Introducing Jock Explorer Camp

The Explorer Camp at Jock Safari Lodge offers guests a unique experiential insight of a bygone era, a time when exploring really was an adventure into this unknown Big 5 wilderness, as did the legendary Percy Fitzpatrick in the 18th century. The camp and tents have been meticulously recreated with the similar style camp beds, canvas washing basins, lanterns etc in order to transport guests back in time.

This two day educational, walking safari is lead by two highly specialised guides and nights are spent around the camp fire enjoying hearty bush meals whilst learning more about the history of Jock of the Bushveld, Percy Fitzpatrick and how the Kruger was born. During the day, guests explore on foot, a remote part of this private concession in the heart of the Kruger National Park, to get a real sense of how trekking was done during the early days of exploration – a tribute to the original and authentic African safari adventure.

General Information

• The Explorer Camp operates during the cooler months with the first trail in April and the last trail at the end of October.
• Each trail is 2 nights with a set departure each Friday of the week.
• The walking trails are hosted and guided by 2 armed qualified walking guides. Due to the high density of Big 5 in the area the trails are conducted by a “Lead” Guide and a “Back-up” Guide.
• Distances walked vary each day but can last up to 3 hours.
• A game viewing vehicle remains in camp and depending on where guests walk that day, the trail may start from camp or depart camp by vehicle to visit another area of the concession.
• We regret that no persons younger than 16 years will be able to participate.
• Participants older than 60 years will be required to provide a medical clearance certificate in order to participate.

Camp Site

The camp site is unfenced to provide the true explorer ambience and tents are placed in fairly close proximity without encroaching on other tents privacy. Wild animals are able to move through the camp at any time and although all safety precautions have been followed in setting up the camp; this remains a reality.

Tents: 3 x spacious campaign canvas tents sleeping a maximum of 2 people each

Meals: Rustic safari meals are prepared and enjoyed under the African skies by your personal Shangaan Chef

Ablutions: Each Tent has a bucket outside shower. Each tent has an en-suite bio box toilet (portable) with canvas for privacy.

Tent Details

• 2 x Old style beds with white linen, safari blanket & throw and pillows
• 2 x Roorkhee campaign chairs & table
• 1 x LED light for night time use
• 1 x Old style hand basin (warm water is supplied on request or at first light in the morning)
• En-suite bio box toilet (portable)
• Paraffin lanterns
• Guest amenities include insect repellent, toilet paper, towels, tissues, sanitary bags as well as bio- degradable shower gel and shampoo.

What to Pack

• Clothing of neutral colors that is light in weight, but warm
• Bright colored clothing must be avoided
• 3 x Shirts
• 3 x Shorts
• 2 x pants (long)
• 1 x warm jersey or jacket as the evenings can get cold
• Hiking or trail shoes
• Sandals for showering
• Sun block
• Hat
• Camera
• Binoculars

A Typical Stay

The following program is a guideline as all timings are subject to discussions upon arrival.

Day 1, day of arrival (Friday)

• All guests arrive at Jock Safari Lodge (Main Jock) by 13h00
• Meet your specialist guide who will host you for lunch at either Main Jock or Fitzpatrick’s at Jock.
• Transfer in an open game viewing vehicle to the Explorer Camp
• Afternoon walk
• Sundowner snacks are enjoyed upon return to camp
• Enjoy dinner and an evening around the fire

Day 2 (Saturday)

• Early rising can be expected due to the nature of walking and temperatures
• Enjoy muffins, fruit sticks, biscuits, tea and coffee amongst Mother Nature
• Morning walk commences and can last up to 3 hours
• Enjoy a hearty brunch upon arrival at the camp
• Relax in your tent, catch up on some rest or simply adore the wild
• A variety of light sandwiches, cake with fresh fruits will be enjoyed for afternoon tea
• Afternoon hike
• Sundowner drinks are enjoyed in the bush, close to camp
• Enjoy dinner and an evening around the fire

Day 3, day of departure (Sunday)

• Early rising can be expected due to temperatures
• Enjoy a breakfast in the bush before departing at 10h00 in order to depart from Main Jock at 11h00
• A brief walk on morning of departure is optional