December and January are the peak months of the summer in South Africa. The rains finally arrive, and bushveld bursts with new life.
It’s the rutting season for Impalas, and the dust of the males’ scuffles and sounds of their clashing horns fills the warm air. Soon, thousands of lambs are born over just a few days, swelling the herds, and putting the adults on high alert. With the dry grasses turned green, lush and long, there’s plenty of cover for Lions, Spotted Hyena, Leopard, Cheetah and African Wild Dogs on the hunt. They too, have young to raise this time of year.
It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise – the summer migrants have arrived, and their territorial displays and nesting activities are on full display. Colourful species such as the Woodland Kingfisher, the Carmine Bee-eater and the Eurasian Golden Oriole flash brilliance across the woodlands. Wahlberg’s Eagle and Yellow-billed Kite take to skies, and visiting songsters such as Red-chested, African Emerald and Diderick Cuckoos add to the beauty of the summer symphony.
Heat intensifies through the day, but it’s a welcome chance to take a break between game drives and relax under the shade of the huge Jackalberry trees at the Pool Bar & Viewing Deck or at the dedicated family pools. Here, with a long, cool drink and a wood-fired pizza, you can siesta around the infinity pool and take in the unique view of the Sabie River.
When evening arrives, the air turns balmy as guests gather in the Lapa Restaurant for a fireside African feast. With glittering stars overhead, the sounds of the night begin – the roars of Lions and cackling of Spotted Hyenas, the melodies of nightjars and gentle hooting of owls, reminding you exactly where you are.
December and January are two of the most exciting months to be in the Kruger. Rooms fill fast. Book your safari at Kruger Gate Hotel now and experience the vibrance of mid-summer in the Park. Book here