News

We’re Hiring: Front of House Manager

Company: Kruger Untamed: Tshokwane River Camp
Location: Tshokwane / Satara Camp – Kruger National Park
Job level: Mid-level
Type: 6 Months Fixed-term contract / Seasonal Position
Dates: Mid-April to Mid-October being 6 months

Job description

– Managing the front of house team
– Ensuring the guests receives the warmest possible welcome
– Attendance, active participation and coordination of self and team in all relevant training sessions on and off site.
– Training, coaching and guidance to team and new hires
– Inventory Management, stock counts, rotation, and storage practices
– Rostering and scheduling
– Guest Experience Management – handling of compliments and complaints, environment and ambiance management. etc
– Plan for and execute projects such as campaigns and speciality offerings.

Requirements

– Matric Grade 12
– Front of house management
– Costing and stock control
– Great customer service and management skills
– Team Management, coordination and motivation
– Knowledge and practice of basic food safety and hygiene standards
– Experience with company code of conduct

Knowledge, skills, and competencies:

– Know how to manage and work in a team. The front of house manager may also need to intervene in any conflict that may arise, or resolve a range of problems
– Possess leadership skills, to be able to effectively manage and coordinate an entire front of house team but also the relationship with suppliers
– Be precise, to ensure the best possible Guest experience. The front of house manager must monitor the work of each individual and pay close attention to every detail
– Be a good manager, know how to make the right decision and anticipate needs to meet profitability objectives Reliable, responsible and dependable to fulfil obligations
– Must be a team player.

Please take note of the following before applying:
– Please note that this position is based in a remote wilderness area: limited network connection.
– The work Cycle will be 21 days in and 8 days off.
– You will be required to reside in the camp/concession during your scheduled days.
– Accommodation will be provided (Tent accommodation).
– You will be required to perform other related tasks that might be required.
– Successful employee may work in either Tshokwane or Satara at any stage of the contract depending on the business requirement.

To apply for the position, please forward a motivational letter, an updated CV with a picture of yourself to Jobs@krugershalati.com.

Please indicate in your application weather you are a KNP land claimant by specifying your claimant community name and file number.

Closing date: 17 February 2025

Please note that only successful candidates will be contacted. Should you not hear from us within 21 working days – please consider your application unsuccessful. Kruger Untamed reserves the right not to fill the position, to postpone or re-advertise the role. Preference will be given to Kruger Land claim beneficiaries

About Us

Motsamayi Tourism Group is a leader in the African tourism and hospitality sector, renowned for its commitment to creating unforgettable guest experiences that celebrate the continent’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and sustainability. With a growing portfolio of unique properties and experiences, we strive to redefine luxury tourism through innovation, authenticity, and excellence.

Kruger Untamed, part of the Motsamayi Tourism Group, consists of two brand-new luxury seasonal tented camps situated in the heart of the Kruger National Park. These camps are designed to offer an unparalleled blend of untamed wilderness and refined hospitality, providing guests with an immersive experience that connects them to Africa’s ancestral heritage.

Each camp, with 30 exquisitely appointed tents, is strategically located near Tshokwane and Satara and operates seasonally from May to September. Additionally, the group is planning the launch of a luxury seasonal tented camp in the Knysna Forest, expected to operate from November to April.

We’re Hiring: Camp Manager

Company: Kruger Untamed: Tshokwane River Camp
Location: Tshokwane / Satara Camp – Kruger National Park
Job level: Snr- level
Type: 6 Months Fixed-term contract / Seasonal Position
Dates: Mid-April to Mid-October being 6 months

Job description

To manage the lodge and thereby create a profound guest experience, in line with the service vision and creative concepts of the Lodge.

