First-time travellers coming to Africa for a safari generally find that the moment they click on the web to find out more about what to expect from their tour, they are greeted by a huge selection of information, some of which is true but a lot of which is based on myths. 

Safari myths not only put a big damper on your holiday, but they can also cause you to pack the wrong items or even book a holiday to the wrong destination. 

To help make sure that you have the best holiday, we are going to debunk 12 common myths to ensure your Kruger Park safari, or any African safari for that matter, is everything you dreamed of and more!

Myth 1: Africa is One Big Country

Africa has 54 beautifully different countries, each with its unique culture, history, and ecosystems. From the savannahs of Kenya to the stunning rainforests of Rwanda, travelling to the continent is as good as enjoying a world tour. 

Myth 2: Safaris Are Unaffordable

While luxury safaris are quite pricey and can be unaffordable to many travellers, Africa is for everyone and as such there are budget-friendly options for every kind of traveller. Kruger Park safaris in particular give travellers excellent value for their money, with packages catering to various needs and budgets.

Myth 3: You Need Weeks for a Safari

A typical Kruger Park safari can be as short as 3 days, and within that period you could see the Big 5 and so much more. 

Myth 4: It’s All About Roughing It

Modern safari camps and lodges provide comfortable accommodation along with excellent service, and these places are often built close to nature, giving guests the most exquisite views. And for those who feel the best safari is that which includes tents, well there are those options too. 

Myth 5: Africa Isn’t Safe

Africa is incredibly safe actually, even when you are staying out in the bush. Experienced guides will always ensure responsible wildlife viewing, and camps are situated in secure locations.

Myth 6: There’s Only Hot, Sunny Weather

Africa is home to all sorts of exceptional climates. South Africa, for example, enjoys warm summers and cool winters, while East Africa experiences more seasonal variations. Be sure to always research your chosen destination so that you know what to expect.

Myth 7: Kruger Park Safari is only about seeing Lions and Elephants

While these majestic creatures are a highlight, the Kruger Park boasts some of the most diverse wildlife populations in the world. While here you can expect to see cheetahs, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and a dazzling array of birdlife.

Myth 8: You Can’t Get Online on Safari

Many safari camps and lodges will have Wi-Fi access, allowing you to share your experiences with loved ones back home. However, while in Africa, you should consider disconnecting to fully enjoy your quiet time in the African wilderness.

Myth 9: Pack All Khakis

While neutral colours are ideal for blending in, your main aim should always be comfort. You should pack quick-drying clothes suitable for the climate and don’t forget a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

Myth 10: Food Options Are Limited

Most camps and lodges will cater to dietary restrictions and you can look forward to tucking into fresh, local ingredients.

Myth 11: Solo Travelers Need to Miss Out

Solo safaris are actually a fantastic option! There are also some tour operators who offer group safaris specifically for solo travellers, allowing you to connect with like-minded adventurers.

Myth 12: It’s Just a One-Time Trip

After your Kruger Park safari, you’ll likely find yourself yearning to explore more of this incredible continent and you should because the Kruger is just a small taste of what is actually a huge and beautiful holiday destination.

Now that you’re armed with the truth, you can start planning your dream African safari. And if what you are really looking forward to is a Kruger Park safari, be sure to contact Royal Safaris today.

For globetrotters with Africa in mind, a Kruger Park safari is a quintessential experience. 

But the Kruger’s spectacular wildlife viewing and stunning landscapes also draw a sizeable crowd, especially during the peak winter season, which is now, in 2024, upon us. 

With some strategic planning and a little forethought, you can snag a prime Kruger Park safari experience right now, before the winter rush descends. 

Let us help you. 

The Perks of Early Booking

There are several advantages to booking your Kruger Park safari well before the winter throngs arrive:

• Firstly, popular accommodation in lodges and camps within the Kruger tends to vanish quickly. Booking early grants you access to a wider array of accommodations, from opulent private reserves boasting infinity pools overlooking watering holes to traditional rest camps offering a more rustic and social vibe.
• With fewer visitors in the park, your wildlife viewing becomes an even more intimate affair. Animals are less worried by human presence, which can lead to increased chances of spotting apex predators like lions on their next hunt or elusive creatures like wild dogs coordinating a lightning-fast chase.
• Early planning allows you to choose travel dates that align with your overall South African holiday. Perhaps you dream of coupling your safari with a city break in Cape Town or maybe you want to spend some time on the pristine beaches of KwaZulu-Natal. Booking your Kruger Park safari in advance ensures your ideal itinerary becomes a reality.
• Many lodges and tour operators offer enticing discounts and promotions for bookings made well before peak season. This will have you saving money and you can in turn use your savings to indulge in a luxurious tented suite or perhaps extend your safari for an extra day.

