Rhino Walking Safaris specialises in luxury walking safaris in 12,000 hectares of pristine bushveld in the only wilderness concession in the Kruger National Park. The concession shares a 15 km unfenced boundary with the famous Mala Mala and Sabi Sands reserve, with an abundance of wildlife moving freely between the two reserves. Follow animal trails on foot through this environmentally sensitive area that offers the Big Five as well as a diversity of fauna and flora.
Any combination of multi-day walks, game drives or primitive sleep-outs on raised wooden platforms can be arranged.
The concession is a stones throw from Skukuza, the heart of the Kruger National Park, and is easily accessible by road or air.
The main lodge, Rhino Post Safari Lodge (RP) is set under magnificent Tamboti trees and is built with natural materials - stone, wood, thatch and canvas - to give it an authentic bush feel. Stilts raise the 8 spaciously appointed suites from the riverbank allowing guests to view the Mutlumuvi riverbed with ease from the bedroom, bathroom and private wooden deck. The suites are set out in an open plan style with wooden floors, thatched roofs, canvas walls and an overhead fan. In the heat of summer, cool off in the swimming pool and watch the wildlife amble down to the waterhole for a midday drink. At sundown, enjoy a cocktail in the comfort of the lounge with its extensive wine cellar, cosy fireplace and bar.
In keeping with the ethics of Rhino Walking Safaris "tread lightly on the land", no trees were cut down in the construction of this lodge. No concrete was used, all structures are made of canvas and wood. This lodge was specifically designed for low energy consumption and makes use of generators for its power needs.
Plains Camp (PC) is where our walking safaris take place. It consists of 4 luxury furnished tents with en suite facilities, hot running water and all the comforts of home. When making use of the Plains Camp, guests have the opportunity to go on Game Walks. You will follow rhino trails and elephant paths for approximately 3 to 4 hours exploring, riverine forests, river beds, open plains and African Savannah. The duration of the walk is dependent on the fitness and wishes of the group.
The camp is in the middle of a 12,000 ha private wilderness concession, where it seems the rest of the world no longer exists, and guests are ensured of superb game sightings.
A typical day at Plains Camp begins with a mug of steaming coffee and traditional homemade rusks, after which guests set out on their morning walk, following rhino tracks and elephant paths. The length of the walks depend on the interest and fitness of the guests. Returning to camp, enjoy a leisurely brunch and relax in the cool of the acacia trees, keeping an eye on the waterhole for the breeding herd of elephant that frequently come to drink. Following high tea, set out again in the late afternoon for a walking safari or game drive and then indulge in a sunset cocktail.
SLEEP OUTS
From Plains Camp, it is possible to walk to our Sleepouts (Elevated wooden platforms in the middle of the Kruger Park). This is the only place in the Kruger National Park offering this unusual accommodation. Guests will leave Plains Camp in the late afternoon and arrive at the platforms in the early evening carrying a lightweight rucksack containing a change of clothes and refreshments.
After hanging up mosquito nets, fly sheets (only if necessary) and preparing beds (yes! we do encourage our guests to be included in every aspect of this unique interactive experience of the bush) sundowners can be enjoyed on the platforms that also overlook a waterhole.
Wilderness at night
While dinner is being prepared for our guests on an open fire, they will enjoy sounds and senses, heightened as they share the wilderness at night, while being safely guarded by our observant guides. The rumble of the elephant passing by or the roar of the lion at the nearby waterhole, are the only noises that might disturb guests in this peaceful wilderness. The following morning, guests will enjoy a light snack after which they will depart back to Plains Camp for a hearty brunch.
NOTES ON PLAINS CAMP AND SLEEPOUTS
Sleep Out Notes
Plains Camp strives to keep guests together during their trail, without the inconvenience of different guests arriving and departing throughout their stay. With this in mind, if the first guests to reserve their trail at Plains Camp request the Sleep Out, then all subsequent reservations will be required to participate. Should all guests not wish to participate in the Sleep Outs; there will be no Sleep Out for the duration of the trail. Scheduled Departure dates apply for Plains Camp which are Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. Guests must only arrive on these days and 2 stay for a minimum of 2 nights.
The Sleep Outs are highly dependant on weather conditions so PLEASE be aware that should the weather be unfavourable on the day of the Sleep Out (heavy rain) or if there has been heavy rain in the days preceding their Sleep Out, you may have to remain in camp (due to the platforms being inaccessible).
The following walking safaris are on offer:
3 night trail (1 night RP & 2 nights PC) rates starts at R 6750
3 night trail (3 nights PC) starts at R 6,920
4 night trail (2 nights RP & 2 nights PC) rates start at R 8,750
5 night trail (2 nights RP & 3 nights PC) rates start at R 10,560
Rhino Post rates are fully inclusive of accommodation, meals, teas & coffees and safari activities, exclude all drinks. Plains Camp and Sleepouts include the above as well as house beer, wine and soft drinks.