New High Profile Safari Operator In The Kruger Park

AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY - www.africanbushexperience.com

Driven and managed by professional tourist guide and nature enthusiast, Johann Jurgens - the AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY stands to further our reputation as Southern Africa’s preferred and trusted safari operator in and around the world famous KRUGER NATIONAL PARK and PILANESBERG GAME RESERVE.

 

Through our unique selection of wildlife safaris, wilderness experiences and safari advisor services you can be sure to be blown away by our sense of commitment to setting and maintaining a standard of excellence in everything we do….

 

The AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY perfectly combines enthusiasm and dynamism with experience and expertise to create an authentic and extraordinary bush experience. Our attention to detail is unsurpassed in the industry as personalised service and professionally managed operations create truly unforgettable experiences. We specialize in creating opportunities for nature enthusiasts who; want to experience the African bush; learn about the bush, appreciate the bush; and want to experience something new ...

 

 

Safari Safety: What You Need To Know About Safe Travels To Africa

AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY - www.africanbushexperience.com

A trip to Africa is on a lot of bucket lists. For many from around the world, the continent seems majestic and mysterious yet dangerous and uncharted. Much of what people know about Africa is what they see in the media, a land of lions and giraffes, war and poverty. The Africa we know and love is a land of beauty and wonder that we have now dedicated life's to sharing with travellers.

The AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY has been sharing the wonders of Africa with those eager to travel and explore the continent’s beauty, wildlife, wilderness and culture for 20 years. Many of those we work with are planning a first trip to Africa and have a plethora of questions, from where to stay, when to go, what to pack and more.
 

We’ve created a one-stop SAFARI ADVISOR & CENTRAL RESERVATIONS service for those with a desire to travel to Africa ensuring safety and peace of mind every step of the way.

What we offer our clients:

• Tailor-made Iteneraries & Packages

With extensive experience in the field our friendly consultants will tailor-make an itenary to suit your specific needs, budget and expectations.

 

• Accommodation Reservations

Ensuring that your accommodation requirements are met by only making use of trusted and reputable destinations & accommodation establishments.

 

• Wildlife Activities Bookings

We arrange all your activities and experiences in advance such as wilderness walks, game drives, night drives, river cruises, bush braai’s and so much more...you tell us what you desire and we will go the extra mile to make sure it happens!

 

• Airport Collections & Transfers

We will be there when you arive and look after your needs every step of the way.

 

• Guided or Self-drive Options

Our highly qualified and registered guides are standing by to accompany you on your journey making your African bush experience one to remember. Alternatively, you have the option of a self-drive package...

 

• Daily safety checks & progress updates

Our control room will contact you daily or as per arrangement to check on your safety, progress, satisfaction and general well-being.

 

• 24-Hour Emergency Call Centre

Should you need emergency assistance at any point or time you have the convenience of an emergency-service which can be contacted day or night for fast and immediate reaction to your needs.

 

• And much more...

 

Safari Advisors & Central Reservations

AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY - www.africanbushexperience.com

 

Are you planning a safari, holiday or escape to the African bush...?

Through our professional, friendly and efficient SAFARI ADVISORS & CENTRAL RESERVATIONS service our clients enjoy the highest standard of service in making dream trips to the African bush come true…It’s all about Safety, Value for Money and Peace of Mind.

 

The African Bush Experience Company's SAFARI ADVISORS & CENTRAL RESERVATIONS service was introduced to our service offering in February 2002 and is known for our commitment towards our clients and our promise to deliver “Service by Excellence”.

Our SAFARI ADVISORS team provide a professional, friendly and informative one-stop service from enquiry al the way through to confirmed reservations / bookings including the added benefits of the following…

• Tailor-made Itineraries & Packages

With extensive experience in the field our friendly consultants will tailor-make an itenary to suit your specific needs, budget and expectations.

• Accommodation Reservations

Ensuring that your accommodation requirements are met by only making use of trusted and reputable destinations & accommodation establishments.

• Wildlife Activities Bookings

We arrange all your activities and experiences in advance such as wilderness walks, game drives, night drives, river cruises, bush braai’s and so much more...you tell us what you desire and we will go the extra mile to make sure it happens!

 

• Airport Collections & Transfers

We will be there when you arrive and look after your needs every step of the way.

• Guided or Self-drive Options

Our highly qualified and registered guides are standing by to accompany you on your journey making your African bush experience one to remember. Alternatively, you have the option of a self-drive package...

 

• Daily safety checks & progress updates

Our control room will contact you daily or as per arrangement to check on your safety, progress, satisfaction and general well-being.

• 24-Hour Emergency Call Centre

Should you need emergency assistance at any point or time you have the convenience of an emergency-service which can be contacted day or night for fast and immediate reaction to your needs.