The Golden Booking Window for Kruger Park Safaris

So, when is the ideal time to book your Kruger Park safari to avoid the winter crowds? Here’s a helpful tip:

While winter officially arrives in June, seasoned travellers know that the shoulder months of April and May are ideal travel months.

The crowds haven’t fully materialised yet, but the cooler temperatures and drier weather create prime game viewing conditions. With less foliage on the trees and animals congregating around water sources, spotting Africa’s iconic wildlife becomes even easier.

Tips for Booking Your Dream Kruger Park Safari

• Invest time in researching reputable tour operators specialising in Kruger Park safaris. Look for companies with experienced guides who are passionate about the park’s ecology and wildlife, possess excellent reputations for exceeding guest expectations, and have a proven track record of creating unforgettable safari experiences. Online reviews from past travellers can be a valuable resource in making your decision.
• For a truly personalised experience, explore the option of a private Kruger Park safari. This allows you to tailor the itinerary to your interests, ensuring an epic adventure. Whether you’re a wildlife photography enthusiast hoping to capture the perfect shot or a family with young children seeking a more relaxed pace, a private safari will cater to your specific needs and preferences.
• Once you’ve chosen your operator, be clear and upfront about your desired travel dates, preferred accommodation type, and any specific interests you may have. By communicating your interests clearly, your chosen Kruger Park safari operator can curate an itinerary that perfectly matches your vision.

Let’s face it, with all of the talk of “luxury lodges” and “five-star experiences” that one sees in the media, it often sounds as though all safaris are nothing more than an indulgence reserved for the elite. 

But at Royal Safaris we beg to differ! 

The Kruger National Park, a place of raw beauty and all sorts of wildlife including the Big 5, is very much within reach for even the most budget-conscious travellers out there. 

Safaris don’t have to be synonymous with splurging. The Kruger offers one of the most expansive options, from wildlife viewing experiences to rustic but comfortable accommodation choices. We want everyone to see the Kruger’s wonders. That means creating itineraries that fit your wallet, not break it!

Accommodating Your Kruger Dreams

Kruger boasts a range of options beyond opulent lodges. Here are our top picks for budget-friendly stays:

Campgrounds: Pitch your tent under the star-studded sky! The Kruger has several well-maintained campgrounds with ablution facilities and communal braai (barbecue) areas. When staying in a camp, you can look forward to drifting off to sleep with the sounds of the African bush as your lullaby.

Rest Camps: Offered by the park itself, rest camps provide comfortable rondavels (round, thatched-roof bungalows) or basic bungalows. Many have self-catering facilities, allowing you to whip up meals using camp kitchens.

Private Bush Camps: Don’t be fooled by the name! These cosy tented camps are run by private operators and they can sometimes include guided game drives and communal meals, both of which offer a taste of the Kruger safari experience, without the hefty price tag.

Accommodation in Hazyview: Most top Kruger Park safari companies choose accommodation outside of the park, in the village of Hazyview, which is generally more affordable while at the same time luxurious and comfortable.

Planning Makes Perfect – Saving Tips for Your Kruger Adventure

A little planning goes a long way in stretching your Kruger budget.

Travel During the Shoulder Seasons: Peak season comes with a premium price tag. But if you decide to visit during the shoulder seasons (April, May, September, and October) when crowds are smaller, the prices generally dip.

Self-Drive vs. Guided Safaris: When you explore park at your own pace by opting for a self-drive safari, you can cut the costs. The Kruger has well-maintained roads and detailed maps for navigating. If you crave guided expertise, there are plenty of affordable group game drives, you just need to shop around a bit.

Try Self-Catering: Skip the expensive restaurant meals and stock up on groceries at a local supermarket before entering the park. This way you can prepare picnics for lunch and enjoy sizzling dinners cooked over your braai at your camp.

