The festive season is upon us, and for many travellers, both locals and those visiting from snowy far-flung destinations, the idea of a traditional Christmas at home is being traded for the allure of an unforgettable holiday in Africa.
If you’re dreaming of a Christmas surrounded by the beauty of nature, with the Kruger National Park as your backdrop, you’re in for a treat.
We have a how-to plan that you can use to organise the best Christmas when you’re away from home.
Choosing the Perfect Location
When planning for a Christmas close to the Kruger National Park, Hazyview is actually the ideal destination, when it comes to deciding on where it is that you are going to stay during your trip.
The town’s close proximity to the park offers that perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. You should begin your Christmas planning by booking your accommodation in Hazyview as early as possible, ensuring you have a comfortable and convenient home base for your holiday.
Tips for Accommodation in Hazyview
Hazyview has some truly beautiful places to stay. And you just need 2 tips when it comes to finding your ideal lodge.
Number 1 – Book Early
Given the immense popularity of the region during the holiday season, getting your accommodation booked as early as possible should be your first priority. Doing this not only guarantees that you and your family have a place to stay but it can also come with early bird discounts.
Number 2 – Explore All the Options
Hazyview boasts a range of accommodation, from cosy lodges to luxury resorts to budget friendly hotels. Depending on your preferences and budget, go online and look at all of the various options available. With so many places to stay, you will find the perfect fit. (We highly recommend using Umbhaba Eco Lodge in Hazyview. The lodge offers comfortable accommodation in a serene setting)
Tips for Packing for a Kruger Christmas
Packing for a holiday near the Kruger National Park requires a mix of practicality and some holiday flair. Here’s a checklist that you can use to ensure you have everything you need for the festive break:
Pack the Wildlife Essentials: The whole point of holidaying close to the Kruger is to go on a Kruger safari, so pack binoculars, a wildlife guidebook (if you are planning to drive yourself as opposed to booking a guided tour), and a good camera. You just never know when you might spot a herd of elephants or a pride of lions during your Christmas adventure.
Bring or Buy some Festive Decorations: Bring a touch of home by packing a few lightweight, travel-friendly decorations, or grab a few from the local shops to make your accommodation feel like Christmas. A mini Christmas tree, some twinkling lights, and a handful of ornaments will have the whole family feeling festive.
Don’t forget your Outdoor Gear: Whether you plan on exploring a nearby hiking trail or if you are only going to be enjoying a couple of game drives, you should pack comfortable walking shoes, hats, sunscreen, and insect repellent. A picnic set might also come in quite handy for an outdoor feast.
Arranging the Family for the Trip
One of the greatest challenges of a Christmas away from home is making sure that everyone is on board, but not bored. Here are some tips to ensure that the whole family gets to relax and have fun:
Start with a family Meeting: Before you get on the plane or climb in the car, gather the family for a pre-trip meeting to discuss expectations, activities, and any possible concerns. This will mean everyone has a say in the planning process, and no one will feel left out.
Assign the Responsibilities fairly: Next you should plan to share the load by assigning different responsibilities to family members. From planning meals to organising daily activities, distributing tasks ensures everyone contributes to the holiday rather than just leaving one person to handle it all and end up not having fun.
Why have a Kruger Christmas?
A Christmas in or close to the Kruger National Park is a decision you won’t regret. Getting to enjoy the utter beauty of the South African wilderness during the festive season provides a unique and memorable experience for the entire family. There will certainly be an abundance of memories to make.
This kind of festive holiday will give you and your family the chance to witness the majesty of wildlife, enjoy outdoor activities, and create completely new traditions.
So, pack your bags, book your accommodation in Hazyview, and prepare for Christmas like no other!
