Flying to Kruger National Park, South Africa

On a bright and sunny morning, Mandy and I found ourselves back at Johannesburg Airport, excited for the next leg of our adventure. We had an early start, so the warm glow of the morning sun was just starting to fill the sky as we navigated through the terminal, passing the hustle and bustle of other travelers.

Once we boarded the small jet, we settled into our seats, ready for the short 40-minute flight to Kruger National Park Airport. The aircraft was cozy, and as we took off, I couldn’t help but notice the beautiful patchwork of fields and landscapes below us. The city quickly faded from view, and soon we were flying over the vast, untamed wilderness that South Africa is known for.

The airport at Skukuza is quite unique, it small with a thatched room and open outside walls. Baggage reclaim is small stage where your cases are personally handed to you.

Our first game drive in Kruger National Park was a sunset drive, and I remember the excitement and anticipation as we set off with our guide, Douglas. It was around 4:30 p.m., and the air was warm, with a slight breeze rustling through the bush. As soon as we left the camp, it didn’t take long before we encountered our first wildlife — a massive bull elephant. He was feeding calmly in the thick bush, completely unbothered by our presence. His sheer size was breathtaking, and it felt surreal to be so close to such a magnificent creature.

Not long after, we spotted a couple of giraffes, their long necks gracefully stretching up to feed from the higher branches. They were so elegant, moving slowly and deliberately as they munched on the foliage. The quietness of the first part of the drive felt peaceful, allowing us to really take in the surroundings, with the fading light casting golden hues over the landscape.

Then, after about twenty minutes of driving, it was as though the bush came to life. Suddenly, the sightings started to pour in. First, we came across a small pack of hyenas, scavenging near the road. Their unmistakable cackles sent a chill through the air. They seemed alert and restless, always on the move. Not far from them, we spotted a herd of kudu — the males with their impressive spiral horns, standing proudly among the trees. They were keeping a close watch on the surroundings, always aware of potential danger.

As we continued, we came across a few antelope grazing peacefully, and then, as we approached a waterhole, we were thrilled to see a group of hippos lounging in the water. Their enormous heads and ears barely visible above the surface as they wallowed, occasionally flicking their ears or letting out a snort. The whole experience felt like a dream, with the sun setting behind us, painting the sky in brilliant shades of orange and pink.

It was an unforgettable introduction to the wildlife of Kruger, and by the time we returned to camp that evening, Mandy and I were buzzing with excitement, already eager for the next day’s adventures.

In evening, after an exhilarating day of game drives, we returned to our camp, which was nestled near the banks of the Sabie River. It was the perfect spot to unwind and take in the beauty of the African bush. We made ourselves a cup of coffee and sat outside on the decking, which was just 30 meters from the river.

The late afternoon sun was casting a golden glow over the water, and everything felt so peaceful. As we sat there, sipping our coffee, we suddenly spotted movement in the river. To our amazement, three hippopotamuses were swimming by, their huge bodies effortlessly cutting through the water. We watched in awe as they moved gracefully, their heads bobbing up and down, the quiet splashes the only sounds breaking the silence.

As night began to fall, we turned on the spotlights, shining them over the Sabie River. The light reflected off the water, creating shimmering patterns on the surface. And then, in the beam of light, we spotted another incredible sight—a crocodile. It was gliding silently through the water, just below the surface, its eyes barely visible as it hunted for prey. It felt like we were in the middle of a nature documentary, witnessing these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.