Kruger Day 1 - Polokwane

It was the four-night visit to Kruger National Park exactly a year ago that whet the appetite for another visit to one of Africa's finest game viewing experiences. The trip last year felt incomplete, and with the relative ease of navigating around the park, incredible hospitality and all within an affordable price range, it made a return visit possible.

This time it was all about the wildlife with no deviations planned to any other parts of the country.

Flying on British Airways' A380 service down to Johannesburg, felt more like endurance - the long-haul offering was mostly underwhelming.

On arrival at a grey, cool and showery day, it was time to head away toward the first nights' rest stop at the immaculate Protea Hotel by Marriott Polokwane Ranch Resort. The traffic was horrendous so it was a relief to have arrived after a tiring journey with almost a day spent on the move. The hotel itself deserved a longer stay; it was really relaxing, had great on-site facilities and the manicured gardens supported a variety of interesting birds.

Thankfully, the rain relented giving way to a glorious morning that provided an opportunity to stroll round the gardens.

African Paradise Flycatcher