View source for Skukuza

{{Infobox settlement
| name                    = Skukuza
| image_skyline           = Skukuza Camp Kruger NP.JPG
| image_caption           = Camp entrance at Skukuza
| settlement_type         = [[Town]]
| pushpin_map             = South Africa Mpumalanga#South Africa#Africa
| coordinates             = {{coord|24|59|45|S|31|35|31|E|region:ZA|display=inline,title}}
| subdivision_type        = [[Country]]
| subdivision_name        = [[South Africa]]
| subdivision_type1       = [[Provinces of South Africa|Province]]
| subdivision_name1       = [[Mpumalanga]]
| subdivision_type2       = [[List of districts of South Africa|District]]
| subdivision_name2       = [[Ehlanzeni District Municipality|Ehlanzeni]]
| subdivision_type3       = [[List of municipalities of South Africa|Municipality]]
| subdivision_name3       = [[Mbombela Local Municipality|Mbombela]]
| subdivision_type4       = Main Place
| established_title       = Established
| government_type         = Ward 39
| leader_title            = Councillor
| leader_name             = Dudu Tryphinah Nkosi
| area_footnotes          = <ref name="census2011">{{cite web |url=http://census2011.adrianfrith.com/place/874022001 |title = Sub Place Skukuza |work=Census 2011}}</ref>
| area_total_km2          = 4.98
| population_footnotes    = <ref name="census2011" />
| population_total        = 1599
| population_as_of        = 2011
| population_density_km2  = auto
<!-- demographics (section 1) -->
| demographics_type1      = Racial makeup (2011)
| demographics1_footnotes = <ref name="census2011" />
| demographics1_title1    = [[Bantu peoples of South Africa|Black African]]
| demographics1_info1     = 83.9%
| demographics1_title2    = [[Coloureds|Coloured]]
| demographics1_info2     = 1.6%
| demographics1_title3    = [[Indian South African|Indian]]/[[Asian South African|Asian]]
| demographics1_info3     = 0.1%
| demographics1_title4    = [[White South African|White]]
| demographics1_info4     = 14.4%
| demographics1_title5    = Other
| demographics1_info5     =
<!-- demographics (section 2) -->
| demographics_type2      = [[First language]]s (2011)
| demographics2_footnotes = <ref name="census2011" />
| demographics2_title1    = [[Tsonga language|Tsonga]]
| demographics2_info1     = 58.0%
| demographics2_title2    = [[Swazi language|Swazi]]
| demographics2_info2     = 9.7%
| demographics2_title3    = [[Afrikaans]]
| demographics2_info3     = 9.5%
| demographics2_title4    = [[English language|English]]
| demographics2_info4     = 7.7%
| demographics2_title5    = Other
| demographics2_info5     = 15.2%
<!-- blank fields (section 2) -->
<!-- Other information -->
| timezone1               = [[South African Standard Time|SAST]]
| utc_offset1             = +2
| postal_code_type        = [[List of postal codes in South Africa|Postal code]] (street)
| postal_code             =
| postal2_code_type       = [[Post-office box|PO box]]
| postal2_code            = 1350
| area_code_type          = [[Telephone numbers in South Africa|Area code]]
}}
{{Infobox campground
| headingcolor           = #006221
| name                   = Skukuza Rest Camp
| image                  =
| image_size             =
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| caption                =
| logo                   =
| logo_size              =
| logo_alt               =
| logo_caption           =
| pushpin_map            =
| pushpin_label_position =
| pushpin_label          =
| pushpin_map_alt        =
| coordinates            =
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| location               = South bank of the Sabie River, near [[Paul Kruger Gate]], [[Kruger National Park]]
| coordinates_footnotes  =
| previous_names         =
| subsequent_names       =
| elevation              = {{convert|281|m|abbr=on}}<ref name=elevationtable>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sanparks.org/assets/docs/parks_kruger/knp-elevation.pdf|title=Kruger National Park elevation table|last=|first=|date=|website=South African National Parks|archive-url=|archive-date=|access-date=2020-01-04}}</ref>
| type                   =
| land                   =
| campus_size            =
| campsites              = 80 tent or caravan sites
| residences             = {{hlist|12 two-bed and 8 four-bed furnished tents|178 two- or three-bed rondavels|20 one-bedroom bungalows|15 four- or six-bed guest cottages|1 four-bedroom family cottage (Waterkant 2)|3 four-bedroom guest houses (Moni, Myathi, Waterkant 1)|ABSA guest house (6 bedrooms)}}<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sanparks.org/parks/kruger/camps/skukuza/tourism/accommodation.php|title=South African National Parks - SANParks - Official Website - Accommodation, Activities, Prices, Reservations|website=www.sanparks.org|language=en-ZA|access-date=2020-01-09}}</ref>
| caravans               =
| restaurants            = [[Cattle Baron (Restaurant chain)|Cattle Baron]], Selati
| parking                =
| annual                 =
| facilities             =
| water                  = <!-- all water in Kruger camps is potable, no need to specify -->
| fee                    =
| fires                  =
| season                 =
| operated_by            = [[South African National Parks]]
| owner                  =
| established            = {{Start date|1926}}
| closed                 =
| slogan                 =
| website                = {{URL|https://www.sanparks.org/parks/kruger/camps/skukuza/}}
| footnotes              =
}}
'''Skukuza''' (formerly '''Reserve''', '''Sabi Bridge''' and '''Sikhukhuza'''), a town in [[Mpumalanga]] located 57&nbsp;km east of [[Hazyview]] at the confluence of the [[N'waswitshaka River|N'waswitshaka]] and [[Sabie River]]s, is the administrative headquarters of the [[Kruger National Park]].
It is also the largest rest camp of the park. It is South Africa's number one game viewing destination and is the most popular game reserve in the country. It is popular with domestic and foreign tourists alike, as the [[big five game]] are in relative abundance when compared to other game reserves in the country. A tourist in Skukuza may not have to go out looking for Africa's big five, as these animals could potentially be observed from the deck of the Cattle Baron restaurant. Lions, leopards, and cheetahs regularly kill their prey on the green lawns of Skukuza's golf course or cricket club. The game reserve is situated in a medium rainfall area (770&nbsp;mm of rainfall per year), on the well-wooded banks of the [[Sabie River|Sabie]] and [[N'waswitshaka River|N'waswitshaka]] rivers of [[Mpumalanga Province]].
