It’s a holiday of a lifetime, so take it when you feel your mind and body is ready to enjoy every minute of the splurge. We are talking about the internationally renowned Kruger National Park, which boasts of the most diverse game viewing experience in Africa. A vast expanse of 2 million hectares of unrivalled diversity of life forms which gives you the smell and feel of the real Africa, up and close.

“ The park was established in 1898 to protect the wildlife of the South African Lowveld and is a world leader in advanced environmental management techniques and policies,” said our friends Chander and Prema who had moved to SA for a work stint of ten years.

The show piece of the South African national parks, Kruger is home to an impressive number of species: of trees, fish, amphibians, reptiles, brilliantly plumaged birds and of course what we had come to see its majestic mammals.
There were also ancient bushman rock paintings, which are treasures we were lucky to view along with the park's natural assets

No holiday can be fun unless the accommodation is upto scratch. We have visited several national parks in the world and none can match what Kruger National Park has to offer. The vast landscapes and spectacular African wildlife. Enjoy thrilling game drives and walking safaris – find out what it is like to be close to a pride of Lions, elephants or even Giraffe. You will feel the excitement and intensity of a South African safari and its nothing like you have ever experienced before.

We found a lot of young newly weds setting out on life's greatest journey together in the African wilderness. You can choose between sheer opulence , closeness to nature, tranquil seclusion or engaging curiosity. It’s really up to you to decide which suits you both best. You don’t have to be racing out all day and night to see the animals.

You can indulge in spa treatments, champagne baths or just a simple fireside romance. We chose a romantic getaway, set in lush surroundings alongside the Sweni River. Raised on stilts, the luxury suites are arranged in an open plan style with polished wooden decks and floor to ceiling glass walls. We liked the stilt concept as it gives one a panoramic view of the river.We felt intimately connected to nature at all times as the tree branches brushed against the sit out. Our view looked out over a lush river pool and often we could watch the hippos bask in the sun. From your viewing deck, gaze at the stars and spend the night on the day beds or take an outdoor shower together , overlooking the river.

We could also smell the aromas of countless roses that grow on the grounds and we enjoyed, specially prepared baths filled with rose petals to soothe away all the kinks of the day.

The Kruger gives you opportunities to create wonderful memories in abundance. We indulged in blissful meals, exceptional service and cosy conversation round the fireplace in the main lodge with the other guests if we wanted to interact. It was only in the cool of morning that we set off on a Big Five game drive or bush walk with our professional ranger. For those who like a cool dip in the spectacular pool, I loved just lying on my back and enjoying watching the birds going home to roost in fascinating V formations!

But what we enjoyed most of all were the gourmet candlelit dinners, which made our romantic retreat really memorable. Another must do is take the hot air balloon adventure. Gliding silently over the spectacular Panoramic route is a once in a lifetime experience!