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LIVE Safari Diary: We Grace nDzuti with our presence

While sitting at the back of the open-topped Land Rover, Zeena looked at me with a sense of wonderment and exclaimed, “Ag. When you smell that smell you know you have ARRIVED.”

Zeena and I are currently staying at nDzuti Safari Camp in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve. This is the second time we have been on safari together but our first time at nDzuti – and hopefully not our last. Zeena’s simple statement about the smell of the African bush eloquently summed up how I was feeling. The travel writers of the safari world have the ability to blog about recent sightings, upload photos and wax lyrical about their surrounds; but the one thing that cannot be captured is the myriad of “bush” smells. A safari is a sensory holiday. And here we are, sitting in the middle of the Klaserie indulging our senses.

So how did we get to nDzuti? We flew from O.R. Tambo to Hoedspruit Airport which took an hour. From there, Judy – the lodge owner, picked us up in her bush-beaten Land Rover – the iconic vehicle of safaris. Judy came across as being friendly and unassuming – the ideal personality for owning and running a lodge. En route to camp we drove via Incheni gate which is only recommended for sturdy 4×4 vehicles because of the tough roads.

On the way to camp, we stumbled across impala, buffalo and the European-breasted roller. After an hour’s drive into the Klaserie we arrived at camp. Fenced off from the wildlife and overlooking the riverbed, nDzuti has that “welcoming” atmosphere which adds to the safari experience. To say it’s a “home away from home” is cliché but it certainly feels like we are in a massive shared home. The windows of my room offer panoramic views of the lawn, swimming pool and riverbed. The perfect spot for me to blog and feel inspired !

When we completed our tour of the camp we met the legendary safari guide, AK, who can almost do the splits (you need to go on safari to understand the odd things that happen around the campfire). Apart from his bendy legs, he is an exceptionally knowledgeable guide with years of experience. The rest of the day we spent chatting to Bruce (Judy’s husband) on the patio while sipping the obligatory gin & tonics – which our boss will cover.

They really cater to your needs here – food is excellent, staff are friendly and the fact that it is owner-managed makes the world of difference. The balance between friendliness and solitude here is ideal.

Thus far we have seen:

6 hippos showing off in a dam. A little bit of yawning and bubble blowing.
Dwarf mongoose
Zebra
A rare sighting of an impala
Giraffe
Birds
Warthog and piglets
Wildebeest
Rhino
Numerous Golden-orb spiders
A ginger-ale and Cranberry colour sunset

Catch you guys later, I hear the kettle boiling. They have real coffee and fresh milk here. Time to feed my addiction while Zeena tweets and hashtags away.

Breathtaking Klaserie Landscapes in the nDzuti Safari Camp traverse.

One of the warthogs we spotted while out on an evening game drive.

This dazzling golden-orb spider made itself at home outside of our room.

Zeena Ponto – our Sun Destinations representative.

Hippo making its way towards us.

Photos of a Brown Snake Eagle in the Kruger

Kevin MacLaughlin, a ranger at nThambo Tree Camp, took these remarkable photos of a Brown Snake-Eagle. Capturing birds on camera is always tricky – luckily Kevin was in the right place at the right time.

The Brown Snake-Eagle, as its name suggests, eats mainly snakes. It starts off by crushing the head to discharge any venom and then swallows it whole. This eagle is not immune to snake venom and can be blinded by spitting cobras; which are common in the Kruger region.

We hope you enjoy the photos of this Brown-Snake Eagle in the Kruger.

Brown Snake-Eagle about to fly. Quite a spectacular sighting.

The Brown Snake-Eagle about to take off in flight.

Finally the Snake-Eagle takes off in flight

The Brown Snake-Eagle with its prey – a snake. Finally !

Africa Safari Moments Caught on Video

Dave, our resident videographer, spent time at our camps in Botswana and the Kruger capturing a few Africa safari moments. He has witnessed cheetah kills, lion cubs being introduced to the pride and camaraderie between guests and rangers.

