The Kruger National Park needs no introduction. It is undeniably one of the greatest game reserves in the world.
And for this reason, thousands of local and international tourists visit the park every year. An estimated 1,5 million visitors flock to the area annually.
Unfortunately, however, most of these visitors choose to experience the park in the same way. Mention the Kruger Park and they conjure up images of bush lodges and game drives.
But this world-class reserve offers so much more. Staying in a pricey lodge and venturing into the park in your vehicle each day is not the only way to explore the park. For the slightly more adventurous, a multitude of exciting experiences awaits in the Kruger.
For instance, why not pitch your tent at one of the park’s campsites, rather than rent a chalet or a room in a lodge? It would give you the chance to experience the reserve in a completely different way and you’d save quite a bit of money in the process.
If you don’t want to travel too far into the Kruger, the Berg-en-Dal campsite is an excellent choice. It’s fairly close to Nelspruit and boasts 72 stands with electricity and braai facilities. The camp also has a grocery store, clean ablution facilities and washing-up areas.
Another great campsite is the Punda Maria Rest Camp, situated in the north of the park where there is an abundance of game.
One of the camp’s great attractions, though, is its unrivalled bird watching opportunities. For birders, Punda Maria is a must, as it is one of best places from which to see Kruger’s diverse birdlife. Moreover, the camp is also situated in one of the best spots to see the shy Nyala antelope.
The camp has a cafeteria, a shop (with an ATM), a petrol station, picnic facilities and a swimming pool.
Letaba Camp is about halfway between Berg-en-Dal in the south and Punda Maria. The camp is sited on the sandy banks of the Letaba River and is therefore ideal for game viewing. If you’re intent on seeing elephants during your trip, Letaba is the place to go. Like the other sites, this camp also has everything campers might need. There are 60 stands with electricity, clean ablution facilities, washing-up areas with hot water, communal cooking facilities, a shop, a restaurant and a petrol station.