 

• And much more...

 

 

The African Bush Experience Company appoints new CEO

AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY - www.africanbushexperience.com

The African Bush Experience Company recently acquired the services of Mr. Johann Jurgens to fulfil the role of group CEO with the assigned task to steer this promising and upcoming service provider towards becoming a worthy contender for the title of one of South Africa's leading service providers in the industry.

Johann Jurgens is a veteran in the eco tourism industry with over 21 years experience living and working in the bush.

 

After starting out as a teacher in Environmental Education at South African veldschool’s he went on to pursue a career in nature guiding leading wilderness trails in the Kruger National Park where he also qualified himself as a FGASA Level 3 nature guide gaining lead trails and trainers status soon thereafter.

 

Throughout his long and rewarding career Johann also left tracks in the Pilanesberg, Madikwe and Sabi Sands game reserves as a well respected guide, lodge manager and conservationist.  

 

Today he devotes all his time and energy to drive the African Bush Experience Company forward in creating opportunities for people to connect with nature and rediscover that inner sense of belonging and purpose in the wild.

 

 

Wilderness Warriors Courses

AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY - www.africanbushexperience.com

 

The AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY is a leader in supplying both basic and advanced educational experiences in the ancient art of bush craft. Our mission is to train the individual to a level of balance whereby they feel empowered to live and not just survive, resulting in a more confident approach to personal and professional conduct. We do this through building on your strengths and breaking down any boundaries you might have allowing you to deal more effectively with daily survival challenges, in the bush as well as the concrete jungle!!!

 

Wilderness Warriors Experiences are offered in 4 different formats namely:

• 1 Day Introduction Course
• Family Day Course
• Weekend Packages
• 1 Week Training Courses

 

These courses offer the same material but with varying degrees of difficulty and intensity. Tailor-made courses can also be developed for corporate's and groups.

 

1 Day Introduction Course

A day in which participants get an opportunity to touch on all the areas of the Wilderness Warriors curriculum which include the following:

• SITUATIONAL AWARENESS
• BASIC NEEDS
• BUSH ETIQUETTE
• TEAM WORK & LEADERSHIP
• LESSONS FROM THE WILD
• MERGING WITH YOUR ENVIRONMENT
• TRACK & BE TRACKED

 

Family Day Course

Come and enjoy the Wilderness Warriors experience with family members . Any of our programs can be delivered to individual families. Come as your own unit, or gather some friends together and enjoy as a bigger group. Mums, dads, daughters, sons, shake off the dust from your back packs and pack up together for a fun bush craft outdoor day experience.

 

Weekend Packages

The weekend program takes time to go into greater depth of the areas of bush craft and includes basic survival skills. Escape from the stress of the city; immerse yourself in nature on the Wilderness Warriors Experience with our acclaimed instructors.

 

Week Packages

The 1 week training course follows an intense schedule giving students the opportunity to get evaluated and achieve a level 1 to 5 grading in bush craft. In the 1 week training course each day will represent a relevant field of training allowing for in depth focus and understanding of that particular field.

 

Become a Wilderness Warrior with the AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY, today….

 

 

Drakensberg Backpack Trail - 4 Days

AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY - www.africanbushexperience.com

The African Bush Experience Company invite you to join us on a 4-Day backpack trail exploring the magnificent 3 000 000 million years old Northern Drakensberg Mountain Range, also known as the Drakensberg Escarpment with it’s breathtaking Quartzite walls, cliffs, peaks and pinnacles that tower over the lowlands of the Limpopo Province.

 

The mountain range forms part of the Transvaal Supergroup with a general altitude at the base of 2000m while the higher regions rises & falls around 3000m. It stretches a phenomenal 1000 km from the Eastern Cape all the way through KwaZulu Natal and into the heart of the Limpopo Province.

 

This wilderness area of untouched beauty that we walk in forms part of a private game reserve that embraces more than 8000 hectares of malaria free, unspoiled African bushveld, located just outside the lovely town of Orighstad. The reserve is also home to free roaming Buffalo, Leopard, Sable Antelope, Tsessebe as well as an abundance of general wildlife.

TRAIL OVERVIEW:

After arrival trailists will be welcomed with a scrumptious meal and treated to a night of luxury at our on-site guest lodge. The next morning you will be on foot with your guide before sunrise after being dropped off at the designated starting point for a full day of exploration and discovery. Meals are provided and will be carried with us for Breakfast and Lunch. Later in the afternoon, as the sun sets, we set up camp and prepare ourselves for an exciting night sleeping under the stars and enjoying dinner around the campfire.

 

The following morning, after packing up and ensuring we leave nothing but our tracks behind, we continue venturing deeper into this “land of wonders” only to reach the pick-up point by mid afternoon from where we will be transported back to the lodge for a well deserved break, bath and rest.

