The popularity of the Kruger National Park (KNP) is undisputed throughout the world which is why it is necessary to book a vacation here at least a year in advance. This year, 2010, KNP will be even busier than usual as the Soccer World Cup will be hosted in South Africa in June. Here are some interesting facts about South African National Parks' (SANParks) leading attraction as well as some useful information for visiting the park.
Interesting Facts About Kruger National Park
KNP was established in 1898 to conserve the wildlife of the South African Lowveld. The KNP covers an area of nearly two million hectares and boasts as a world leader in advanced environmental management techniques and policies. The park has almost 242 cultural heritage sites including an estimated 130 recorded rock art sites. In addition there is sufficient evidence that prehistoric man roamed the area between 500,000 and 100,000 years ago.
Tourists visiting the park can also expect to see a rich array of fauna and flora which includes the following species: 336 trees, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds and 147 types of mammals. The Big Five evidently forms part of the latter group and counts the lion, buffalo, elephant, leopard and rhino among the more distinguished species. Seeing the Big Five in a single day is possible but not always easy as the movement of these sought-after animals cannot be controlled.
If you are unsuccessful in viewing the Big Five do not be disappointed as there are many other species that form part of the magnificent African experience. Visitors are also encouraged to search for the Little Five which includes: Buffalo Weaver, Elephant Shrew, Leopard Tortoise, Ant Lion and Rhino Beetle. In terms of birdlife there are the Birding Big Six which includes: Ground Hornbill, Kori Bustard, Lappet-faced Vulture, Martial Eagle, Pel's Fishing Owl and Saddle-bill Stork. The Baobab, Fever Tree, Knob Thorn, Marula and Mopane count among the five trees to look out for.
KNP is not only interested in protecting precious fauna and flora but also prides itself on conserving important historical and archaeological sights such as Bushman rock paintings and impressive archaeological sites like Masorini and Thulamela. Visitors interested in such cultural and natural features should enjoy the Letaba Elephant Museum, Jock of the Bushveld Route, Albasini Ruins, Maserini Ruins as well as the Stevenson Hamilton Memorial Library.
Useful Information When Visiting the Kruger National Park
Visiting KNP will be a memorable experience during any time of the year but the winter months from April to September are regarded as the best time to view game when the vegetation becomes limited and animals are forced to drink water from rivers and water holes. During the winter months the days are still warm but the evenings are cool. From October to approximately the end of March the park experiences a lot of rainfall and the increased foliage makes it more difficult to view animals.
Remember that KNP is not a zoo but a park with wild animals. This might be stating the obvious but many people forget to practice caution in the presence of these fascinating African animals. While viewing game, remain inside a vehicle at all times. Be very careful when there is a troop of elephants wanting to cross the road, especially if there are elephant calves. Give the animals ample room to move freely and do not only think about taking close-up pictures in dangerous situations as it might be the last photo you will take. Opt instead for good binoculars in order to see everything.
Do not feed the animals under any circumstances. It might look cute if a monkey or baboon takes a banana from a tourist but the reality paints a darker picture. When wild animals are being fed by humans they become lazy to search for their own food which makes them more dependent on humans. These animals tend to become aggressive and in such cases they have to be shot. Also remember to take a torch light with you during the evenings as there many dangerous species of spiders, snakes and scorpions roaming the area.
Choosing KNP is an ideal location to experience the excitement of a safari vacation as you never know what you can encounter in the African wild. One of You Tube's most popular videos of all time, called the "Battle at Kruger", has had more than 52 million views and depicts an incredible battle fought between buffalo and lion. Therefore, do not forget a camera and video camera as you could have the privilege of capturing something extraordinary in this African paradise.
Remember that KNP offers much more than just a normal African safari as there are numerous cultural and historical sights to be visited. Tourists are advised to visit the vast South African National Park during the souther hemisphere's winter months which spans from the end of April to September. While exploring KNP remember to be careful as being immersed in Africa's wildlife can be very dangerous and lastly remember to take cameras and videocameras to capture an unforgettable holiday.
Nadine Visagie - I am a freelance journalist and full-time French student who currently live in the South of France with my fiancé. I graduated ...
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