picnic areas, Kruger National Park

Picnic Spots – The park maps clearly point out where you can exit your vehicle and have lunch / sundowners / braai (BBQ). These spots are usually at scenic points overlooking a river or open savannah. At each designated picnic spots, you leave your vehicle at your own risk.

More often than not, braai’s (BBQ’s) are provided as are ablutions. Some picnic spots even have small cafes from which you can buy everything from toasted sandwhiches to tea and scones.

A word of warning however, there tend to be a vast amount of bees hanging around such places due to the sugary drinks, sweet food and jam left or spilt on the outdoor tables. Take care not to be stung.

While I enjoy getting out of the car and stretching my legs after a few hours of game viewing, I must admit that the designated picnic sites are usually hugely populated with fellow tourists and so our lunch/refreshment breaks don't usually involve sitting in the peace and quiet of the park, listening to the sounds of nature!

More often than not, rather than the warble of birds and scuffles of beasts, your ears resound with the buzz of bees, interesting dialects, foreign tongues and the laughter of kiddies! Not a bad way to spend a rest break, but if you are hoping for peace and quiet, these might not be the best places to pause...eat your lunch and then head to a waterhole or hide for your P&Q in nature's playground!

Sundowners – One of my favourite pastimes in a game park is to pack a cooler bag with a gin and tonic, a lemon, a packet of lightly salted crisps and a bag of pistachios, climb into the car and head out for a late afternoon drive.

We usually plan our route to include a pit stop at a picnic site – preferably one that overlooks a river or water hole. Tucking into our nibbles we scan the horizon with our binoculars taking in all the African afternoon has to offer. You will be amazed at how much you see if you just sit still and wait. Patience is the greatest virtue while on safari!

Pay special attention to the far side of the river bank as you sip your tipple, often game can be spotted grazing in the distance...look out for moving logs: crocs! Bird life is usually prolific around river banks so if you are a bird lover, this is definitely for you!