African Wildlife and Environment Issue 68

FAUNA, FLORA & WILDLIFE

FAUNA, FLORA & WILDLIFE

The sun sets over the central park

Bontle Camp has 38 well laid out camp sites, in three clusters, modern ablution facilities and power points as well as a number of well-equipped safari tents on site, close to the main entrance. Bontle has resident Ostriches that patrol the camp site looking for odd scraps of food left around. The colourful Crimson-breasted Shrikes are often seen working their way through the camp sites. If one is lucky, one can also get great views of game, such as giraffe and White Rhino, when they come to visit the

waterhole in front of the camp. In recent years weed growth has obscured the view of the waterhole, but hopefully one day it will once again be clear. Petrol and provisions are available from a number of shops and petrol stations in nearby Thabazimbi. Weather The park falls in the summer rainfall region, and rainfall occurs in the form of heavy thunderstorms or soft rain. Winters are moderate with frost occurring

in the low-lying regions only. Mornings and nights can be very cold, but day temperatures can be pleasant. Wrap up warm when visiting the top of the escarpment, and be prepared as it can also become cool in summer, especially under misty conditions. The area receives about 500-700 mm of rain per year. The park is an ideal setting for a truly memorable and relaxing bushveld experience. For info and bookings go to www.sanparks.org

John Wesson WESSA Regional Chair: Northern Areas jwesson@wessanorth.co.za

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