A Kruger Park safari is about the experience, not the frills.

So, ditch the misconception and start planning your Kruger adventure! The team at Royal Safaris are here to help you plan and book an unforgettable African experience that won’t break the bank. Contact us today and get ready to be amazed by the wonders of the Kruger National Park!

The Amazing Cheetah

Cheetahs are amazing animals but are very difficult to see, but you can try to spot one while on a safari with us.

The body of a cheetah is designed for speed. It has long legs in comparison to its greyhound-like body; it has a large heart and lungs, as well as wide nasal passages. It is the fastest land mammal, capable of reaching speeds of up to 114 kilometers per hour.

The cheetah’s pace gives it an advantage in the more open savanna, where the lion and leopard rely on getting close to their intended prey before breaking cover. Cheetahs are marginally larger than leopards, but they are not as bulky, weighing between 40 and 60 kilograms.

Cheetahs have non-retractable claws like dogs, despite being part of the cat family. This reduces their ability to climb trees but gives them a speed boost while charging.

A cheetah will usually charge an antelope from 60 to 100 meters away and will be running at full speed within seconds. If the buck is alerted in time, it will zigzag and dodging through trees and shrubs to

throw the cheetah off its tracks. The cheetah will chase its prey with zeal, using its long, heavy tail as a stabiliser and attempting to predict which way it will turn.

It will drive the antelope off balance at just the right moment and catch it by the throat as it falls. Cheetahs do not kill their prey as easily as lions or leopards do because of their small jaws and teeth, and it can take anywhere from five to 25 minutes for their prey to die.

Cheetahs, like other large predators, benefit from the element of surprise in hunting. While its pace gives it an advantage, the cheetah’s stamina is its weak spot. It will only be able to run at full speed for around 250 meters before needing to take a breather. And before it eats its prey, the cheetah has to rest for about half an hour after a high-speed chase. Cheetahs are most vulnerable during this period. During this period of healing, they are often robbed of their kill by lions or hyaenas. If the cheetah is left alone, it will typically eat its prey at the kill site.

A cheetah’s food preferences are narrower than those of a leopard, and it prefers small and medium antelope. Cheetahs eat the young of larger mammals, as well as warthogs, ground birds, porcupines, hares, and smaller antelope.

The kill rate of a cheetah is difficult to estimate, but experts estimate that each cheetah kills between 30 and 150 animals per year, depending on its size, hunting frequency, and the state of the environment. Experts estimate that a single cheetah needs between one and three kilograms of meat per day to maintain its health.

Because of their non-retractable paws, there has been some scientific debate about whether they should be known as dogs, but they have far too many cat-like characteristics, such as the ability to purr loudly. Cheetahs cannot scream, but they can growl and spit like cats, and they sometimes make a strange chirping noise.

Cheetahs, unlike lions and leopards, do not provide a territorial defence zone. They have a home range that they label with urine, but they do not actively defend against other cheetahs. Cheetahs are a hybrid of lions and leopards in terms of social behaviour.

They do not form prides like lions do, but small groups of four to six cheetahs, especially brother groups, are popular. Cheetahs in the wild are thought to live for 12 to 15 years. They hunt throughout the day, unlike most other large carnivores.

Cheetahs rely heavily on surprise, despite their pace. A cheetah has a one-in-ten chance of capturing an animal that is not surprised, and a one-in-two chance if the quarry is caught off guard, according to experts. Cheetahs are the most fearful of all the big cats, and no cheetah has ever attacked a human in Southern Africa.

5 Spiders you can see in the Kruger

Spiders can be found everywhere, but these spiders are commonly seen while on a safari with us.

Baboon spider:

Baboon Spiders appear to be huge and frightening, but they are actually very docile when left alone. Even when we are in lockdown at KwaMbili, we have to keep an eye out for big and small creatures! We came across a spider floating upside down in the pool and, just to be safe, touched it with a stick to see if it was still alive – which it was, thankfully! We used a stick to lift it out until we saw the legs roll. The little fellow simply stood in the same place for a few minutes, drying off, before slowly walking away. Despite the fact that these spiders do not have venom, their large fangs can deliver a painful bite.

Golden orb-web spider:

Because of the colour of its silk, the golden orb spider gets its name.

