Kruger Tiger hunting In the leopard triangle

Winona Griggs

Kruger: Tiger hunting In the leopard triangle

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to go tiger hunting? Well, let me tell you about my thrilling experience in the leopard triangle of Kruger National Park.

Picture this: you’re deep in the heart of the African wilderness, surrounded by dense vegetation and an air of anticipation. The adrenaline courses through your veins as you embark on a quest to spot one of nature’s most majestic creatures – the tiger.

As I ventured into the leopard triangle, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and trepidation. This vast expanse of untamed wilderness is renowned for its high population of leopards and, yes, tigers. It’s a place where the laws of nature reign supreme, and every step is filled with uncertainty.

But why is it called the leopard triangle, you may wonder? Well, it’s because this region is known for its dense leopard population. These elusive creatures blend seamlessly into their surroundings, making it a challenge to spot them. It’s a constant game of hide and seek, where nature holds all the cards.

Now, let’s talk about the tigers. The mighty tigers of the leopard triangle are a sight to behold. Their striking coat patterns, powerful presence, and piercing eyes make them an apex predator like no other. Seeing one up close is like witnessing a living masterpiece.

But finding these elusive creatures is no easy task. They are masters of camouflage, hiding among the thick foliage with ease. It requires a keen eye and a good deal of patience to catch a glimpse of these enigmatic creatures.

As I set out on my tiger hunting expedition, I couldn’t help but marvel at the beauty and vastness of the leopard triangle. It’s a place where nature’s wonders unfold before your eyes, and every moment is filled with anticipation of what’s to come.

So, if you’re a nature enthusiast looking for an adventure like no other, I highly recommend exploring the leopard triangle of Kruger National Park. It’s a journey that will ignite your sense of wonder and leave you with unforgettable memories.

Kruger Tiger hunting In the leopard triangle

When it comes to Kruger National Park, you have a vast expanse of two-million hectares at your disposal. With so much to choose from, you need to have either a trust fund or a discerning eye to make the most of your time there. Luckily, there is a classic route that connects Skukuza, Satara, and Lower Sabie, which I highly recommend exploring. It’s a route that you’ll want to experience over and over again.

Kruger Tiger hunting In the leopard triangle

When my kids were four and six, I took them on their first trip to Kruger Park. On our very first drive out of Malelane, we had the incredible luck of spotting a magnificent male lion. He opened his mouth wide, stood up, and started walking towards us. Then he let out two enormous roars before disappearing into the bushes. My daughter Kira, who was only four at the time, watched this whole spectacle with a bit of curiosity. But then she leaned back in her car seat, made a noise that sounded like “mph,” and said, “Now I want to see a tiger.”

And honestly, who can blame her? I think we all secretly hope to catch a glimpse of a tiger, a lion, a leopard, a cheetah, or even a wild dog when we go on these safari adventures. It’s like an unwritten rule, a never-ending quest to tick off each animal on ‘The List.’ It’s something that plagues us, not just in Kruger Park, but in any game reserve we visit.

I was amazed when I discovered how fascinated people are by large predatory animals. Lions, in particular, seem to capture the imagination of so many. This revelation was especially exciting for a spirited man named Colonel James Stevenson-Hamilton. You see, in 1902, Colonel Hamilton was given the important role of warden for the Sabie Game Reserve – the predecessor to Kruger National Park.

Now, Colonel Hamilton had a specific mission: to bring back the antelope populations that had been almost completely wiped out due to poaching. Not only did he want to restore their numbers, but he also wanted to ensure their preservation for future hunting endeavors. And so, he devised a plan of action.

Colonel Hamilton took a firm stance against poachers. It didn’t matter who they were – even if they were white policemen wielding their service revolvers. He believed that the only way to protect the antelope was to arrest all poachers and, when necessary, eliminate predators on the spot.

The warden’s unyielding determination earned him the Shangaan moniker Skukuza (‘he disrupts everything’), but after a while, he started questioning the wisdom of conserving animals solely for the purpose of being hunted. In 1912, Hamilton managed to convince the Selati Railways to halt their trains on the Sabie River bridge. Travelers delighted in spotting the animals, especially lions, which, as he puts it, ‘rapidly gained enormous popularity among sightseers and became the park’s most valuable treasure’.

