Focus on: Rhino Post

What it must have been like for the intrepid explorers of the late 19th century, who came to Africa when it was wholly untouched – the thrill of exploration and the unknown, surrounded by the exotic wilderness of the bush. Imagine spending nights under the wide African skies, blanketed by stars, cooking meals over an open fire, senses heightened by the sounds of nocturnal animals foraging in the bush. There are few places on the continent where this is still possible (and few souls brave enough to try it!)

In the south-west of the Kruger National Park, just north of the popular Skukuza, the elegant stone, wood, thatch and canvas suites of Rhino Post Safari Lodge nestle in a peaceful private concession. The camp is a remarkable one as it makes use of no permanent structures – the entire camp has been constructed in accordance with ‘tread lightly’ principles, and as such it makes use of only natural materials such as canvas and wood in order to have a minimal impact on the environment. In addition to natural materials, no trees were cut down n the construction of the camp and the lodge makes use of solar assisted power, low energy lighting and raised walkways to ensure that it remains ecologically sensitive and sustainable.

But the thing that really sets Rhino Post apart is not the luxurious lodging, the al fresco dinners set under Tamboti trees, or the spectacular views of the Mutlumuvi riverbed from the depths of your private bathtub. Rather, it’s the experience of the Rhino Walking Safari, and the opportunity to sleep in the ancient and unexplored wilderness of the Kruger National Park, that makes this lodge truly special.

On guided walks, expert rangers will teach you to identify of animals, trees, grasses, insects and birds as well as teaching you the medicinal uses of plants, and sharing local folklore and basic tracking and survival skills. ‘Sleepouts’ allow guests to sleep under the stars, raised on four meter high elevated wooden platforms. This unusual accommodation is offered nowhere else in the Kruger and gives visitors an enthralling taste of the African bush in all its pristine beauty and adventure, the way it’s been experienced by explorers and indigenous people throughout history.

Have you visited Rhino Post or taken part in a Sleepout? Would you be brave enough to experience the thrill of a night in the wilderness? Leave us a comment below!