Mopani Rest Camp, in central Kruger National Park, is surrounded by trees of the same name. If you’re at the camp between December and March, keep a look out for the bright colourful worms which eat the leaves on the trees.
If you ever go to the rest camp, the first thing you’ll notice is the raw bush in the camp. While other rest camps have landscaped the bush, this one has not, and you really feel like you’re in the middle of the wilds of Kruger National Park as you walk through the camp.
The rest camp has a petrol station, shop and restaurant and the bar has a spectacular view over Pioneer Dam. A short drive from the camp will take you to the popular Pioneer Dam Bird Hide where you can while away some time checking out the aquatic and avian life.
Activities
The camp has a range of activities on offer, all of which need to be booked at the camp’s reception, either during your stay or in advance:
- Morning walk
- Sunset drive
- Night drive
- Bush braai (BBQ)
If you’re looking for something to do in a quiet moment, there’s also a nice trail walk that takes you around the camp. If you’re doing the trail walk at night, make sure you take a torch with you so you can clearly see your path.
Accommodation
If you want to stay at the rest camp, the following types of accommodation are available:
- Bungalows
- Cottages
- Guest houses
If the camp is your first stop in Kruger National Park, the closest gate is Phalaborwa Gate, 74km (46 miles) away. If however, you’re entering the park from the Limpopo National Park in Mozambique, Giriyondo Gate is a bit closer at 58km (36 miles) away.
12km (8 miles) north of the camp, is a great tourist landmark. If you’ve never been into the tropics, you’ll find the Tropic of Capricorn there! You’re even allowed out of your car to have your photo taken at the marker. Make sure you keep a sharp lookout for animals any time you’re out of your car in an unfenced place.
If you’re near the rest camp and looking for an alternative stopping point to get out of the car, stretch your legs or have lunch, Mooiplaas Picnic Spot is 6km (4 miles) away to the south.