Kruger Tiger hunting In the leopard triangle

When I think about the H4-1 road from Lower Sabie to Nkuhlu in Kruger National Park, I can’t help but be drawn to the area known for its leopards. Interestingly, the farmers here used to call these magnificent creatures “tigers” and would shoot them on sight. This is how the park came to be – it was established in 1927. In those early days, there were no designated rest camps, and visitors would camp wherever they pleased, even sleeping in their cars or up a tree if they felt the need to avoid overly attentive lions or leopards.

While part of me wouldn’t mind experiencing the thrill of sleeping in a tree in Kruger, I must admit that my trip started quite differently. I began at Skukuza Rest Camp, where I enjoyed watching a wildlife movie and indulging in a delicious beetroot and butternut salad on the Mugg & Bean deck overlooking the Sabie River. I made a conscious decision not to be tied to a strict itinerary, instead opting to take my time along the H4-1 route and appreciate the wonders of nature at my own pace.

During my leisurely drive from pull-off to pull-off, I witnessed the sun slowly climbing the trunk of a magnificent marula tree as vervet monkeys playfully swung from the branches. A fish eagle gracefully soared over the river and landed nearby, letting out its distinctive cry that echoed the spirit of Africa. I focused my camera lens on a baboon mother cradling her newborn, capturing their tender moment. The baboon seemed to give me a weary look, as if to say, “Alright, that’s enough photos for now.”

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One of the highlights of my journey was spending an hour with an impala and her energetic baby. The little one would occasionally kick up its heels in pure delight, mirroring the joy I felt from witnessing such a beautiful sight.

As I reflect on these experiences, I am reminded of the rich history and natural wonders that make Kruger National Park a truly special place. The H4-1 road offers a pathway to explore this unique environment, where leopards once roamed freely and farmers mistook them for tigers. It is a journey that allows us to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us.

As I approached Orpen Rocks, I spotted a leopard and a chaotic scene of 20 cars all clamoring for a glimpse. It was quite a sight, but I decided to pass on joining the commotion. If it were 1928, however, I would have definitely set up my tent at the base of the rocks and enjoyed a refreshing sundowner drink (although I may not have survived to tell the tale). The charming hill, known as Orpen Rocks, was named after a generous supporter named Eileen Orpen, who donated seven neighboring farms to the park. In recognition of her contributions, Mrs. Orpen was honored with a hill, a rest camp, and a dam named after her. Even in the middle of the day, there was plenty of wildlife activity around her delightful dam, and I found a comfortable shady bench to sit and marvel at the wonders of the animal kingdom.

As I slowly made my way towards Satara, stopping often to observe giraffes and elephants, I noticed the landscape changing. The dense woodland and thorn thickets began to transition into more open savanna. Satara, the second-largest camp in Kruger, is situated right in the middle of vast plains that attract numerous herds of zebras, wildebeests, waterbucks, and buffalos. This makes it arguably the best camp in the park for observing lions. True to its reputation, I heard the roaring of a mating pair near the camp, which became the soundtrack to my night as I gathered around the fire for a barbecue.

The next morning, I embarked on the H1-3 south from Satara, known as one of the best roads in Kruger for spotting wildlife. It certainly lived up to its reputation. The first sighting was a hyena with two adorable little pups and two older siblings. They were gathered around their den and showed great curiosity towards my car. It was a delightful family scene to witness.

Kruger Tiger hunting In the leopard triangle

Now, listen to this! Hyena moms are no joke – they’ve got three times the testosterone of their male counterparts and they’re not afraid to show it. Those newborn impala lambs better watch out because martial eagles just can’t resist them. Talk about bad luck!

