Photo Tour: A Mesmerizing Safari in South Africa

Zebras

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One of the benefits of visiting a bush retreat like Tomjachu, near Kruger in South Africa, is that you can safely hike without a guide, as no dangerous animals are kept here. The result can be a magical close-up sighting of a wild zebra around any corner of the trail.

Waterbucks

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While South Africa boasts many antelopes, this species, identifiable by the right ring around its hind end, is a waterbuck. Although they're shy, it's certainly possible to get close enough for a good shot such as this one.

Cheetahs

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When staying at a luxury Kruger resort such as Jock Safari Lodge, the highly trained guides know just where to look for reclusive animals like this mother cheetah enjoying the shade on a hot afternoon.

Birds

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While large land mammals are what most people think of when imagining a safari, there are many birds, hawks and eagles that can be spotted and pointed out by educated guides.

Sunsets

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South Africans love to enjoy "sundowners"-essentially a cocktail at sunset. The evening hours at Kruger seldom fail to inspire even the most jaded traveler.

Lions

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The circle of life is often on display at the national park, as it was here, when a lion was beginning to feast on a baby water buffalo that it had recently taken down.

Dogs

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Spotted African dogs are often visible in the park, roving around in small packs. You'll even encounter small pups sleeping under clusters of trees in the midday heat.

Elephants

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If you're doing the self-drive thing, you're apt to encounter roadblocks that aren't common in the United States. The speed limit is 50 kph in many sections of the park.

Impalas

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Kruger is home to many fast-moving animals, such as this graceful impala. If you've been considering purchasing a better camera, it's best to get a handle on it before your safari so you're able to capture those action shots perfectly.

Water Buffaloes

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This water buffalo may look menacing, but the animals generally stay away from vehicles in the national park.

Watering Holes

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Watering holes are good choices for early-morning photo shoots, as a variety of animals come for their drinks like clockwork. Animals here are vulnerable, so several members of the herd always keep sentry while others go in for a drink.

Kudus

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While other animals get their drink at the watering hole, this kudu rests in the grasses, keeping a watchful eye out for predators.

Fighting Animals

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Sometimes, fighting isn't limited to predator/prey. Here, a couple of zebra tussle in a fight for dominance, while the rest of the herd carries on with their afternoon.

Trees

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You'll see a nice variety of trees at Kruger, from sausage trees (pictured) to baobabs, acacia, lala palms, fever trees and wild date palms.

Rhinos

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Rhinos are relatively easy to find in the park. You'll often see them caked in mud, as they roll in the soggy areas to keep themselves cool in the heat of the day.

The Moon

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If you're fortunate to have clear skies at Kruger, once the moon sets the southern Milky Way becomes a truly jaw-dropping site-so make sure to take a look after dinnertime.

Baboons

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Baboons aren't seen as much as some other species, but many guides will "take requests," so if an animal is on your must-see list, speak up, and they know where to look for each animal.

Smaller Antelope Species

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South Africa boasts some tiny antelope species, which can be almost too small and hidden to see without a guide to point them out.

Giraffes

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These giraffes seem to be scoffing at the hint that anyone could possibly restrict them to a mere 50 kph.

Hyenas

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This sweet-looking mother hyena is a ferocious animal. Still, guides will get you close enough to get photos as close-up as you desire.

Cubs

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This baby hyena was alternately fascinated by and terrified of the safari vehicle. Mother hyenas often have several cubs of varying ages under her care.

Rivers

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There are a number of rivers throughout Kruger, although some occasionally run dry. These areas are good ones to spot wildlife, as they provide a (usually) dependable source of drinking water.

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Paul Heney

Paul Heney

Paul J. Heney is a lifelong writer and avid world traveler. He's served as Editorial Director for several hospitality magazines, including Luxury Hotelier, Hotel Design, and Hotel & Motel Management. He has written extensively about family travel, green issues, cruises, and LGBT travel issues. He has won multiple Azbee awards for writing from the American Society of Business Publication Editors and served as National President of the association from 1999-2003. He lives in suburban Cleveland with his partner and two sons. Follow him on Twitter at @paulheney or Instagram at @paulheney.

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CEO of Zenbiz Travel, LLC

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