Overlooking the Pioneer Dam in the northern Kruger National Park is a rest camp with a quiet, peaceful atmosphere, far from the traffic jams typical of the southern regions of the park. Views of the dam are best enjoyed at sunrise and sunset, when crocodile and hippo can be seen on the dam. Bird lovers will certainly enjoy the abundance of fascinating water birds at the dam as well.
There is a large network of roads surrounding the camp making for some fantastic game viewing opportunities from the camp. Be sure to be on sharp look-out at all times, as leopard are a common sighting in the area. Although the region around Mopani is not known for its abundance of game, there are some rare antelope species that occasionally make themselves visible in this region: Tsessebe, Roan antelope and Eland are some of the more ‘talked-about’ sightings here.
Be sure not to miss out on a meal and a sundowner at the Lady’s Bar restaurant in the camp, which overlooks the Pioneer dam. It’s the perfect way to tip off another gorgeous day in Africa; and share a ‘cheers’ with the animals who’ve come along for a drink as well. Also, don’t miss out on the in-camp trail, which winds through the interesting landscape in the camp, through vegetation that has been left untouched. The trail includes a stop at the large, heavily kneaded Baobab tree for which the camp is well-known. Bookings and info
Getting there: From Gauteng, take the N1 toll-road to Polokwane (Pietersburg). 4km before Polokwane turn right onto the R71 and head for Tzaneen. After Tzaneen, head towards Phalaborwa and the gate. Allow between 6 to 7 hours for the trip to the gate. Mopani camp is approximately 74km away from the gate. Allow about 3 hours for the drive to the camp
| More on the quaint town of Phalaborwa | More on the Valley of the Olifants area |
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