This colour is thought to serve two purposes: in the daylight, it attracts bees attracted to the bright yellow, while in the shade, it blends in with the vegetation, luring other insects in. The spider can change the colour intensity of the thread by adjusting the amount of pigment in the silk.

Because of its size and intimidating appearance, this spider is one of the most easily recognized and identified spider species. This spider is non-aggressive and relatively harmless, despite its terrifying appearance. If provoked seriously, it can deliver a painful bite, but the venom is not deadly, causing only redness and blistering.

Common bark spider:

These tiny spiders can be found in gardens and around human settlements, as well as on hiking trails. Between periods of vegetation, these spiders spin tangled webs, which they frequently dismantle in the early morning and reassemble at night.

They have a hairy appearance and are typically grey or brown in colour. They fit in well with tree bark. A red marking under the abdomen of certain field spiders is possible.

Both humans and pets are unaffected.

Jumping spider:

These spiders are popular in gardens and have been known to enter homes on occasion. Usually, they are larger than an R5 coin. The Nursery-web Spider’s colour ranges from grey to orange, with a pale stripe or two running down the thorax and abdomen. They can be seen moving about, but their webs in plants are often messy. Humans and pets are not harmed by them, and they rarely bite.

They like to hang out in gardens and can be seen in large groups at night while they are looking for insect prey. Some species have been seen capturing small fish and tadpoles in and around water.

Crab spider:

A tiny spider that can be found in a variety of colours, such as blue, white, and yellow. They have a short profile, with their four pairs of legs clumped together to help them blend in. They are excellent ambush hunters. They are usually found in the garden or out in the veld, sitting on flowers.

They usually match the flower’s colour, but you could come across a yellow spider on a white flower or the other way around. These spiders eat small pollinating flies, bees, and wasps and are harmless to humans and pets.

The outcast of the Savannah

Hyena’s are assumed to be the lowest ranking animal in the animal kingdom, therefor we see them as outcasts of the savannah.

Every animal in nature has a specific place to which it belongs. They may associate with vultures and serve as part of nature’s clean up team, but they are not cowardly carnivores. Hyenas have some of the toughest jaws in the animal kingdom, with an adult’s bite strength reaching up to 1000 pounds per square inch, making them ideal for destroying bones and removing carcasses. With several other predators, they have the ideal love-hate relationships. They will force other competitors such as lions apart from their prey if they have a number advantage, but the roles can be reversed, and lions can easily drive hyenas off from one of their effective kills.

Hyenas are excellent hunters who rely on agility, stamina, and coordination to capture their target, which ranges from wildebeest to small antelope. They are thought to kill approximately 50 and 75 percent of their own food, which is impressive for an animal that is thought to survive off rotting carcasses and scraps. They have incredible patience, as they will sit calmly for two days underneath a tree while a leopard eats above, ready for the tiniest scrap of meat to drop. This confirms the adage that “good things come to those who wait.” Spotted hyenas are amazing carnivores with social arrangements that are like those of primates like baboons.

There are 4 different subspecies of hyenas:

• Spotted hyena
• Striped hyena
• Brown hyena
• Aardwolf

Hyenas normally have 2 to 4 cubs per litter. Cubs start eating meat from kills around the den when they are around five months old, but they are nursed for up to 18 months, which is exceptionally long for predators. Since most kills are achieved far from the den, however unlike jackals and hunting dogs, hyenas would not carry food back to regurgitate for their offspring, this is possibly a requirement.

The territorial clans are made up of associated individuals. The den, in which the offspring are born and raised and are met by individuals, is the hub of clan interaction. They mark and protect their areas by smearing a pungent substance formed by the anal glands on vegetation stalks along its edges.

People often assume that the Aardwolf is not apart of the hyena family because it looks like a mixture of the Striped hyena and the Brown hyena. They simply think that the Aardwolf is not natural apart of the hyena family, but it is.

The Aardwolf has quite a yellowish-brown jacket with many longitudinal black lines, a frizzy, black-tipped tail, and a long, rough, dark-haired line on its back that rises whenever it is threatened or afraid. The Aardwolf is 40-50 cm tall at the shoulder, the tail is 20-25 cm long, 65-80 cm in length across nose to tail, and weighs from 8 and 12 kg.

You can add this exceptional creature to your bucket list for your next Kruger National Park Safari.