==History==
{{main|History of Kruger National Park}}
Before the park was established, the area was home to a few resident tribes and others who were recently employed to build the railway line. The Ngomane clan and assimilated Sambo people lived in the vicinity of present-day Skukuza.<ref name="jensen">{{cite book |last1=Jensen |first1=Steffen |last2=Zenker |first2=Olaf |title=South African Homelands as Frontiers : Apartheid's Loose Ends in the Postcolonial Era |date=2018 |publisher=Routledge |isbn=9781317212096 |edition=1st}}</ref> The Ngomane clan, formerly subjects of [[Soshangane]], joined forces with the Sambo people and took refuge near the [[Sabie River]] after a defeat by Sotho people near Makhulukhulu mountain on the escarpment. Chief Ngomane's people lived near Skukuza until 1905, when the [[Transvaal Colony|Transvaal]] Government relocated them to Tenbosch south of the park, where they were displaced again in 1945. Other inhabitants were resettled in villages around [[Hazyview]], such as Hoxani, Cunningmore, Mkhuhlu and the greater Hazyview area.<!--where there was already a problem of overcrowding by large Tsonga speaking communities-->{{citation needed|date=December 2018}} The resident peoples of the area hunted animals with bows and arrows as well as snares, and eventually rifles obtained from the white men. They used the [[Sabie River]] for fishing. <!--near, not at, and not a palace: The land where the Skukuza camp is situated was Hosi Ngomane's palace (Hubyeni).--> Before relocations, Tsonga people occupied the region east of Hazyview, where the majority of private game reserves in Mpumalanga are situated today.<ref>{{cite book |last=Raper |first=P. E. |title=Dictionary of Southern African Place Names |url= https://archive.org/stream/DictionaryOfSouthernAfricanPlaceNames/SaPlaceNames#page/n406/mode/2up|year=1989|publisher= Jonathan Ball Publishers|isbn=978-0-947464-04-2|page=406|via=[[Internet Archive]]}}</ref>
When the government decided to establish a national park during the late 1800s and early 1900s, they sent [[James Stevenson-Hamilton]] as the only government official. British troops still occupied the area that today forms the southern part of the park after the [[Second Boer War]]. In particular, one of the locations of a British forward position was at the [[Sabie River]] in an old block house. After the troops were disbanded, Stevenson-Hamilton decided to make this location his base of operations.<ref>{{Cite book|title=South African Eden: from Sabi Game Reserve to Kruger National Park |last=Stevenson-Hamilton |first=James (1867-1957) |date=2008 |publisher=Penguin |isbn=9780143185581 |location=Johannesburg |oclc=235940244}}</ref> The government moved the Tsonga people to villages on the outskirts of [[Hazyview]].
The name "Skukuza" was given to [[James Stevenson-Hamilton]] by his staff, the local [[Tsonga people]], as a nickname. It could be translated as 'to sweep', since Stevenson-Hamilton was perceived to sweep the land clean of poachers and other criminals operating in the area. But according to Dr [[Henri-Alexandre Junod]], an expert in Tsonga history, the name Skukuza reflects the Tsonga people's attitude and resentment towards forced removal from their beautiful and fertile land.
After the Kruger National Park was declared in 1926, the presence of the [[Selati Railway]], which connected [[Komatipoort]] to [[Tzaneen]], was considered a potential disruption for the animals. As such, the railway was dismantled. The old bridge across the Sabie River can still be seen from Skukuza.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://albertonrecord.co.za/201244/skukuza-still-south-africas-favourite-rest-camp/|title=Why Skukuza is still South Africa's Favourite Rest Camp {{!}} Ablerton Record|date=2019-02-25|website=Alberton Record|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref>
==Facilities==
Being the largest rest camp in the Kruger National Park and a village in its own right, Skukuza boasts more facilities than any other camp. As a village of over a thousand people and the administrative headquarters of Kruger Park, Skukuza also includes the types of local services one would expect from a village, including a police station, a bank branch ([[First National Bank (South Africa)|First National Bank]]), and a court.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.saps.gov.za/contacts/stationdetails.php?sid=1056&sname=Skukuza|title=Services {{!}} SAPS (South African Police Service)|website=www.saps.gov.za|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sayellow.com/first-national-bank-fnb-skukuza-rest-camp|title=First National Bank (Fnb) - Skukuza Rest Camp (Skukuza, Mpumalanga)|website=www.sayellow.com|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref> The court was opened in April 2017 and was scheduled to close in October 2019 with cases moving to [[Mbombela|Mbombela (Nelspruit)]], but the decision was placed under moratorium in September 2019 due to its success in swift conviction of [[Poaching|poachers]] (with a 99.8% conviction rate).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://lowvelder.co.za/503978/skukuza-court-closure-put-hold-justice-department/|title=Skukuza court closure put on hold by Justice Department|date=2019-09-20|website=Lowvelder|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://lowvelder.co.za/505376/business-usual-skukuza-court/|title=Business as usual at Skukuza Court|date=2019-09-27|website=Lowvelder|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://africasustainableconservation.com/2019/11/15/south-africa-poachers-rangers-courts-and-the-battle-for-krugers-rhinos/|title=South Africa – poachers, rangers, courts and the battle for Kruger's rhinos|date=2019-11-15|website=Africa Sustainable Conservation News|language=en|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.capetalk.co.za/articles/361505/justice-department-halts-uprooting-of-skukuza-poaching-court|title=Justice department halts uprooting of Skukuza 'poaching' court|website=CapeTalk|language=en|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref>
Skukuza also has a number of historical sites including 3 museums and a library, besides a camp centre consisting of shops and restaurants. The Selati Train restaurant is situated on an old train platform on the eastern verge of the camp. From the main reception a visitor can organize game drives, bush braais, and guided walks in Kruger. Besides the camp basics, Skukuza also has 2 swimming pools, a golf course, library, minor motor repairs, police station, post office and even a bank. These shops and facilities are surrounded by different sized huts, larger guest houses, as well as a rustic camping terrain.
There is an airport 5&nbsp;km away, called [[Skukuza Airport]], with direct flights from [[Cape Town International Airport|Cape Town]] and [[O. R. Tambo International Airport|Johannesburg]] on a daily basis. [[South African National Parks|South African National Parks (SANParks)]] acquired 4 helicopters, which are based at Skukuza, in order to assist with anti rhino poaching and other wildlife operations from the sky.
