Wilderness Trails

Many people from all over the globe email me about what to expect on a "wilderness trail". So here's a collection of responses to these questions. I am no expert, but have been on most of Kruger's seven trails, some of them more than once. In my opinion, a "wilderness trail" is the best way to experience the African bush - bar none.

What is a "wilderness trail?
The "wilderness trail" is a concept unique to Africa in that it has evolved to imply a walk in the company of a game ranger or conservation officer, usually armed, through big game country. Aspects of the ecology of the area, environmental management and ethics are also explained and the emphasis is often on environmental education.

Kruger National Park has seven such trails, comprising seven trails camps each located in large wilderness areas (60000 ha plus), remote from cars, roads, camps and people. Each camp accommodates 8 guests who spend 3 nights at the camps. The camps are staffed by the trails ranger, the assistant (or "second rifle") and a camp cook. A trail involves two days of walking. Kruger's trails are: Sweni, Olifants, Wolhuter, Bushmans, Nyalaland, Napi and Metsi-Metsi (see some of my trail diaries at left)

Wilderness Trails in this form originated at Imfolozi Game Reserve, I believe.
Are wilderness trails dangerous?
All wilderness trails are potentially dangerous because you are on foot with wild animals. However, animals are usually more scared of humans and are only dangerous when cornered or surprised, or when protecting young. The trails rangers are extremely safety-conscious and will ensure that you are not put into dangerous situations. They are very cautious and always err on the side of safety. It is important to obey the rangers unquestioningly. I would say that the trails are exciting, rather than dangerous.
Is the walking difficult or strenuous?
The walks are not difficult. They are largely over flat ground and follow game paths. They are undertaken in the early morning and late afternoon, when it is cooler. The only discomfort will be the heat, depending on the time of year. The rangers will pace the walks to suit the group, and if you find it hard, discuss it with the rangers. On a walk you could walk anything up to 10km, but it depends on conditions and the group. The emphasis is not on "hiking" as such, but rather on experiencing, feeling, hearing, and smelling the bush, while learning about the ecosystem.
Will I see the "Big 5"?
No!! Unless you're very lucky. If you participate in a trail with the aim of seeing the Big 5 up close you are guaranteed to be disappointed. Get the Big 5, especially the cats, out of your system by going on game drives or lodge safaris before you tackle a trail. Then you can relax and enjoy the experience: feeling, hearing, and smelling the bush, while learning about the ecosystem; facing up to your own insignificance; being in the food chain. I promise that it can be one of the great experiences of a lifetime if you allow it to be.
What must I bring?
I would suggest some essentials (for summer conditions):

a large wide-brimmed sunhat
sun block
bush-coloured clothes that breathe well, but keep the sun off
at least two waterbottles each (drink a lot on the walks)
small binoculars
insect repellent
anti-insect mats or coils
reliable torches or headlamps, with spare batteries
comfortable walking shoes or boots
3-4 changes of walking socks
a soft bag - there isn't much packing space in the huts.

The camps have a communal fridge, so take beers, wine and drinks for the evenings.
What about malaria?
Ensuring that you are not bitten is vital. The danger times are dusk and dawn, so keep skin covered especially at these times: long light trousers, socks, long sleeves, etc. Make sure that you have insect repellent and that you spray it on exposed skin. I would suggest that you also buy anti-insect coils or mats that burn through the night (note: there's no electricity!). One should also take anti-malaria prophylactics before travel - many of us don't, but get advice from a doctor. (also visit www.malaria.org)
How difficult is it to get a booking?
Very. The trails run at high occupancy and are a well-kept secret amongst those in the know. You may have to book up to a year in advance. If at first you don't succeed.... Try here for a booking - ecoAfrica has been known to succeed.
What's the weather like?
In summer, the days are very hot, and the nights will be warm too. Expect afternoon thundershowers. Of course, this is mosquito season too, so while there is the temptation to wear as little as possible in the evenings, you should rather cover up. Winters are dry and the days are pleasantly warm, while the nights will be nippy. If you're not used to Africa's heat, June to September is the time to visit. Game viewing is also better in winter because there's less foliage, shorter grass and the game tend to converge on waterholes and rivers.
What are the trails camps like?
The camps are rustic and basic and the fence is not animal-proof (rather to keep the people in than the animals out, as the trails ranger will tell you), but you will seldom find animals visiting an area that smells of humans.

Each camp has 4 huts, each with two beds. Space is limited so leave the large luggage at home or elsewhere. The huts do have doors, as well as mesh-covered windows and mosquito nets hang above the beds. The huts are also raised off the ground, so you should not have problems with mice or insects or snakes. Bedding is provided, and you won't even be required to make your bed (the camp cook will take care of that)!

The toilets (flush toilets) and showers (gas-heated) are separate from the huts and are communal, and there is no electricity, but lots of paraffin lanterns.

Camp life revolves around the lapa - where a boiling kettle, tea and coffee are always available - and the fire-pit. Meals are served at the lapa twice-a-day: a brunch after return from the morning walk, and dinner under the stars. The cooking is basic, but filling and tasty - good, simple bush cuisine.
What is a typical day's routine?
Everything but routine. But it goes more or less like this:
- you'll be woken up by the camp cook before sunrise.
- over coffee and rusks the trails ranger will give a safety briefing
- leave camp on the morning walk at sunrise
- stop in the bush for a light breakfast (snacks, fruit, dried fruit, nuts, juice, meats), usually on a hill
- return to camp in the late morning for brunch
- siesta until the late afternoon (lots of time to read, wander around the camp, watch birds, sleep, etc.)
- leave on a walk until sunset, often stopping at some viewpoint to watch the African sun die
- return for a shower and supper around the campfire (there usually are interesting people on such trails)
- listen to the nocturnal sounds and sleep.

Walking the Mlambane - Wolhuter Trail