We recently had the incredible opportunity to spend five days immersed in the wild beauty of Kruger National Park. Our adventure was primarily centered around Skukuza, the largest rest camp in the park, with our final night spent at Berg-en-Dal. The experience was nothing short of spectacular.

Day 1-4: Skukuza Rest Camp

Skukuza proved to be an excellent base for exploring the park. The camp itself is well-equipped, offering a variety of amenities, from restaurants to shops, which was a nice balance to the ruggedness of the surrounding bush. The location is perfect for accessing some of Kruger’s prime game-viewing routes. Each day we embarked on early morning and late afternoon game drives, maximizing our chances of spotting wildlife.

The wildlife sightings were incredible. From elephants and rhinos to countless giraffes and zebras, every day was filled with excitement. But the real highlight came when we encountered two leopards. Witnessing these elusive creatures up close in their natural habitat was a thrilling experience. It’s moments like these that make you appreciate the unpredictability and beauty of the wild.

The area around Skukuza is also known for its diverse ecosystems, so we were treated to a mix of riverine forests, open savannas, and lush grasslands. This diversity meant we encountered a wide variety of species throughout our drives.

Day 5: Berg-en-Dal Rest Camp

Our last night was spent at Berg-en-Dal, located in the southern part of the park. The camp has a completely different feel from Skukuza – quieter, more intimate, and surrounded by rocky hills and thick bush. It offered a great change of pace for our final evening. While we didn’t spot as much wildlife here, the landscape made for a scenic backdrop to our time at Berg-en-Dal.

The camp’s layout is excellent for walking and birdwatching, with well-maintained trails offering beautiful views of the surrounding hills. It was the perfect place to unwind after a few action-packed days in the park.

Overall Experience

Kruger National Park exceeded our expectations in every way. The diversity of wildlife, the beautiful landscapes, and the balance between comfort and wilderness at both Skukuza and Berg-en-Dal made for a truly unforgettable experience. For anyone planning a trip, I’d recommend combining stays at both camps to get a taste of different parts of the park.

The sense of awe and connection to nature we felt throughout the trip is something that will stay with us for a long time. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or a first-time visitor, Kruger has something magical to offer.