Duties include but are not limited to:

– Manage day-to-day operations of the lodge, including guest services, housekeeping, maintenance, and activities
– Ensure exceptional guest experiences by maintaining high standards of service and hospitality
– Supervise lodge staff, including training, scheduling, and performance management
– Coordinate with the reservations team to ensure accurate bookings and guest information
– Oversee lodge finances, including budgeting, expense control, and revenue management
– Maintain lodge facilities and equipment to ensure safety, cleanliness, and functionality
– Monitor and report on guest feedback and implement improvements as needed
– Act as a liaison between guests, staff, and management to resolve issues and ensure smooth operations

Requirements

– Previous experience in a similar role, preferably in the hospitality or tourism industry
– Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire a team
– Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, with a focus on guest satisfaction
– Knowledge of lodge operations, including housekeeping, maintenance, and guest services
– Financial acumen, with the ability to manage budgets and control costs
– Ability to work effectively under pressure and adapt to changing priorities
– Passion for conservation and sustainable tourism practices
– Fluent in English, both written and spoken

Knowledge, skills, and competencies:

– Be professional and have excellent people skills. This profession requires the individual to be exceptionally skilled at welcoming, serving and interacting with guests
– Know how to manage and work in a team. The Camp manager may also need to intervene in any conflict that may arise, or resolve a range of problems
– Be precise, to ensure the best possible Guest experience. The Camp manager must monitor the work of each individual and pay close attention to every detail
– Be a good manager, know how to make the right decision and anticipate needs to meet profitability objectives Reliable, responsible and dependable to fulfil obligations
– Must be a team player.

Please take note of the following before applying:
– Please note that this position is based in a remote wilderness area: limited network connection.
– The work Cycle will be 21 days in and 8 days off.
– You will be required to reside in the camp/concession during your scheduled days.
– Accommodation will be provided (Tent accommodation)
– You will be required to perform other related tasks that might be required.
– Successful employee may work in either Tshokwane or Satara at any stage of the contract depending on the business requirement

To apply for the position, please forward a motivational letter, an updated CV with a picture of yourself to Jobs@krugershalati.com.

Please indicate in your application weather you are a KNP land claimant by specifying your claimant community name and file number.

Closing date: 31 January 2025

Please note that only successful candidates will be contacted. Should you not hear from us within 21 working days – please consider your application unsuccessful. Kruger Untamed: Tshokwane River Camp reserves the right not to fill the position, to postpone or re-advertise the role. Preference will be given to Kruger Land claim beneficiaries

About Us

Motsamayi Tourism Group is a leader in the African tourism and hospitality sector, renowned for its commitment to creating unforgettable guest experiences that celebrate the continent’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and sustainability. With a growing portfolio of unique properties and experiences, we strive to redefine luxury tourism through innovation, authenticity, and excellence.

Kruger Untamed, part of the Motsamayi Tourism Group, consists of two brand-new luxury seasonal tented camps situated in the heart of the Kruger National Park. These camps are designed to offer an unparalleled blend of untamed wilderness and refined hospitality, providing guests with an immersive experience that connects them to Africa’s ancestral heritage.

Each camp, with 30 exquisitely appointed tents, is strategically located near Tshokwane and Satara and operates seasonally from May to September. Additionally, the group is planning the launch of a luxury seasonal tented camp in the Knysna Forest, expected to operate from November to April.

We’re Hiring: Accountant

Company: Kruger Untamed: Tshokwane River Camp
Location: Mpumalanga. Hybrid – partly remote (work from home), partly office based in Skukuza (Kruger National Park) and periodic travel to Satara and Tshokwane camps
Job level: Snr- level
Type: Full-time
Dates: 01 March 2025

Job description

As a Financial Manager, you will play a pivotal role in supporting senior management and the CFO by overseeing, coordinating, and directing accounting and financial reporting activities for Kruger Untamed and the Knysna camp upon its opening. This role combines remote work with on-site responsibilities at our group offices in Skukuza Rest Camp for a specified number of days per month and periodic travel to the camps during their operating seasons.

Key Responsibilities

– Establish and maintain robust financial systems, policies, and internal controls tailored to the unique operations of Kruger Untamed and other seasonal camps.
– Develop and manage budgets, forecasts, and cash flow to ensure operational sustainability.
– Prepare and present monthly management accounts, reconciliations, and financial reports to senior management.
– Coordinate with HR, senior management, and payroll providers to process payroll accurately and efficiently.
– Oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable, petty cash, expense reporting and payment processing.
– Supervise operational processes for monthly stock counts, inventory management, and reconciliation.
– Manage the maintenance and reconciliation of fixed asset registers.
– Ensure compliance with South African tax regulations, accounting standards, and legal requirements, including VAT reconciliations and submissions.
– Liaise with external auditors for annual statutory audits.
– Analyse financial performance and provide actionable insights to optimize profitability and operational efficiency.
– Support strategic decision-making with accurate financial data and recommendations.
– Handle other financial responsibilities within the group as required.

