pillars which rise to heights of over 100 metres. There is a diverse range of wildlife including several unique species not often encountered in other better known reserves such as meerkat (suricate) and bat- eared fox. There are 225 recorded bird species to be found in the park with an interesting mix of species from the Karoo and the Eastern Cape. Other wildlife includes 5 frog species, an impressive 5 tortoise species, 19 lizard and 10 snakes.

Activities include:

• Hiking trails
• Game viewing
• Graaf- Reinet (local town with several historical and cultural sites)
• Picnic areas
• Boating, Fishing and Canoeing on the Ngweba Dam

Accommodation:

• There is a very basic overnight hut on the Driekoppe Hiking Trail.

Karoo National Park

Karoo National Park is located in the massive expanse of the dry, barren and unforgiving Great Karoo. The 75 000 hectare park was proclaimed in 1977 and is dominated by the Nuweveld Mountains and short scrubby grasslands which are home to an array of wildlife some of which are completely endemic to this area. The Great Karoo was once famous for the boundless herds of springbok which roamed the arid region as well the amazing fossil deposits. The park is the largest ecosystem in South Africa and makes a great stop over point for travelers between Johannesburg and Cape Town. Some of the rarer species which can be seen here include the endangered black rhino and cape mountain zebra as well as the critically endangered riverine rabbit. Over twenty breeding pairs of Veraux’s Eagle (Black Eagle) have been recorded as nesting in the park. There is a diverse number of reptile species in the area including five different tortoise species which is the most one could see in any conservation area in the world. The park falls within the Karoo- Namib bio- geographical region and has an annual rainfall of 260mm with hot summers and extreme winters.

Activities

• Karoo Fossil Braille Trail (Adapted for handicapped persons)
• Nature trails
• Bird hide
• 4x4 trail
• Night drives
• Hiking

Accommodation

Main Rest Camp

Cottage

• 19 cottages with a double bed and a sleeper couch

Chalet

• 10 chalets with 1 bedroom with two single beds

Family Cottage

• 8 cottages each with two bedrooms with three single beds

Camping

• 24 sites for tents and caravans

Karoo national Park is located 500km north of Cape Town and 1000km away from Johannesburg off the N1. All roads in the park are tarred except for the 4x4 trail.

Mokala National Park

The youngest National Park in South Africa which is only just a few years old, Mokala is situated 8 kilometers south-west of the town of Kimberley (known for its famous ‘Big Hole’). Terrain in the 19 611 hectare park consists of koppies (rock hills) and open grassland with the dominant vegetation type being Camel Thorn Acacia trees which do well in dry and arid regions. The area is also a transition zone between the Kalahari and Karoo biomes and some of the game species found here include black and white rhino, buffalo, roan antelope, giraffe, gemsbok, zebra, kudu, ostrich and springbok.

Accommodation:

Mosu Lodge

• 13 Luxury Rooms and 2 Luxury Executive Suites

Mofele Lodge

• 9 Semi Luxury Rooms

Haak-en-Steek Camp

• - Rustic Cottage

Campsite

• 5 very basic sites

Bontebok National Park

The Bontebok National Park is located 6 km south of Swellendam, in the foothills of the Langeberg Mountains and is bordered to the south by the Breede River. The glorious Langeberg Mountains provide a superb backdrop for Bontebok National Park, the smallest National Park in South Africa. Established in 1961 to ensure the preservation of its name sake, the Bontebok National Park is a species - specific reserve and is the smallest of South Africa's national parks covering an area of just 27.8 km².

The park is particularly well known for the successful conservation measures which were put in place to save the critically endangered Bontebok. These antelope were once down to 17 animals however today their worldwide population sits at roughly 2500 - 3000 – most stemming from the breeding herd found on this reserve. For bird enthusiasts there are over 200 species to be seen including Stanleys Bustard.

Other conservation initiatives at the park includes the protection of the endangered fynbos veld type and the coastal renosterveld, one of the largest remaining "renosterveld islands", which contains several plant species that are found nowhere else in the world. In total, the park has nearly 500 grasses and other plant species and forms part of the Cape Floral Kingdom, a World Heritage Site, including Fynbos and coastal Renosterveld making this a perfect destination for botanists and flower lovers. Other indigenous species at the park include the clawless otter, Stanley's bustard and the blue crane (South Africa's national bird). Rhebok, Cape Grysbok, duiker, red hartebeest and mountain zebra can also be found there.

