3. LOWER SABIE TENTED CAMP

CLOSEST GATE Crocodile Bridge TENTS 29 BEST FEATURE The Sabie River SPECIAL SIGHTINGS Leopards, hippos, buffalo

Lower Sabie is a great rest camp in an amazing game zone in the park – the riverine area is rich in lions, cheetahs, elephants, hippos and herds of buffalo (up to 800 in number) and a very high density of warthogs – but it’s not my top choice for camping. There are very small stands, none are beside a fence for views and only some sites have precious shade. It’s a pity because there aren’t many options here in mid-Kruger; the Skukuza sites are not great either. Rather spend your money on Lower Sabie’s safari tents that have just been revamped, sporting fresh interiors, an en-suite bathroom and a closed-off kitchen (better for warding off the monkeys!). Although only five are available at the moment (units 1 to 5), many boast beautiful river views. Units 15, 16 and 17 are in the best location, with privacy in the corner of the camp, and they should be open from May. From R1 340 for two. DO THIS Drive the triangular route between Tshokwane and Skukuza via the H4-1, H1-2 and H10. There are plenty of picnic spots, waterholes and viewpoints for watching birds and beasts. It’s often busy with game-drive operators from outside the park, for good reason. TIP Hooded vultures and tawny eagles are the best raptor indicators for a kill and often point to a fresh carcass. Look out for them perched in the trees.