Later on, I parked my car to capture a snapshot of a line of impala making their way to a small puddle in the mostly dry Nwaswitsontso riverbed. The scene seemed peaceful at first, but then chaos erupted as the impala scattered in every which way. One look through my binoculars and I spotted two majestic lionesses, their golden manes shining in the sunlight, accompanied by two precious cubs at their heels. The impala weren’t giving up, though. They tried again. But one of the lionesses crouched down, ready to pounce, her ears flat against her head. It was a tense moment, and I held my breath. Suddenly, the lioness burst out of hiding, sprinting towards the impala. The impala took off, running for their lives. The chase was intense, but in the end, the lioness couldn’t keep up and she had to stop, panting heavily. I watched as other thirsty antelope cautiously approached the waterhole, only to repeat the same wary dance. This went on for about an hour, but eventually, both the lionesses and I gave up because of the scorching heat. Luckily, I found solace in a delicious lunch at the charming Tshokwane Picnic Site. The place had a rustic trading post vibe, and trust me, their coffee game was strong – I had a robust cup of moerkoffie followed by a creamy cappuccino. It was the perfect way to refuel after such an exhilarating wildlife encounter.

As I explored the dry plains above Tshokwane, I followed the H1-10 road and found myself in a completely different world after three hours. This new place was filled with rivers, reed cormorants, cattle egrets, and groups of wallowing buffalo. It’s no surprise that both humans and animals find this place irresistible.

Kruger Tiger hunting In the leopard triangle

When it comes to giraffes, drinking is a risky activity. That’s why they’re grateful to have other ungulates around. These fellow animals can quickly alert them if a predator is approaching, providing a valuable early warning system. However, there’s also a darker side to this arrangement. The presence of other animals can also make the giraffes more vulnerable to becoming a predator’s next meal. It’s a delicate balance that the giraffes have to navigate.

Kruger Tiger hunting In the leopard triangle

Imagine experiencing a traffic jam Kruger-style – caused not by cars, but by baboons and impala on the Sabie low-water bridge. It may sound peculiar, but that’s the reality in this incredible place.

I spoke to camp manager Bongile Louw, who gave me some insight into why this phenomenon occurs. He explained that the camp is fully booked within half an hour after reservations open each year. He attributed this popularity to a simple factor: sweet grass. Apparently, the grass here is so irresistible that animals flock to it, causing quite the spectacle.

But for me, the camp had more to offer than just sweet grass. I was captivated by the restaurant deck, which extended over the peaceful river. The sight of massive sycamore figs, coral, marula, and fever trees, along with the inviting shade of the lawns, created an idyllic setting.

And the wildlife? Simply mesmerizing. From the comforts of the camp, I spotted an old buffalo hiding in the reeds and witnessed the regular visits of elephant herds. A majestic goliath heron gracefully fished in the river, while a pride of lions on the opposite bank added a layer of drama as they harassed thirsty buffalo. Amidst all of this, a fiery-necked nightjar’s distinct call echoed through the air while I enjoyed a barbecue.

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Every venture outside of Lower Sabie proved to be just as thrilling. I encountered lions on every outing, and even witnessed a heartwarming moment as an elephant calf nursed from two different cows – a behavior I learned is quite common for young ones. The hotter hours of the day were perfectly spent in the hide at Ntandanyathi, where storks and herons had made themselves at home.

One evening, during a game drive, I had the pleasure of meeting Dan, an avid bird enthusiast from London. He was on a seven-week journey, exploring the length of Kruger. Dan recounted some of his most extraordinary sightings, including a martial eagle devouring an impala lamb, a magnificent leopard cub waiting patiently in a tree for its mother’s return, and an intense battle between lions and cheetahs over a kill.

Seven weeks! Can you believe it? I’ve been to Kruger National Park in different ways over the years – staying at a fancy lodge, driving around with my family, and even exploring the park all by myself. Every trip was special and left me with amazing memories. This time, I only had seven days, but it was still an incredible adventure. The cherry on top was seeing a leopard and her cub right before I left for Skukuza airport. I was so excited, but then, out of habit, I started going through my mental checklist: lions, hyenas, leopards…but no cheetah. Cheetahs are my absolute favorite big cats, and I had really hoped to see one. In a park as huge as Kruger, which is even bigger than Israel, with its 16 different ecozones, you can never be sure what you’ll spot. It’s like Murphy’s Law is always working against you. The only thing I know for sure is that I won’t see a tiger here, unless it’s on my plate, cooked to perfection with garlic butter and served on top of a prawn salad at one of the fancy lodges.

Kruger Tiger hunting In the leopard triangle

The Kruger National Park has seen its fair share of danger. One harrowing incident involved Ranger Harry Wolhuter, who found himself face-to-face with two attacking lions. Armed only with a small knife, he somehow managed to escape unscathed, while one of the lions didn’t survive the encounter. You can see the knife that saved Harry’s life and the lion’s skin at the Skukuza museum.