Activities include:

• Hiking
• Game viewing
• Fishing
• Swimming in the Breede River

Accomodation

Lang Elsies Kraal Rest Camp

• 10 Chalets sleeps up to 4 people
• 2 Chalets with wheelchair access

Caravan and tent campsites located on the Breede River

• 6 persons, one caravan with a side tent and one vehicle, or one tent and one vehicle, or one autovilla or one motorised caravan will be permitted per site.

Agulhas National Park

The southernmost tip of the African continent, Agulhas National Park is famous for the historically risky Atlantic to Indian Ocean crossings that used to route via this rocky and stormy peninsular. Here ships and sailors had to risk the legendary Cape of Storms whist making the crossing and the park is reminiscent of the unfortunate souls – this can be best experienced at the Graveyard of Ships.

Today this area is popular with day visitors in the Cape region wishing to experience typical Cape fauna and flora such as Southern Right Whales, Damara Terns, African Black Oyster Catchers, Cape Fur Seals and the famous Fynbos biome which blooms between May and September.

Activities in the park focus mainly around water sports such as angling or swimming whilst one can also visit the local museum and environmental centre, walk one of the nature trails or visit the old lighthouse at Cape Agulhus which once guided ships through the rough and dangerous waters of the Agulhus.

Namaqua National Park

Formed in 1999, Namaqua National Park is located approximately 495 km north of Cape Town and 22 km northwest of Kamieskroon. It has an area of more than 700 km2. The park forms part of the Namaqualand, an area covering 55,000 km2 located within the semi-desert Succulent Karoo biome – one of the most strange and fascinating biomes on the continent.

Every year in spring, the Namaqua National Park explodes into an assortment of colours and astonishing blossoming displays. Fields of wild flowers including Namaqualand daisies and other spring varieties dominate the desolate terrain. During August and September, seemingly overnight, the dusty valleys of Namaqualand are transformed into a botanical wonderland, carpeted with wildflowers. With its winter rainfall, Namaqualand is home to the richest bulb flora of any arid region in the world and more than 1 000 of its 3 500 plant species are found nowhere else on earth. Namaqua National Park is situated in the world's only arid biodiversity hotspot and boasts the world's richest succulent flora. This incredible heritage has made the reserve a world renowned destination for its spectacular spring flower displays.

Quiver trees and rocky outcrops break up the fields of flowers which are frequented by large numbers of birds, butterflies and long tongued flies. Activities in the park include spring flower tours, self drive botanical tours and game viewing where one has the chance of seeing aardvark, porcupine, steenbok, baboon and the Speckled Padloper, which is the world’s smallest tortoise.

Activities Include:

• Circular drive with viewpoints during the spring flowering season.
• Several short nature trails.
• Picnic sites
• Seasonal Visitor Information Centre

Accommodation

Skilpad Rest Camp

• 4 chalets, each with 2 single beds in the bedroom and a ¾-sleeper couch (suitable for 1 adult or 2 children)
• 1 chalet has disabled facilities. Fully equipped kitchen and dining area.
• Outside braai area

Golden Gate Highlands National Park

Golden Gate Highlands National Park is located near the Lesotho border and covers an area of 340 km². Golden Gate Highlands National Park is situated in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains in the North Eastern Free State where the park's most notable features are its golden, ochre, and orange-hued deeply eroded sandstone cliffs and outcrops.

The Golden Gate Valley, found in the park, was once used by English and Boer armies as a travel route through the region during the Anglo- Boer War.

In 1963 the area was proclaimed as a National Park and today the 11 600 hectare conservation area is the only National Park in the country which protects South Africa’s true grassland biome.

The park gets its name from the fantastic shades of gold which are cast over the mountain range by the sun. Mammals in the area include species such as black wildebeest, eland, blesbok, oribi, springbok and burchells zebra. Birding is good with around 100 species of montane birds inhabiting the park including the rare Bearded Vulture (Lammergeier) and Bald Ibis.

The park is a great option for those looking for an intimate nature experience somewhere off the beaten track without hordes of other visitors.