It's hard to find a more action packed adventure than a South Africa safari. The country is populated with some of the most diverse wildlife in the world, and some animals you won't be able to find anywhere else. There are many spots throughout South Africa that are good locations for a safari, but Kruger National Park undoubtedly stands out as one of the best.
Home to the "Big Five"
When it comes to safaris, most travelers go in wanting to see at least one of the so-called "Big Five." This group of game animals is comprised of the lion, African elephant, Cape buffalo, leopard and rhinoceros, all five of which call Kruger National Park home.
Some of the Big Five are harder to come by than others. There are only about 2,000 leopards in Kruger, and the black rhinoceros is even rarer, with an estimated 350 alive in the park as of 2009. Elephants are much more easy to spot, with around 11,000 specimens roaming the open plains.
Guided tours available
Perhaps the best part of Kruger National Park is that it gives you the chance to get exceptionally close to all of your favorite animals. There are many wilderness walking trails throughout the preserve that you can take if you're accompanied by armed guides. Most of these treks take two days and are a great way to fully immerse yourself in the South African wilderness.
There are a number of camps spread out through the park as well. The Skukuza camp is one of the most famous because of its location along the Sabie River. The camp offers views of hippos and is also located near the habitat of the chacma baboons and greater galagos.
More than just animals
While the diverse wildlife is the immediate appeal of a South Africa safari, the plantlife at Kruger National Park adds another element to the experience. In the western portion of the park, red bush-willow and mopane trees dominate the landscape and serve as a change of pace compared to the miles of grazing land spread throughout the park.
With the right guide, and the right setting, a South Africa safari can be one of the most fulfilling travel experiences on the planet, and Kruger National Park certainly provides just that.
