The Golden Era Returns to Kruger

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to step back in time and experience the unparalleled grandeur of the Golden Era? Well, my friend, wonder no more! I’m here to tell you that the Golden Era has returned once again to Kruger, and it’s more extraordinary than ever!

Now, you’re probably asking yourself, “What exactly is the Golden Era, and why is it such a big deal?” Allow me to enlighten you. The Golden Era, my friend, is a period in history known for its opulence, elegance, and immeasurable beauty. It was a time when everything was larger than life, and no expense was spared in the pursuit of luxury.

Imagine yourself surrounded by extravagant decor, exquisite fashion, and a level of sophistication that is rarely seen in today’s world. Every detail meticulously crafted to transport you to a bygone era of glamour and refinement.

But why is the return of the Golden Era so significant? Well, let me tell you. In our fast-paced, technology-driven society, we often find ourselves longing for a simpler time. We yearn for the elegance and grace of an era long gone. The return of the Golden Era allows us to step out of the present and get a taste of the past.

Not only does the Golden Era provide a much-needed escape from the modern world, but it also offers us an opportunity to learn from the past. By immersing ourselves in the opulence and grandeur of this era, we can gain a deeper understanding of our own history and what it means to be human.

So, my friend, if you’ve ever dreamt of experiencing the magnificence of the Golden Era, now is the time. Make your way to Kruger and let yourself be transported to a time of awe-inspiring beauty and unparalleled grandeur. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

I’m sure you’ve wanted to be an expert in choosing the best furniture for your home, but let me tell you, it’s not always easy! There are so many options out there that sometimes I feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry, because I’m here to help you.

First off, let me say that when it comes to buying furniture, you need to consider your personal taste and style. After all, you’re the one who will be living with it every day. So think about what you like and what makes you feel comfortable. If you love modern designs, go for sleek and minimalist furniture. If you prefer a more traditional look, opt for classic pieces with intricate details. The choice is yours!

Another important factor to consider is the quality of the furniture. Nobody wants to invest in something that will break or wear out quickly. That’s why it’s essential to choose furniture made from durable materials like solid wood or sturdy metal. These materials not only ensure longevity but also add a touch of elegance to your home.

Of course, budget is another crucial aspect to keep in mind. Furniture can be quite expensive, so it’s essential to set a budget before you start browsing. But don’t worry, you can still find high-quality pieces at affordable prices. Just be patient and take your time searching for the best deals. And remember, it’s always better to invest in one or two excellent pieces rather than buying several cheap ones that won’t last long.

The size of the furniture is also something you should consider. You need to measure your space carefully to ensure that the furniture you choose fits perfectly. Take into account the dimensions of the room and the other pieces of furniture you already have. It’s always a good idea to create a floor plan before making any purchases. This way, you can visualize how everything will look and make sure it all works together harmoniously.

Finally, don’t forget about functionality. Think about how you will use the furniture and whether it serves your needs. For example, if you love hosting dinner parties, a spacious dining table is a must. If you work from home, a comfortable and ergonomic office chair is essential. It’s all about finding furniture that not only looks great but also enhances your daily life.

So there you have it, my tips for choosing the perfect furniture for your home. Remember, it’s all about your personal taste, quality, budget, size, and functionality. Keep these factors in mind, and I’m confident you’ll find the furniture of your dreams. Happy shopping!

Can you believe it? It’s been almost a hundred years since the first people came to the Kruger National Park by train. And now, there’s something new and exciting happening there. They’ve built a fancy train that floats above the Sabie River, and a whole area of restaurants that are inspired by trains.

Who would have thought that a simple mode of transportation could inspire something so amazing? It just goes to show how creative and innovative people can be.

Imagine being able to dine in a restaurant that looks and feels like a train station. You can sit back and enjoy a delicious meal while surrounded by the ambiance of old-fashioned train travel. It’s like stepping back in time and experiencing a piece of history.

