Kruger National Park Was Nothing Like I Expected…

Notable moments

1. 00:56 Exploring Umbhaba Eco Lodge

   A tour of the grounds at Umbhaba Eco Lodge showcases thatched-roof suites overlooking a tranquil artificial lake with a central fountain. Tropical gardens, paved walkways, a swimming pool surrounded by palm trees, and an open-air dining terrace highlight the lodge amenities.

   Umbhaba Eco Lodge, Hazyview, South Africa
2. 01:31 Entering Kruger at Numbi Gate

   The safari vehicle arrives at Numbi Gate, one of the primary entrance points into Kruger National Park. Passengers head into the park in an open-topped game drive vehicle to begin an afternoon wildlife excursion.

   Numbi Gate, Kruger National Park, South Africa
3. 01:46 Bush Drinks and Amarula Tasting

   During a stop on the game drive, the safari guide sets up a pop-up bar on the vehicle's tailgate. He pours glasses of Wild Africa Cream and Old Brown Sherry while explaining the origins of Amarula liqueur, which is made from the local marula fruit.

   Kruger National Park, South Africa
4. 03:36 Herd of Elephants Crossing Riverbed

   A family unit of African bush elephants, including a small young calf, navigates across a wide sandy riverbed with trickling streams. The narration explains that Kruger is home to roughly 30,000 elephants whose feeding habits continuously reshape the surrounding vegetation.

   Kruger National Park, South Africa
5. 06:40 Scenic View of Lisbon Falls

   Water cascades dramatically down dramatic double drops at Lisbon Falls along South Africa's Panorama Route. The surrounding canyon walls are covered in lush green vegetation and morning mist, creating a stark contrast to the drier bushveld of Kruger.

   Lisbon Falls, South Africa
6. 06:49 Panoramic View of Blyde River Canyon

   A sweeping high-altitude view captures the expanse of the Blyde River Canyon, known as the world's largest green canyon. Low-lying clouds drift across towering cliff faces and the winding river below, providing a habitat for diverse flora and fauna.

   Blyde River Canyon, South Africa
7. 07:20 Traditional Dance at Bourke's Luck

   A group of female cultural dancers in brightly colored pink and yellow traditional attire perform song and dance at the entrance to Bourke's Luck Potholes. Visitors gather to watch the performance and hear traditional drumming before exploring the natural geological site.

   Bourke's Luck Potholes, South Africa
8. 07:34 Exploring Bourke's Luck Potholes

   Visitors cross pedestrian bridges over deep gorge rock formations shaped over centuries by the converging Blyde and Treur rivers. Powerful water currents swirl through cylindrical potholes carved directly into the red sandstone bedrock.

   Bourke's Luck Potholes, South Africa
9. 08:11 Viewing Berlin Falls

   A look at Berlin Falls shows a single drop waterfall plunging 80 meters from a sheer red cliff into a deep green pool below. A railed observation deck allows travelers to take in the canyon view and lush pine forests.

   Berlin Falls, South Africa
10. 09:01 Leopard Resting on Tree Branch

    An elusive African leopard rests high on a thick tree limb, dappled by sunlight and hidden among the leafy canopy. The guide notes that leopards are extremely territorial and usually only seen when they choose to be visible.

    Kruger National Park, South Africa
11. 10:43 Elephants Swimming and Bathing in River

    Two large elephants submerge themselves in a wide river, using their trunks like snorkels while playing in the deep water. Afterwards, one of the elephants climbs up the muddy riverbank to forage on lush green grass along the shoreline.

    Kruger National Park, South Africa