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In South Africa, there is no white Christmas, but there are some exceptionally magical places to spend the holidays, including the bush.
Some people prefer to spend the holidays along the coast, but I'd rather take a trip to the magical Kruger National Park. The serenity of being surrounded by lush and vast landscapes just waiting to be explored is inexplicable.
READ: Photos: The mesmerising magic of the Kruger National Park
If you’re still undecided about where to spend your Christmas, the Kruger National Park is a that special place where great memories are made.
Sarah Watson, at Kruger Gate Hotel, shares a few reasons the park should be on your to-do list this festive season and I couldn’t agree more:
Dine under the stars
The African sky is a mesmerising painting that comes to life at night. Glittery stars dot the sky while the nocturnal animals provide the perfect evening song as you dine under the stars with a crackling fire at the centre of the boma.
“There is something pretty extraordinary about being able to dine under a starry African sky,” says Watson.
Kruger Gate Hotel has a few special dining occasions planned for the holidays, including a Christmas dinner and New Year’s Eve dinner for guests.
“Those in the area wanting to enjoy a Christmas meal with us can join us for a delicious lunch,” Watson says.
READ: Dashiki | Nature and pleasure meet at Kruger park
Those staying in the Kruger National Park and surrounding areas who are not able to get to a hotel for a meal should consider a Christmas night braai. There is little to no light pollution in the area, so the stars look extra bright. Just imagine it: a jolly braai with your loved ones while taking in the glory of the Milky Way.
Enjoy bird and baby season
Having recently visited the Kruger National Park, it was an absolute delight to marvel at the summer babies in the park. This makes for an even more exciting game drive.
With the warmer weather comes blue skies, lush landscapes and migratory birds. If you’re not big on birding, take a game drive with someone who is and you may find yourself converted. The Kruger National Park is home to more than 500 species of birds. On my recent trip, we spotted dozens of exciting birdlife, including the Woodlands Kingfisher, a white-fronted bee-eater, a breeding pair of Bateleur eagles, secretary birds, vultures and many more – some spectacularly colourful and others large and mighty.
Royal treatment awaits
Having stayed at various hotels, lodges and tented camps in the Kruger National Park, one thing is for sure: you’ll be treated to warm hospitality.
Watson says: “We always ensure that we treat every guest like a VIP, no matter the time of the year. But we do try to make it extra special when guests stay with us during the festive months. We know that many have travelled far to have a magical Kruger National Park Christmas, and that some have left loved ones at home in order to spoil themselves with a memorable festive season.”
Support local communities
Hotels in the Kruger National Park are great at creating employment opportunities for residents of nearby communities. If you are looking for a magical and impactful way to spend your Christmas and festive season, the Kruger National Park might be exactly what you need.
Serenity at its best
Tranquility abounds in the park and after a long and busy year, there isn't a better holiday destination to unwind.
So, leave behind the hustle and bustle of the city in exchange for a breath of fresh air, and take a moment to pause and soak up the magical splendour of this South African tourism gem.
