Bird Watching

Embarking on a safari is not just an adventure; it’s a chance to step into a world untouched, where the rhythms of nature pulse around you. But to truly savor this experience, one must tread lightly, with respect and awe, for this is not our domain—it belongs to the creatures of the wild.

Needles Lodge offers full-day game drives in Kruger National Park, optimizing wildlife sightings with early starts, late returns, and breaks during peak animal activity. With expert guides, these drives transform a safari into an unforgettable, immersive adventure.

Marloth Park, near Kruger National Park, offers a tranquil and intimate safari experience with direct wildlife encounters, affordability, and a strong conservation focus. Its proximity to Kruger allows for easy day trips, while Marloth itself provides unique activities and a peaceful retreat, making it an ideal choice for an authentic African safari.

The African Pygmy Kingfisher, found near Needles Lodge, is a vibrant bird with electric blue, orange, and purple feathers. Despite its vivid colors, it blends into dense foliage. A skilled hunter, it catches insects with precision. Males perform aerial dances during breeding season. Adaptable and solitary, it nests in riverbanks or termite mounds. Though not endangered, habitat loss is a concern. Spotting this bird at Needles Lodge is a special highlight.

Nestled next to Kruger National Park, Marloth Park is a photographer's dream, teeming with wildlife like zebras and bushbabies, often visible from Needles Lodge. This serene sanctuary offers not just a stay but a chance to capture the essence of these creatures in their natural habitat. From the magical golden hours to the spontaneous wildlife behaviours at dusk, this guide provides expert tips to help you hone your photography skills and take home stunning images that truly reflect the beauty of this unique area.