Requirements:

– A degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (professional certifications are advantageous).
– Minimum 5 years of experience in financial management, preferably within the hospitality or tourism industry.
– Ability to work in a team and adaptable to changes/uncertainties
– Proficiency in accounting software and advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
– Exceptional organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities with strong attention to detail.
– Experience working in remote or wilderness locations is advantageous.
– A passion for the African wilderness and a commitment to sustainable tourism.

What We Offer:

– Competitive Salary & Benefits Package: We value our team and offer a compensation package that reflects this.
– Dynamic Work Environment: A combination of remote work and opportunities to be immersed in the iconic wilderness of South Africa.
– Professional Growth: We support your career development with opportunities to grow within our expanding group.
– Impactful Work: Be part of a pioneering team shaping world-class luxury tourism experiences in breathtaking locations.

To apply for the position, please forward a motivational letter with an updated CV to Jobs@krugershalati.com.

Closing date: 31 January 2025

Please note that only successful candidates will be contacted. Should you not hear from us within 21 working days – please consider your application unsuccessful. Kruger Untamed: Tshokwane River Camp reserves the right not to fill the position, to postpone or re-advertise the role.

About Us

Motsamayi Tourism Group is a leader in the African tourism and hospitality sector, renowned for its commitment to creating unforgettable guest experiences that celebrate the continent’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and sustainability. With a growing portfolio of unique properties and experiences, we strive to redefine luxury tourism through innovation, authenticity, and excellence.

Kruger Untamed, part of the Motsamayi Tourism Group, consists of two brand-new luxury seasonal tented camps situated in the heart of the Kruger National Park. These camps are designed to offer an unparalleled blend of untamed wilderness and refined hospitality, providing guests with an immersive experience that connects them to Africa’s ancestral heritage.

Each camp, with 30 exquisitely appointed tents, is strategically located near Tshokwane and Satara and operates seasonally from May to September. Additionally, the group is planning the launch of a luxury seasonal tented camp in the Knysna Forest, expected to operate from November to April.

We are seeking a dedicated Accountant to oversee and streamline financial operations for these exceptional properties.

We’re Hiring: Duty Manager

Company: Kruger Untamed: Tshokwane River Camp
Location: Tshokwane / Satara Camp – Kruger National Park
Job level: Snr- level
Type: 6 Months Fixed-term contract / Seasonal Position
Dates: Mid-April to Mid-October being 6 months

Job description

Responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of an organization

Duties include but are not limited to:

– Monitor and report on operational performance, identifying areas for improvement
– Liaise with stakeholders, including staff, management, customers, and external partners, to ensure effective communication and collaboration
– Supervise and coordinate daily operations to ensure efficiency, safety, and compliance with regulations
– Lead a team of operations staff, providing guidance, training, and support to ensure they have the necessary skills and knowledge
– Respond to and manage incidents, emergencies, or disruptions, ensuring minimal impact on operations
– Analyse and resolve operational problems, implementing corrective actions to prevent future occurrences
– Ensure adherence to organizational policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements
– Manage operational budgets and costs, ensuring efficient use of resources

Requirements

– Matric Grade 12
– A diploma or certificate in hospitality management or a related field is often preferred
– Relevant certifications, such as Certified Operations Professional (COP) or Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), may be advantageous
– Proven experience in operations management, preferably in a similar industry or sector
– Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to motivate and guide teams
– Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective relationships with stakeholders
– Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to think critically and make informed decisions
– Ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and maintain a high level of organization.
– Proficiency in relevant software applications, such as operations management systems, spreadsheets, and databases
– Passion for conservation and sustainable tourism practices
– Fluent in English, both written and spoken

Knowledge, skills, and competencies:

– Must be able to to align operational decisions with organizational strategy.
– Ability to plan, coordinate, and execute operational activities.
– Set goals, monitor performance, and provide feedback.
– Lead and manage change initiatives.
– Prioritise customer needs and deliver excellent customer service.
– Identify areas for improvement and implement changes.
– Ensure operational compliance with regulatory requirements.
– Ability to respond to and manage crisis situations.

