| 4 to 6 day Luxury Wildlife Walking Safari in South Africa's Kruger Park | | Print | |
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Discover nature’s hidden wonders in specially tailored walking trails from our luxury tented accommodation. Plains Camp is situated in the heart of our 12,000 hectare concession - a stone’s throw from Skukuza and easily accessible by road or air. With a maximum of eight people only (no children under 12), guests are ensured of a quality, pristine wilderness experience. 2 highly qualified guides will share their wealth of bush knowledge with you – from the identification of animals, trees, grasses, insects and birds to the medicinal uses of plants, folklore and basic tracking and survival skills. For a totally unique experience, guests wanting something different will be able to walk to our Sleepouts – elevated wooden platforms 4metres high where the night will be spent sleeping outdoors under the stars!
The Camp: Has four luxury African explorer-style tents with en-suite (hot running water) and all the comforts of home, plus the African Wilderness on your doorstep. Built in authentic pioneer tradition it has the serenity of a 19th century naturalists retreat, nestled in an Acacia Knobthorn thicket and overlooking the spectacular Timbitene plain and waterhole. An Africana book collection and antique treasures are reminiscent of a golden era. A generator and a back-up battery system power overhead fans and 24 hour lighting. The generator system can be used to re-charge camera batteries at specific times. There is also a Communal Lounge and Dining Area with an outside fireplace. The Tents: In keeping with the ethics of the Walking Safaris company “tread lightly on the land”, no trees were cut down in the construction of this camp. No concrete was used – all structures are canvas and wood. A typical day: begins with a mug of steaming coffee and traditional homemade rusks, after which guests set out on their morning walk, following rhino tracks and elephant paths. The length of the walks depend on the interest and fitness of the guests. Returning to camp, enjoy a leisurely brunch and relax in the cool of the acacia trees, keeping an eye on the waterhole for the breeding herd of elephant that frequently come to drink. Following high tea, set out again in the late afternoon for a walking safari or game drive and then indulge in a sunset cocktail. Activities: The walking trails are limited to eight guests who are guided by two armed rangers. Our guides meet the stringent requirements of the South African National Parks and senior guides hold the highest guiding qualification possible in South Africa. After an introductory brief on the “do’s” and “don’ts” of bush walking safaris, the guide will structure the trail taking into account the fitness level of the group and any special requests. Departures are before breakfast and again in the late afternoon to avoid the midday heat, with the average walk being between three and four hours. Walks may be lengthened or shortened depending on the group’s desires and fitness levels. The guides will share their wealth of bush culture, the identification of animals, trees, grasses, insects, birds and the medicinal uses of plants, local folklore and basic tracking and survival skills. Nothing is predictable in the bush, therefore each safari offers a potentially new experience.
Sleep Outs: Guests wanting to enjoy a unique experience will be able to walk out to our “Sleep Outs” on elevated wooden platforms (weather permitting). This is the only place in the Kruger National Park offering this unusual accommodation. Guests will leave the Camp in the late afternoon and arrive at the platforms in the early evening carrying a lightweight rucksack containing a change of clothes and refreshments. After hanging up mosquito nets, fly sheets (only if necessary) and preparing beds (yes! we do encourage our guests to be included in every aspect of this unique interactive experience of the bush), sundowners can be enjoyed on the platforms that also overlook a waterhole. While dinner is being prepared for our guests on an open fire, they will enjoy sounds and senses, heightened as they share the wilderness at night, while being safely guarded by our observant guides. The rumble of the elephant passing by or the roar of the lion at the nearby waterhole, are the only noises that might disturb guests in this peaceful wilderness. The following morning, guests will enjoy a light snack after which they will depart back to the Camp for a hearty brunch. The Sleep Outs are highly dependant on weather conditions. PLEASE be aware that should the weather be unfavourable on the day of the Sleep Out (heavy rain) or if there has been heavy rain in the days preceding the Sleep Out, guests may have to remain at Plains Camp (due to the platforms being inaccessible). Rates per person per night sharing 2012/2013: There are several trails available, all of which cater for every possibility; be it one camp, two camps or all three. Some of the suggested trails are:
Includes: all meals, teas & coffees, morning walks and afternoon walk & drive combination, house wines, beers & soft drinks
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