Kapama Experience

EXPLORING THE WILD

Kapama has a variety of ways for you to explore our beautiful landscapes and wildlife. Our twice-daily game drives and educational bush walks are an essential part of the Kapama experience.

Embarking on a safari adventure is an exhilarating journey into the heart of the wild, where the extraordinary unfolds at every turn.

GAME DRIVES

Twice-daily game drives are included for all guests. Drives are led by a skilled guide and assistant guide on the same vehicle. Kapama was one of the first safari lodges to offer such a dynamic and qualified team to enhance guests' wildlife experience. Encountering (any or all!) of the Big Five (Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Buffalo and Elephant) is highly probable during your Kapama stay.

There are hundreds of other species of animals to spot so the early morning and early evening game drives are the best way to start and end the day. With approximately 350 bird species recorded on the reserve, bird enthusiasts are also spoilt for choice.

Early morning and early evening are the best time of day for game viewing. Spotting an elusive bat-eared fox retiring for the day, a dazzle of zebras starting their day or hearing the call of guineafowl as the day comes to an end means two game drives are never the same and offer different experiences at different times. What you see in the morning, afternoon or evening will be different from season to season and day to day.

MORNING SAFARI

5:00 wake-up call
5:30 meet for tea, coffee, homemade pastries and fresh fruit
6:00 depart from the main entrance of the lodge where guides will escort guests to their game vehicle
Mid-drive stop for hot drinks, homemade rusks and biscuits at a lookout point, watering hole or designated area in the reserve. Your guide and assistant guide always know the best place to stop
9:00 return to the lodge after an approximate 3-hour drive for a full breakfast

AFTERNOON SAFARI

16:00 gather for refreshments and light snacks
16:30 depart from the main entrance of the lodge
Mid-drive stop for drinks and snacks
19:30 arrive back at the lodge with time to freshen up before dinner
20:00 dinner is served

BUSH WALKS

Our interactive and personal bush walks are included. There are a few of the finer things of nature that can be missed on a game vehicle so putting on your walking shoes and stepping into the reserve will get you up close and personal to interesting aspects of the wild unseen from the safari vehicle.

Under the guidance of a qualified and skilled trails guide and assistant guide, small groups (up to 8 guests) are taken into the reserve and shown how to look for animals using traditional tracking skills such as footprints, spoor patterns and scent marking. Our guides’ knowledge and experience extend to pointing out various plants that are used for their medicinal value. Look down and marvel at the world that is underfoot with the abundance of insects and creatures so often overlooked.

As we walk through the bush and uneven terrain we suggest guests who would like to participate have a basic level of fitness.

WEATHER & ATTIRE

Summer months in South Africa extend from October to March and during this time summer rainfall is experienced. The area receives about 550mm of rain every year. Afternoons are often characterized by thunderstorms which can last up to an hour or so, followed by clear skies. Come rain or shine, game drives are never canceled because of the weather and we supply rain ponchos for use on game drives. The lodge is supplied with umbrellas for guests to make use of.

Summers are warm to extremely hot and daytime temperatures can reach highs of up to 42°C (108°F). Early mornings (and sometimes the evenings) can be cooler and reach lows of 20°C (68°F) so remember to pack a light jacket and warm cap. By noon, temperatures are hot and are suited to cool, short-sleeve shirts and shorts – light cotton fabric is best. You won’t need much more than a bathing suit for lying around the pool and cooling off. Swimming towels are provided and umbrellas are set up around the pool area to provide maximum protection from the sun.

The African heat is intense and the sun’s rays are harsh so always wear a high-protection factor sunblock, along with lip balm and sunglasses. Insect repellent will keep creepy crawlies at bay but game-drive vehicles do carry repellent for your use.

Pack your neutral and light-colored clothing so you blend in better with the surrounding environment. Khaki, beige, brown and green draws the least amount of attention and distraction when out on game drives. Darker and brighter colors can attract unwanted mosquitoes and insects.

As Kapama is rich with wildlife, birds and an array of flora, be sure to pack in binoculars, and a camera. Bring along a spare pair of your prescription spectacles or contact lenses if yours are mislaid or broken. Eagle eyes are mandatory for good game-spotting! Ensure that you have sufficient contact lens-cleaning lotion as the dusty outdoor environment can mean lenses need to be cleaned more frequently.

Pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes in for going on a bush walk and a pair of slip-on shoes or sandals to wear around the lodge or to meals. Meals are informal so no formal dresses or suits are required.

Electricity at Kapama is on a 220-volt alternating current system. Wall-plug units take a round two-prong European plug but it is advisable to bring the necessary converter or adapter from your home country to charge cameras, laptops and phones. International adapters are available for purchase at the lodge. For those with cameras, remember to pack a telephoto lens and a video camera, along with all the necessary plugs, chargers and memory cards.

EXPERIENCE

As a first-time guest at Kapama Private Game Reserve, our staff would like to offer you some advice to enhance your experience:

Embrace the Wildlife: Keep an open mind and immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. Remember that wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, but each encounter is a unique and incredible experience. Be patient, observant, and appreciative of the diversity of wildlife that Kapama has to offer.
Listen to your Guides: Our experienced guides are passionate about wildlife and the reserve. They possess a wealth of knowledge about animals, their behaviour, and the ecosystem. Pay attention to their instructions, ask questions, and trust their expertise to make the most of your game drives and bush walks
Respect Nature and Wildlife: Kapama is a protected environment, and it’s crucial to respect wildlife and their habitat. Adhere to the guidelines provided by your guides and the reserve management. Maintain a safe distance from animals, avoid disturbing their natural behaviour, and never feed or approach them on your own. By respecting the wildlife, you contribute to their well-being and conservation
Never miss a game drive: There are early mornings and you may be tempted to skip a safari. Each time you go out on a drive you will discover something new and fascinating about nature, wildlife, your guide and our beautiful county South Africa
Disconnect and Reconnect: Kapama offers a chance to disconnect from the fast-paced world and reconnect with nature. Embrace the opportunity to be fully present during your safari experience. Consider minimizing the use of electronic devices to fully appreciate the sights, sounds, and serenity of the reserve.
Indulge in Local Cuisine: Kapama takes pride in its culinary offerings. Don’t miss the opportunity to savour the flavours of South Africa. Our chefs prepare delicious meals using locally sourced ingredients, offering a taste of the region’s vibrant culinary heritage.
Capture Memories: Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the magic of your safari adventure. The wildlife, landscapes, and special moments deserve to be documented, allowing you to relive the experience long after your visit.

Kapama is situated in a low-risk malaria area but we suggest that guests take necessary precautions and consult with their healthcare professionals for guidance.