Please take note of the following before applying:
– Please note that this position is based in a remote wilderness area: limited network connection.
– The work Cycle will be 21 days in and 8 days off.
– You will be required to reside in the camp/concession during your scheduled days.
– Accommodation will be provided (Tent accommodation)
– You will be required to perform other related tasks that might be required.
– Successful employee may work in either Tshokwane or Satara at any stage of the contract depending on the business requirement

To apply for the position, please forward a motivational letter, an updated CV with a picture of yourself to Jobs@krugershalati.com.

Please indicate in your application weather you are a KNP land claimant by specifying your claimant community name and file number.

Closing date: 31 January 2025

Please note that only successful candidates will be contacted. Should you not hear from us within 21 working days – please consider your application unsuccessful. Kruger Untamed: Tshokwane River Camp reserves the right not to fill the position, to postpone or re-advertise the role. Preference will be given to Kruger Land claim beneficiaries

About Us

Motsamayi Tourism Group is a leader in the African tourism and hospitality sector, renowned for its commitment to creating unforgettable guest experiences that celebrate the continent’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and sustainability. With a growing portfolio of unique properties and experiences, we strive to redefine luxury tourism through innovation, authenticity, and excellence.

Kruger Untamed, part of the Motsamayi Tourism Group, consists of two brand-new luxury seasonal tented camps situated in the heart of the Kruger National Park. These camps are designed to offer an unparalleled blend of untamed wilderness and refined hospitality, providing guests with an immersive experience that connects them to Africa’s ancestral heritage.

Each camp, with 30 exquisitely appointed tents, is strategically located near Tshokwane and Satara and operates seasonally from May to September. Additionally, the group is planning the launch of a luxury seasonal tented camp in the Knysna Forest, expected to operate from November to April.

Nature’s Classroom: Living the Life of a Tracker

Boyd Varty wrote, “No one can tell you what your track will be or how to know what calls you and brings you to life. That’s your work to do. But a great tracker can ask: How do you know you love something?”

I struggled with this question for the longest time. But that was before all of this happened.

I had heard about Renias Mhlongo from reading Boyd Varty’s books and podcast interviews – and so I reached out to inquire about going tracking with Renias for an extended period of time in order to immerse myself in the wild and learn tracking from one of the best trackers in the world. This turned into me booking a trip to go tracking with Renias for 30 days in September 2024. I had no idea what would transpire – but I sensed that these types of encounters were calling me.

We had heard the lions calling south of camp during the night and so we set out to track in that direction the next morning.

One of the things I love most about tracking lions is that you never really know what you are going to get yourself into. One minute you are sipping coffee at 430am and then at 530am you might have a lion charging at you. Or, you might track for five hours into the heat of the day and not see any animals at all. I love the uncertainty. If I wanted certainty, I’d go to the zoo twenty minutes from my house (rather than flying nearly 10,000 miles from the US to Africa to go tracking). But I’d much rather simply not know what is going to happen.

Within 45 minutes of tracking, we hear some lions growling intensely off in the distance. By the sound of it, we estimated that it was about 200-300 meters away. We weren’t quite sure what was going on. It could have been a couple of prides fighting over territory or a couple of males fighting within the same pride, or, perhaps it was a pride of lions on a kill they had just made.

We immediately moved in the direction of the sounds we heard, trusting that we’d find tracks as we got closer. Every 5-10 minutes – we’d hear the lions growling again and came to the conclusion that it sounded like the lions had killed a large animal and had just begun to feed. Our guess was that the female lions had killed the animal and then the male came in to feed and the females growled to show their displeasure. These were all guesses of course and so we tracked our way closer to figure out what was going on.

We quickly realized that it was much further than 200-300 meters as we were enamored by how far the sound of a lion growl travels. We traveled well over 1km and were still a few hundred meters from the lions.

As we walked, I thought to myself – “I wonder what I’m going to see when we get to the place where this wild sound is coming from.” “I wonder how close we will be able to get.” I love how much the newness of this experience brings me into the present moment of each step – knowing that at any moment we might see the lions.