But it’s not just about the aesthetics. These restaurants are also serving up some seriously good food. From traditional South African dishes to international cuisine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

So, if you’re looking for a unique dining experience, why not give the railway-inspired restaurant precinct at the Kruger National Park a try? You won’t be disappointed.

And remember, the next time you’re planning a trip, don’t forget about the Sabie River luxury train. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that you won’t want to miss.

The Shalati Train on the Bridge took over a year to finish. Each of the 12 carriages got fitted with fancy amenities individually. Then, they were transported one by one to the Kruger Park.

I rolled into Kruger’s Orpen Gate during late spring, under a cloudy sky that was about to pour with the first refreshing rains of the season. Signs of summer were everywhere. The tree wisterias held clusters of purple flowers, the schotias blossomed in red, and blades of grass sprouted with hope from the ground.

I had a distance of 140 kilometers to cover, first heading east towards Satara, and then south to Skukuza. All the while, the clouds grew darker, finally bursting open as I crossed the Sabie River. The land gratefully soaked up the early rains, and soon after, the cicadas emerged with their full chorus, announcing the start of summer in the Lowveld.

As I arrived in Skukuza, I felt a buzz of anticipation in the air. An incredible new project was about to come to life right before my eyes. For years, the Kruger Station and Kruger Shalati Train on a Bridge had been in the works. And now, in the late months of 2020, it was finally ready to welcome its very first guests.

You see, Kruger Shalati is no ordinary hotel. It’s a one-of-a-kind, luxurious train hotel that boasts a five-star experience like no other. Perched on the Selati Bridge, overlooking the Sabie River, it offers breathtaking views and an unforgettable stay. This unique train hotel will be permanently parked in this picturesque location, where guests can soak in the beauty of the surroundings.

The anticipation grew as the opening day approached. It was almost time for the first guests to step on board the train, a momentous occasion that would mark nearly a century since the first visitors set foot in Kruger National Park. The train was a symbol of how far we’ve come and a testament to the enduring allure of this remarkable place.

As I stood on the platform, I couldn’t help but imagine the excitement and wonder that those early visitors must have felt all those years ago. And now, it was my turn to experience that same awe and adventure. The train was ready, the staff prepared to provide exceptional service, and the journey was about to begin. I was about to embark on a new chapter of exploration, with Kruger Shalati as my luxurious home away from home.

When you step into Restaurant 3638, get ready for a culinary adventure like no other. This place serves up a mix of gourmet dishes and beloved classics that will tantalize your taste buds. But that’s not all – they’ve got big plans to introduce some truly unique local fare. I’m talking about dishes like crocodile, which you won’t find just anywhere.

Now, let me tell you about The Kruger Station. This spot is more than just a place to eat – it’s a whole experience. Located in Skukuza rest camp, it’s a food and entertainment hub that’s got something for everyone. And let me tell you, they’ve been making a lot of people happy since it opened its doors.

One of the coolest things about The Kruger Station is its location. It’s perched up high on an elevated platform deck, giving you a birds-eye view of the surrounding area. It’s the perfect spot to do a little birdwatching while you enjoy your meal. And speaking of the view, let me tell you about the star of the show.

You see, the main restaurant at The Kruger Station is named after an old steam locomotive – number 3638, to be exact. This beauty has been parked at the station since 1979, and it’s become quite the landmark. When you see it, you’ll know you’ve arrived.

The station is always buzzing with activity. It’s got a bar, a cafe, a deli, and a fancy restaurant, so there’s something for everyone who visits Kruger. I got a chance to sit down with Chef Andrew Atkinson, who was a contestant on SA Masterchef. We chatted during his break between breakfast and lunch.

When I looked at the menu, I saw a lot of delicious dishes with a South African twist. Andrew told me that he wanted to serve high-quality food without any fuss, and he wanted people to feel relaxed while they enjoyed their meal.