===Shop===
Whilst most of the main camps at Kruger have a [[The Parks Shop|Parks Shop]], the one at Skukuza is by far the biggest.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://goingawesomeplaces.com/kruger-national-park-guide-first-timers/|title=Kruger National Park Guide For First Timers - Everything You Need To Know|date=2018-11-29|website=Going Awesome Places|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-11}}</ref> The shop sells a variety of supplies, including groceries, prepackaged meals, snacks such as nuts and [[biltong]], ice cream, and drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic). It also sells a variety of park guides and curios.<ref>{{Cite web |url= https://www.sanparks.org/parks/kruger/tourism/facilities.php|title=South African National Parks - SANParks - Official Website - Accommodation, Activities, Prices, Reservations|website=www.sanparks.org|language=en-ZA|access-date=2020-01-11}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url= https://tracks4africa.co.za/listings/item/w169438/skukuza-shop/|title=Tracks4Africa|website=Tracks4Africa|language=en|access-date=2020-01-11}}</ref>
=== Restaurants ===
Skukuza is the only camp at Kruger with a choice of multiple restaurants. In the central area of the camp overlooking the Sabie River is a well-appointed Cattle Baron restaurant, one of three in South Africa's National parks. (The others are at Storms River mouth in [[Tsitsikamma]] and in the main camp at [[Addo Elephant Park]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.restaurants.co.za/cattle-baron-skukuza-grill-bistro-kruger-national-park|title=Cattle Baron Skukuza Grill & Bistro Kruger National Park|website=Cattle Baron Skukuza Grill & Bistro - Kruger National Park|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref>)
In the 1980s, a train was donated to Skukuza by South African Railways, which was converted into a second restaurant, Selati.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://us.blastingnews.com/curiosities/2017/10/railway-history-selati-the-train-line-that-saved-kruger-national-park-002129085.html|title=Railway History: Selati, the train line that saved Kruger National Park|date=2017-10-29|website=Blasting News|language=en|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref> The restaurant was destroyed by a fire on 12 January 1995 and the area was closed to visitors.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://steam-locomotives-south-africa.blogspot.com/2008/06/skukuza-sar-class-24-no3638-steam.html|title=old STEAM LOCOMOTIVES in South Africa: SKUKUZA - Selati Train Restaurant - SAR class 24 no.3638|last=Plse)|first=Piet Conradie (for E.-mail Addr: See Profile|date=2008-06-30|website=old STEAM LOCOMOTIVES in South Africa|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref> At some point between then and 2006, the restaurant reopened as the Selati Station Grillhouse.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sanparks.org/parks/kruger/tourism/selatirest.php|title=South African National Parks - SANParks - Official Website - Accommodation, Activities, Prices, Reservations|website=www.sanparks.org|language=en-ZA|access-date=2020-01-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061014201816/http://www.sanparks.org/parks/kruger/tourism/selatirest.php|archive-date=2006-10-14}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.food24.com/Restaurants-and-Bars/Restaurants/Selati-station-restaurant-20110107|title=Selati Station Grillhouse|last=Camp|first=Selati Station Grillhouse $j ready{ $j share24); }); Review this restaurant Skukuza Rest|date=2011-01-07|website=Food24|language=en|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g312638-d2238904-Reviews-Selati_Station_Grillhouse-Skukuza_Mpumalanga.html|title=Selati Station Grillhouse, Skukuza - Restaurant Reviews, Photos & Phone Number|website=TripAdvisor|language=en|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref> In 2017 the station was placed under private management, and in December 2019 a train-themed hotel, the Shalati Hotel, was opened on the tracks as well.<ref name=Shalati2017>{{Cite web|url=https://www.traveller24.com/Explore/Bush/5-new-kruger-developments-you-need-to-know-about-20170221|title=5 New Kruger developments you need to know about|date=2017-03-01|website=Traveller|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.traveller24.com/Explore/Bush/choo-choo-new-train-themed-accommodation-to-be-built-on-selati-bridge-in-kruger-20180127|title=Choo choo! New train-themed accommodation to be built on Selati Bridge in Kruger|date=2018-01-27|website=Traveller|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref name=ShalatiQuestions>{{Cite web|url=https://lowvelder.co.za/490727/project-manager-answers-knp-train-questions/|title=Project manager answers KNP train questions|date=2019-07-01|website=Lowvelder|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sanparks.org/parks/kruger/tourism/selatirest.php|title=South African National Parks - Kruger - Selati Station Grillhouse|website=www.sanparks.org|language=en-ZA|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref name=BusinessTechShalati>{{Cite web|url=https://businesstech.co.za/news/lifestyle/318984/a-look-at-the-kruger-parks-new-luxury-train-lodge-opening-in-december/|title=A look at the Kruger Park's new luxury 'train lodge' opening in December|author=Staff Writer|website=businesstech.co.za|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.krugershalati.com/about_us/|title=About Us|website=Kruger Shalati|language=en-ZA|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref name=GetawayShalati>{{Cite web|url=https://www.getaway.co.za/accommodation/peek-inside-kruger-shalati-train-on-a-bridge/|title=Peek inside Kruger Shalati Train on a Bridge|date=2019-05-03|website=Getaway Magazine|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref>
===Skukuza Indigenous Plant Nursery===
[[File:Boardwalk at Skukuza indigenous nursery, Kruger National Park, South Africa (14800607018).jpg|thumb|Wetlands Boardwalk at the Skukuza Indigenous Plant Nursery]]
The Skukuza Indigenous Plant Nursery, located 4&nbsp;km from the main camp near the golf club, is a nursery dedicated to the cultivation of indigenous plants. Established in August 1975 by Harry Matthysen, the original nursery was placed on a 100 x 45&nbsp;m plot of land. In 1983 the nursery was moved to its current location. The nursery has a wide selection of plants for sale, with over 1.2 million individual plants in their collection, which originally began with roughly 3,000 plants.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://southafrica.co.za/the-serene-skukuza-nursery.html|title=The Serene Skukuza Nursery, South Africa|website=southafrica.co.za|access-date=2020-01-11}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.gardenandhome.co.za/whats-new/news-trends/the-skukuza-indigenous-nursery/|title=The Skukuza Indigenous Nursery {{!}} SA Garden and Home|website=www.gardenandhome.co.za|access-date=2020-01-11}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.krugerpark.co.za/krugerpark-times-2-7-skukuza-nursery-19485.html|title=Kruger Park Times {{!}} The Skukuza Nursery {{!}} Online News Publication...|website=www.krugerpark.co.za|access-date=2020-01-11}}</ref> As it is run by the SANParks Scientific Services Department, the nursery also performs a broad spectrum of botanical research. A wetlands boardwalk is also available, allowing visitors to take in a rehabilited wetland area up close.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.krugerlowveld.com/index.php/kruger/companies/636|title=Skukuza Indigenous Plant Nursery|website=Kruger Lowveld|language=en-gb|access-date=2020-01-11}}</ref> The nursery is open 7 days a week, including on public holidays (except for Christmas Day). The Lowveld Honorary Rangers run the parks on weekends and holidays.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sanparks.org/parks/kruger/tourism/nursery/default.php|title=South African National Parks - SANParks - Official Website - Accommodation, Activities, Prices, Reservations|website=www.sanparks.org|language=en-ZA|access-date=2020-01-11}}</ref> The nursery holds regular events for related holidays.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sanparksvolunteers.org/events/arbor-week-launch-at-the-skukuza-indigenous-nursery/|title=Arbor Week launch at the Skukuza Indigenous Nursery|website=SANParks Honorary Rangers|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-11}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://hazyviewherald.co.za/156760/skukuza-event/|title=Visit Skukuza Nursery's Christmas Market this weekend|date=2014-12-05|website=Hazyview Herald|access-date=2020-01-11}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://wearewhiteriver.com/event/skukuza-indigenous-nursery-tea-garden/|title=Skukuza Indigenous Nursery and Tea Garden|website=We Are White River|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-11}}</ref> There are also picnic tables, toilets, and ice cream for sale.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://lowvelder.co.za/11735/indigenous-flora-at-skukuza-nursery/|title=Indigenous flora at Skukuza Nursery|date=2013-08-30|website=Lowvelder|access-date=2020-01-11}}</ref>
=== Library ===
[[File:Stevenson-Hamilton-Gedenkbibliotheek, Skukuza.JPG|thumb|Stevenson-Hamilton Memorial Library, Skukuza]]
