Walk on the wild side: Thrill of the chase in South Africa

There are fewer visitors during the emerald season in South Africa, but the period is a good time for safaris because the landscape is more scenic, the days are longer and it is calving season

Herds of impala and wildebeest often graze together for safety.
Herds of impala and wildebeest often graze together for safety. PHOTOS: TAN CHUNG LEE
Though numerous in Kruger, South Africa, the spiral-horned nyala is not easily spotted as it avoids open spaces.
Though numerous in Kruger, South Africa, the spiral-horned nyala is not easily spotted as it avoids open spaces. PHOTOS: TAN CHUNG LEE
A leopard looking out for prey.
A leopard looking out for prey. PHOTOS: TAN CHUNG LEE
Animals have right of way on a safari.
Animals have right of way on a safari. PHOTOS: TAN CHUNG LEE
A pronking impala as it is chased by a painted wolf.
A pronking impala as it is chased by a painted wolf. PHOTOS: TAN CHUNG LEE
New: Gift this subscriber-only story to your friends and family

As landings go, few can match the experience of touching down on the tarmac of a tiny airstrip in the middle of the South African bush.

As our 12-seater Cessna makes its descent, I espy a couple of frolicking waterbuck.

Already a subscriber? 

Read the full story and more at $9.90/month

Get exclusive reports and insights with more than 500 subscriber-only articles every month

Unlock these benefits

  • All subscriber-only content on ST app and straitstimes.com

  • Easy access any time via ST app on 1 mobile device

  • E-paper with 2-week archive so you won't miss out on content that matters to you

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.

A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Sunday Times on October 06, 2019, with the headline Walk on the wild side: Thrill of the chase in South Africa. Subscribe