ER LINES
Th Africa, writes Hlengiwe Magagula
Vast areas of sun-crisp mopane savannah are characteristic of Northern Kruger. That’s until you reach the river valleys of the Luvuvhu and Limpopo, where fever trees and figs proliferate, and huge numbers of animals come in search of winter water. It already feels remote in this tropical corner, but the private Makuleke concession takes it a step further. At Return Africa’s Pafuri Collection, enjoy spontaneous encounters in the unfenced camp, or simply kick back and watch the kingfishers fly and crocodiles lie.
Up here, you’ll find more baobabs than bakkies.
From April to October, a seasonal camp enables you to enjoy the only private, overnight, trail-walking experience in the Kruger. They currently have a special rate of R3 800 for two walkers in April and May (normally R5 200).
Visit Crook’s Corner, where three countries meet. Here’s an adventurous entry point to Mozambique, and the colonial-era Pafuri Border Camp.
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You’ll be forgiven if you’ve never heard of this little reserve. Hidden in a corner of Maputaland on the Mozambique border, it’s known for its fever trees and rich bird life. Visit on a weekday and it is like having your own private reserve at public prices, including a wellmaintained pool at the only camp.
Ndumo has an attractive mix of riverine forest, wetlands and dense thorn bush. Just settle down under a sycamore fig with binoculars and a flask. For their safety, rhinos have recently been moved out.
This is the place to build your bird list. Over 430 species have been spotted, more than anywhere else in the land.
If you’re in possession of a pachyderm obsession and a 4x4, Tembe Elephant Park is 30 minutes from the gate.
Lkznwildlife.com et’s not forget the most dramatic border of them all. The 1 000km-long Lesotho frontier could not be more of a contrast with the dusty deserts and torrid tropics of our other escapes.
One of the most scenic sections is preserved in the Golden Gate Highlands, and the nearby Castle in
Clarens is the place to let down your hair and indulge your fairy-tale fantasies. The whimsical tower is a feast for the eyes, inside and out, and the views are splendid.
With the highest peak at 2 829m, Golden Gate Highlands is the place to cool off in summer.
Work those calf muscles with a late afternoon walk to appreciate the full glow of the sandstone bluffs that give the area its name.
In a lovely setting, the town of Clarens is a pleasant place to shop, eat and enjoy the fine art of brewing.
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