Kruger's southern superstar

Lower Sabie, in the south of the Kruger National Park, is always popular, even during quieter times. No matter the season, you'll struggle to book a few days in a row unless you plan well in advance.

- Helenus Kruger

The Kruger National Park is one of South Africa's most popular holiday destinations, and for many locals, a break here is a family tradition. Once the bush bug bites, it never really lets go, and love for the Kruger is often passed down through the generations.

Over the years, many traditions have taken root. Camps start stirring early – usually before sunrise – as guests prepare for a game drive. Early rising means early to bed too, and by dusk a hush already settles over camp. And of course, sightings are freely shared with fellow travellers.

Another favourite is stopping for a picnic - many people plan their day's game drive around the picnic spots.

The park spans almost 20 000 km² (as the crow flies, it's 360 km from south to north and 65 km from west to east) – roughly the size of Wales.

If you enter at Pafuri Gate in the north and follow the H1 and H3 main roads, you'll exit 441 km later at Malelane Gate in the south. Along the way, you'll drive through 11 of the park's 14 ecozones.

One reason for Lower Sabie's popularity is its easy access from the N4 highway. From towns in Mpumalanga, Crocodile Bridge Gate – the closest gate to Lower Sabie – is just a few hours' drive, making it an ideal weekend destination. Even for Gautengers, the 450 km journey isn't too far for a long weekend. (Just note the camp is 35 km from the gate, so you'll need to add at least 45 minutes to your travel time.)

The camp is set on the banks of the Sabie River, and the water draws plenty of wildlife, especially during the dry “The camp is set on the banks of the Sabie River, and the water draws plenty of wildlife, especially during the dry months.