4 - Kruger National Park, South Africa

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A South African safari is a once in a lifetime trip, a learning curve, and certainly not a decision to be rushed into. With the best time to go being the winter months, there has never been a better time to start thinking about what you could learn from a visit to one of the world's most diverse and exciting wildernesses.

Pafuri Camp, to the very north of Kruger National Park, will give you a safari experience quite unlike any other. With 75% of all Kruger wildlife found in this area, you are almost guaranteed to witness something truly spectacular - be it a leopard lounging in a tree or lions pacing through the undergrowth. At the same time, learn about the local people and their history - why they were removed from the area in 1969, and how since, they have come back to reclaim the land and make the best use of it through sustainable eco-tourism. It is a wonderful story of loss and partnership, and gives the camp an exceptionally personal feel.

For keen bird-watchers, this camp is true paradise - but even those who know little to nothing about the region's rare species are sure to appreciate them in all their range and beauty by the end of the trip. Special guided walks dedicated to teaching tourists all about the local wildlife is one of the camp's specialities, as well as a trip to the local Makuleke village to learn dance, cuisine and even a visit to a traditional healer or sangoma.

Pafuri Camp, as well as the rest of Kruger National Park, is also dedicated to conservation and runs multiple projects to introduce new and endangered species back into different areas of the park. In 2005, six white rhino, eight blue wildebeest, Burchell's zebra and impala were introduced into the area around the Pafuri Camp. It was the first phase of the Makuleke Large Mammal Reintroduction Project, and now provides a brilliant prey base for the Park's endangered predators.

The camp accommodation is divided into Pafuri East with seven tents, and Pafuri West with 13. The tents are on raised platforms to make the most of the breeze and even connected via raised walkways to disturb the wildlife below as little as possible. Those who enjoy their home comforts should be extremely well catered for, with all tents including en-suites as well as a communal pool, dining and lounge area with spectacular views over the river.

The enthusiasm and knowledge of the guides is infectious and will have children and adults alike brimming full of facts about everything Africa - what better way to learn about a land rich in wildlife, history and incredible scenery.

Tel: 00 27 11 257 5111

Address: Head Office

P O Box 5219, Rivonia, 2128, South Africa

E-mail: info@wilderness-adventures.com

Pafuri camp website

Prices: prices are available on the Pafuri Camp website via downloadable pdf or online booking form

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