The Lonely Bull

Are you craving a raw, immersive wilderness adventure where wildlife roams freely, the only lights at night are stars above… and the experience doesn’t break the bank?

The Lonely Bull Backpack Trail in the heart of Kruger National Park strips back modern life and takes you deep into Big Five territory. With no set route, no facilities, and no fences between you and nature, this self-supported, guided trail invites you to reconnect with the wild on its terms.

It’s not just a hike – it’s a rare, affordable opportunity to experience the solitude, survival, and magic of a true Big Five wilderness.

Why Should You Choose The Lonely Bull

For a truly raw and untamed hiking experience, the Lonely Bull Backpack Trail – operating from Mopani Rest Camp—takes you deep into the northern heart of Kruger National Park.

This self-supported, guided wilderness trail winds through the mopane woodlands and along the Letaba and Tsendze Rivers, offering a rare chance to walk through Big Five territory with nothing but your pack, your group, and the wild around you. There are no fences, no facilities, and no fixed paths—just pure immersion in nature.

The Lonely Bull Trail is perfect for:

Wilderness seekers craving true isolation and adventure
Birders keen to explore a region rich in raptors, storks, and riverine species
Hikers wanting to unplug completely—there’s no signal, no tech, just trail
Those comfortable with wild camping in dry riverbeds under the stars

Things To Look Out For On The Lonely Bull

Wildlife
- Big Five Sightings: Depending on your luck, you may spot elephants, lions, buffalo, rhinos, and leopards.
- Hippos and Crocodiles: Particularly along the Letaba River.
- Antelope Species: Look for kudu, waterbuck, and impala along the trail.
Birdwatching Highlights
- Fish eagles
- Saddle-billed storks
- African jacanas
- Various species of kingfishers
Natural Beauty
- The trail follows the Tsendze and Letaba Rivers, providing stunning riverbed campsites.
- Mopane woodlands dominate the landscape, adding to the remote and isolated feel.

When To Hike The Lonely Bull

Be aware that Kruger Park’s three backpack trails, including The Lonely Bull Backpack Trail, only operate from 1 February – 30 November – so plan your trip accordingly.

The best time to hike the trail is between May and August. You’re (hopefully) looking at cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and less chance of encountering high water levels!

Temperatures can still exceed 28°C in winter, so be prepared for heat even in the cooler months.

About The Lonely Bull Trail

For an unforgettable adventure in Big 5 territory, the Lonely Bull Backpack Trail is one of the best ways to experience the Kruger National Park like never before. Leave your run-of-the-mill game drives behind and walk straight into the wild?

Here’s all the essential information you need to know for The Kruger National Park’s Lonely Bull Backpack Trail.

How Long Is The Lonely Bull Trail?

4 days, 3 nights.

Distance covered varies depending on the group, water availability and the guides’ decisions (usually between 30km and 40km in total).

Difficulty Rating

Moderate: The terrain is mostly flat but can be physically demanding due to heat and carrying a full pack.

Fitness Level Required

Moderate fitness is needed.

You must be able to carry your own backpack for the duration of the hike.

Age Limit

Minimum age: 12 years old.

Maximum age: No official limit, but you must be physically capable. If you are over 65 years of age then you will be asked to supply a letter from a doctor specifying that you are capable of the hike.

Backpack Information

Self-carry: You must bring all your own food, water purification, and camping gear.

Need lightweight, just-add-water meals? The Trail Food Co has a full range of hearty hiking-ready options – browse the menu here.

No slackpacking options are available.

Group Size

Maximum group size: 8 people

Minimum group size: 4 people (individuals can book, but the hike will only go ahead if at least four participants are confirmed)

Accommodation

Wild camping with no huts or facilities.

Tents are compulsory due to the presence of predators.

You will camp in dry riverbeds or other selected locations chosen by the guides.

Water

You will need to bring a water purifier and even drops potentially

Water will be taken either from the closest river or you might need to dig in the riverbed for water. *See Top Tips

Facilities

None. The trail follows a strict “leave no trace” policy.

No toilets – hikers must follow bush etiquette (e.g., cat-hole method).

Important Information

Departure days: Every Wednesday and Sunday from 1 February to 30 November

No cellphone reception – a true digital detox.

The Lonely Bull Route & What to Expect

The Route:

The trail starts from Kruger National Park’s Mopani Camp.
Vehicles can be left safely at the designated parking area in Mopani Camp.
The group will be transported by an open vehicle with a trailer to a drop-off point.
There is no set route, allowing guides to adapt based on wildlife movements and water sources.
The hiking pace and distance are determined by the group and agreed upon with the guides.

Expect:

No fixed campsites – each night’s stop is determined by the guides.
Encounters with wildlife on foot – an exhilarating but humbling experience.
Small fires – but not for cooking. That’s why The Trail Food Company’s cook-in bags are so handy.
Night-time sounds of the African bush – from lion roars to the grunts of hippos.
A true wilderness experience, completely isolated from other tourists.

Current Cost To Hike The Lonely Bull Trail (2025)

There are three primary costs involved in a Kruger Backpack Trail.

The Activity charge: As of 2025 this is R4018 per person.

A Conservation Fee per person per day (rate depends on your nationality and age).*

A Community Fund Fee of 1% will be added to the cost of all accommodation and activity reservations.

*If you have a valid Wild Card then this fee is not applicable.

Other Expenses:

Budget for accommodation before and after your Olifants Trail adventure, as well as the costs of getting to and from Kruger Park.

Mopani Camp offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets.

