Good to Know

The SANParks Honorary Rangers do lots of fund-raising things in the Kruger Park, but their biggest undertaking yet is the new Kruger Trail: a 600 km hike along the length of the park. “It’s a unique wilderness experience for people who love the Kruger – it’s definitely a bucket-list thing to do,” says project co-ordinator Louis Lemmer. “It’s a big commitment, but something you will remember for the rest of your life.” The trail can be hiked in six legs of about 100 km each, over a three-year period. “But there’s more to it than hiking,” says Louis. “People will be exposed to the rich ecological and cultural heritage of the park. It’s also a deeply personal journey with a group of friends.” How does it work? Get a group of eight hikers together. The SANParks Honorary Rangers hold an annual auction in October because only five groups can start the hike each year. The auction for the first leg starts at R50 900 per group (about R6 300 per person). If your bid is successful, your group will hike two legs of the route every year, for the next three consecutive years. You have to complete the legs in order, but if you want to quit halfway through, you won’t be forced to do the rest. The spots for 2019 have already been filled, so start preparing for the auction in October 2019. More about the hike? Two armed guides will accompany you, but hikers must be selfsufficient and fit. Each leg is six days long and you’ll walk 15 – 20 km per day, sleep in the veld and carry all your own gear. You can get water at natural sources like springs. Contact: 082 929 0244 (Louis); thekrugertrail.com