We’re proud to launch our second edition #SafariChat blog post with the charismatic Chris Erasmus! Today, Chris chats about his personally hosted package to Leopard’s Lair in the Greater Kruger’s game-rich conservation area called Pridelands. The reserve is known for its wild dog and cheetah population, as well as the Big 5. Wildlife thrives in this biodiverse area comprising bushveld terrain and knobthorn woodlands dotted with waterholes.
Fondly referred to as “catman”, Chris has a knack of finding big cats in the wild. Also, he is a renowned Kruger safari specialist who has spent the past 22 years guiding in the Lowveld.
Without further ado, here is Chris’s insight into his hosted safari package.
Why do you believe guests should embrace the “go hosted” experience?
The advantage of a hosted package is that, firstly, you know beforehand who will host you. The Pridelands safari package is hosted, and personally guided by myself. Over the last 2 years I gained a deep seated knowledge and relationship with Pridelands.
What’s the standout feature of this package that you personally love?
A chance to experience Pridelands, it’s spectacular views and wildlife characters (as seen on Wildearth), with none other than Chris ‘The Catman’ himself! Absolute freedom – whether looking for cats, or tracking something by foot.
Can you give us a glimpse of what a typical day looks like?
An early wakeup, meeting for a hot beverage in the Lodge, thereafter departing to Pridelands gate ( 10 minute drive). There morning safari awaits in an open safari vehicle. During the morning safari, we will stop for a lovely coffee break. Then, we return to camp mid morning, followed by a scrumptious breakfast.
An option to go on a guided bushwalk after breakfast in the Hoedspruit Wildlife estate is a great opportunity to get close encounters with the resident wildlife. Mid afternoon lunch is served, after which we depart back to Pridelands again for an afternoon/ Sunset Safari, including a sundowner stop with a breathtaking view. This is followed by a hearty dinner upon returning to the lodge.
What are some of your top wildlife encounters and sightings in Pridelands?
Seeing a pangolin on a bushwalk was a definite highlight. Several sightings of leopard and lion, and even Ezulwini, the well known large elephant bull with his incredible tusks.
In your opinion, what makes Pridelands special?
Pridelands is special, since it’s one of the most recent additions to the Greater Kruger Park, therefore animal can roam free without being handicapped by fences. Home to good game numbers, a very special safari destination . It’s also used to be one of the Wildearth locations, well known worldwide.
Where do guests usually enjoy their dinners?
Dinners will be served at Leopards Lair Bush lodge , where the guests reside. This will either be in the spacious dinning area indoors, and if weather permits , outdoor along a campfire.
Are bush breakfasts and sundowner stops part of the experience – any cool added value activities?
Bush breakfasts can be arranged, although we want to spend the time utilizing Pridelands for game viewing. However, there is an opportunity for sundowners on every evening safari. Exciting activities can include substituting a game drive with a ‘tracking’ experience, where we track and find one of the Big 5 on foot.
Can you recount a memorable and unique moment with guests and wildlife?
One one safari last year, our guests had the privilege to see the Pixie Pan female, a well known leopard in the area, within the 1st 10 minutes of their very first game drive on Pridelands! And even better, we were able to spend more than an hour with her as she was moving around.
What’s your advice for guests preparing for a hosted safari package?
My advice is to keep regular contact with your host, ask as many questions as you wish, prior to the safari, in order for us to fine-tune all aspects of the hosted package.