Considering to stay at The Wild Olive Tree Camp near Kruger National Park? This review covers my experience and how to make the most of it by partaking in several Kruger National Park activities.
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Table of Contents
- Intro
- Recommended Kruger Tours & Activities
- Staying at The Wild Olive Tree Camp
- Kruger National Park Experiences
- South Africa Travel Guides
- Final Words: Worth It!
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Intro
Kruger National Park has open savannas and iconic wildlife, but staying at The Wild Olive Tree Camp near Orpen Gate makes the experience even more meaningful. This camp offers incredible access to the park and also provides opportunities to engage with local culture and conservation. This review will go over my experience staying at The Wild Olive Tree Camp as well as the Kruger National Park experiences I partook in.
Recommended Kruger Tours & Activities
Book unforgettable experiences and check out the below recommended Kruger tours, activities and attractions that are mentioned throughout this post:
- Protrack Training Academy
- Village Tour
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
Staying at The Wild Olive Tree Camp
The Wild Olive Tree Camp is a rustic tented camp located just outside Kruger’s Orpen Gate. The tents, or maybe more accurately yurts?) are simple yet comfortable. They have en-suite bathrooms, cozy beds, and mesh windows that let you feel truly close and immersed in nature without sacrificing comfort.
Note that there is no A/C in the tents though, so the windows are usually open to allow airflow in. However, they are able to be closed from the outside to prevent unwanted onlookers into the tent (especially if you want privacy in the en-suite bathroom). There’s also an onsite pool where you can cool off after a long day spotting wildlife.
In the evenings, guests can sit together and eat a delicious hearty meal at the community long table. You eat in an open-air yet covered area where you can eat next to nature. After dinners, the campfire is lit and drinks served at a small bar. A perfect way to end any day spent in Kruger National Park.
Kruger National Park: The Wild Olive Tree Camp • photos by Jeanie A
Kruger National Park Experiences
Game Drives: Morning & Sunset
No trip to Kruger is complete with a morning game drive, and at The Wild Olive Tree Camp, you can enjoy two of them! At sunrise, light snacks, tea and coffee is served before getting on the safari truck.
On the drive through Kruger, the guide helped us track for animals, from elephants to the common antelopes. The cool morning air and soft light of morning is also the best time of day for photography and wildlife encounters.
In contrast to a morning game drive, a sunset game drive offers a bit of a different scene. The day starts to cool and the animals begin to come out again, especially near water sources. About half-way through, we stopped to have a drink (aka sundowner) and we were pleasantly surprised by a herd of elephants wander near us. Definitely a memory I’ll never forget.
Each drive was unique where we quickly learned that no two safaris are ever the same.
Anti-Poaching Experience
One of the most impactful activities I did was join an anti-poaching experience. An anti-poacher ranger guided us through the park where we learned firsthand about the very real threats rhinos face and other endangered species like the pangolin. They went over their efforts to protect wildlife and we got to meet the smart and brave dogs who help alongside too.
This experience was a chance to walk in the bush, understand the rangers’ tracking methods, and see the real challenges on the frontline of conservation. It’s really an eye-opening experience that will give any safari true depth and perspective. You will also gain the utmost respect for the vital work to safeguard South Africa’s incredible yet vulnerable wildlife.
Eco-Village Experience
Beyond the wildlife, The Wild Olive Tree Camp also can connects guests to a nearby eco-village where you can learn about this community’s traditions, daily life, and sustainability project. This cultural exchange definitely offers a richer understanding of the people who live alongside Kruger. The experience is authentic where you get to see local artisan work, learn about farming practices, and even see how the locals live.
South Africa Travel Guides
🗺️ 6 Attractions You’ll Love In Cape Town, South Africa
🐧 Perfect Day Trip Itinerary Around the Cape Peninsula from Cape Town
Final Words: Worth It!
Visiting Kruger National Park is unforgettable on its own, but staying at The Wild Olive Tree Camp adds purpose to your safari. Between thrilling game drives, a powerful anti-poaching experience, and meaningful time in the eco-village, you’ll leave not only with incredible photos but also a deeper appreciation of the connections between wildlife, people, and conservation. Bon Voyage!
Did you visit Kruger National Park and/or stay at The Wild Olive Tree Camp?
What was your experience like – Let me know in the comments below!
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