 

Tonight we celebrate around a campfire sharing untold stories of memories never to be forgotten!!!

 

On the last morning trailists enjoy a full English breakfast before departing back home…

    

This is what awaits you on the Drakensberg Backpack Trail with the AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY!!!

 

 

African Game Ranger Experience - 7 Days

AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY - www.africanbushexperience.com

This practical, hands dirty, feet wet, 7-day program takes participants on an all inspiring journey into the life of a game ranger.

In the company of professional instructors you will experience the reality of living and working in the bush as an active member of a wildlife conservation team on one of our client reserves doing what game rangers do and contributing to conservation in Africa.

Seeing the Big 5 in South Africa on holiday is a must: but why not go deeper into your love for wildlife by actually making a hands-on contribution to conservation? This 7-day game ranger experience opens you up to life on a wildlife reserve. From reserve sweeping, anti poaching and fence patrols to ecological rehabilitation and animal health checks, all in a days work.

Not only does the experience give you an insight into the running of a reserve, it also lay a foundation for career development as various important conservation themes come under discussion. As part of the experience, our instructors will also give you insight into other important ecological aspects such as geology, weather, botany, animal identification and animal behaviour. Working alongside your instructors, you will help with wildlife monitoring, research programs, pest control, alien plant control, as well as various other day-to-day reserve tasks and duties.

This customized Game Ranger Experience Program is not only available to people wishing to enter the industry as professional game rangers, on the contrary, it is for anyone who wants to increase their knowledge of the African bush, is looking for a meaningful holiday experience or wants to make a contribution to conservation in Africa.

So whether you are still at school, you've just finished school and are on your gap year, study conservation and looking for the 'real' thing, are on your sabbatical and want to live the boy's dream, have taken a career break or are retired,... or anything? This wildlife game ranger program in South Africa is suitable and an amazing experience for all nature and conservation enthusiasts!

Pilanesberg Ancient Volcano Discovery - 5 Days

AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY - www.africanbushexperience.com

Join the AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY as we explore an extinct alkaline volcano in South Africa’s 4th largest Pilanesberg Game Reserve, now known as an "alkaline ring complex" ...it is one of only three of its kind in the world; One being in Greenland and the other in the former Soviet Union.

This is your opportunity to be part of an AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY expedition indulging yourself in the wonderland of one of Southern Africa’s hidden wilderness gems - the Pilanesberg Game Reserve!!!
Our guests on this safari enjoy 5 full days in the company of experienced guides exploring, discovering and appreciating this fascinating environment through daily game drives, bush walks and various other wildlife activities. 　

Some 1200 million years ago an enormous volcano towering 7000 metres (significantly higher than Africa’s highest point today, Mount Kilimanjaro in Kenya) overshadowed the otherwise featureless plains of the surrounding bushveld. This massive volcano eventually collapsed upon itself and weathered into four concentric rings which rise to 700 metres above the plains; a mere tenth of the original volcano height. The rocks forming the hills are the remains of magma pipes which once fed the volcano from deep below its summit. It is certainly the perfect example of these natural phenomena, making it the perfect expedition destination rivaling the majestic Ngorongoro crater in Tanzania.

Having 55,000 hectares (or 550 square km) to explore offers a huge landscape where one can see stunning wildlife in its natural habitat. From the "Big 5" to the "Small 5" the opportunity is tremendous and being so close to the "Gauteng metropolis" is a chance not to be missed.

The diversity of Pilanesberg is such that a number of landscapes and vegetation types occur here. As the reserve moves from the wet Lowveld vegetation to the dry Kalahari there are a number of game, tree and bird species that would never be found cohabiting an area and as such, the species here are incredibly varied and unique to other reserves within Southern Africa.

Geologically, Pilanesberg is hugely important due to the alkalinity of the material and there being a substantial amount of rare and unique minerals present. It is interesting to find Red, White, Green and Ledig Foyaite, Nepheline Syenite, Kimberlite, Fluorite and Uranium Tuff throughout the Park.

Part of the Pilanesberg’s considerable charm is the dramatic landscape – rocky ravines, rolling hills and a massive lake in the middle, called Mankwe, where the very heart of the volcano must have once been. There are grassland areas, hillsides, rocky places, wetlands and lakes – all these habitats mean the park supports a very wide variety of plants and animals. Along with the Big 5 there are Brown Hyaena, Serval, Caracal, Cheetah, Wild (Cape Hunting) Dogs, Hippo, Giraffe, Sable, Tsessebe and Eland. Those are just the mammals! There are numerous reptile species and amphibians as well as invertebrates a plenty.