In 1949, a Steam Locomotive called number 3638 was constructed. It’s amazing to think that even today, the original train driver sometimes stops by his old ‘office’ to give it a shiny polish.

When I couldn’t decide on a dessert, Chef Andrew disappeared into his kitchen. He quickly returned with a delightful treat – a box of brownies inspired by smores. As I savored each bite, he shared the story of his latest endeavor with me.

“I’ve had the opportunity to work at amazing places like the Hilton, the Hyatt, and the Micheleangelo, but I was ready for something new. How often do you come across a blank canvas that you can completely make your own?”

At Kruger Station, they make a point of hiring and training people from the local communities. They also strive to source all of their ingredients locally. Andrew explained, “This region has such an incredible variety of fresh produce, so I do my best to minimize the amount of carbon emissions.”

“Hey there! You won’t believe what I discovered about this awesome station”, Judiet Barnes said to me with excitement over a cup of coffee. “They actually designed it with kids like yours in mind! Isn’t that cool?”

Judiet Barnes, the concession manager, shared some awesome insights with me about this station. She mentioned how her own kids would get super restless during long car rides between visiting summer camps. But guess what? This place is absolutely perfect for letting those little adventurers run free and have a blast!

Wow, can you believe it? The Sabie River stretches 230km, making it a pretty long river. But what’s even more amazing is that it’s one of the most diverse rivers in South Africa when it comes to wildlife. Can you imagine, there are 46 different types of fish that call this river home!

Now here’s something really cool that you’ve got to check out. Inside the area, there’s a cinema that takes you on a 360-degree adventure. It shows movies and documentaries all about animals, conservation, and the history of Kruger. The best part? The seats in the theater swivel around so you can fully immerse yourself in the experience. How awesome is that?

But hold on, don’t think this place is stuck in the past. They’ve also got some modern features. Although, I have to admit, it’s a bit weird hearing pop music playing instead of the sounds of birds chirping. But hey, at least they’re trying something different!

When you visit Skukuza, you’ll notice a few changes. Instead of the traditional pie, gravy, and chips, they now offer kudu bobotie pizzas and duck ragu. And forget about outdoor films – they’ve upgraded to 360-degree theaters. But one thing that hasn’t changed is the tradition of enjoying an evening drink.

Now, at the Kruger Station, you can relax at the Round-in-Nine bar and enjoy a cold cocktail or a craft beer. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after an exciting afternoon drive and before heading back to your bungalow to start up the braai fire. Judiet explained, ‘It’s a place where you can have a sundowner and soak in the atmosphere.’

The bar gets its name from the first train tours that traveled through Kruger in the early 1920s. Back then, people would hop on a train just north of Skukuza and ride until they reached Crocodile Bridge. The train would make a stop at the Sabie Bridge, where everyone would get off and spend the night by the river. James Stevenson-Hamilton, the first warden of what we now call Sabie Game Reserve, would entertain the guests with stories about the reserve he had worked so hard to protect. The night would be filled with a big bonfire, a fancy dinner, and even a grand piano. Afterward, everyone would head back to their train cars to sleep.

I partnered with local designers, artists, and craftsmen to create the stunning carriage rooms. The spaces are adorned with beautiful organic textures and patterns that bring a unique touch to each room.

Life along the Selati line, however, wasn’t always as idyllic.

Watch out for slowpokes!
Keep an eye out when driving on Kruger’s rainy roads. Sometimes, tortoises come out to drink from puddles on the road, and they cross at a snail’s pace, putting themselves at risk.

The Mysterious Selati Line

In 1892, construction of the Selati line started. Its purpose was to transport gold from the Selati goldfields on the Murchison Range to Komatipoort, and from there, it would be taken to the port in Lorenzo Marques (Maputo). The task of building the line was given to Baron Eugene Oppenheim and his brother, Baron Robert Oppenheim. These French entrepreneurs (who were quite cunning) had questionable motives right from the beginning.

