South Africa: Your feedback on luggage safety

Hi, we’re planning to take the scenic route back from Kruger Park (Orpen Gate) but we’ll have our two travel bags in the trunk. In some countries, there’s no rear shelf to hide the trunk. I don’t know how it works in SA—what do you think?

We have the same concern because we’d like to do the Leopard Trail, but we’ll have our stuff with us too. We’re wondering if leaving the car in the parking lot where the trail starts is somewhat monitored or not. Thanks for your feedback!

PS: Is the Kruger section starting from Orpen Gate any good? Thanks a bunch!

Hi Except for exceptions, it’s okay during the day I always buy a cloth or something to cover things just in case Obviously, don’t leave anything visible Also, don’t flaunt your valuables when opening or closing the trunk Often, there are "employees" who watch the cars Don’t forget that 10 rand is about 50 cents in euros Anyway They won’t risk their lives for your car But still Often, they’re employed or at least registered for their activity At the start of trails Those that are isolated There have been problems In the Vosges too… Thirty years ago, my car was broken into I could see them very well from where I was Very high up Orpen is a small camp But Iroen Satara is the area for lions…

Thanks for your feedback. Regarding Orpen, we're hesitating—I saw it’s for lions, but we won’t be staying in the park (we leave in 2 weeks and just booked our flight tickets, so no availability left). The question is this: after that, we’ll spend 4 days around Paul Kruger Gate and Phabeni Gate.

Should we try to go up for a full day at Orpen and sleep afterward, or not? :)

My opinion, but your trip.

You’re in the southern part, the magic square. Skukuza is famous for leopards, while around Berg-en-Dal you’ll find other animals.

Stick around this area, maybe with a trip north and a lunch stop at Tschokwane.

So yeah, stay in this area.

Thanks for your feedback! Otherwise, we’re hesitating between going up to Orpen Gate or heading to Malelane Gate instead—entering there and making our way up to Phabeni Gate by the end of the afternoon. Thanks again for your input!

It’s doable, but don’t forget: Every hour in the park is precious—prioritize the golden hours. One hour after opening and one hour before closing.