I cannot begin to explain what is like being on safari – the experience leaves an imprint on your soul ! Dave has compiled a 3 day summary of his time at each of the camps to try and capture the essence of an African safari. This virtual trip through each of the camps and the variety of wildlife is sure to entice you to visit.

Comment and let us know what you think. Which is your favourite video? Personally, I love the “Big Five weekend at Umkumbe” video because of the elephant frolicking in front of the lodge.

An Authentic Safari at nDzuti Safari Camp

Set deep in the heart of the pristine Klaserie Private Nature Reserve lies the family-friendly nDzuti Safari Camp. With its spectacular views of the Klaserie River and exclusive traversing rights, guests will delight in the many wildlife encounters on offer. The Klaserie shares unfenced borders with the Kruger National Park and the Timbavati Game Reserve. Rangers are able to openly traverse over 3500 hectares of land either side of the Klaserie River, making it a prime game viewing destination. nDzuti shys away from the ostentatious, glaringly opulant safari and instead chooses to focus on the traditional safari experience. The traditional safari offers its guests a simple luxury and relaxed atmosphere.

The camp only has 4 rooms which are located in one central area, allowing for an intimate and personalised experience. The staff are attentive (yet not intrusive) and hosts Bruce and Judy have a wealth of experience within their industry. Your day starts with a morning game drive and the day ends with a sunset game drive complete with sundowners. There is ample opportunity between drives to relax at the swimming pool, watch elephants at the waterhole from the viewing deck or even connect to WiFi to catch up on work emails.

A beautifully manicured lawn surrounds the camp and nestling comfortably in the centre is a small swimming pool/bar area. The pool offers guests a welcome respite from the African heat. The traditional boma area lies adjacent to the pool and outdoor bar. A huge pit hugging a campfire serves as the boma area; which is always a highlight of any safari camp experience. At the end of a relaxing day of game viewing guests are invited to sit around the campfire and talk about the day’s activities. This is always a relaxed atmosphere where you can ask your rangers questions about recent sightings and educate yourself about your surrounds.

Consider a safari at nDzuti if you’re looking for an exclusive experience in a pristine reserve. The nDzuti way is to focus on wildlife and simple luxuries; and not the thread count in your sheets!

Why should you stay at the nDzuti Safari Lodge?

Rates are affordable. You are looking at rates from R1950 per person per night. This includes game walks, drives, meals and teas & coffees.
The Klaserie is less crowded than other reserves but offers unparalleled game viewing opportunities.
The lodge is run by two avid conservationists.
The camp only sleeps 8 people which means meal times, game drives and activities are not heaving with crowds.
You can hire the entire camp out for your exclusive use.
There are regular sightings of the Big 5. There is also a resident lion pride called the “River Pride” who are often spotted relaxing on the banks of the Klaserie river.
There are breathtaking views of the Klaserie river and rangers have traversing rights either side of the river; allowing for exceptional game viewing opportunities.

nDzuti Safari Camp - 4 en suite bedrooms

The nDzuti Safari Camp with its 4 en suite bedrooms, lounge and dining area.

Game viewing while eating breakfast at nDzuti

Eat breakfast and game watch at the same time.

The boma area being prepared for guests to enjoy after their evening safari.

The swimming pool at nDzuti Safari Camp. The bar is behind the pool.

The main dining area in the central area of the camp.

The lounge and dining area at nDzuti.

En suite, air-conditioned bedroom at nDzuti Safari Camp.

Luxurious bathroom at nDzuti Safari Camp.

nDzuti has spectacular views over the Klaserie River.

With over 3500 hectares of traversing rights, there is pleny of wildlife to see.

Game viewing vehicle waiting for guests. This is what you can expect from your evening game drive.

White rhino spotted in the nDzuti traverse.

The rare black mamba snake – one of Africa’s most deadly snakes.

The Delta Belle Houseboat

The Delta Belle Houseboat is situated in the forgotten panhandle of the Okavango Delta and boasts spectacular game viewing and fishing opportunities. Moored at Shakawe, the Delta Belle is ideal for small groups wanting to sleep overnight on the tranquil Okavango Delta. Wake-up on the Delta and spend evenings drifting through the myriad of waterways and channels of the panhandle. There are 5 en-suite cabins, located on the upper and lower. There is a kitchen, lounge, dining area, bar and viewing deck. Guests have the use of tender boats which are ideal for those wanting to try their hand at tiger fishing.

