The Kruger National Park covers almost 2 million hectares of beautiful, unspoilt terrain in northeastern South Africa and boasts the world’s greatest concentration and diversity of species. An impressive 147 mammal species inhabit this remarkable reserve, from Aardvark to Zebra. In addition there are 517 bird species, 49 fish, 34 amphibian, 114 reptile and 336 tree species in Kruger, as it is affectionately known. Scattered through the park are also ancient archaeological sites and bushman paintings, and there are numerous activities on offer, one of which is this walking safari.Plains Camp, situated in a 12,000 hectare unfenced wildlife concession adjacent to Kruger, has been providing specialist walking safaris in the Kruger National Park since 2002. It has become the ultimate way to experience nature first hand, by intimately using all five senses. Marvel at the miracles of nature: from the fascinating minutiae of insect life, vibrant birds, the fragrance of wild herbs and the adrenalin rush of observing colossal animals and sinewy predators at their own level. You will learn about flora and fauna, how to identify wildlife tracks and the intricacies of the ecosystems that support the larger animals you are likely to encounter. A truly unforgettable experience!
At Plains Camp, we have established a well-appointed camp with four large en suite tents, comfortable extra-length beds and quality linens. The tents overlook a plain where a variety of general game as well as predators can be spotted. The Timbitene waterhole at the end of the plain is a popular elephant drinking place. An honesty bar (with soft drinks, beers, ciders and house wines included in the rate), and a plunge pool in which to cool off on a hot day just add to the ease of camp living. The chef prepares a hearty brunch, tasty “high tea” and a three course dinner from fresh ingredients, concentrating on authentic African cuisine. The area in which Plains Camp is located is famous not only for its unspoilt and pristine wilderness qualities, but also for some very rare fauna species that are seen more regularly here than anywhere else in Kruger. These include Black Rhinoceros, Sable Antelope, Temminck’s Ground Pangolin, Aardvark, Southern Ground Hornbill and Yellow-billed Oxpecker. Of course you will also have the chance to tick the rest of Africa’s Big Five mammals (Lion, Leopard, African Elephant and African Buffalo) too.
Walks take place with a maximum of eight guests accompanied by two armed guides, who hold the highest possible academic and practical qualification for guiding on foot, and are backed up by assistant Trails Rangers with a lifetime of experience. Most of the rangers and guides have spent almost all of their working lives patrolling the Kruger Park, keeping a sharp eye out for signs of poaching, disease or unusual activity. They know the bush! Responsible and ethical eco-tourism is at our core, and animals and plant life are treated with the utmost respect. You will encounter animals in their natural habitat on their terms, knowing that your pleasure is not only not harmful to nature – with no off-road driving, harassment of animals or captivity – but that a percentage of your spend goes directly toward conservation.
Morning walks take place early to ensure that you return to camp before it gets too hot. The average morning walk takes 3 to 5 hours, totalling 5 to 12km (3 to 8 mi). The terrain is fairly even, but comfortable walking shoes are a necessity and a reasonable degree of fitness is required. Before departure, your guide will issue you with back or hip packs to carry, containing water and juices. The assistant trail guide carries a first aid kit as well as snacks for a refreshment break on the walk. Afternoon and evening activities usually comprise a combination of a short walk and a game drive. The afternoon activity is decided upon between the rangers and the guests. This may include a short walk and after sundowners jumping onto a vehicle and completing the activity with a short game drive before heading back for dinner!
We recommend a stay of two nights at Plains Camp at the very least, in order to give you enough of an opportunity to truly experience the African bush on foot. This walking safari can be combined with any of our existing Kruger National Park safaris.
This walking safari can be combined with:
• Southern Kruger Safari
• Central Kruger Safari
• Northern Kruger Safari
• Kruger Lux Safari
• Kruger Grand Safari
For more information on this active safari or for any other related queries, please email us at info@naturetravelactive.com
