General Information
Introduction
Before the turn of the century, the lure of gold brought men from all corners of the world to Southern Africa. Sir Percy Fitzpatrick, author of the animal classic, Jock of the bushveld was one of these.
They passed through some of Africa’s most scenic untamed wilderness. It is in this area that Jock Safari Lodge is based with our southern boundary being the old wagon route from Delgoa Bay into the gold fields of the interior. Today the wilderness experience we offer is unchanged from these early times. It is in an area noted for its diversity in game, particularly the BIG FIVE.
Jock Safari Lodge incorporates the romance and elegance of the past colonial era, and reflects in its unique style the indigenous Zulu and Shangaan cultures.
This luxurious lodge is situated in the southern area of the KNP at the confluence of the Mitomeni and Biyamiti rivers, half way between Skukuza and Malelane. It is approximately 35 km to the Skukuza airstrip and 150km to the Kruger International Mpumulanga airport in Nelspruit.
Magnificent trees and an abundance of bird life surround the Lodge. From here our two track roads take you into 6000 ha of exclusive traversing in the first private concession set in over 2 million hectares of KNP. The lodge is easily accessible by road, just over 5 hours drive from Johannesburg, or 1 hour Skukuza and 2 hours from Kruger International airports.
Jock is located in a malaria area, but incidents are very low. Guests are advised to take precaution though.
Why Choose Jock Safari Lodge
Jock is the home in the Kruger Park you have always wanted. Step into the welcoming arms of a lodge with character, people with heart and the bushveld alive with possibility. We are the comfortable, relaxed knowledgeable safari experience you have been wanting to take. And what's more...
6000 hectare, private concession within the world renowned Kruger National Park
At Main Jock there are the luxurious suites with private plunge pools & salas - overlooking the river. The lodge is on the confluence of two rivers (Biyamiti & Mitomeni River)
Little Jock offers the privacy, intimacy and peace that just 3 suites can offer – with own chef, waitress and ranger. It is like having your very own lodge in the bush.
Fully equipped spa with a sauna, steam room & hydrotherapy bath
Walking safaris to some of the oldest Bushmen rock art in Africa -approx 3000 years old
Only 6 guests per game vehicle.
Child friendly -Older than 7 years able to go on game drives
Relive one of South Africa’s cultural heritages through the story of Jock of the Bushveld. Original momentos can be found at the lodge.
Fact Sheet
What do I bring to Jock?
Generally, casual comfortable clothing is suitable throughout the year but you may want to include items such as:
• Light cotton tops and cotton trousers / shorts in summer
• Long-sleeved blouses / shirts for game drives or safaris (even in summer, they will protect you from the sun and from mosquitoes)
• Safari trousers for evenings and cooler days
• T-shirts
• Shorts or a light skirt
• Jeans or safari trousers for evenings and cooler days
• Khaki, brown, and beige colours - for game hikes and safaris. White is not a suitable colour for most game viewing or hiking safaris. Firstly it increases your visibility quotient to the animals you want to get a closer look at and secondly, it will get dirty very quickly.
• Fleece or sweater and a windbreaker for game drives, because it is highly possible that you may go out on a hot day, but be faced with a chill evening on your return. Some areas have a steep temperature gradient. ie: Hot days and very cool nights.
• Sunblock, sunglasses, hat, insect repellent, moisturiser, lip salve - these are essentials. The African sun is harsh most of the year.
• Comfortable walking shoes or sturdy hiking boots. Sneakers and trainer type footwear is not suitable for game or safari hikes, especially white footwear.
• Layers are most practical for the fluctuating day / night temperatures of Africa. Dull and / or neutral colours are more suitable for safari.
• Cotton clothing is recommended for summer. It is best to pack hardy, durable clothing.
Anti- Malaria medication is optional
What to Pack
Apart from clothing, essential items and vaccination certificates - If you have any medical conditions, read the last paragraph on this page.
Secondly, the essentials -
• Personal toiletries
• Anti-Malaria tablets
• A camera (and / or binoculars) are a must
Camera film and batteries can generally be obtained in any major city or town (or our curio shop). But of course the further away you get from civilization, the likelihood of availability decreases - like everything else. So please be sure to have sufficient supplies for your needs prior to embarking on a long trip.
