Lonely Bull Backpacking Trail

About Lonely Bull Backpacking Trail

Start: Mopani Rest Camp
Finish: Mopani Rest Camp
Duration: 4 days and 3 nights (roughly 7-13 km/day), departing every Wed and Sun
Fitness: relatively fit, the distance covered daily depends on the group as where and when you camp is up to the trail leader; but the terrain is not too rough and the pace comfortable
Numbers: 4 minimum, 8 maximum
Our tip: Take along a hydration bladder – they're much lighter than glass, foldable and tough – and a head torch
Contact: reservations office at Groenkloof
When: The trail is only available February through November

This is a fantastic opportunity to backpack in the Kruger wilderness with no predesignated paths and no pre-determined camps. It's you, and the bush.

Lonely Bull Wilderness has been zoned as such since 2006. No other visitors are allowed into the area and the only way to explore its scenic beauty is on foot. The trail explores the area between the Letaba low water bridge and the Mingerhout dam on the Letaba River.

The two experienced trail leaders/guides meet the group of no larger than eight people at the rest camp. The group is then dropped off in the middle of the wilderness. Walking happens at random, in any direction, depending on the rangers.

All that is pre-arranged is the return collection point at the end of the hike. There is the opportunity to spend more than one night at one campsite, allowing the group a slower pace and the chance to leave heavy packs at camp.

Lonely Bull is backpacking in the real sense of the word, and you will put up and take down your own tent, as well as cook your own meals.

Only biodegradable products (soaps etc.) are possible on the hike as it follows a 'no trace camping' or 'take it in, take it out' ethic. Showers are bucket showers, and only after you've reached the Letaba River (which might take a couple of days).

It's a chance to see a portion of the 99% of Kruger that people seldom get to see and experience untold freedom.

You provide all your own food, so make sure to bring enough (however, it is inadvisable to carry more than a quarter of your body weight).

This is real rustic-style camping without toilets. A spade and toilet paper are necessities. You will supply your own tent, sleeping bag, gas stove, eating utensils etc.

Don't forget: insect repellent, sunblock and a hat.