There’s never a dull moment in the far north of the Kruger National Park, where you’ll find two of our beautiful lodges, The Outpost and Pel’s Post. As the seasons change so too does the bird life, the sounds and the smells of the bush, the animal activity, and the life-giving Luvuvhu River. We asked one of our expert field guides, Chanyn-Lee Zeelie, to share a glimpse of spring in the paradise that is the Eden of Kruger.
THE LUVUVHU RIVER CONTINUES TO GIVE LIFE
After a dry winter, the local wildlife is still very much attracted to the perennial Luvuvhu River, which acts as a much-needed water source for all the animals. Mighty herds of buffalo and countless elephants gather along the luscious banks of the river, along with a medley of game from the plains and primates. It’s a wonderful game-viewing spot, with something new and exciting presenting itself each day.
BIRDING IS AS SPECTACULAR AS EVER
A wide selection of beautiful birds are found feeding in the oasis along the Luvuvhu during this time of year. The sights and songs of these birds are any bird lover’s dream – there is always something to listen to or to look at. The Tropical Bou-Bou, African Fish Eagle, White-browed Robin-chat and White-bellied Sunbird are a few of the birds we are blessed with during spring. At night, we try our luck finding the special Pel’s Fishing Owl, which is often spotted along the Luvuvhu River.
THE NYALA TREE IS A SAVING GRACE
The Nyala Tree grows in fertile soil, often on termite mounds and along rivers. It is a saving grace for wildlife at this time of year as these trees produce hundreds of berries that are loved and needed by a myriad of birds, monkeys, baboons, impala, nyala, warthog, bushbuck and even the African civet. The fruits are an essential at this time when all other resources are running low after the dry season, just before life-giving rains arrive.
THE BUSH BEGINS TO BLOOM
The Woolly Caper Bush as well as the Cucumber Bush are starting to show off their stunning white flowers and even the iconic Fever Trees are in bloom. Parts of the reserve have a very pleasant smell thanks to lush patches of Wild Sage, making the game drives even more pleasurable. The magnificent Ana Trees produce large numbers of pods at this time too – a feast for elephants, impalas, baboons and more.
STARGAZING IS AT ITS FINEST
Stargazing at this time of year is absolutely magnificent as the skies are clear and cloud-free. The Milky Way shines bright upon the giant baobabs below. Our rangers love to share ancient mythology and fascinating facts about the constellations and other celestial objects that can be seen as we sit under the African night sky, enjoying a roaring fire or dinner under the stars.
Keen to visit our special part of the world in Northern Kruger? Watch our video and explore more about The Outpost and Pel’s Post. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with any questions. We are here to help.