With over 300 species of birds, on a game drive one is bound to see many of them and can particularly look out for the Crimson Breasted Shrike, Rufousnaped Lark and maybe a Gymnogene on the grassy hillslopes. One would also hope to see the ever-spectacular Lilac-breasted Roller, Pin-tailed Whydah and Blackshouldered Kite on the grasslands. And soaring above them all, you’ll see Black-breasted Snake Eagles, African Hawk-eagles and Verreaux’s Eagle. The more thickly wooded areas yield species like the Arrowmarked Babbler, various hornbills, the Marico Flycatcher, Chinspot Batis, and those small, delightful firefinches (Jameson’s and Redbilled in particular). Listen for the harmonious, liquid sounds of the Blackheaded Oriole, as well as the call of Africa – the resident African Fish Eagles around Mankwe dam. The camps are particularly bird friendly and many Glossy Starlings, Crested Barbets, Grey Louries, Crimson Breasted Shrikes and Hornbills can be seen. Just watch out for the Vervet Monkeys and Baboons who are known troublemakers in the camps.

 

Pilanesberg/SunCity Resort Safari - 4 Days

AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY - www.africanbushexperience.com

 

Get the best of both world…Pristine game viewing in the    Pilanesberg Game Reserve combined with the glam of Africa’s Kingdom of Pleasure - Sun City.  

 

The malaria-free Pilanesberg Game Reserve is located a mere 2 hours drive from Johannesburg and is home to the Big 5. This untouched wilderness area boasts some of the best and most magnificent natural sceneries in the country and promises to deliver above expectation each and every time.

 

Sun City on the other hand is internationally renowned as Africa’s premier entertainment destination offering a multitude of attractions and activities to keep everyone occupied, young and old. You will be treated to a wonderworld of fun and leisure for the whole family...

 

YOUR ITINERARY:

 

• Day 1 & 2 - Johannesburg to Pilansberg National Park

Leaving Johannesburg you head towards the Malaria Free Pilansberg National Park. The park is 55.000 hectares in extent. It is almost perfectly circular because it comprises the area of a 1200 million years old volcano crater with a small lake in the centre. This very scenic terrain lies in the transition zone between Kalahari and Lowveld, and both types of vegetation are found here. The park is home to Africa's BIG 5 including a thriving Lion Population. Other animals that call the Pilansberg home include elephants, white and black rhinos, buffaloes, leopards, zebras, hyenas, giraffes, hippos and crocodiles. Over 300 bird species were counted.

Accommodation: Pilanesberg

 

• Day 3 - Pilansberg to Sun City

After getting your fill of game viewing you head a mere half and hour towards Sun City South Africa's premier Entertainment destination. Sun City Resort in the Pilanesberg is one of the most remarkable entertainment destinations in Africa.

This vast complex, nearly 20 km in circumference, is an enormous, opulent extravaganza of luxurious hotels, glittering entertainment centres, swimming pools, an artificial sea, restaurants, gaming rooms, shops, discos and extensive, beautifully landscaped grounds, rated among the world's most unusually conceived, and most lavish, inland resorts.

Accommodation: Sun City

 

• Day 4 - Sun City to Johannesburg

Departing from Sun City you head back to Johannesburg where your guide will drop you off at your desired destination.

 

Please note that the suggested itinerary can change due to accommodation availability and is fully adaptable to be tailored to guest needs. Please note that the suggested itinerary can change due to accommodation availability and is fully adaptable to be tailored to guest needs.

 

 

 

Pilanesberg Weekend Escape - 3 Days

AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY - www.africanbushexperience.com

 

This 3 day safari will give you a vast overview of what Pilanesberg National Park has to offer. You will have an opportunity to explore the park through a number of exciting wildlife activities. Your 3 day safari will include a series of game drives, bush walks, relaxation at the lodge, scrumptious meals and a chance at coming across the famous Big 5.

The 3 days promises to be an adventure- packed yet relaxing experience that will show off all of Pilanesberg’s best features and will leave you wanting more.

YOUR ITINERARY:

Day 1: Johannesburg to Pilanesberg National Park – South AfricaLeaving Johannesburg at about 11:00 on this safari we arrive at our lodge in the Pilanesberg National Park just in time for lunch. After lunch we are free to relax, enjoy afternoon tea and then embark on our first thrilling game drive.

We set off in search of Africa's Big 5, lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo and elephant, along with other wildlife. We travel in specialized safari vehicles ideal for great visibility and absorbing the sounds and smells of the bush.

Back at our lodge a delicious dinner is served, weather permitting,　under an African night sky, littered with stars. Evening drinks can be purchased from the fully stocked bar, including an excellent selection of fine wines.　
Day 2: Pilanesberg National Park – South Africa We are up early and after a reviving cup of coffee or tea and snacks, we set out on a game drive. This is the best time of day for game viewing, as the animals are on the move eating and drinking before the heat of the day drives them to seek shade and rest. 　Often there are sightings of lions still on the move after the previous night's hunt.