The Kruger Station is a bustling hub that never sleeps. It welcomes over 100 people every day, offering a cozy space where you can relax and enjoy a delicious meal. And if you’re in a hurry, don’t worry! We also offer scrumptious takeaway options, perfect for fueling up before your exciting game drive.

Back in 1892, the Selati Railway Company came into play. This remarkable venture was a shareholding enterprise, and the founders went all the way to Brussels to make it happen. With some clever maneuvering and a few well-placed pounds, they secured a contract with the Transvaal government and the Volksraad. The trickery came in the form of bribery, but hey, it got the job done!

Then came the really interesting part. The construction of the railway line was outsourced to a British company called Westwood & Winby. These skilled folks put on their hats and got to work. Piece by piece, they built the tracks, stretching for 80 kilometers, all the way to the Sabie River. Now, that very same river is known as Skukuza, but back then, it was the starting point of something truly extraordinary.

Meanwhile, the Oppenheim brothers were up to no good. They were playing with the numbers, faking expenses, hiring shady subcontractors, and generally trying to hide their financial shenanigans. But their web of deceit couldn’t last forever. In 1895, the truth came out and the scandal surrounding the Selati line exploded into view. The brothers were caught, charged, and found guilty in a Belgian court. They were sentenced to prison for their crimes. Even President Paul Kruger himself had to face the court and he apparently didn’t think it was a big deal for everyone to get paid, as long as it wasn’t called bribery.

Can you believe it? More than one million pounds found their way into the greedy hands of corrupt politicians and businessmen. It’s outrageous! And what did they leave behind? A whopping 120km of useless track. The tools lay abandoned along the railway, slowly rusting away in the veld. For 15 long years, they remained untouched, until finally, in 1909, construction resumed.

But that’s not all. The story takes an interesting turn. The rest of the line from Sabie Bridge to Tzaneen wasn’t completed until 1912, and you won’t believe who finished it – Pauling & Co.

Meanwhile, something else was happening. In 1898, a man named James Stevenson-Hamilton became the first warden of the Sabie Game Reserve. It was a significant moment, marking the establishment of this protected area.

Imagine this: Kruger Shalati, a train-shaped marvel, offers all the luxuries you’d expect from a fancy hotel, complete with air conditioning. But here’s the twist – it’s smack in the middle of the African wilderness!

Now, let’s take a little trip back in time to the year 1923. The very first Round-in-Nine tour chugged its way through the breathtaking Sabie Game Reserve. The man behind this idea was Stevenson-Hamilton, and he had something special in mind. Instead of rushing through the park in the dark, he had a brilliant suggestion.

Picture this: he decided to park the train on a bridge, right in the heart of the reserve. And guess what? The passengers could hop off and witness the incredible wildlife in broad daylight! This stop became everyone’s favorite, and it played a crucial role in the movement to declare the reserve a national park.

Fast forward a few years to 1926, and the Kruger National Park, more or less as we know it today, was officially established.

When I first arrived at Skukuza, I couldn’t help but notice the remnants of a bygone era. The tracks on either side of the bridge were still there, reminding me of the trains that used to pass through this place. It was like stepping back in time.

As I explored further, I came across a steam locomotive parked in the station. It was a sight to behold, a relic of a time when trains ruled the land. I couldn’t help but imagine what it must have been like to travel on that locomotive, chugging along the tracks.

But the magic of this place didn’t stop there. In the 1980s, a unique establishment called the Selati Station Grillhouse opened its doors. It was made up of three carriages, each with its own charm. Sadly, tragedy struck in 1995 when two of the carriages were destroyed in a fire. Only one remained, a beautifully restored wood-panelled lounge car.

This restored car is now available for private parties, seating up to 16 people. Imagine hosting a celebration or gathering on this vintage train car, surrounded by history and elegance. It’s a truly unforgettable experience.

But the highlight of Skukuza’s tribute to this glamorous era of travel is the Kruger Shalati Train on the Bridge. This luxury hotel is housed in a train from the 1950s, originally used by SA Railways. It has been transformed into a stunning accommodation, offering a unique and opulent stay.