The Stevenson-Hamilton Memorial Library and Museum at Skukuza houses a selection of ecological and history-related books, as well as paintings, documents and artifacts related to the history of Kruger National Park and the area.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.krugerpark.travel/travel-information/history|title=History|website=Kruger Park Travel|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.krugerpark.co.za/first-warden-stevenson-hamilton.html|title=History Of Kruger Park {{!}} First Warden {{!}} South Africa...|website=www.krugerpark.co.za|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref name=OfftheBeatenPath>{{Cite web|url=https://www.wanyamasafaris.com/off-the-beaten-path/|title=Off the beaten path|date=2019-08-13|website=Wanyama Safaris|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref> The library was opened on 14 October 1961 and is a brief walk from the Cattle Baron and reception.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.librarything.com/venue/99326/Stevenson-Hamilton-Memorial-Library|title=Stevenson-Hamilton Memorial Library|website=www.librarything.com|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref> The hand knife used to kill a lion which attacked legendary ranger Harry Wolhuter, as well as the lion's skin, are on display in the Stevenson-Hamilton Library.<ref>{{Cite web |title=History Of Kruger Park - Harry Wolhuter - South Africa... |url=https://www.krugerpark.co.za/kruger-park-history-harry-wolhuter.html |access-date=2022-07-13 |website=www.krugerpark.co.za}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Legend of Harry Wolhuter - Kruger National Park, South Africa |url=https://southafrica.co.za/legend-of-harry-wolhuter.html |access-date=2022-07-13 |website=southafrica.co.za}}</ref>
=== Sports ===
[[File:Skukuza golf course, Kruger National Park, South Africa (14800668777).jpg|thumb|A shaded pavilion at Skukuza Golf Course]]
Quite unique to Skukuza is a full 9-hole [[golf]] course near Lake Panic. Originally built as a recreational facility for employees at the camp, Skukuza Golf Course is now open to the public. The course is not fenced in, meaning it's fairly common to see impala, warthog, baboons or even hippo on the golf course. Play has been stopped multiple times due to predators on the fairway.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sapeople.com/2019/10/29/lions-laze-on-skukuza-golf-course-on-steaming-hot-day-in-south-africa/|title=Lions Laze on South African Golf Course on Steaming Hot Day|last=Baxter|first=Jenni|date=2019-10-29|website=SAPeople - Your Worldwide South African Community|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.krugerpark.co.za/Kruger_Park_Travel_Advisory-travel/golf-skukuza-kruger-park.html|title=Golfing in Kruger Park {{!}} Skukuza Golf Course|website=www.krugerpark.co.za|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052748704269204575270643834752902|title=Golf in the (Wild) Kingdom|last=newport|first=john paul|date=2010-06-05|work=Wall Street Journal|access-date=2020-01-06|language=en-US|issn=0099-9660}}</ref> In 2014, a 29 year old son of a park employee was killed while retrieving golf balls from a lake.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.golf.com/2014/12/05/golfer-killed-crocodile-while-retrieving-golf-ball|title=Golfer killed by crocodile|date=2014-12-05|website=Golf|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://nationalpost.com/news/golfer-killed-by-3-9-metre-crocodile-in-south-africas-kruger-national-park|title=Jacques van der Sandt searching for golf balls when crocodile snatched him in Lake Panic {{!}} National Post|last=News|date=2014-12-04|language=en-CA|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/dec/04/golfer-killed-by-crocodile-south-africa-lake-panic|title=Golfer killed by crocodile in South Africa's Lake Panic|agency=Associated Press|date=2014-12-04|work=The Guardian|access-date=2020-01-12|language=en-GB|issn=0261-3077}}</ref> Because of the potential danger, players must sign an indemnity form prior to playing.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sanparks.org/parks/kruger/tourism/activities/golf_course.php|title=South African National Parks Skukuza - Golf Course|website=www.sanparks.org|language=en-ZA|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref>
Skukuza also has its own [[cricket]] club, which has hosted several teams from around South Africa and from abroad.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.krugerpark.co.za/krugerpark-times-2-23-cricket-match-21698.html|title=Kruger Park Times {{!}} Skukuza Cricket Pitch Hosts International Match|website=www.krugerpark.co.za|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sanparks.org/about/news/?id=484|title=Media Release: Skukuza Loves Cricket|website=www.sanparks.org|language=en-ZA|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sidmouthcricketclub.co.uk/news/devon-under-15s-tour-to-south-africa-377125.html|title=Devon Under 15s Tour to South Africa|website=www.sidmouthcricketclub.co.uk|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref> Skukuza hosts occasional cricket matches against teams from the surrounding area of Mpumalanga and other South African national parks as fundraisers.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sanparks.org/parks/kruger/news.php?id=476The|title=South African National Parks - News|website=www.sanparks.org|language=en-ZA|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://showme.co.za/nelspruit/news/sanparks-forums-cricket-tournament-in-skukuza-a-big-success/|title=SanParks Forums Cricket Tournament in Skukuza a big success.|website=ShowMe™ - Nelspruit|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.wbhs.org.za/index.php/news/wynberg-cricket-colts-tour-to-mpumulanga|title=Wynberg Cricket Colts Tour to Mpumalanga|website=www.wbhs.org.za|language=en-gb|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.mycomlink.co.za/posting.php?i=26915|title=Wynberg Cricket on Tour: Mozzie Week 2016 (News: 01 Jul 2016)|website=MyComLink|language=en|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref> The cricket field is unfenced like the golf course, and at least one leopard kill has had to be removed from the field.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://lowvelder.co.za/483184/leopard-scores-kill-skukuza-cricket-club-field/|title=Leopard scores a kill on Skukuza Cricket Club field|date=2019-05-27|website=Lowvelder|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref> Because the cricket field is in the Skukuza staff village, cricket can only be played by invitation.
=== Little Heroes Acre ===
The Little Heroes Acre is a small dog cemetery in Skukuza paying homage to the working dogs who have helped Kruger Park through its days.<ref name=OfftheBeatenPath /> Several of the graves tell stories about the dogs, such as Tessa, who fostered three lion cubs and eventually was killed by a [[black mamba]] while rescuing a human.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://2summers.net/2017/08/15/kruger-secret-places-random-tips/|title=Kruger, Top to Bottom: Secret Places and Random Tips|date=2017-08-15|website=2Summers|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://southafrica.co.za/kruger-national-park-grave-sites.html|title=Kruger National Park Grave Sites, South Africa|website=southafrica.co.za|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref>
===Conference Facilities===
Skukuza has two separate conference facilities, which can support groups of varying sizes. The Goldfields auditorium is a single theatre room with rear projection facilities that can seat up to 158 people. The newer Nombolo Mdhuli Conference Centre, which was built as part of the SANParks commercialisation strategy, is significantly larger.<ref name="sanparks-conferences">{{Cite web|url=https://www.sanparks.org/parks/kruger/groups/conferences.php|title=South African National Parks - SANParks - Official Website - Accommodation, Activities, Prices, Reservations|website=www.sanparks.org|language=en-ZA|access-date=2020-01-11}}</ref>
====Nombolo Mdhuli Conference Centre====
The Nombolo Mdhuli Conference Centre, named after a corporal who served in the park from 1919 until 1958, was built in the early 2000s to provide a larger, more modern conference facility at Skukuza with facilities for up to 500 people, with up to four breakaway rooms with a variety of configurations. This conference centre is also air conditioned.<ref name="sanparks-conferences" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.hazyviewinfo.co.za/accommodation/conference/skukuza/index.html|title=Skukuza Restcamp KNP - Hazyview Conference Facilities|website=www.hazyviewinfo.co.za|access-date=2020-01-11}}</ref> The facility has hosted multiple international conferences, including the 15th Annual Savanna Science Network Meeting in 2017 and the 2019 [[Species on the Move]] conference.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://corridorgazette.co.za/243757/scientists-and-researchers-brainstorm-in-the-knp/|title=Scientists and researchers brainstorm in the KNP|date=2017-03-16|website=Corridor Gazette|access-date=2020-01-11}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.speciesonthemove.com/home/2019-travel-to-skukuza|title=2019 Travel to Skukuza {{!}} SOTM2019|language=en-AU|access-date=2020-01-11}}</ref>
===Medical Facilities===
