Kruger National Park

Viewed as a somewhat Disneyfied safari experience, Kruger National Park, with its host of seasoned safari outfitters offering ultra-luxurious commodes, promising guaranteed game-viewings to visitors demanding a safe, theme-parked approach to nature. The idyllic setting of Kruger by day turns insidious at night as predators turn to prey on the desperation of refugees crossing the border from Mozambique- game viewing most visitors to Kruger miss out on.

Almost perversely, the Kruger National Park attracts a host of honeymooners, most significantly Carla Bruni and Nicolas Sarkozy( staying at the Royal Malewane). There are hotels that attempt to take on an enlightened management attitude and approach to the safari experience. The Outpost, the first resort in the Makulele region, entered into an agreement with the local people, providing employment and training them in the management of the hotel when the property reverts back to them after 30 years (owing to claims by the people of Makulele and legislature passed post-apartheid). The open-air design of the luxury suites blurring the dichotomy between visitor and wilderness, visitors enjoy great views of the African wilderness from their organically-shaped baths.

Bordering Kruger National Park is the Sabi Sand Reserve, home to Sir Richard Branson's rustic interpretation of the safari experience( Ulusaba Private Game Reserve) and the delightfully stylish Ralph Lauren-takes-on-safari look of the luxury Londolozi Private Game Reserve, a family-run establishment with plenty of flair.

Reading list: The Man-eaters of Eden, Robert R. Frump.