There are over 400 species of birds in the Delta and you will have the opportunity to see Nile crocodile, hippos, elephant, red lechwe and a plethora of other wildlife.

This is the ideal water safari – sleeping and game viewing IN the Okavango Delta.

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Activities

Houseboat Accommodation and Surrounds

Wildlife

nDzuti Safari Camp

nDzuti Safari Camp is located in the game rich Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, which forms part of the Kruger’s Associated Private Nature Reserves. Offering an authentic, affordable safari experience with a focus on exceptional hospitality; the nDzuti Safari Camp is the perfect choice for wildlife enthusiasts wanting a traditional safari holiday. The Klaserie Private Nature Reserve shares unfenced borders with the Kruger National Park and the Timbavati Game Reserve and is easily accessible via Hoedspruit airport. Guests will enjoy daily game drives and walks (optional) led by experienced game rangers.

Guests have a choice of 4 en suite air-conditioned bedrooms. There is a central area with a large patio, lounge and indoor kitchen area. A traditional boma area serves as the highlight of any safari experience – this is the area where the fire is lit and guests have the option of spending the evening swapping stories under the stars. For those languid, hot summer days there is a small swimming pool which provides a welcome respite from the African heat.

The lookout area offers views of nDzuti’s waterhole which attracts herds of elephant, a plethora of small mammals and large predators.

If you visit nDzuti ask your ranger about the River Pride of lions – the resident pride that traverses the nDzuti territory.

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Activities

Camp and Accommodation

Wildlife

Tighter Controls at the Sabi Sand Gates

There has been a rapid increase in rhino poaching over the past year and as a result, the Sabi Sand Wildtuin has decided to enforce additional controls at the Sabi gates. Guests will now need to produce proof of their booking at their safari lodge. Should they not produce the required documentation there will be a delay at the gate until the lodge can prove the booking is legitimate.

Please click here to read our newsletter for more information about the rhino poaching and the reasons for tighter controls.

Guest Blogging: Mike and Fiona Clark Leave the Kruger’s Klaserie

This is Mike and Fiona’s final blog from their time at the Klaserie camps in the Kruger. They got to say goodbye to the Ross Pride of lions and had an eventful last few days at camp. Here is the last blog entry from Mike and Fiona:

The last few days were great. Although the weather was a little changeable, we were still lucky enough to see plenty of animals, elephants, giraffe, zebra, kudu, impala and spotted hyena to name a few. We had a fabulous sighting of a white rhino which was quite relaxed – the dominant male of the area. He walked around slowly allowing us to get good photos from every angle, including some close ups with red billed oxpeckers. However our main aim was to find some cats, lions or leopards. There were plenty of tracks from some of the Ross pride; so Isaac tried very hard, tracking through the bush on several game drives to find them, but they were hiding. We caught a glimpse of 2 of the young male lions in the distance at one point.

However on our last drive we had a stroke of luck. The 2 sub adult males were lying in the middle of the road, having just woken up in the early morning. It was great to have finally find them looking so well, and playing in front of us. However the rest of the pride were still elusive. Not far away we also found a large herd of buffalo with their calves – one was only a few minutes old, wobbling close to mum. We left the herd moving towards where the lions were relaxing by the road -you never know, the rest of the pride may appear later for a buffalo dinner.

So sadly we say goodbye to nThambo and Africa on Foot. A big think you to everyone and see you all again in May.

Cape Buffalo spotted in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve – Image taken by Mike and Fiona Clark

Zebra and impala posing for the camera – Image taken by Mike and Fiona Clark

The Ross Pride give us another warm welcome – Image taken by Mike and Fiona Clark

Hyena pops in to say hello – Image taken by Mike and Fiona Clark

The elephants come to say goodbye to Mike and Fiona Clark

Guest Blogging: Mike and Fiona see the Ross Pride males

Mike and Fiona Clark spent their fourth day at camp observing the Good and the Bad; the famous boys from the Ross Pride. Here is their update from their fourth day in the Klaserie.