Staying at the Kruger Shalati Train on the Bridge is like stepping into a different time. The vintage decor, the views from the bridge, and the overall ambiance make for an extraordinary experience. It’s a chance to indulge in the nostalgia of train travel while enjoying the comforts of a modern hotel.

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind getaway, you’ll find it here at Skukuza. The history, the charm, and the allure of this place will captivate you from the moment you arrive. Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in this captivating world of railways and luxury.

In emergencies, when the low-level bridges are damaged or too unsafe to cross, the bridge over the Sabie River at Skukuza has served as a lifeline.

Gavin Ferreira, the operations manager, shared with me how they drew inspiration from the past. “We wanted to experience what it was like to sleep on the bridge, just like they did. We envisioned having banquets on the land nearby and gathering around the fire to listen to captivating stories.”

Permanently positioned on the bridge, the train will provide 24 ensuite carriage rooms, each accommodating two people. Positioned next to it, there will be a lounge carriage and a pool deck, with the pool extending over the bridge, providing a breathtaking view of the Sabie River below. On land, there will be an additional seven rooms, providing space for 14 guests, increasing the hotel’s total capacity to 62. A pool, a restaurant, and a reception area can be found on the riverbanks, where guests will check in and enjoy their meals.

“We’ve really embraced the nostalgia of the past,” shares Gavin, “but when it comes to what our guests can expect from this train experience, it’s a whole new world.”

With luxurious features at every turn, these train carriages have been meticulously designed with a single row of windows, ensuring privacy and framing captivating views away from the hustle and bustle of Skukuza rest camp. Step inside each room and discover a world of indulgence, complete with a bathtub, shower, cozy king-size bed, fridge, and an air conditioner. It’s hard to believe that these modern comforts are a far cry from the original transporter trains that once graced this very same bridge.”

‘You won’t believe what we’ve seen while building the game below the bridge,’ Gavin exclaimed. ‘The view from the bridge is absolutely amazing and it’s going to give you a one-of-a-kind game-watching experience.’

The Shalati Train on the Bridge is a tribute to the glamorous train travel of the past, while the Kruger Station is all about nostalgia. Just like the old days, where people have their favorite camps and traditions, a whole new generation of kids might grow up with memories of enjoying ice cream at the station and watching movies in their pajamas.

Kruger Shalati Train on the Bridge hotel has recently opened. Prices start from R8,950 per person for sharing and there are special opening rates from R4,950 per person. For more information, visit krugershalati.com.

Did you know?

The Selati Line, a railway that operated until the 1960s, saw countless trains pass through the Kruger Park each week. The very last train made its journey in 1973.

They called James Stevenson-Hamilton “Skukuza”, meaning ‘to sweep,’ a title bestowed upon him by the Tsonga people. They admired his dedication to rid the park of poachers and criminals, likening his efforts to sweeping away trouble.

Some call the Selati Line the ‘man-a-mile-line’ – a name with a dark undertone. This somber nickname originated from the unfortunate fate that befell many of its builders. Some succumbed to malaria, while others fell victim to the ferocious grip of lions.

Hey, guess what? There’s even more to tell you…

In 2020, something amazing happened – the Skukuza Safari Lodge was opened! This awesome hotel has 178 units and is located in Skukuza. It’s like a three-star hotel, but it’s a step up from the self-catering bungalows and fancy private lodges you find in Kruger. The cool thing about the Skukuza Safari Lodge is that it has a swimming pool, a private gym, and a restaurant. So, whether you’re going to a conference or just staying overnight, you’ll have all the amenities you need. Isn’t that cool?

Now, let’s talk money. The cost for two people to stay at the Skukuza Safari Lodge starts at R2,730. And if you need to make a reservation or get more information, just give them a call at 013 329 000. Oh, and you can also check out their website at skukuzalodge.com.