Shishangeni by BON Hotels, located on a private concession within the Kruger National Park, has expanded its offering to include Shishangeni Bush Walks.

There are early-morning and afternoon game drives with an expert guide in the Big Five reserve, and with more than 500 species of birds for birding enthusiasts, the recently introduced bush walks bring guests closer to nature.

“It’s always a pleasure to introduce guests to walking in the bush for the first time – the animal tracking, spotting and approach is so beautiful that the feeling is beyond any explanation, but witnessing their awe and wonder is something to behold,” comments Promise Silinda, Shishangeni’s Head Ranger.

According to the lodge, the sunrise walk is the most popular, ending with a bush breakfast as the sun rises. Alternatively, the afternoon walk includes a light snack break which is provided by Shishangeni along the way.

Accompanying guests are two highly trained armed guides, one positioned ahead and one behind. Together the guides lead groups in single-file formation, an arm’s length apart from each other to ensure safety at all times. A briefing is given before venturing out.

Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes, long pants, neutral colours and no shiny jewellery. Talking on the walk in not recommended, and guests are cautioned to not shout. Silinda advises: “To stop the group you must use natural sounds like a low whistle or tap lightly against your hip, softly clap your hands or snap your fingers.”

Shishangeni Lodge’s General Manager, Siyanda Zindela, says it is striving to create the optimum balance between people and the environment while having a minimal impact on the surrounding habitat.  “These bush walks enable guests to connect with nature more so than ever before and once they have ‘taken a walk on the wild side’ and been bitten by the love of the bush, there’s simply no cure for that – they always come back for more.”