All was quiet around the lodge so the guys decided to drive to the North of Klaserie to see what was happening there. It was a long but beautiful drive and we saw elephants, giraffe, zebra, a lonely old Dugga boy and plenty of birdlife on our way there. We stopped for sundowners overlooking the Klaserie river – what a beautiful spot. Back on game drive we saw 2 white rhino running through the bush. On the other side of the road we saw a large inquisitive spotted hyena sniffing the air. Just down the road we realised why – there were the 2 Ross pride males, lying in the middle of the road with full bellies, and a kill not far off in the bushes. They certainly had walked a long way in a day – all the way from Ross to Charloscar – over 20km!

This morning we stayed local again, seeing a large breeding herd of elephants in the early morning sun, closely followed by a family of blue Wildebeest with a small calf. We were also lucky to find the pack of wild dogs again hiding in the long grass and cooling off in a pool of water. They too had full bellies so were in no rush to go anywhere.

I’m sure they will still be there for this afternoon’s Game drive.

Nothing better than spotting wild dogs while on safari – Image taken by Mike and Fiona Clark

Pack of wild dogs in the Klaserie – Image taken by Mike and Fiona Clark

Pack of wild dogs appear yet again – Image taken by Mike and Fiona Clark

Wild Dog on a Game Drive – Image taken by Mike and Fiona Clark

The Good and the Bad lying in the road – Ross Pride – Image taken by Mike and Fiona Clark

The Good from the Ross Pride – Image taken by Mike and Fiona Clark

Hyena spotted in the Klaserie – Image taken by Mike and Fiona Clark

Elephant herd is spotted by Mike and Fiona while in the Klaserie – Image taken by Mike and Fiona Clark

Guest Blogging: The rare white buffalo calf and wild dogs

Mike and Fiona Clark are keeping us busy with their wildlife sightings in the Klaserie. They’re providing us with updates on a regular basis and, despite it being the wet season, game viewing is at an all time high !

Once again we set out on an amazing safari with Isaac and Chad. How lucky to catch up with the pack of 9 wild dogs lazing under a tree away from the heat of the afternoon sun. One tried half heartedly to catch lunch, but it was far to hot for a real effort. We were lucky enough to stay with this pack of dogs for almost the entire game drive. There are not many places in Africa where you can stay with the animals so long, which is one of the special things about nThambo and Africa on Foot.

After it cooled down the dogs decided it was time to hunt, so we followed them through the bush, whilst they tried to find impala. We followed the wild dogs into the thick bush and monitored them for an hour – we left and they were still hunting. We were not far away from “Jason’s dam”, so Chad decided to go there for sundowners in the hope the dogs would come to us. And sure enough, whilst we were drinking beer and wine, out of the bushes on the opposite side of the dam an impala ran across closely followed by a dog. Then from right behind the Land Rover another curious dog appeared, looked at us briefly and then ran off. Unfortunately they didn’t succeed in catching their dinner, and finally ran off into another property.

Wild dogs walk past the game vehicle

A lone wild dog observing the pack

After sundowners we were lucky enough to see a female leopard wandering through the bush, and got a couple of nice photos, before she too vanished. Then a couple of metres down the road, the 2 male lions were walking down the road for an evening stroll. It was nice to see them both in their full glory, rather than just sleeping by the side of the road. WOW what a fabulous evening ! For anyone who knows us – wild dogs and leopards are our favourite animals.

Wild dogs casually walking down the road

Morning game drive, by comparison, was a little more sedate. Whilst looking at the beautiful view of the sunlit Drakensburg mountains we caught a quick glimpse of a young female leopard in a tree, before she jumped down. Unfortunately she was quite skittish so quickly moved off into thick bush. We spent most of the game drive following tracks for the 2 male lions, who unfortunately didn’t want to be found and seem to have now left our area!

But to top off our drive, we had a sighting of a herd of buffalo deep in mopani trees – including a very rare white buffalo calf (unfortunately no photos).

Wild dog casually strolls past the game vehicle