As we are walking in the thick bush with visibility at about 30 meters, we consistently scan up and down, zooming in and out, looking for tracks on the ground while keeping our head up for the danger ahead. And then suddenly, we begin to see tracks. Since the tracking conditions were good, Renias invited me to track alongside him. I’m so excited and full of anticipation as I can feel the adrenaline running through my body each time we hear the lions growling in the distance.

While tracking, Renias reminds me, “When tracking, you must put the lion in your heart – you must learn to see and feel and experience the world as a lion – in order to see where they might be going and what they might be doing.”

We see multiple lion tracks and it is clear that the lions are running and weaving in and out from each other – a sure sign that they are hunting. We wonder what they are hunting as we search for tracks of a buffalo, impala, or giraffe. And then, suddenly we see it, the tracks of multiple buffaloes running in the same direction.

The growls and the tracks tell us that this all happened within the last 30 minutes which means we are going to approach these lions fresh on a kill and so we need to be very careful as we move closer.

As we are about 60-70 meters from the lions, we are deep in the bush – with waist high grass and high thickets surrounding us. We see something unexpected and we stand completely still so as to not blow our cover. One of the lions who has finished feeding walks off to our left at a distance of 30 meters. Somehow she doesn’t notice us as she goes to lay down to rest. We proceed. At about 50 meters out from the kill, another lion walks away from the kill to rest, but this time off to our right. Again, we stand still and go unnoticed.

My fear begins to rise as I realize we are now surrounded by lions. But I think to myself, “I want to go closer” as I think about how much this is like life. Sometimes we have to move towards our fears in order to overcome them. It is only then that we realize our fears aren’t as bad as we imagined. I know that I don’t want to live in fear – and so I long to get closer.

I whisper to Renias “we are surrounded…should we be worried.” Renias responds, “no, they didn’t notice us so there is nothing to worry about.” I’ve grown to trust Renias at his word by this point and so we proceed.

We get to about 25 meters from the lions and the growling feels like I’m standing next to speakers at a concert – I can feel it shake the ground and reverberate through my soul. But we can’t quite see the lions yet. So we move closer to the sound. My eyes look up. And all of a sudden, I can see the outline of lions on a kill through the thickets and bushes. We stand there in awe for a couple of minutes without the lions having any idea that we are there. It is one of the most beautiful moments of my life. I crouch down to get a better look through the trees.

A few moments later, one of the cubs notices something. Either he smelled us or one of us moved slightly, catching his eye. And in a moment’s notice, he quickly turns his head towards us and I can see the most beautiful silhouette of a cub looking directly at me from 20 meters away. He squints to try to figure out what it is before jumping off to the side, alerting the other lions that something is up. Three lionesses jump up and look directly at us, curious as to what is interrupting their mealtime. They let out a low growl to indicate their displeasure. Renias instructs me to remain completely still – stating that if I stand up, they will certainly charge.

I think to myself “Why did I crouch down?” My knees and legs are burning. I’m nervous because I’m on the same plane as the lions, down low. Every part of me wants to jump and run because of the fear. And, at the same time, I absolutely love this. This is why I am here. I want to feel this exact aliveness in my body. It’s intoxicating. I’m aware that this type of aliveness can sometimes only be felt in seemingly dangerous situations.

Somehow, I’m able to talk myself into staying completely still and after numerous growls and curiosity, the lions calm down.

And we get to spend another minute with them, just taking in their presence. I take slow deep breaths because I don’t want to miss this. Feeling their presence is hard to put into words, but it feels most akin to pure courage.

A few moments later, we back away and move off from this beautiful pride.

I’m completely in awe. I don’t have words.

For some reason, my soul seems to calm when I’m tracking. And even though I may never know why, I love it.

This, this is how I know I love something.

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Remembering Tshokwane: One of the Great Tuskers

The name Tshokwane evokes the spirit of one of Kruger National Park’s most legendary elephants. This formidable bull, named after the Tshokwane Rangers Post and Picnic site, due to him roaming the Tshokwane section and Metsi-Metsi trails area, leaving an indelible mark on both the landscape and those who encountered him.

A Notable Presence

Tshokwane was easily recognisable by a distinct V-notch in his right ear, a feature that set him apart from other elephants. Tragically, by the time of his death, both of his magnificent tusks were broken, adding to his unique appearance.

