Orpen
Orpen, located in the central Kruger National Park, abounds with sweet grazing grass and plants, attracting many grazing species. In turn the larger predators of the plain are attracted to the area to hunt. These predators include lions and cheetahs. The plains are vast, forming a beautiful canvas of colours and big skies, punctuated with aloes and rustic acacia thorn trees and the enchanting marula trees that, when their fruit, the marula is over-ripe, provides a powerful alcoholic mixture enjoyed my mischievous monkeys and blundering elephants. The effects of the marula on the animals is very humorous.
The rocky crags and the tress of Orpen are the domain of leopards, the beautiful spotted cats of Africa. Wildebeest and zebra graze in the plains in large herds, providing spectacular chances for lions and leopards to hunt. Five of the Big 6 in terms of bird life make their homes within Orpen. A number of raptors are found in Orpen, including the majestic African Fish, African Hawk and Brown Snake Eagles. In addition, five different species of vultures are visible, encircling targets high up in the air. Nocturnal birds that can be seen on night game-drives include Pearl-spotted and African Barred Owlets, Scops, Verreaux's Giant Eagle, Spotted Eagle and Barn Owls. Enjoy game drives through the bush, bush picnics, and bush walks with game rangers. Accommodation consists of a choice of huts, with beds, en suite facilities and a shared kitchen; luxury bungalows with en suite bathrooms and air conditioners and fridges; or guest houses with air conditioning and kitchens.
