Update 26 March 2021: Unfortunately, we were informed that Klaserie Sands had to close all of its properties, including the Safari Trails Camp. However, our travel writers had such a memorable experience, which is why we decided to keep our blog posts online. If you’re interested in a similar walking safari in South Africa, contact our travel experts to get a quote for the best options.
Imagine having your own slice of safari paradise deep in the African bush. A flourishing wilderness all to yourself. Unblemished by neighbouring lodges, vehicles or tourists. A place where you can wander, reflect and discover – walking in the footsteps of wild animals and moving at the pace of nature itself. Safari Trails Camp offers exactly that. Blending serenity, luxury and adventure, this intimate camp grants much needed solitude away from bustling society. And with its own private concession and a primary focus on walking safaris – guests have the opportunity to explore a vast area of Greater Kruger wilderness that is exclusively theirs.
If you are searching for an immersive safari experience and deeper connection with nature, you will certainly find it here.
A flourishing slice of Kruger paradise all to your own, Photo Credit: Klaserie Sands Safari Trails
A true haven of tranquillity
Found in one of the last frontiers of untouched Kruger wilderness – accessible only by high clearance 4x4 vehicles – this area exudes exclusivity and remoteness! The private concession is located just beyond the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve and shares an unfenced boundary with the Kruger National Park. The drive from Eastgate Airport to the camp is about three hours in length, but luckily, you’re spending most of that time in the midst of sensational wildlife, giving you a sneak peak of what’s to come during your stay!
The camp forms a natural hide with plenty of spots to observe wandering wildlife, Photo Credit: Klaserie Sands Safari Trails
The camp is built along the edge of a dry riverbed and forms a natural hide – providing many sumptuous spots from which to appreciate the area's prolific bird life, surrounding nature and meandering wildlife. It is beautifully designed in an “old-world” safari style with modern accents and glowing copper and brass accents. The main lounge, pool deck, dining room and boma are all circular in shape and subtly merge into each other like intersecting spheres – bringing unity to the space and a true sense of harmony.
Due to the intimate size of the camp, there is a personal style of service with special requests and unforgettable smiles delivered by the friendly staff. A feeling of family resonates here, and, in no time, you will feel part of it too.
A beautiful setting with friendly staff that will make you feel at home, Photo Credit: Klaserie Sands Safari Trails
Dining at Safari Trails Camp
Ensuring that guests enjoy a truly authentic South African culinary experience on safari, Liberty (the camp’s exceptional chef) prepares most meals over the campfire – right in front of you! Whether it’s your bacon in the morning or your fillet steak at night, Liberty will make every meal special using the freshest ingredients and locally sourced produce.
An authentic South African culinary experience on safari, Photo Credit: Klaserie Sands Safari Trails
Accommodation
Safari Trails Camp’s rustic appeal, complemented by bush luxury, gives guests an authentic experience thanks to its four canvas tents. The tents branch out from the main area and are nestled amongst the trees that line the riverbed. Wonderfully spaced for ultimate privacy, each unit is raised on a wooden platform – peeking through the surrounding vegetation and enjoying excellent vantage points.
Four beautifully appointed tents boasting elevated views of the riverbed, Photo Credit: Klaserie Sands Safari Trails
Together with classic safari interiors, the room’s canvas-walls create an impression dating back to explorer times. Inside you will find comfortable beds with soft linens, side tables, clothing and luggage racks. There is also a ceiling fan as well as an en-suite bathroom with both an indoor and outdoor shower. Extending from the bedroom is your private timber deck that overlooks the riverbed – a fitting spot to get lost in a great novel only to casually peek over the pages to observe inquisitive wildlife come and go.
Naturists will be pleased to know that it’s a no-WiFi camp, allowing true immersion into the wild.
Experience an authentic safari with only a wall of canvas between you and the wild, Photo Credit: Klaserie Sands Safari Trails
A specialised safari experience
The Greater Kruger, one of the most beautiful destinations in South Africa, is best experienced on foot! Amidst Big Five territory, with a heightened sense of your surroundings, you will notice the often-overlooked aspects of the natural world. A Walking Safari provides the perfect way to view nature in the very thick of it, immersing oneself in its sights, sounds, scents and textures. There truly is no better way.
Track game, observe birdlife and learn about the area’s rich flora and fauna, Photo Credit: Klaserie Sands Safari Trails
Led by an armed guide and an expert tracker, who have intimate knowledge of the land, guests can slowly uncover the secrets of the African bush and unravel the stories behind every mark in the sand, bent blade of grass, abandoned feather, and broken branch. Walk in the footsteps of elephant, zebra and giraffe. Spot eagles, hornbills and woodpeckers. Learn how to track and observe wildlife without breaching their boundaries while appreciating the microscopic marvels of the bush – from silky spider webs and towering termite mounds to busy beetles and butterflies.
Accessing once out-of-reach landscapes and discovering yet-to-be-explored corners of Kruger wilderness is a soul moving experience so incredible that is almost indescribable. So much so, I felt it warranted a blog of its own. It genuinely was A Safari so Nice I Wrote About it Twice!
Safari Trails Camp Highlights
- Safari Trails Camp enjoys access to its own private concession (exclusive to guests)
- Shares an unfenced border with Kruger National Park
- The camp is built along the edge of a dry riverbed and forms a natural hide
- Personal style of service with warm hospitality and unforgettable smiles
- Authentic Big 5 African experience with focus on guided walking safaris
- A specialised Walking Safari provides the perfect way to view nature at eye level
- Led by expert guides with intimate knowledge of the land and animal behaviour
- Learn how to track and observe wildlife without breaching their boundaries
Modern, comfortable and "homy", Photo Credit: Klaserie Sands Safari Trails
Safari Trails Camp is Perfect for...
The Adventure-Seekers
Exploring a once unreachable area of Greater Kruger wilderness is certainly an exciting prospect for those who opt for the road less travelled. With exclusive access to the area, guests can discover a flourishing wilderness that is frequented by elephant, lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo.
The Naturalists
Without Wifi and very limited cell phone reception, guests have the opportunity to switch off and experience true connectivity with nature.
The Authentic Safari Goers
Away from crowds of tourists, enjoy old-world safari ambiance with traditional decor, comfortable canvas tents, camp-fire cooked meals and specialized trekking through the African bush.
Couples and Groups
While this intimate camp is perfect for groups of up to eight people, couples will also love the isolation and tranquility of the location. Due to the personalized nature of the camp, special requests like private candle-lit dinners are encouraged.
Macro-Photography Enthusiasts
Slowing the pace of a typical safari experiencing nature on foot makes for abundant close-up photographic moments.
Romantic ambiance around the fire, Photo Credit: Klaserie Sands Safari Trails
Health and Safety during Covid-19
To ensure the safety of staff members and guests, Safari Trails Camp has put specific measures in place. The use of personal protective equipment is mandatory at the premises and may include the use of face masks, face shields and gloves. The facilities have been adapted to promote social distancing and all areas are regularly cleaned and disinfected using cleaning products and protocols which are effective against the virus.
An authentic walking safari experience in the Kruger area is on your bucket list? Our travel experts look forward to planning an unforgettable adventure in the South African bush for you.
Featured Image: Klaserie Sands Safari Trails