A private medical practice, Kruger Park Doctors, is run by Dr. Nardus Visser to serve residents and visitors at Skukuza and surrounding areas. Special dispensation to enter Kruger Park via [[Paul Kruger Gate]] in order to visit the doctor is provided, as long as the doctors' receptionist stamps the form. The doctors also provide 24-hour emergency services.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.krugerdoctors.co.za/?page_id=2|title=Consultation Hours – Kruger Park Doctors|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref><ref name="BehindTheScenesKruger">{{Cite web|url=https://www.getaway.co.za/travel/nature-and-conservation/behind-the-scenes-in-kruger/|title=Behind the scenes in Kruger|date=2019-08-20|website=Getaway Magazine|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref> The closest full hospital is [[Nelspruit Medi-Clinic]], a 260-bed private hospital.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.frommers.com/destinations/kruger-national-park/fast-facts|title=Fast Facts in Kruger National Park {{!}} Frommer's|website=www.frommers.com|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref> [[Skukuza Airport]] has an air ambulance, which allows quick transport to hospitals such as that in Nelspruit.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.medical-air-service.com/airports/south-africa_za/skukuza/skukuza-airport_43333.html|title=Airports {{!}} Air ambulance {{!}} Rescue flight|last=GmbH|first=Vendana|website=www.medical-air-service.com|language=en|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref>
== Activities ==
As the biggest camp in the park with a sleeping capacity well in excess of 500, Skukuza offers a wider variety of activities than most of the camps in the park. This comes at the cost of having to share activities with many others, which is less likely at the smaller lodges. Skukuza also has an [[AM Spa]], which is open seven days a week.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sanparks.org/parks/kruger/tourism/activities/am_spa_kruger.php|title=South African National Parks - Kruger - AM Spa|website=www.sanparks.org|language=en-ZA|access-date=2020-01-05}}</ref>
=== Game drives and bush walks ===
Like most of the major camps at Kruger, Skukuza offers game drives, split into the options of sunrise drives, sunset drives, and night drives. All-day drives can also be booked ahead of time, subject to driver availability.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sanparks.org/parks/kruger/tourism/activities/drives.php|title=South African National Parks - Kruger - Drives|website=www.sanparks.org|language=en-ZA|access-date=2020-01-05}}</ref>
Skukuza offers guided morning walks much like those at other camps. Trained field guides will take groups of up to 8 adults into the bush for several hours, where they will track large game on foot.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sanparks.org/parks/kruger/tourism/activities/guided_walks.php|title=South African National Parks - Kruger - Guided Walks|website=www.sanparks.org|language=en-ZA|access-date=2020-01-05}}</ref> Unlike most other camps, Skukuza also offers afternoon walks, which are considered by reviewers at [[Getaway Magazine]] to be some of the best walk experiences in Kruger.{{ref|a|a}}<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sanparks.org/docs/tourism_tariffs/tariff_2019_20.pdf?time=1578257460|title=SANParks: Tariffs from 1 November 2019 to 31 October 2020|last=|first=|date=2019-02-12|website=South African National Parks|archive-url=|archive-date=|access-date=2019-01-05}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.getaway.co.za/travel-ideas/things-to-do/best-walking-trails-kruger/|title=The best walking trails in Kruger|date=2016-07-04|website=Getaway Magazine|access-date=2020-01-05}}</ref> These afternoon walks typically leave at 4 PM.
==== Metsi-Metsi Wilderness Trail ====
Skukuza the hosting site of the Metsi-Metsi Wilderness Trail. This 2 day (3 night) hiking trip begins with a drive to the first trailhead near the Mozambique border, where the first night's camp is set up. The next two days consist of morning and evening hikes, with a break in the middle of the day. This trail crosses the Lindanda plains, where [[Black rhinoceros|black rhino]], [[cheetah]] and [[lion]] are common, as well as plains birds such as [[ostrich]], [[kori bustard]] and [[secretary bird]]s. [[Sclerocarya birrea|Marula]] and [[knobthorn]] trees are quite dominant on the landscape. The camps on these hikes are not fenced in and have no electricity - simply four A-frame huts for guests. Lunches and dinners are prepared by cooks at each camp.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sa-venues.com/things-to-do/mpumalanga/metsi-metsi-wilderness-trail/|title=Metsi-Metsi Wilderness Trail in Skukuza, Mpumalanga|website=www.sa-venues.com|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.krugerparktrails.co.za/walking-safaris/wilderness-trails/metsi-metsi-wilderness-trail/,%20http://www.krugerparktrails.co.za/walking-safaris/wilderness-trails/metsi-metsi-wilderness-trail/|title=Metsi Metsi Wilderness Trail {{!}} Walking Trails - Kruger National Park|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://twoyearsinthekingdom.wordpress.com/2013/06/08/metsi-metsi-wilderness-trail/|title=Metsi-metsi Wilderness Trail|last=ozornow|date=2013-06-08|website=Two Years in the Kingdom|language=en|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ralphpina.com/2002/07/metsi-metsi-wilderness-trail/|title=Metsi-Metsi Wilderness Trail|date=2002-07-10|website=Ralph Pina|language=en-ZA|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref>
In 2008, trail ranger Rudi Lorist was attacked by a lioness on the trail near camp.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://mg.co.za/article/2008-10-10-kruger-park-ranger-mauled-by-lion/|title=Kruger park ranger mauled by lion|website=The M&G Online|date=10 October 2008 |language=en|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nationalgeographic.com.au/news/caught-on-safari-in-kruger.aspx|title=Caught on Safari in Kruger|website=www.nationalgeographic.com.au|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref> Lorist was flown to [[Nelspruit Medi Clinic]] for treatment.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sanparks.org/parks/kruger/news.php?id=1060?PHPSESSID=g562lclpomekt0p39j8dcc06t6|title=South African National Parks - Kruger - News|website=www.sanparks.org|language=en-ZA|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.news24.com/SouthAfrica/News/Ranger-mauled-by-lion-20081010|title=Ranger mauled by lion|date=2008-10-10|website=News24|language=en|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref> This incident was used in the 9 March 2011 episode of the [[Animal Planet]] TV Series [[I'm Alive (TV series)|I'm Alive]], where Lorist was played by actor [[Feikamoh Massaquoi]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.tvguide.com/tvshows/im-alive/episode-2-season-2/trial-by-fire/298900|title=I'm Alive {{!}} TV Guide|website=TVGuide.com|language=en|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://play.google.com/store/tv/show/I_m_Alive?cdid=tvseason-6EFC6290039F900CSE&gdid=tvepisode-58442E01C9004BFDEP&id=80B0046F36080E2ASH&hl=en_US|title=I'm Alive: Season 2 Episode 2 - TV on Google Play|website=play.google.com|language=en|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Citation|title=Trial by Fire|url=http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1868628/|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref>
===Bush Braai===
Skukuza, like many other camps at Kruger, provides bush [[braai]]s and bush breakfasts for interested visitors. A bush braai begins with an afternoon game drive, followed by a traditional South African [[braai]] in an unfenced area open to the wild, with rangers as protection.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sanparks.org/parks/kruger/tourism/activities/braais.php|title=South African National Parks - SANParks - Official Website - Accommodation, Activities, Prices, Reservations|website=www.sanparks.org|language=en-ZA|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.lonelyplanet.com/south-africa/activities/bush-braai-dinner/a/pa-act/v-123058P1/355611|title=Bush Braai Dinner {{!}} South Africa|website=www.lonelyplanet.com|language=en|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref> Beverages cost extra, but are available at the braai.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.lakruger.com/activities/kruger-national-park-bush-braai/|title=Kruger National Park Bush Braai - La Kruger Lodge|website=www.lakruger.com|language=en|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref> Participants must be at least 12 years of age, and availability is limited, as the bush braai can only take place if at least 6 visitors sign up, but cannot accommodate more than 12.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.privatekrugersafaris.co.za/afternoon-drive-bush-braai.html|title=Afternoon game drive and bush braai (BBQ)|website= Private Kruger Park Game drive specials in Kruger National Park from Hazyview|language=en|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref> After the braai, a short night drive takes guests back to the camp. The excursion typically lasts a total of 3-3.5 hours.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://kruger-national-park-guide.com/bush-braai.html|title=Bush Braai - Safari Game Drive and Dinner|website=Kruger National Park Guide|language=en-AU|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref>
The bush breakfast is similar, with a sunrise drive to the location, a breakfast similar to a [[Full English]], and a short drive back to camp.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.lakruger.com/activities/kruger-bush-breakfast-drive/|title=Kruger National Park Bush Breakfast - La Kruger Lodge|website=www.lakruger.com|language=en|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref>
=== Other activities === <!-- TODO: Flesh this out.-->
Other activities at Skukuza include:
* Kids Educational Programme (seasonal).