Now, let’s talk about the thrill of game viewing from the comfort of your camp. Skukuza is the place to be. Here are some of the best drives you can take:

– Drive the golden predator triangle: Start with H1-2 and head to Tshokwane picnic site for a delicious breakfast. Then, follow H10 to Lower Sabie and return on the H4-1.

– If you’re looking for a shorter but busier route, try the riverside loop on the H4-1. Cross the Sabie River on the H12 and come back on the H1-2.

Skukuza also has some top spots for getting a refreshing drink. Check out Lake Panic on the S42 route or any spot along the beautiful Sabie River. So grab your binoculars and get ready for an unforgettable wildlife experience in Kruger National Park!

Hey there! I’ve got some cool information for you about Kruger National Park. Are you ready to learn?

Wildlife Hotspots

If you’re looking to spot some incredible wildlife in Kruger National Park, there are a few key areas you should check out. One of them is the Lower Sabie area, known for its diverse range of animals like elephants, lions, and buffalo. Another hotspot is the Skukuza area, which is home to a variety of species including leopards, hyenas, and rhinos. And let’s not forget about the iconic Olifants area, where you can catch a glimpse of giraffes, hippos, and crocodiles.

Scenic Routes

When it comes to exploring the park, there are some stunning routes to consider. The H12 is a low-water bridge that offers fantastic views, while the S65, also known as N’waswitshaka, is another great option for taking in the park’s natural beauty.

Stretch Your Legs Here

If you’re in need of a break and want to stretch your legs, Kruger National Park has some great spots for you. The Lake Panic Hide is a peaceful spot where you can relax and watch the wildlife. Orpen Rocks is another option, allowing you to take a breather while enjoying the scenery. And don’t miss the Kruger Tablets, which are unique rock formations that you won’t find anywhere else. If you’re looking for more amenities, check out the Nkuhlu picnic site with its ablutions and basic shop. And if you’re hungry, make a stop at Tshokwane, where you can find a restaurant, a shop, and even an ATM.

See, I told you Kruger National Park is amazing! There are so many incredible things to discover. Now go out there and enjoy everything this park has to offer!

Kruger Tiger hunting In the leopard triangle

Hey there! If you’re interested in some unique history, I’ve got a cool tip for you. Pay a visit to the Stevenson-Hamilton Memorial Library and Museum. While you’re there, check out the dog cemetery right next to it. You’ll get to learn all about the stories of Bles, Buster, Tessa, and other furry friends who were a part of this place.

Kruger Tiger hunting In the leopard triangle

Hey there! Let me tell you about some awesome spots in Kruger National Park that you don’t want to miss. So, picture yourself at the Nkuhlu Picnic Site – it’s a great place to have a little picnic and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Now, let’s talk about Satara.

If you’re looking for the best drives in Kruger, Satara has got you covered:

  • First up, we have the S100. This road runs alongside the N’wanetsi River and is known for its incredible game viewing opportunities. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed! Take a loop starting from the H1-4, then drive along the S90 and S41 until you reach the N’wanetsi Picnic Site. Finally, head back on the S100 (or you can do it in reverse if you prefer).
  • Another fantastic drive is the H1-3 to Tshokwane. This route is hard to beat! You can even make a loop by driving to Orpen Dam on the S32/35.
  • If you’re short on time but still want a memorable drive, try the H7. Start by heading west to Nsemani Dam, then take the S12 up to Girivana Dam, and finally, drive down the S40. This drive is perfect for the evenings and will give you a taste of the park’s beauty.
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Now, let’s make sure you stay hydrated during your adventures.

  • There are a few spots where you can find drinking water in Satara. Look out for Nsemani Dam on the H7, Girivana Dam on the S12, N’wanetsi Dam on the H6, and Orpen Dam on the S32.

Time to stretch those legs!

  • If you’re in need of a break, check out the Timbavati Picnic Site. You’ll find clean restrooms, gas skottels available for hire, and refreshing cold drinks for sale. It’s a great spot to recharge before continuing your adventure.

