Although Tracy and I have visited Kruger Park before, we were only two in 1993 and only three in 2005, four counting my mom. In 2007, Catherine didn’t join us in Kruger, being only 11 months old. In 2009, we visited Addo Elephant National Park with Tracy’s sister Cynthia instead of Kruger. Several years ago when we first discussed the present sabbatical to Ghana and South Africa, we had it in mind to safari in Kruger Park again, this time as a family of four.
But you have to plan for adventure.
- About a year and a half ago, I started checking the SANParks website to determine how far in advance reservations can be made.
- About thirteen months ago, I nailed down the week of my course so that we could plan a Kruger trip around it.
- One year ago, I booked accommodation, night drives, and a sunrise experience, securing the reservations with a 50% down payment.
- Eleven months ago, I arranged for a night in Kgautswane on the way to the park.
- Three months ago from Ghana, I paid the remaining 50% of the reservation.
- Two months ago, we purchased plane tickets from Cape Town to Johannesburg.
- One month ago, Tracy reserved a car for her research trip and extended the rental for the family.
- Yesterday, I purchased a Wild Card and found driving directions to Bourke's Luck Potholes and God's Window.
- Today, the kids and I packed, Tracy went shopping for groceries in Joburg, and I checked in for our flights.
- Tomorrow, we're off.
Will it all be worthwhile?
—Matt