The Importance of Understanding Elephant Behaviour

One of the most memorable incidents involving Tshokwane was his near-fatal charge of 2 December 1992 on a well-known wildlife photographer, Duncan Balfour. This event underscores the importance of understanding elephant behaviour and body language when visiting their natural habitat. Observing elephants and recognising signs of stress or agitation can prevent dangerous encounters. In this particular case, a thorough post-incident investigation revealed that Tshokwane had given warning signs through several mock charges, distinguishable by the depth of the footprints in the sand. For those interested in learning more about elephant behaviour, excellent resources are available, such as the book “Understanding Elephants” by the Elephant Specialist Advisory Group, printed by Struik Nature. Alternatively, experience a Kruger Untamed walking safari with our experienced guides and trackers, who can teach you about various animals’ behaviour and tracks while on foot under their experienced guidance.

Photo credit: Dr Anthony Hall-Martin

The Final Days

On September 14, 1998, the lifeless body of Tshokwane was discovered near Orpen Dam by Tshokwane field rangers. He was estimated to be around 55 years old at the time of his death. Initial observations suggested that he had been in a fight with another bull, sustaining wounds that could have been fatal.

However, further examination by SANParks rangers provided more insight. They found that starvation might have led to Tshokwane’s death. The discovery of a missing right molar in the upper jaw and an unchecked, overgrown bottom right molar pointed to severe discomfort and an inability to chew effectively, ultimately leading to his demise.

Legacy of Tshokwane

Tshokwane’s life and death underscore the complex and often harsh realities of life in the wild. His story is a poignant reminder of the delicate balance within the natural world. The legacy of this great tusker lives on, not just in the memories of those who knew him but also in the history of Kruger National Park.

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Discover Kruger Untamed’s Winter Warmer Special

Winter is a magical time in the African bush, and there’s no better way to experience it than with Kruger Untamed’s exclusive Winter Warmer Special. From 1 July 2024 to 30 September 2024, we invite you to take advantage of our unbeatable offer, designed to provide you with the ultimate safari adventure at an exceptional rate.

Unbeatable Value at R4720 Per Person Sharing

For just R4720 per person sharing, immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Kruger National Park with an all-inclusive package that covers every detail of your stay. Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or embarking on your first wildlife adventure, this special offer is crafted to ensure you enjoy the best of Kruger with unparalleled comfort and luxury.

What’s Included

Our Winter Warmer Special is more than just a getaway – it’s a complete safari experience at either of our camps: Tshokwane River Camp or Satara Plains Camp.

Here’s what you can look forward to:


Accommodation:

Stay in our elegant canvas suites, each equipped with comfortable king or twin beds, all the expected hotel suite ammenities and private en-suite facilities featuring butler-fed showers, running water to your basins and chemical toilets which are cleaned daily. These suites are designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings while providing all the comforts you need – no need to rough it with a long-drop or communal ablutions!

All-inclusive meals:
Savour the finest cuisine with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided daily. Each meal is a celebration of local flavours and international favourites, prepared by our expert chefs.

House Beverages
All house beverages are included, allowing you to relax and unwind with your favourite drinks after a day of exploration.

Game Drives and Walking Safaris
Our game drives take you deep into the heart of the park, where you’ll encounter the iconic Big Five, along with an array of other fascinating animals, insects, birds and plants. For those seeking a more immersive experience, our walking safaris offer a unique opportunity to explore the bush on foot, guided by experts who share their knowledge of the flora and fauna. Delight in a morning coffee stop or afternoon snacks and drink stops during your game drives, perfect for a mid-adventure treat.

Our locations have arguably the best game viewing in the park, from the savanna plains around Satara camp or the lush land surrounding our Tshokwane camp, both in the heart of ‘Lion country’.

Limited Time Offer
Don’t miss out on this exceptional opportunity. The Winter Warmer Special is available from 1 July 2024 to 30 September 2024. As our camps will close for the annual season on 30 September, this is your last chance to experience Kruger Untamed until next year. Book now to secure your spot and create unforgettable memories in the wild.