After our exciting start to the day we return to the lodge for a well deserved, mouth watering breakfast. 　Then there's time to relax, nap, read, swim or have a pampering spa treatment until it's time for lunch at 14:00.

Lunch is followed by an afternoon game drive that continues into the early evening, for as the sun sets darkness falls quickly and the nocturnal animals are on the move.

Returning to the safari lodge, we freshen up and then enjoy a tasty al fresco dinner. The evening is spent around the campfire taking in the sounds of the African bush, recollecting the day’s wildlife sightings and relaxing under starry skies.
Day 3: Pilanesberg to Johannesburg – South Africa
We set out early again on this, our last day, after some refreshing tea or coffee and snacks. After a rewarding game drive, viewing the animals at their most active, we return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast.

Departing from the lodge at about 12h00 we make our back to Johannesburg, bringing this unforgettable 3-Day Pilanesberg Safari to a close.
Please note that the suggested itinerary can change due to accommodation availability and is fully adaptable to be tailored to guest needs. Please note that the suggested itinerary can change due to accommodation availability and is fully adaptable to be tailored to guest needs.

 

Kruger Park River-to-River Safari - 10 Days

AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY - www.africanbushexperience.com

Dreaming of Africa and the ultimate Kruger National Park experience?
Join the AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY on a magical journey like no other as we explore the vastness of the Kruger National Park in all its splendour and glory.
  On this exclusive safari we focus our attention on the life giving river systems of the park. Celebrating eight rivers in 10-days!!! Our Kruger River-To-River Safari will take you on a journey through the Kruger Park from the Crocodile River in the south all the way to the mighty Limpopo River in the far North where you will get the opportunity to experience the Kruger Park at it's very best.

Highlights on this unique expedition includes… enjoying sundowners overlooking the CROCODILE RIVER on the first day, and in the days to follow - a thrilling night drive along the SABIE RIVER, an exciting early morning bush walk following the OLIFANTS RIVER, bushbraai on the banks of 　the LETABA RIVER, sunset drive in the floodplain's of the SHINGWEDZI RIVER, bush breakfast next to the LUVUVHU RIVER and ultimately a champagne celebration on the last day at the LIMPOPO RIVER in the North.

The AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY is well trained in all aspects of the park and our guides are there to grow any special interests you may have along the way. The Kruger River-To-River Safari is relaxed, easy going and most importantly focused on you and your experience.

Visiting Kruger is truly one of life's greatest experiences and we will make sure it is perfectly tailored to your needs and expectations.

KRUGER NATIONAL PARK: Pafuri Wilderness Safari

AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY - www.africanbushexperience.com

In the wildest and most remote part of the Kruger National Park lies a wilderness area waiting to be discovered…
Highlights on this 7- day safari with the AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY includes visiting the TROPIC OF CAPRICORN, enjoying sundowners overlooking the majestic LANNER GORGE, a 150m deep and 11km long sandstone gorge and home to the very rare Lanner and Peregrine Falcons. You will also get to explore the masterious FEVER TREE FOREST along the banks of the mighty Limpopo River, as well as CROOKS CORNER, the place where three countries, South Africa, Mozambique and Zimbabwe come tohether. Your guide will accompany you on exciting wildlife activities including daily game drives, bush walks, night drives and a bush braai around the campfire under star filled night skies...

Kruger Park BIG 5 Challenge

AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY - www.africanbushexperience.com

THE CHALLENGE:

Find and photograph the Big 5 in only 5 Days!!!

Africa’s BIG 5 - Lion, Leopard, Buffalo, Rhino & Elephant…you’ve seen them in books and on TV, now it’s time to come and see them in real life!!!

With the AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY we will take you off the beaten track straight into the heart of the African wilderness in search of these magnificent creatures going the extra mile to ensure that you get to experience Africa’s big game in their natural and untouched environment. 

Drakensberg Backpack Trail

AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY - www.africanbushexperience.com

The African Bush Experience Company invite you to join us on a 4-Day backpack trail exploring the magnificent 3 000 000 million years old Northern Drakensberg Mountain Range, also known as the Drakensberg Escarpment with it’s breathtaking Quartzite walls, cliffs, peaks and pinnacles that tower over the lowlands of the Limpopo Province.

The mountain range forms part of the Transvaal Supergroup with a general altitude at the base of 2000m while the higher regions rises & falls around 3000m. It stretches a phenomenal 1000 km from the Eastern Cape all the way through KwaZulu Natal and into the heart of the Limpopo Province.