* Through prior arrangement with the camp, catered traditional dances can be arranged.
* Wildlife films every evening (except Sundays).
{{note|a|a}}The other camp that offers afternoon walks is Letaba.
==Nearby Attractions and Game Viewing==
Skukuza is located in the southern part of Kruger and is the most popular and accessible camp, and one of the best for game viewing. In the vicinity of the camp all of the [[Big five game|big five]] can be found, as well as other recognisable animals. The camp itself overlooks the [[Sabie River]], and it's common to see elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and other large game visible from camp. The trees along the river are home to [[chacma baboon]]s and [[vervet monkey]]s, and the calls of [[brown greater galago|greater galagos]] are heard at dawn and dusk. [[Wahlberg's epauletted fruit bat]]s can be seen under the verges of some thatched roofs. Some of these have been fitted with radio transmitters to study their feeding patterns and home ranges.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.krugerpark.co.za/krugerpark-times-2-3-bats-enter-fashion-stakes.html|title=Kruger Park Times {{!}} Bats enter the fashion stakes {{!}} Online News Publication...|website=www.krugerpark.co.za|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.krugerpark.co.za/krugerpark-times-4-3-radio-bat-24142.html|title=Kruger Park News {{!}} Radio Bat On Air Again {{!}} Online News Publication...|website=www.krugerpark.co.za|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Foraging-range-95-kernel-of-E-wahlbergi-980-at-Skukuza-in-2004-2005-and-2006-The_fig3_265390740|title=FIG. 2. Foraging range (95% kernel) of E. wahlbergi 980 at Skukuza in...|website=ResearchGate|language=en|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref> The bats have also been studied to distinguish the mating calls of multiple species in the area.<ref>{{Cite journal|last1=Adams|first1=Rick A.|last2=Snode|first2=Emily R.|date=2015-01-16|title=Differences in the male mating calls of co-occurring epauletted fruit bat species (Chiroptera, Pteropodidae, Epomophorus wahlbergi and Epomophorus crypturus) in Kruger National Park, South Africa|journal=Zoological Studies|language=en|volume=54|issue=1|pages=15|doi=10.1186/s40555-014-0087-2|pmid=31966102|pmc=6661289|issn=1810-522X|doi-access=free}}</ref>
=== Lake Panic Bird Hide ===
[[File:African Elephants (Loxodonta africana) drinking ... (33445173462).jpg|thumb|right|[[Bush elephant|Elephants]] drinking at Lake Panic]]
Approximately 7&nbsp;km from camp is the Lake Panic [[Bird Hide]], probably the most famous bird hide in Kruger Park. It is located directly on the western end of Lake Panic, a manmade lake created by an earthen dam constructed in 1975 on Mafunyana Creek. The lake is home to quite a few hippos, crocodiles and [[terrapins]], as well as a host of species of fish. Large mammals, including elephant, can frequently be spotted drinking at the shore of the lake.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://storiesofthekruger.co.za/lake-panic-experiences/|title=Stories Of The Kruger {{!}} Experiences At Lake Panic Close To Skukuza|last=Gareth|date=2018-05-05|website=Stories Of The Kruger|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref> Birds are also quite common at Lake Panic, including [[pied kingfisher]]s, [[giant heron]] and the occasional [[African fish eagle]].<ref name="TheKruger-LakePanic">{{Cite web|url=http://www.thekruger.com/skukuza/skukuza3.htm|title=Lake Panic Bird Hide on Mafunyana Creek|website=www.thekruger.com|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://showme.co.za/lifestyle/the-hide-life/|title=The hide life – Lake Panic is tops in Kruger|website=ShowMe™ - South Africa|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref> Viewing at Lake Panic has been called "birding the easy way" due to the ease with which one can see dozens of species within a relatively short period of time.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://southerncircle.com/birding-the-easy-way-at-lake-panic/|title=Birding the easy way at Lake Panic|date=2018-05-21|website=Southern Circle Tours & Safaris|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url= https://naturetravelkruger.com/2019/11/12/lake-panic/|title=Lake Panic|last=Team|first=Nature Travel|date=2019-11-12|website=Nature Travel Kruger |language=en-US |access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref> The L-shaped hide gives two fairly distinct views - one towards the main surface of the lake (which is not visible from the hide, as it is around a bend), and one towards a smaller, rounded area and the creek inlet.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://showme.co.za/lifestyle/the-hide-life/|title=The hide life – Lake Panic is tops in Kruger|website=ShowMe™ - South Africa|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref> Hippos will frequent this smaller area.
In March 2018, a small panic ensued when tourists started to notice the low level of the lake. This was caused by maintenance for a faulty drain valve, which required that the lake be partially drained temporarily. After the maintenance, water was pumped back into the lake from the Sabie River.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://hazyviewherald.co.za/223632/dont-panic-lake/|title=Don't panic about the lake|date=2018-05-11|website=Hazyview Herald|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url= https://www.facebook.com/latestsightingskruger/posts/1946270755443244|title=Latest Sightings - Kruger |website= www.facebook.com|language=en|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref>
====Name====
The name "Lake Panic" is thought to have been given shortly after the dam was built, as during a [[cloudburst]] it was feared the dam would collapse.<ref name="TheKruger-LakePanic"/>
===Picnic sites===
There are several picnic sites near Skukuza where one may leave one's vehicle. These sites typically provide [[braai]]s or skottels (gas fire devices with [[griddle]]s as well as [[wok]] style attachments) and toilet facilities, but some also sell hot food from their kitchens.