Book Your Winter Escape
Spaces are limited, and this offer is too good to last. Reserve your place using the booking platform below and take advantage of this exclusive deal. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or a special someone, Kruger Untamed promises an adventure of a lifetime.

Celebrate winter at Kruger Untamed this year, the days are warm and the nights are cozy as the wild comes alive in the Kruger National Park’s untamed heart.

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Serenading the Untamed with Craig Hinds

We are thrilled to introduce a truly exclusive and unforgettable experience at Kruger Untamed, where the wilderness meets the soothing rhythms of music and the exquisite flavours of fine wines. This exclusive experience, curated in collaboration with the talented musician Craig Hinds lead singer of the iconic South African band Watershed, promises two nights of unparalleled luxury, an unmatched connection to nature, and with an unplugged music experience amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Kruger National Park.

Experience Highlights:

1. Accommodation: Enjoy a two-night stay in our luxurious canvassed suites, carefully designed to immerse you in the serenity and beauty of the African wilderness. All suites include en-suite facilities with king or twin beds, therefore ideal for couples or travelling companions – be it best friends, parent/child sharing capacities.

2. Safari Activities: Delve into the heart of the wild with two safari activities per day, guided by expert rangers who will unveil the secrets of Kruger’s magnificent flora and fauna.

3. Exclusive Unplugged Performance: Experience the magic of an exclusive unplugged performance by Craig Hinds, set against the backdrop of the untamed wilderness. Be serenaded under the starlit sky as Craig’s soulful melodies harmonise with the rhythm of the African bush.

4. Wine Tasting of Watershed Wines: Indulge your senses with a curated wine tasting experience featuring the finest selections from Watershed Wines. Savour the complexity of each varietal as you unwind and immerse yourself in the essence of luxury while getting the back-ground information on the wines and origin in of the songs first-hand from Craig during his relaxed, conversational-style unplugged performance.

5. Theatrical Dining in the wild: Delight in culinary masterpieces prepared by our skilled chefs, showcasing the vibrant flavours of South Africa’s diverse cuisine. From delectable breakfasts to sumptuous dinners, every meal promises to be a culinary journey to remember – and the best part: it is all included in your packaged stay.

6. House Beverages: besides the exclusive wine tasting of the Watershed range of wines, Quench your thirst with a selection of house beverages, ranging from refreshing cocktails to premium spirits, curated to complement your safari experience.

Package Details:

Duration: 2 nights

Dates: 13-15 September at Tshokwane River Camp

Inclusions: Accommodation, 2 safari activities per day, exclusive unplugged performance by Craig Hinds, wine tasting of Watershed Wines, all meals, house beverages.

Cost: R19,500 R13,500 per person sharing for the above exclusive package. (First 10 bookings apply. Thereafter, R19,500 per person). Please note that there are only 25 rooms available per camp for this exclusive experience.

Booking Information:

To reserve your spot for this extraordinary experience, please contact us on reservations@krugeruntamed.com confirming the number of tickets required. Given the limited availability, we encourage you to secure your booking promptly to avoid disappointment.

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The Power of Wilderness – ‘nature in a pristine state, untouched by humanity’

But wilderness means different things for different people. For some it’s an uninhabitable place home to wild beasts waiting to attack you. For others, it fosters romantic visions of African sunsets and gin and tonics. For modern hunter-gatherers, the wilderness is a regular source of food, medicine, and resources. And for many, it’s a place to reconnect with the divine.

In reality, the wilderness is our original home and it made us who we are today.

Homo sapiens have existed for around 300,000 years, and for 95% of this history we were deeply connected with nature for our survival. If we liken these 300,000 years to a 24-hour day, our life with technology, farming, and living in organised villages, towns, and cities spans only about one hour. In many ways, we remain closer to our hunter-gatherer roots than to our modern selves.

It’s the reason why people are drawn to go on safari in Africa, climb mountains, walk trails, swim in rivers, or simply take a detour through a city park. At a deep psychological level, we remember a time when nature provided for our needs, food, water, cover, entertainment, and spirituality.

We shared critical relationships with the plants and animals, like the greater honeyguide bird – a symbol of one such ancient bond with nature. We may have forgotten, yet the bird still remembers the days of our cooperation.