This wilderness area of untouched beauty that we walk in forms part of a private game reserve that embraces more than 8000 hectares of malaria free, unspoiled African bushveld, located just outside the lovely town of Orighstad. The reserve is also home to free roaming Buffalo, Leopard, Sable Antelope, Tsessebe as well as an abundance of general wildlife.

TRAIL OVERVIEW:

After arrival trailists will be welcomed with a scrumptious meal and treated to a night of luxury at our on-site guest lodge. The next morning you will be on foot with your guide before sunrise after being dropped off at the designated starting point for a full day of exploration and discovery. Meals are provided and will be carried with us for Breakfast and Lunch. Later in the afternoon, as the sun sets, we set up camp and prepare ourselves for an exciting night sleeping under the stars and enjoying dinner around the campfire.

The following morning, after packing up and ensuring we leave nothing but our tracks behind, we continue venturing deeper into this “land of wonders” only to reach the pick-up point by mid afternoon from where we will be transported back to the lodge for a well deserved break, bath and rest.

Tonight we celebrate around a campfire sharing untold stories of memories never to be forgotten!!!

On the last morning trailists enjoy a full English breakfast before departing back home…

    

This is what awaits you on the Drakensberg Backpack Trail with the AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY!!!

 

 

African Game Ranger Experience - 7 Days

AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY - www.africanbushexperience.com

This practical, hands dirty, feet wet, 7-day program takes participants on an all inspiring journey into the life of a game ranger.

 

In the company of professional instructors you will experience the reality of living and working in the bush as an active member of a wildlife conservation team on one of our client reserves doing what game rangers do and contributing to conservation in Africa.

Seeing the Big 5 in South Africa on holiday is a must: but why not go deeper into your love for wildlife by actually making a hands-on contribution to conservation? This 7-day game ranger experience opens you up to life on a wildlife reserve. From reserve sweeping, anti poaching and fence patrols to ecological rehabilitation and animal health checks, all in a days work.

 

Not only does the experience give you an insight into the running of a reserve, it also lay a foundation for career development as various important conservation themes come under discussion. As part of the experience, our instructors will also give you insight into other important ecological aspects such as geology, weather, botany, animal identification and animal behaviour. Working alongside your instructors, you will help with wildlife monitoring, research programs, pest control, alien plant control, as well as various other day-to-day reserve tasks and duties.

 

This customized Game Ranger Experience Program is not only available to people wishing to enter the industry as professional game rangers, on the contrary, it is for anyone who wants to increase their knowledge of the African bush, is looking for a meaningful holiday experience or wants to make a contribution to conservation in Africa.

 

So whether you are still at school, you've just finished school and are on your gap year, study conservation and looking for the 'real' thing, are on your sabbatical and want to live the boy's dream, have taken a career break or are retired,... or anything? This wildlife game ranger program in South Africa is suitable and an amazing experience for all nature and conservation enthusiasts!

 

 

Pilanesberg Ancient Volcano Discovery - 5 Days

AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY - www.africanbushexperience.com

 

Join the AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY as we explore an extinct alkaline volcano in South Africa’s 4th largest Pilanesberg Game Reserve, now known as an “alkaline ring complex” ...it is one of only three of its kind in the world; One being in Greenland and the other in the former Soviet Union.

 

Some 1200 million years ago an enormous volcano towering 7000 metres (significantly higher than Africa’s highest point today, Mount Kilimanjaro in Kenya) overshadowed the otherwise featureless plains of the surrounding bushveld. This massive volcano eventually collapsed upon itself and weathered into four concentric rings which rise to 700 metres above the plains; a mere tenth of the original volcano height. The rocks forming the hills are the remains of magma pipes which once fed the volcano from deep below its summit. It is certainly the perfect example of these natural phenomena, making it the perfect expedition destination rivaling the majestic Ngorongoro crater in Tanzania.

 

Having 55,000 hectares (or 550 square km) to explore offers a huge landscape where one can see stunning wildlife in its natural habitat. From the “Big 5” to the “Small 5” the opportunity is tremendous and being so close to the “Gauteng metropolis” is a chance not to be missed.

The diversity of Pilanesberg is such that a number of landscapes and vegetation types occur here. As the reserve moves from the wet Lowveld vegetation to the dry Kalahari there are a number of game, tree and bird species that would never be found cohabiting an area and as such, the species here are incredibly varied and unique to other reserves within Southern Africa.

Geologically, Pilanesberg is hugely important due to the alkalinity of the material and there being a substantial amount of rare and unique minerals present. It is interesting to find Red, White, Green and Ledig Foyaite, Nepheline Syenite, Kimberlite, Fluorite and Uranium Tuff throughout the Park.

