Reserves near Kruger in July
 

Hi Everyone,
I'm brand new to Fodor's and to traveling in Africa. I have a few questions and hope you can help. I plan on going this July and staying at Djuma Bush Lodge and Kings Camp. Can anyone share their thoughts/personal experiences about either of these places?
Now, for the naive questions. I understand it is winter in July and can get "cold" at night. What exactly does this mean? Do I need to pack a winter jacket? Do rooms at private reserves have heat? (I know they have AC). Or, do I sleep in layers and layers? I'm somewhat concerned b/c I can only pack 33 pounds worth. I can't wait to go - am eagerly preparing.

Anyone?

Mousefan,

Yes, you will want a winter coat. It can be quite cool or even cold in the early morning when you leave on your gamedrive. I also like to have gloves and a fleece hat or handband since I get cold easily. Remember you will be in an open vehicle with the wind blowing against you. Just a fleece coat doesn't keep me warm in the open vehicle, so I also wear a gortex over the fleece in the mornings.
It is usually quite nice during the day, that is, it warms up more quickly during the day than in most U.S. climates.
If your camps have AC, then I believe they will probably also have heat you can use in the morning if necessary. You are generally a little rushed in the morning for the early morning game drive, so not much time to worry about getting cold in your suite in the morning. During the winter months, a lot of people take their showers in the late morning or early afternoon between game drives when the temps are warmer.

I don't believe there are many reports about either of these camps, but here is one fairly recent that included Kings Camp.

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34882989

mousefan: not my direct experience but I have very good friends who stayed at King's Camps -- they were very pleased with it and said there was animals at every turn, just outstanding game viewing.

I have my fotos from Kings Camp posted on kodakgallery
this is the link, don't know if it will work, otherwise send me an email and I'll share my fotos with you

[email protected]

http://www.kodakgallery.com/BrowsePh...&ownerid=0