Any reading or writing material you might need. You will have moments when you want to do something other than nothing at all.
Photography
Africa is an extremely photo-opportunistic continent. From panoramic scenery, wildlife and birds to people and vibrant ceremonies. Rich colour and good low lighting conditions abound. It is considered rude to take pictures of people without asking them first. Always carry enough film as it is difficult to get in some remote places. Keep your cameras in a dust resistant, padded case and out of the midday sun.
A 200 mm (or longer) telephoto lens will prove very useful on safari.
Travel Insurance
It is your responsibility to provide for your own travel insurance. It is advisable that you accomplish this prior to your arrival in Africa, since you will be unable to participate in any travelling activities without it.
Personal Medical Conditions
This is important, so please refer to our Health Notices.
Should travellers have any particular ailments requiring specialised medication, they should ensure that sufficient stocks are carried by them, during their stay.
If travellers are carrying prescription medicine, they must carry a copy of the prescription with them.
What about Children at Jock Safari Lodge?
Jock Safari Lodge values the safety of their guests and strives to provide a memorable game experience to all guests. Our child policy has been planned with the safety of your loved ones in mind and is also within the parametres of regulations laid down by the Kruger National Park.
Adults/Children under the age of 16 years are not permitted on any walking safaris.
Children under the age of 12 years are accommodated by prior arrangement only.
0 – 2 Year old children to share with parents at no extra charge, but are not permitted to join the game drives.
3 – 6 Year old children may share a room with the parents and will be charged 25% of the normal rate, which includes meals, accommodation, but are not permitted to join the game drives.
7 – 11 Year old children either sharing a room with their parents or in a separate room will be charged 50% of the normal rate, which includes meals, accommodation and game drives.
Children from 12 years old will require a separate room at the normal rate.
A maximum of one (1) child under 12 years sharing a room with 2 adults at Jock Safari Lodge, subject to availability of mattresses.
Why Children are not allowed on Game Drives
Children under 7 are not permitted on open vehicles by Kruger National Park regulation. They are unpredictable in dangerous game situations and for their own safety are not permitted.
When is the best time for game viewing?
Game viewing is not affected by weather, seasons or the time of the year.
How do I get to the lodge?
Private road transfers or charter flights can be arranged at additional costs. These can be booked along with your accommodation.
What will the program be?
Click here for a PROGRAM OF EVENTS at Jock Safari Lodge.
How to I get to South Africa
International access to South Africa is via air travel. O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg is the major airport in South Africa and is the hub for 55 airlines from all 5 continents.
What are the entry requirements to South Africa
For the majority of foreign nationals who travel to South Africa for vacation, entry is straightforward and hassle-free. All visitors to South Africa must be in possession of a valid passport, but for many countries, visas are not required up to a maximum number of days. For the latest visa requirements, contact your nearest South African embassy or mission. A yellow fever inoculation and certificate from travellers over 1 year of age coming from an infected area, is an official requirement. (Top)
What are Facilities like in South Africa
South Africa boasts world-class transport infrastructure, telecommunications, banking, medical and tourism facilities. Accommodation caters for all needs and is accredited by the national Tourism Grading Council, which upholds very high standards.
ELECTRICITY
The electricity supply is 220/230 volts AC 50 HZ, with the exception of Pretoria (230 V) and Port Elizabeth (200/250 V). Most plugs have 3-pin or 2-pin. Adaptors can be purchased, but may be in short supply. US-made appliances may need a transformer. Most hotel rooms have 110 volt outlets for electric shavers and appliances.
DRIVING
Non-residents are permitted to drive with a driving licence issued and valid in their own country, provided it bears the photograph and signature of the holder and is in English. If your drivers licence does not meet these requirements, an international driver’s licence is required. Driving is on the left and the wearing of seatbelts is compulsory.