Part of the Pilanesberg’s considerable charm is the dramatic landscape – rocky ravines, rolling hills and a massive lake in the middle, called Mankwe, where the very heart of the volcano must have once been. There are grassland areas, hillsides, rocky places, wetlands and lakes – all these habitats mean the park supports a very wide variety of plants and animals. Along with the Big 5 there are Brown Hyaena, Serval, Caracal, Cheetah, Wild (Cape Hunting) Dogs, Hippo, Giraffe, Sable, Tsessebe and Eland. Those are just the mammals! There are numerous reptile species and amphibians as well as invertebrates a plenty.

With over 300 species of birds, on a game drive one is bound to see many of them and can particularly look out for the Crimson Breasted Shrike, Rufousnaped Lark and maybe a Gymnogene on the grassy hillslopes. One would also hope to see the ever-spectacular Lilac-breasted Roller, Pin-tailed Whydah and Blackshouldered Kite on the grasslands. And soaring above them all, you’ll see Black-breasted Snake Eagles, African Hawk-eagles and Verreaux’s Eagle. The more thickly wooded areas yield species like the Arrowmarked Babbler, various hornbills, the Marico Flycatcher, Chinspot Batis, and those small, delightful firefinches (Jameson’s and Redbilled in particular). Listen for the harmonious, liquid sounds of the Blackheaded Oriole, as well as the call of Africa – the resident African Fish Eagles around Mankwe dam. The camps are particularly bird friendly and many Glossy Starlings, Crested Barbets, Grey Louries, Crimson Breasted Shrikes and Hornbills can be seen. Just watch out for the Vervet Monkeys and Baboons who are known troublemakers in the camps.

 

Our guests on this safari enjoy 5 full days in the company of experienced guides exploring, discovering and appreciating this fascinating environment through daily game drives, bush walks and various other wildlife activities.  

 

This is your opportunity to come join the AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY as we indulge ourselves in the wonderland of one of Southern Africa’s hidden gems - the Pilanesberg Game Reserve!!!

 

 

Pilanesberg/Sun City Resort Safari - 4 Days

AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY - www.africanbushexperience.com

This safari is aimed at those who wish to experience Africa's BIG 5 in the malaria free Pilanesberg National Park. Combined with the game viewing is a day at the world famous  Sun City Resort - Africa’s Kingdom of Pleasure.

Sun City is internationally renowned as South Africa 's premier holiday resort offering a multitude of attractions and activities to keep everyone occupied, young and old.

 

YOUR ITINERARY:

• Day 1 & 2 - Johannesburg to Pilansberg National Park

Leaving Johannesburg you head towards the Malaria Free Pilansberg National Park. The park is 55.000 hectares in extent. It is almost perfectly circular because it comprises the area of a 1200 million years old volcano crater with a small lake in the centre. This very scenic terrain lies in the transition zone between Kalahari and Lowveld, and both types of vegetation are found here. The park is home to Africa's BIG 5 including a thriving Lion Population. Other animals that call the Pilansberg home include elephants, white and black rhinos, buffaloes, leopards, zebras, hyenas, giraffes, hippos and crocodiles. Over 300 bird species were counted.

Accommodation: Pilanesberg

• Day 3 - Pilansberg to Sun City

After getting your fill of game viewing you head a mere half and hour towards Sun City South Africa's premier Entertainment destination. Sun City Resort in the Pilanesberg is one of the most remarkable entertainment destinations in Africa.

This vast complex, nearly 20 km in circumference, is an enormous, opulent extravaganza of luxurious hotels, glittering entertainment centres, swimming pools, an artificial sea, restaurants, gaming rooms, shops, discos and extensive, beautifully landscaped grounds, rated among the world's most unusually conceived, and most lavish, inland resorts.

Accommodation: Sun City

• Day 4 - Sun City to Johannesburg

Departing from Sun City you head back to Johannesburg where your guide will drop you off at your desired destination.

 

 

Weekend Pilanesberg Escape - 3 Days

AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY - www.africanbushexperience.com

This 3 day safari will give you a vast overview of what Pilanesberg National Park has to offer. You will have an opportunity to explore the park through a number of axciting wildlife activities. Your 3 day safari will include a series of game drives, bush walks, relaxation at the lodge, scrumptious meals and a chance at coming across the famous Big 5.

The 3 days promises to be an adventure- packed yet relaxing experience that will show off all of Pilanesberg’s best features and will leave you wanting more.

 

YOUR ITINERARY:

• Day 1: Johannesburg to Pilanesberg National Park – South Africa

Leaving Johannesburg at about 11:00 on this safari we arrive at our lodge in the Pilanesberg National Park just in time for lunch. After lunch we are free to relax, enjoy afternoon tea and then embark on our first thrilling game drive.

We set off in search of Africa's Big 5, lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo and elephant, along with other wildlife. We travel in specialized safari vehicles ideal for great visibility and absorbing the sounds and smells of the bush.