====Tshokwane Trading Post====
[[File:Vervet drinking energy drink at Tshokwane.jpg|thumb|Vervet monkey drinking a stolen [[Play energy drink]] at Tshokwane]]
Originally a ranger's post set up by [[James Stevenson-Hamilton]] in 1928, Tshokwane is now a picnic site with a shop and a restaurant. Its original purpose as a ranger's post was to give overnight shelter, as it was a day's ride on horseback from what is now Skukuza in one of the areas of the park most densely populated by big game and lions.<ref>{{Cite web |url= http://www.krugerpark.co.za/Self_Drive_around_Skukuza-travel/explore-kruger-park-around-tshokwane.html|title=Kruger Park {{!}} Around Tshokwane, Game Drive Safari in Skukuza|website=www.krugerpark.co.za|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref> Tshokwane is privately operated by [[Tourvest]] and is roughly equidistant by road from Skukuza, [[Lower Sabie]], and [[Satara Rest Camp|Satara]]. Gas braais are also available for hire, and raw foods for cooking are available at the shop.<ref name="sanparks.org">{{Cite web|url=https://www.sanparks.org/parks/kruger/tourism/picnicspots.php|title=South African National Parks - SANParks - Official Website - Accommodation, Activities, Prices, Reservations|website=www.sanparks.org|language=en-ZA|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref> In 2016 it was announced that the kitchen at Tshokwane would be closed, but the shop still offered premade food as well as braais for rental.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sanparks.org/parks/kruger/news.php?id=56755?PHPSESSID=4cabkr654hpt3l11a721rpi796|title=South African National Parks - SANParks - Official Website - Accommodation, Activities, Prices, Reservations |website=www.sanparks.org|language=en-ZA|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref> The restaurant area reopened after a renovation on 30 September 2019. Much of the seating is under a large [[sausage tree]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/196/529/152413.html|title=Revamped Tshokwane Trading Post and Picnic Site reopened|website=www.bizcommunity.com|language=en|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref> [[Vervet monkey]]s frequent the site, stealing food and drinks from guests. Tshokwane also sells an exclusive coffee blend made by the [[Green Bean Coffee Roastery]].<ref name="WildCardTshokwane">{{Cite web|url=https://www.wildcard.co.za/relax-recharge-krugers-tshokwane-trading-post/|title=Relax and recharge at Kruger's Tshokwane Trading Post|date=2016-11-01|website=Wild Card|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref>
The name "Tshokwane", pronounced "chore-kwah-neh" with a [[non-rhotic]] "R", is a modern [[Orthography|orthographical]] form of the name of a local [[Shangaan]] chief, Chokwane, who lived in the area around 1910.<ref name="WildCardTshokwane" />
====Nkuhlu Picnic Site====
The Nkuhlu picnic site is about halfway between Skukuza and Lower Sabie along the Sabie River Road (H4-1). Named after the Swazi word for [[Natal mahogany]] which cover the site, the site offers snacks and refreshments for sale as well as the hire of skottels. The shop also sells curios and has a menu of cooked meals, including the site's speciality, waffles.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://tracks4africa.co.za/listings/item/w167508/nkuhlu-picnic-spot/|title=Tracks4Africa|website=Tracks4Africa|language=en|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref><ref name="sanparks.org"/> The spot is quite popular, as it is the only picnic site along the busiest road in the park. Birds such as [[giant kingfisher]] and [[giant heron]] can be seen from the site. Crocodiles frequent the river below, and [[vervet monkeys]] sometimes terrorise patrons in order to steal their food.<ref name="AfricaSky-PicnicSpots">{{Cite web|url=https://www.africansky.com/african-travel/south-africa/destinations/national-parks/kruger-park/kruger-national-private-picnic-spots|title=Picnic Spots in the Kruger National Park - African Sky|website=www.africansky.com|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref>
===Stevenson-Hamilton Memorial===
[[File:Stevenson Hamilton Memorial - Krugerův NP, Jihoafrická republika - panoramio.jpg|thumb|Stevenson Hamilton Memorial]]
<!--[[File:Stevenson-Hamilton memorial plaque, Kruger National Park (7827189424).jpg|thumb|Stevenson-Hamilton memorial plaque]]-->
13&nbsp;km south of Skukuza in the Rhenosterkop region of the park is the Stevenson-Hamilton memorial, on a rock formation called Shrimantanga. The area is one of the few unstaffed areas where one is allowed to leave a vehicle (at one's own risk), but is in an area known for leopards.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.wanyamasafaris.com/off-the-beaten-path/|title=Off the beaten path|date=2019-08-13|website=Wanyama Safaris|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://2summers.net/2017/08/15/kruger-secret-places-random-tips/|title=Kruger, Top to Bottom: Secret Places and Random Tips|date=2017-08-15|website=2Summers|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref> The area contains several granite rock formations as well as a path up to the top of one, which provides a view over the veld below. The memorial was erected in 1957, shortly after Stevenson-Hamilton's death.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.artefacts.co.za/main/Buildings/bldgframes.php?bldgid=12460|title=Stevenson-Hamilton Memorial details|website=www.artefacts.co.za|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref>
==Accommodation== <!-- TODO: Rewrite this section -->
Accommodation at Skukuza varies from small, but comfortable, bungalows to large guesthouses suitable for tour groups. Each house has an outside braai (barbecue) area and mosquito protection. The large camping terrain has sites for caravans, motor homes, and tents; campers share the ablutions, cooking, and washing up facilities. All who stay at Skukuza are entitled to make use of the onsite facilities such as use of the swimming pools and participate in select events such as watching free movies at the outdoor cinema.
Unrelated but quite near to Skukuza is the [[Protea Hotel Kruger Gate]], a 4-star lodge-style hotel located immediately outside of the park (19&nbsp;km from Skukuza camp). The hotel is owned by [[Protea Hotels]], a subsidiary of [[Marriott Hotels & Resorts|Marriott]] and has air conditioning as well as its own restaurant and bar, swimming pool, gym, tennis courts, children's playground, car rental and conference facilities.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.mpumalanga.com/plan-your-trip/accommodation/lowveld-legogote/unknown-city/protea-hotel-kruger-gate-MTACC116|title=Protea Hotel Kruger Gate|website=www.mpumalanga.com|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.safarinow.com/go/protea-hotel-kruger-gate/|title=Protea Hotel Kruger Gate|website=www.safarinow.com|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.satsa.com/item/protea-hotel-kruger-gate/|title=Protea Hotel Kruger Gate {{!}} SATSA|language=en-ZA|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/mqpkg-protea-hotel-kruger-gate/|title=Protea Hotel Kruger Gate|website=Marriott International|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://greater.krugerpark.co.za/Accommodation_near_Kruger_Park-travel/mpumalanga-hotel-kruger-gate.html|title=Protea Kruger Gate Hotel {{!}} Accommodation Near Kruger Park {{!}} Kruger Park Hotel|website=greater.krugerpark.co.za|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sa-venues.com/visit/proteahotelkrugergate/|title=Protea Hotel Kruger Gate in Skukuza, Mpumalanga|website=www.sa-venues.com|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref>
=== Kruger Shalati hotel ===
Kruger Shalati is a luxury hotel based in train cars on the bridge and in the nearby station at Skukuza. It offers 24 two-sleeper carriage rooms and 7 two-sleeper bridge house suites, with floor to ceiling glass walls in the train cars for immersion into the surrounding area.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bushbreaks.co.za/blog/kruger-shalati-train-lodge-skukuza/|title=Kruger Shalati - The Train Lodge on the Bridge in Skukuza - Coming December 2019|website=www.bushbreaks.co.za|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.iafrica.com/afrocentricity-at-the-centre-of-kruger-shalati-train-on-the-bridge/|title=Afrocentricity At The Centre Of Kruger Shalati Train On The Bridge|last=Editor|first=S. G.|date=2019-09-05|website=iAfrica.com|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref> The rooms are decorated in a reimagined style of the original 1920s trains that crossed the bridge. The hotel has an overhanging pool above the river, facing away from the rest of Skukuza.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.traveller24.com/TravelPlanning/Accommodation/pics-the-new-luxury-train-hotel-on-krugers-selati-bridge-will-make-your-jaw-drop-20190503|title=PICS: The new luxury train hotel on Kruger's Selati Bridge will make your jaw drop|date=2019-05-03|website=Traveller|access-date=2020-01-06}}</ref>
