The best lodges for Walking Experiences in South Africa

There is something unique about experiencing the African bush on foot. It's an exhilarating experience being guided by a ranger and knowing that at any moment you could encounter something big! Stop and look at the small details, focus on tracks and experience new terrain - something completely different to what happens when you're on the back of a vehicle.

Luxury, excitement and the adventure of a life time await you when you travel on foot through the bush!

The Game Lodge Index has a few recommendations for memorable walks (either in the place of a game drive or as a complete walking safari)

Rhino Walking Safaris: Plains Camp

Rhino Walking Safaris: Plains Camp

Plains Camp is found in the only private wilderness area concession in the Kruger National Park. The 12000 hectare concession is situated between the perennial Sabi River and the renowned Mala Mala Game Reserve with large numbers of wildlife moving freely between them. 

Plains Camp is the perfect destination for active people looking for a more adventurous and down to earth experience however because the day involves mostly walking a certain level of fitness is required. The camp can accommodate up to eight people making it a great choice for groups and families however only children over the age of twelve are allowed.

!Xaus Lodge in the Kgalagadi Transfronteir Park

Owned and run by the Khomani San and Mier communities, !Xaus (the “!” represents a vocal click in the San language, but can also be pronounced as a K) Lodge blends into the Kalahari landscape and creates a window into the lifestyle of two very friendly cultures.

!Xaus Lodge will take guests on sunset and night game drives, guided walks and a visit to the modern bushman village to watch them make their crafts.

Africa on Foot 

 Africa on Foot is a safari company operating walking and game drive safaris in a remote area of the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve. The camp is a traditional family-run bush camp where the atmosphere is relaxed and the facilities suitably rustic.
Africa on Foot is ideal for people looking for a safari experience where the activities are split fairly evenly between outdoor walking and game drives. It is suitable for active couples and small groups looking for an authentic and rustic safari experience with no frills at affordable rates – offering excellent value for money.

Transfrontiers Walking Safaris

Transfrontier Walking Safaris is an adventurous form of experiencing the African bush with the main focus being guided walking trails though the Klaserie Game Reserve. 
 Fit and adventurous people will find this to be the perfect getaway while the general nature lovers will not be disappointed.

Mashovhela Lodge

Mashovhela Lodge is an affordable lodge tucked away in a luscious valley in the Soutpansberg mountain range in the northern Limpopo province.
Mashovhela is suitable for both young and old who are looking for a personal nature or cultural experience. Hikers, birders and plant enthusiasts will be truly impressed by this little reserve and the fascinating Soutpansberg area as a whole.

Kalahari Trails

Kalahari Trails is a privately owned nature reserve located just outside the Kgalagadi Transfronteir Park and has a selection of affordable self catering accommodation and camping options.

The 3500 hectares of land that Professor Rasa owns, is home to various antelope species and around 200 bird species. Having studied with the local Bushmen, she is qualified to take guests on walks where animals are tracked and age-old methods of hunting and gathering are explained. Kalahari Trails is the only place in this desert where night walks are offered and this is a chance to see the night-active animals under the guidance of an expert biologist (these are only available in summer months). The reserve does not have any dangerous game and it is safe for guests to walk around and explore the surroundings on their own however, due to the sensitive nature of the dune landscape, self drives are not permitted. While it is not a typical safari getaway, the Kalahari is the experience of a life time.