Back at our lodge a delicious dinner is served, weather permitting, under an African night sky, littered with stars. Evening drinks can be purchased from the fully stocked bar, including an excellent selection of fine wines. 

• Day 2: Pilanesberg National Park – South Africa

We are up early and after a reviving cup of coffee or tea and snacks, we set out on a game drive. This is the best time of day for game viewing, as the animals are on the move eating and drinking before the heat of the day drives them to seek shade and rest.  Often there are sightings of lions still on the move after the previous night's hunt.

After our exciting start to the day we return to the lodge for a well deserved, mouth watering breakfast.  Then there's time to relax, nap, read, swim or have a pampering spa treatment until it's time for lunch at 14:00.

Lunch is followed by an afternoon game drive that continues into the early evening, for as the sun sets darkness falls quickly and the nocturnal animals are on the move.

Returning to the safari lodge, we freshen up and then enjoy a tasty al fresco dinner. The evening is spent around the campfire taking in the sounds of the African bush, recollecting the day’s wildlife sightings and relaxing under starry skies.

• Day 3: Pilanesberg to Johannesburg – South Africa

We set out early again on this, our last day, after some refreshing tea or coffee and snacks. After a rewarding game drive, viewing the animals at their most active, we return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast.

Departing from the lodge at about 12h00 we make our back to Johannesburg, bringing this unforgettable 3-Day Pilanesberg Safari to a close.

 

 

Pafuri Wilderness Safari - 7 Days

AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY - www.africanbushexperience.com

Our lodge is situated along the banks of the Luvuvhu River in the far north of the Kruger National Park.

 

The remote 24 000 hectare concession is the largest and most biodiverse in the Kruger Park with many species reaching the southernmost extent of their range here. As much as 75% of Kruger total biodiversity occurs here in an area only slightly more than 1% of its total size.

 

Sightings of species like nyala, eland, bushpig and Sharpe’s grysbok occur side by side with zebra, impala, wildebeest and warthog and the region’s large elephant herds enjoy the luxury of seasonal migration across the unfenced boundary of the Park with neighbouring Zimbabwe. Resident buffalo and white rhino, and a full complement of large predators, complete the association of megafauna viewed from game drive vehicles or on foot.

 

The northern border of the concession is comprised of 30km of Limpopo River frontage and associated riverine, fever tree forests, palm-studded floodplains and unique wetlands. The southern border is the perennial Luvuvhu River and its ribbons of lush riverine and fever tree forests flanked by acacia strewn plains.

 

Between the two rivers lies a mix of botanically rich sandveld, mopane woodland and scrub, combretum woodland, baobab dotted hillsides, spectacular kopjes and hidden freshwater springs.

 

Highlights on this safari includes visiting the majestic Lanner Gorge, a 150m deep and 11km long sandstone gorge and home to the very rare Lanner and Pergrine Falcons. You will also get to explore the masterious Fever Tree Forest as well as Crooks Corner, the place where three countries, South Africa, Mozambique and Zimbabwe come tohether. Your guide will accompany you on exciting wildlife activities including daily game drives, a bush walk, bush breakfast and a bush braai under the stat filled sky.

 

 

Kruger Park Big 5 Challenge - 5 Days

AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY - www.africanbushexperience.com

THE CHALLENGE: Find and photograph the BIG 5 in only 5 Days!!!

You’ve seen the Big Five in books and you’ve seen them on TV. But it’s time to come and see them for yourself. Even though you know that Africa and South Africa are so much more than the Big Five, the familiar images soon begin playing in your mind: lions roaring; elephants trumpeting; buffalos lurking in long grass; rhinos standing stately under a thorn tree; leopards prowling in the gathering darkness.

You’ve seen the Big Five in books and you’ve seen them on TV. But it’s time to come and see them for yourself.

THE REAL THING. IN PERSON!!!

And there’s no better place for this than the Kruger National Park, which offers the most exciting, memorable and exhilarating experience of your life – coming face to face with Africa’s Big Five.

How did these five animals – the lion, elephant, buffalo, rhinoceros and leopard – come to be called the Big Five?

It was originally a hunting term used by the so-called ‘great white hunters’ in the hunting heyday of the 19^{th and early 20th centuries, when professional hunters bagged as many trophies as possible in as short a time as possible.}

Considered a rite of passage for seasoned travellers, everybody from American presidents to European royalty and heads of state came to Africa to shoot a large, dangerous animal.

The Big Five quickly became known as the most dangerous animals to hunt on foot, and the name stuck – although now ‘shooting’ is done through a camera lens.

With the AFRICAN BUSH EXPERIENCE COMPANY we will take you off the beaten track straight into the heart of the African wilderness in search of these magnificent creatures going the extra mile to ensure that you get to experience Africa’s big game in their natural and untouched environment.