Kruger National Park: From Dream Sleeps to Tracking Lions on Foot

When it comes to travel, it’s often the moments that stop you in your tracks that stay with you forever. In Kruger National Park, those moments come thick and fast — from tracking wildlife on foot to watching leopards prowl from a swimming  pool.

Today, we’re heading deep into one of Africa’s greatest wilderness areas to explore two very different but beautifully complementary ways to experience Kruger.

First, Jeremy Mabena, CEO of the Motsamayi Tourism Group, takes us to Kruger Shalati – The Train on the Bridge, one of the most unique places to stay anywhere in the world. Suspended above the Sabie River on a historic railway bridge, Kruger Shalati blends pioneering rail heritage with modern design, soulful luxury and a strong commitment to community empowerment.

Then, we leave the comfort of the train behind and head out on foot with Alex van der Heever, an expert tracker and director at Kruger Untamed. Alex introduces us to a wilder, more immersive safari — seasonal canvas camps, walking safaris, and learning the ancient art of tracking lions, buffalo and other wildlife through one of the most intact ecosystems on the planet.

This episode is a journey into raw wilderness, deep connection, and the people working to protect Kruger for generations to come.

Highlights include:

• Waking up on a century-old railway bridge that once carried some of the earliest visitors into Kruger National Park, and has now been reimagined as one of Africa’s most unique safari lodges

• Learning what it’s like to track lions on foot, and why tracking is one of humanity’s oldest sciences.

• Understanding how walking safaris change the way we see wildlife and ourselves, shifting the focus from sightings to connection and awareness.

• Exploring how both lodges support local communities through training, employment and conservation.

• Finding out one of the best Kruger National Park itineraries that blends authentic luxury with immersive adventure, and finding the inspiration for your next big trip.

FIND OUT MORE

Kruger Shalati – The Train on the Bridge
krugershalati.com
Instagram: @krugershalati

Kruger Untamed
krugeruntamed.com

Instagram: @krugeruntamed

Read the accompanying article, and see the photos at wanderlustmagazine.com/inspiration/chasing-sunrises-making-memories-what-to-expect-from-a-luxury-stay-at-kruger-national-park/

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CREDITS
This episode was produced by Armchair Productions, the audio experts for the travel industry.
Lyn Hughes and Laura Field introduce the show. Aaron Millar is the interviewer and script editor. Audio production by Charles Tyrie.