===Accommodation for Guests with Mobility Challenges===
South African National Parks are working to provide facilities for guests with mobility challenges, including safari vehicles and sleeping accommodations.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.iol.co.za/travel/africa/kruger-national-park-gets-four-vehicles-for-people-with-mobility-challenges-18388018|title=Kruger National Park gets four vehicles for people with mobility challenges {{!}} IOL Travel|website=www.iol.co.za|language=en|access-date=2020-01-11}}</ref> 6 of the bungalows (all coded BD2Z by SANParks) are equipped with roll-in showers, and 2 (coded BG2ZE) have baths with hand rails. Units with baths, however, lack kitchenettes. One guest cottage (unit 226) is also equipped with a wheelchair-accessible bathroom and a roll-in shower. These facilities have been noted as being difficult to use without assistance.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sanparks.org/assets/docs/general/skukuza_access_profile0909.pdf|title=Skukuza Camp, Kruger National Park – Access for Guests with Mobility Challenges|last=Patton|first=Chris|date=|website=South African National Parks|archive-url=|archive-date=|access-date=2020-01-11}}</ref>
==Village==
As the administrative headquarters of Kruger Park, Skukuza has a somewhat substantial number of people living in the area. Living quarters for employees at camps in Kruger National Park are confined to staff villages, of which Skukuza is by far the largest. Only employees of the park or their family are allowed to live in the staff village, limiting the population. Due to the remote nature of Skukuza, residents generally make frequent trips to [[Nelspruit]] or [[Hazyview]] for shopping.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.countrylife.co.za/conservation/living-amongst-wild-kruger-national-park|title=Living Amongst the Wild in the Kruger National Park|last=Horn|first=Gerhard|date=2018-04-18|website=SA Country Life|language=en-ZA|access-date=2020-01-11}}</ref> The staff village also hosts the Skukuza Science Leadership Initiative, a research station owned by the [[Organization for Tropical Studies]]. This research station has a variety of projects studying ecology and biodiversity.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://tropicalstudies.org/portfolio/skukuza-research-station/|title=Skukuza Research Station - Organization for Tropical Studies|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-11}}</ref>
===Laerskool Skukuza===
Skukuza has a single primary school, Laerskool Skukuza, which provides multilingual education to approximately 200 children in the staff village.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://skools.co.za/listings/laerskool-skukuza/|title=Laerskool Skukuza|date=2018-10-23|website=Skools|language=en-ZA|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://pathfinda.com/en/skukuza/shops-services/laerskool-skukuza|title=Laerskool Skukuza in Skukuza, Mpumalanga|website=pathfinda.com|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://epages.co.za/laerskool-skukuza-sekukuza/|title=Laerskool Skukuza, Sekukuza|date=2019-08-15|website=ePages|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref><!--Clarification: Approximately 200 was used as sources disagree on the exact number.--> The school also acts as a boarding school for students of staff members at other camps. In 2007, an unused staff house was turned into a hostel for 26 students and a live-in matron.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sanparks.org/about/news/?id=712|title=New Hostel Opens for Skukuza School Pupils|website=www.sanparks.org|language=en-ZA|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref> A nearby nursery school, founded as a non-profit, acts as a feeder school to Laerskool Skukuza.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.krugerpark.co.za/krugerpark-times-e-6-making-a-difference-25287.html|title=Kruger Park News {{!}} Making a Difference In The Eyes Of a Child|website=www.krugerpark.co.za|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref>
===Religious Services===
Skukuza contains a single [[Dutch Reformed Church]], NG Kerk Krugerwildtuin.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sayellow.com/@2?wr=6&SearchCategoryCode=0|title=Churches near Skukuza|website=www.sayellow.com|language=en|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref> This is claimed to be the world's only parsonage in a game reserve. The church has a history dating back to 1969, when a church for the Skukuza staff village was first proposed. A cornerstone was laid in 1972, and the church finally opened on 27 April 1986. The current pastor, Rev. Carl Louwrens, was confirmed on 12 January 1992. The church primarily hosts NG Kerk services in Afrikaans, but services have also been held in English.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://lowvelder.co.za/339578/wildtuinkerk-vier-30-jaar-van-groei-in-god-se-tuin/|title=Wildtuinkerk vier 30 jaar van groei in "God se Tuin"|date=2016-06-14|website=Lowvelder|access-date=2020-01-12|last=Parker|first=Elize|language=af|trans-title=}}</ref>
===N'waswitshaka Research Camp===
Near the staff village is the N'waswitshaka research camp, which provides accommodation for visiting researchers and their guests. The facilities are similar to the rondavels, chalets and campsites in the main camp, but are entirely self-serve. Additional resources such as an office facility with internet access and game guards are available for researchers if necessary.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sanparks.org/docs/conservation/scientific/skukuza-research-camp-facilities.pdf|title=N'waswitshaka Research Camp|last=|first=|date=|website=|archive-url=|archive-date=|access-date=2020-01-11}}</ref>
===Wildlife Incidents===
The village at Skukuza is not fenced in like the rest camp is, and there have been multiple incidents of people in the staff village being killed by wildlife, especially leopards. There is a fairly dense population of big cats near Skukuza, which is part of the draw for tourists but also makes the area more dangerous.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.iol.co.za/news/south-africa/leopard-kills-kruger-park-employee-61597|title=Leopard kills Kruger Park employee {{!}} IOL News|website=www.iol.co.za|language=en|access-date=2020-01-18}}</ref>
===Controversial Incidents===
Skukuza, like all other major camps, has a rapidly increasing population of 'locals', who disregard the rules and regulation<ref>{{Cite web|title=Another complaint about noise at Skukuza|url=https://africawild-forum.com/viewtopic.php?t=7793|access-date=2021-03-25|website=Africa Wild|language=en-gb}}</ref> and in so doing, invade the privacy of the guests. Over the weekends staff members engage themselves in all sorts of unruly and disturbing behaviour, including drinking and playing loud music until the early hours of the morning. Recently more and more guests decided to speak out and complain about the issues experienced.
== Climate ==
Skukuza has a [[hot semi-arid climate]] with a summer rainy season ([[Köppen climate classification]] type BSh) typical of much of the Lowveld.
{{Skukuza weatherbox}}
==Gallery==
<gallery mode="packed" heights="130" style="font-size:100%; line-height:130%">
File:accomskukuza1.jpg|Part of the Waterkant guesthouse
File:Lions on road5.jpg|A group of [[lion]]esses on an early evening prowl on the H1-2 road just east of Skukuza
File:Mistysunriseskukuza.jpg|Selati train bridge over the Sabie River
File:Kruger National Park Landscape 1.jpg|Sabie River near Skukuza
File:Stevenson-Hamilton-Gedenkbibliotheek, Skukuza.JPG|The [[James Stevenson-Hamilton|Stevenson-Hamilton]] library in Skukuza
File:Comair Douglas DC-3 1973 Bor.jpg|A [[Comair (South Africa)|Comair]] [[Douglas DC-3]] at Skukuza in 1973
</gallery>
==References==
{{reflist}}
{{commons category|Skukuza}}
{{Ehlanzeni District Municipality}}
{{Authority control}}
[[Category:Populated places in the Mbombela Local Municipality]]
[[Category:Kruger National Park]]