How To Book To Hike The Lonely Bull

Call: +27 (0)12 428 9111

The SanParks Central Reservations Call Centre is open Monday to Friday from 07:30 AM to 3:45 PM

Book online: https://www.sanparks.org/reservations/overnight-activity

Email: reservations@sanparks.org

Early booking is essential as spots are limited.

Getting To The Lonely Bull Trail

The closest Airport is
- Hoedspruit (Eastgate) Airport (which has daily flights to and from Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban)
Drive
- You will need to then drive or arrange a transfer to Mopani camp.
Nearest Kruger Gate
- The closest entrance gate to Mopani Rest Camp in Kruger National Park is the Phalaborwa Gate.
- Driving time once you are inside the park will be 1.5 to 2 hours depending on game sightings and road conditions.
- The most direct route is usually via the H9 tar road to Letaba Camp, then head north on the H1-6 to Mopani Camp.
Speeding Restrictions
- Bear in mind that the roads in Kruger have speed limits of 50 km/h on tar and 40 km/h on gravel, and wildlife sightings can cause unexpected delays—though those are the best kind of delays! So give yourself ample time to get to the starting point.
Meeting point:
- Mopani Rest Camp at 13:00 on the day of departure.
- Do not be late – the open vehicle transporting you to your drop off point leaves at 2pm sharp.
Trail Start and End
- Hikers are transported to and from Mopani Camp at the start and end of the trail.

About Mopani Rest Camp

Since you are going to head this way, we’ve highlighted 3 of our favourite things about or near to Mopani camp.

The camp overlooks Pioneer Dam, providing spectacular sunsets and fantastic birdwatching right from your chalet or restaurant deck.
Just 3km from Mopani, Shipandani overnight hide lets you sleep inside a bird hide overlooking a waterhole – completely alone (with a radio for emergencies). This is a highly recommended experience!
Compared to southern Kruger camps like Skukuza or Lower Sabie, Mopani is quieter, more remote, and less commercial – perfect for those seeking a peaceful pre- or post-hike stay.

What To Pack for The Lonely Bull

It can be overwhelming to figure out what should stay and what should go when you’re trying to pack for any hike. Take a look our super handy tips on what to pack for your next trail!

How To Pack for The Lonely Bull Backpack Trail

When preparing for the Lonely Bull Trail, aim to pack as light and compact as possible—every gram counts when you’re carrying everything on your back for four days.

A common tip is to plan your meals so you consume the heaviest and most perishable items first, freeing up space and lightening your load as you go. Fortunately, with Trail Food’s lightweight, dehydrated meals, you won’t have to worry about bulky tins or heavy ingredients. Our packs are designed to be space-saving, easy to carry, and packed with the energy you need out on trail.

Here are some expert pointers on how to pack your backpack if you’re feeling slightly uncertain about what should go where.

Don't Forget To...

We understand that hiking in a Big 5 area can be a scary thought. But don’t worry, your guides are well-trained. So…

Listen to your guides – they ensure safety in big game territory.
Respect nature – follow the “leave no trace” principle.
Check weather conditions before your trip.

FAQs

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about hiking in Big 5 territory.

Is the trail dangerous?

Wildlife encounters are always possible, but experienced guides are trained to ensure your safety.

Can I hike alone?

No, a minimum group of four is required.

Isn't it dangerous to sleep in the open in a Big 5 game reserve?

There are, of course, risks associated with all trails. However, if you are with a qualified and experienced guide, then although you can never say that it is categorically not dangerous, the skill, training and experience of your guides will go a long way to mitigating these dangers.

This is a key factor as to why it takes so long to become a qualified trails guide – they need to know what they are doing, how to assess situations, understand animal behaviour, and learn how to handle a rifle.

Listen to your guide. Be sensible. And embrace and enjoy the experience!

Is there a backup vehicle?

No, but guides carry emergency radios.

What happens in case of an emergency?

The guides have radios to call for assistance if needed.

Can I bring alcohol?

If you’re going in the depths of winter maybe take a tiny tipple just to warm you up – but you definitely don’t want to be carrying cans and bottles. Remember it’s important to be safe for yourself, the other hikers and the guides.

Should you worry about malaria on a Kruger trail?

Kruger closes its backpack trails over the peak rainy season – which is malaria season. However if you are concerned then speak to a local doctor about reasonable precautions.

Top Tips

I have 2 water filters, a small hand held MSR one and then a larger hanging one that enables you to filter larger volumes of water. On a number of occasions hiking not everyone has a filter so I have found that it is useful for me to bring the larger one to help others out.

Bring a treat to share: A bar of chocolate or something like that to share with the group on one of the nights. It’s a nice way to get the group chatting and a nice, sweet treat for everyone.

Don’t forget to tip your guides. Lead guide should usually get around R150 per person per night and back up guide should get about R100 per person per night. SANParks Rangers don’t get paid a lot so every bit of appreciation makes a difference.

Anything Else?

For a truly unforgettable wilderness experience, the Lonely Bull Backpack Trail offers one of the most immersive ways to explore Kruger National Park. It’s a chance to step away from the crowds and into a world where the rhythm of nature sets your pace.

And with your Trail Food meals neatly packed and feather-light, you can hit the trail knowing your nutrition is sorted—no overpacking stress, no bulky tins, just simple, satisfying meals ready when you are. Now get out there and enjoy the adventure!

Download this guide to the Kruger Park’s Lonely Bull Backpack Trail here.

A big thank you to Paul Slyer from PAW Safaris for his images.

If you have an epic hike or trail to share, or if there are any corrections or updates that you would like to suggest to this trail guide, please email

trish(at)trailfood.co.za