I want to tell you about two incredible places you can visit in the wild. First, there’s N’wanetsi. This spot is like a lookout platform where you can admire the breathtaking views of nature. And the best part is, they have all the basic amenities you need, like bathrooms and gas skottels that you can rent. How convenient!

Next on the list is Sweni bird hide. It’s a hidden gem where you can spot various beautiful bird species. Although there are no bathrooms there, the experience of being in the midst of nature is totally worth it.

These places offer unique opportunities to connect with the outdoors and appreciate the wonders of the natural world. So, if you’re an adventure seeker or a nature lover, make sure to add N’wanetsi and Sweni bird hide to your must-visit list. You won’t be disappointed!

Kruger Tiger hunting In the leopard triangle

If you’ve got a 4×4 vehicle, I recommend driving the Mananga Adventure Trail north of camp. It costs R714 per vehicle, and you can book at reception. While you’re in camp, be sure to check out the great birding opportunities.

Now, let’s talk about Lower Sabie. Here are some of the best drives in the area:

– Head south on the H4-2 and then onto the S28. If you want, take a detour on the S105 to Ntandanyathi Hide and the S137 to Duke waterhole. Then, return on the H4-2.

– If you’re looking to spot some big cats, go north on H4-1 to Nkuhlu for breakfast. Watch out for the thieving vervets! You can either return the same way or take a different route via the S30 and S128.

Now, let’s move on to the top drinking spots in Lower Sabie:

– Sunset dam, which is very near the camp.

– The low-water bridge over the Sabie River.

– Ntandanyathi Hide on the S105.

– Duke waterhole on the S137.

Lastly, if you want to stretch your legs, I recommend visiting Mlondozi Dam. They have ablutions and gas skottels for hire. Enjoy your time in Lower Sabie!

As a 5th grader, I’m here to tell you about a cool place called Kruger National Park. It’s a massive game reserve in South Africa, and it’s known for its diverse wildlife. When you visit, you can see all sorts of animals like elephants, lions, and zebras. Isn’t that awesome?

Now, let me give you some tips on exploring the park. First, there are different camps you can stay at, like Nkuhlu. It has a shop where you can buy things, bathrooms, and even gas skottels for rent. Another camp is Ntandanyathi Hide, but it doesn’t have any bathrooms. Remember to pack everything you need!

Here’s a tip for spotting animals: check out the Lubyelubye intersection with H4-1 for leopards, and the S28 intersection at the powerlines/Mosehla River for cheetahs. Cool, right?

So if you’re looking for an amazing adventure with animals, you should definitely visit Kruger National Park. You’ll have a blast exploring and spotting all the incredible creatures. Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t forget.

Kruger Tiger hunting In the leopard triangle

Words and Photographs by Cathrine Hofmeyr

Hey there! I want to chat with you today about the wonderful world of traveling. I know, I know, everyone talks about it, but have you ever considered how images can transport you to far-off places without even leaving your home?

Okay, let’s get real here. We’ve all experienced that feeling of wanderlust, that craving for adventure and exploration. And it’s no wonder why! Traveling opens up a whole new world of possibilities. It allows us to break free from our everyday routines, to dive headfirst into exciting cultures and environments. But have you ever thought about how photographs can capture those incredible moments and transport you there? It’s like magic, right?

I mean, seriously, think about it. A single photograph has the power to ignite your imagination, to freeze a moment in time and make you feel like you’re right there, in the heart of the action. It’s like a superpower, letting you experience the beauty of a foreign land or the thrill of an adrenaline-packed adventure, all from the comfort of your own home.

Now, when it comes to choosing the right images, it’s important to take a moment to consider what you want to feel when you look at them. Do you want to be whisked away to a tropical paradise, feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin and the sand between your toes? Or maybe you’re after a sense of awe and wonder, gazing at a breathtaking mountain range that makes you feel small and insignificant in the best possible way.

But let’s not forget about the power of storytelling. Each photograph has its own unique story to tell, a narrative waiting to be unraveled. Whether it’s capturing the essence of a bustling city street or the intimate details of a tranquil garden, there’s something about a photograph that allows you to step into someone else’s shoes and see the world through their eyes.

So, my friend, next time you find yourself longing for adventure, why not turn to the power of photography? Let it transport you to new and exciting places, where the only limit is your imagination. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

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