South African wildlife tends not to need an introduction. Globally familiar entities like National Geographic and films like The Lion King have been perennial representatives for the majestic creatures that have dominated the country for millennia. The giraffes, rhinoceros, buffalos, elephants, cheetahs and others calling South Africa home have been engrained into our consciousness and form much of our perception of the country, and the continent itself. Unsurprisingly, creatures of such scale have perpetually captivated adventurers, enamored tourists and carried spiritual significance for locals. My own media exposure and curiosity made seeking out these noble beings a must for my South African itinerary.
During my time in South Africa, I had two different “safari” experiences. The first was at Kragga Kamma Game Park. Kragga Kamma is a private nature reserve that provides intimate opportunities for tourists to interact with some of the country’s most well-known game animals. My hosts drove me through the one-way loop where we encountered countless kudu, bushbuck, warthog, ostrich and giraffe. These herbivores are free-range, and the park’s narrow limits offer patrons the opportunity to glimpse an animal at almost all times. In addition to the less threatening creatures, Kragga Kamma also possesses lion and cheetah enclosures. I have often described their circumstances as somewhere in between a zoo and their natural habitat.
