Re discovering Kruger: My June Journey Through Wild South Africa
South Africa is one of those destinations that really does have something for everyone. From incredible wildlife and breath taking landscapes to beautiful coastlines, fantastic food and wine, and a fascinating culture, it’s a country that leaves a lasting impression. In this blog, I wanted to share some of the highlights and experiences that make South Africa such a special destination, and hopefully give you a little inspiration for your own adventure.
In June I had the chance to return to South Africa, this time on an incredible journey through the Kruger region. I knew I would love it, but I did not expect it to feel quite so powerful, or to remind me so clearly why I am so passionate about helping my clients experience a luxury South Africa safari for themselves.
I started in Mpumalanga at Angels View, perched on the edge of the Drakensberg escarpment. After landing into Johannesburg and connecting up to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, the transition from city to open landscapes felt almost instant. Standing at the Graskop Gorge Lift, dropping down into the indigenous forest below, I could feel the pace of life start to slow as the cool air and birdsong replaced the noise of travel.
The next day I explored the famous Panorama Route, one of South Africa’s most scenic drives. I have seen plenty of photos of the Three Rondavels and Blyde River Canyon, but nothing prepares you for that first moment when the view opens up. Bourke’s Luck Potholes, God’s Window and Berlin Falls followed, each stop revealing another dramatic angle of this beautiful region. It felt like the perfect prelude to safari: a chance to understand the scale and drama of the landscape before looking for the wildlife that calls it home.
From there I headed into Kruger National Park itself, beginning with a stay at Kruger Gate Hotel. It is ideally located right by the Paul Kruger Gate, so I could be out on game drive within minutes. My first early‑morning drive set the tone: that soft winter light, the smell of the bush, and the thrill of scanning the horizon for movement. Returning to the hotel for a hearty breakfast and a swim overlooking the Sabie River felt wonderfully indulgent and exactly what I look for in a comfortable, high‑quality safari base.
The real sense of being “in” the park came when I moved on to Tshokwane River Camp. This seasonal luxury tented camp sits deep in Kruger, and I loved the feeling of simplicity and closeness to nature. I fell asleep to the sounds of the bush and woke to pink skies and coffee by the fire before heading out on game drive. Central Kruger is rich with wildlife, and I was treated to those classic Big Five sightings that everyone dreams of, from elephant herds moving silently through the trees to big cats lazing in the winter sun.
Just when I thought it could not get more special, I arrived at Kruger Shalati: Train on the Bridge. Sleeping in a beautifully designed carriage, permanently stationed on the historic Selati Bridge above the Sabie River, is unlike anything I have experienced before. Floating in the pool, watching elephants and hippos below, I had one of those luxury safari “pinch‑me” moments that will stay with me for a long time.
The journey finished in Johannesburg at Southern Sun Rosebank, where I had time both to meet local partners and to explore the city itself. A half‑day tour of Johannesburg and Soweto, including Constitutional Hill, Vilakazi Street, Mandela’s House and the Hector Pieterson Memorial, gave real depth to the trip. It was a moving reminder of South Africa’s complex history and the resilience and warmth of its people.
Coming home, I felt I had re‑discovered Kruger in a deeper way: not just as a safari destination, but as a place of stories, history and connection. If my experience sparks ideas for your own luxury safari in South Africa, I would love to share more and help you craft a journey that feels just as memorable
