Krüger National Park

The Krüger National Park is one of the most famous places in the world to experience wildlife (here often referred to as “game”). Since everyone recommended us to go there, we had scheduled two full days for this activity.

In the Krüger park, you can drive your own car, but the rules are strict. For instance, you must never leave your car for security reasons (except in fenced rest areas). Well, no “game unicycling” then.

On Saturday, we entered via the Malelane gate. Due to the Easter weekend, it was very busy and we were among the last cars that were allowed to enter the park. That day, we explored the Southern regions of Krüger park, driving to Lower Sabie and exiting at Paul Kruger gate. The next day, we entered via Phalaborwa and spent time in the central regions around Satara.

Following advice from rangers regarding which regions to check out, we were able to see quite a lot of stunning wildlife:

Crododiles perfectly still in the rivers (with their heads looking almost identical to rocks) or lying on sandbanks in the Sun. A lizard that in vain tried to devour a turtle.

Several impala herds grazing along the streets (in total we saw several hundred of these athletic animals).

Wild boars with strong fangs, which had to get down to their knees to get their food.

Douzens of baboons jumping around and lousing each other.

Ostriches, vultures, eagles, and several other bird species, some producing strange sounds.

Giraffes & zebras peacefully chewing leaves and grass, respectively.

But the highlight was definitely seeing some of the Big Five:

Elephants alone or in herds, from youngsters to the most massive animal I have ever seen (at a distance of just about 2 m).

Lots of buffalos  with their impressive horns.

We didn’t see lions or rhinos, but there was a leopard in the far distance. In the end, it was a very rewarding experience I can definitely recommend.

A tasty impala fillet steak for dinner concluded the last day before flying back to Germany.