Preparing for an African Safari – what you need to know

When is the best time to visit the Kruger Parkplease do not forget to pack in your camera,
for a safari?video camera and binoculars. Remember the
The best time to go on a Kruger Park Safari isbattery for the digital camera as well as the video
during the summer months, November andcamera, and any other electrical cords and plugs
December. It is hot and humid but not scorching,necessary.
and you can expect continues rainfall or theAccommodation. Decide if you want
occasional late afternoon showers to cool off theaccommodation like bungalows, chalets and
day. It is also the time in the Kruger Park whencamping (of which there are plentiful
lots of young animals are born. It is beautiful!accommodation types of available in the Kruger
How many days does a proper Kruger safariNational Park) or do you prefer accommodation
take?that is more luxurious and stylish.  The Kruger
It is recommended to book your stay for aboutPark has 21 self-catering rest camps that consist
two to four nights. It will give you more thanof camping facilities, bungalows and huts of which
enough time to really enjoy the animals, go on athe latter is fully furnished and equipped. These
4X4 game drive and enough time to see the Bigcamps are official, enclosed facilities with
Five and relax at the beautiful camps, hotels andamenities.
lodges.If you prefer a luxurious, stylish and world-class
What should you pack in for your Kruger holidayAfrican safari in terms of service and the interior,
and safari?you can choose between seven private lodge
An African safari is one of those one-in-a-lifetimeconcessions and 11 designated private safari
experiences so to make your trip the mostlodges in the Kruger National Park. The Kruger
comfortable and enjoyable we recommend a fewlodges offer a variety of activities including
items that you must bring along.morning and late afternoon 4X4 game drives with
- Cotton clothing in neutral colours is needed foran experienced game ranger and tracker,
the game drives, but please avoid whites as itdelectable cuisine prepared by professional chefs,
attracts certain bugs at night.guided bush walks and in some cases wellness
- Most importantly very comfortable shoes forspas.
the bush walk. Something such as boots or track- Passports and Visas. When visiting South Africa,
shoes.a full passport is essential and should be valid for
- You’ll need sandals to wear whenat least six months after your return. If you are
you’re relaxing at one of Kruger Park’svisiting the Kruger National Park in South Africa or
lodges and enjoying a delicious meal.Botswana you don’t need a visa; however
- Please pack in shorts as the Kruger Park isyou will have to have a visa for Zimbabwe
generally a warm place. It is also required for the- Travel insurance. Most banks and credit cards
walks and warm midday periods.offer travel insurance so make sure you have
- In order to unwind from a hot and enduringone in case of medical emergencies and missed
bush walk, pack in your swimming costume asconnections. Also get a copy of your plan
most of the Kruger Park’s accommodationcoverage.
facilities have swimming pools. It is advisable to- Immunization. The Kruger National Park is
consult your travel agent on the facilities of thesituated in a malaria area so visit your doctor at
place you’re staying at.least three weeks before flying to South Africa
- Lots of sun block, a hat, lip balm and yourto get prescriptive anti-malaria medication. And
sunglasses.remember to bring lots of insect repellant. Stock
- If you wear contact lenses pack in an extra pairup on general medical supplies before leaving your
of lenses and remember the solution.country as well as any chronic medication.
- The Kruger Park is all about sightseeing so