PEOPLE & LANGUAGE
Diverse people and cultures combine to make the Rainbow Nation colourful. Population groups include the majority Nguni (incl. Zulu, Xhosa, Swazi); Sotho-Tswana; Tsonga; Venda; Afrikaners; English; Coloureds; Indians; Khoi and San; and immigrants from Africa, Europe and Asia. The majority religion is Christian, but freedom of worship is guaranteed by the Constitution. There are 11 official languages, including English. Most South Africans are multi-lingual and English is fairly widely spoken, notably in urban centres.
HEALTH
Medical facilities equal the best in the world and in many medical disciplines; South Africa is a global leader. A large network of hospitals offer excellent service, but make sure you have adequate health insurance. Shamwari is situated in a malaria-free area.
SAFETY
Most parts of the country can be safely visited by tourists, provided they take basic common-sense precautions e.g. not walking alone in deserted areas at night, not flashing photographic equipment or jewellery and, in traffic, maintaining a safe following distance. Most major cities run organized crime prevention programmes and Basic Safety Tip guidelines are available at hotels and tourism information offices. If you are in doubt as to the safety of a particular area or attraction, contact the National Tourism Information and Safety Line on 083 123 2345. This number may also be used for assistance in replacing lost documents or reporting incidents.
SHOPPING
Modern shopping malls, arts & crafts routes and markets, flea markets and informal vendors provide a wide variety of goods, curios, and shopping experiences. South Africa’s fashion, gold and diamond jewellery, and art are sought-after. As are the traditional handcrafted items such as Zulu beadwork; carved chessboards; painted ostrich eggs; colourful woven baskets, handbags and soft furnishings; mohair or sisal rugs; traditional wooden masks and carvings; pottery and leather items. And don’t forget the world-renowned Cape wines, exotic fruit liqueurs, brandy, rooibos tea, dried fruit, biltong (dried meat snacks) and chutney. Most major shopping centres and malls operate 7 days a week, but small town shops are often closed on Sunday.
MONEY
The local currency is the South African Rand (R1=100 cents), which exchanges favourably with the major international currencies. Most international traveller's cheques are accepted, however, it is advised that you bring them in a hard currency, such as US dollars or British Pounds. Currency can be exchanged at banks, forex bureaus and sometimes at hotels. Foreign tourists can have their VAT (value-added tax at 14%) refunded at the point of departure, provided they present their original tax invoices.Most major international credit cards such as American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted.
FOOD & WATER
Water is our most precious resource and at Jock we are actively trying to conserve water so our guests are asked to use water sparingly.
South Africa’s tap water is potable and of the safest and cleanest in the world. In hotels, restaurants and nightspots, the standards of hygiene and food preparation is generally top-notch. It is safe to eat fresh fruit and salads and to put as much ice as you like in your drinks - a good thing, too, after a day on the beach or in the bush. Restaurants cover a wide variety of cuisines and visitors are normally very impressed with the food. The country’s many cultures makes for varied traditional fare, which is worth exploring.
MALARIA INFORMATION - (Jock Safari Lodge is considered a LOW risk malaria area)
The information provided has been provided by certified authorities and will make your visit to Africa safe and rewarding one.
Prophylactic Measures To Prevent Malaria
Before travelling to remote areas, it may be wise to obtain a supply of emergency medication to take with you. This should only be used if it is not possible to consult a doctor. It is most important to note that no preventative measures are 100% safe. Should flu-like symptoms and signs like body pain, headache and fever develop 7 to 20 days or longer after visiting an endemic area, daily testing should be performed until you are better or another definite diagnosis is made.
Malaria Can Be Prevented in the Following Ways
The most important and most effective way of preventing malaria is firstly to prevent mosquito bites. The following preventative measures can be taken:
• Remain indoors from dusk to dawn if possible as mosquitoes usually feed in the early evenings and mornings.
• Cover your arms and legs towards evenings with light coloured clothing to cover exposed skin areas and especially the ankles. Wear long sleeved shirts, long trousers, socks and closed shoes.
• Apply insect repellents to exposed skin areas every 4-6 hours.
• Burn insecticide oils or electrically heated insecticide tablets in the bedroom at night.
• Spray knock-down insecticide for flying insects inside the bedroom in the early evening with windows / doors closed if there are no window screens.
• Screened mosquito proof windows and doors and Mosquito nets guard against Mosquito bites.