Five years ago, my perspective radically changed when I moved to a town environment. Though Pietermaritzburg is not a big city, it is alive with the usual buzz of urban life. And while it did take a bit of time, eventually, perhaps sadly, I adapted to a life as a visitor to nature.

Whenever I return to the bush for my work, the transition between the two worlds is so stark, and I cannot help but notice a sense of calm that comes over me within a short time of arrival. This is not a subjective feeling – even my Whoop device registers a noticeable improvement in my heart rate variability.

The peace and quiet that is associated with the wilderness allows our minds to rest and to transcend our daily anxiety-based thoughts and obligations. I believe our subconscious recognises the sights, sounds and scents of nature – and is reassured.

It’s like returning to a place you’ve always known.

With the distractions gone, our minds can begin to quieten, and we can turn our attention inwards. Questions such as What would I do if I weren’t afraid? become common in this state of mind. Personally, I always feel a great sense of life’s prospects when I’m in the bush.

In this way, the wilderness will challenge you to confront yourself.

Sleeping out in nature allows you to hear its distinct sounds – the call of birds, the chirp of insects, the roar of lions and the whooping of hyaenas. Occasionally, the nighttime movements of a leopard are given away by monkeys calling from the trees near the camp.

The following morning is an opportunity to follow its tracks and see where it went and what it did. This is where an expert tracker comes into their own. And if you watch carefully, you will see that tracking is a showcase of deep technical prowess and artistic expression.

The coolness of dawn and the heat of the noonday sun get you attuned to the rhythm of nature. You begin to share the same active tempo as the animals. The rhythm is ancient, and your body begins to adjust without you even realising.

The more frequently you immerse yourself in the wilderness, the more noticeable and lingering the effect.

If this resonates with you, consider visiting one of our KrugerUntamed tented camps. Both the Tshokwane River Camp and Satara Plains Camp are situated in vast wilderness areas inside Kruger National Park, and they offer the ideal settings for complete wilderness immersion.

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Migration in Kruger National Park: The Annual Zebra & Wildebeest Journey

Kruger National Park is a landscape shaped by incredible geological diversity, from ancient granite formations to the basalt plains of the central region. Some of the rocks in the Park are among the oldest exposed rocks on Earth, dating back about 3 billion years.

About 30 years ago, section ranger Ted Whitfield observed a notable local movement that he termed a ‘mini migration’ involving zebra and wildebeest. While this migration might be less known globally, it is as significant as other more famous migrations across Africa. Ted noted that during the winter months, these animals trekked southward, following the fertile eastern plains of the Park.

The basalt plains are known for their nutrient-rich soil, making them highly productive. This fertility produces sweet grass that sustains large herds of plains game. Naturally, these abundant herds also attract predators. Central to this activity is the Satara area, particularly around the Mavumbye River, where the KrugerUntamed Satara Plains Camp is located.

The migration of zebra and wildebeest in Kruger National Park begins in May, initiated by the dry winter conditions in the northern regions. As the grasses die back, these animals start their southward journey in search of better grazing, typically arriving on the Mondolozi plains, just north of Lower Sabie, around July.

It’s no secret that the Satara regions boasts the highest density of lion in the Park. They are quick to capitalise on the arrival of the zebra and wildebeest herds. This interplay between predator and prey plays a vital role in preserving the ecological balance of the Park. It embodies the untamed spirit of Kruger Park, which is what makes it so extraordinary.

Last week I watched a single lioness stalk a zebra. It moved with calculated stealth, and one could sense she was fully aware that a well-timed kick from the zebra could be lethal.  She was driven by hunger and desperation, but she had to carefully balance the risk of hunting a powerfully built zebra stallion. Ultimately, since she was hunting alone, she decided to abandon the hunt.

The Satara Plains Camp is ideally located to witness these thrilling hunts.

As the season shifts towards spring, the migration cycle begins anew, with animals returning to the granite plains, revitalised by seasonal rains. This perpetual cycle highlights the resilience and adaptability of the Park’s wildlife. Like all natural processes, this is not an exact science and is affected by rainfall and controlled burns in parts of the Park.

This annual migration in Kruger National Park is not just a movement of animals; it’s a dynamic event that sustains the Park’s ecosystem, showcasing the profound connection between the land and its inhabitants.

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