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I grew up thinking that the Kruger Park was in our backyard – that’s how many times we went. One of my most vivid memories was seeing lions for the very first time. I remember pressing my nose flat against the window in the stationwagon to get a better view of these better cats. My parents loved going to the Kruger Park and I still do, but I can’t just pop over there… its far!

I was elated to be introduced to the Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve just 2 shakes from our home. Not only do they have lions, but they also have a bunch of other cats and animals to look at.

Once you enter the park adrenaline starts pumping. Just after the gate the very first watering hole with animals, then up and down a hill a gate will be opened that keeps the predators away from the herbivores.

We didn’t get to do the animal interactions as we were at the Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve for an easter egg hunt and the children were kaput! Next time we’ll do that…

When the driving gets too much you can always go to the Thatch Café for a snack or take on the bicycle ramps. You can also go to the Thatch Cafe and bike park without entering the rest of the park – which means it’s a free place to go! You can also rent bicycles here.

Get more details on www.rhinolion.co.za.

What to do with kids while in Gauteng

There are perks to living in Africa. You are closer to the most amazing nature reserves and you have sunshine almost all year round.

We recently visited the Lion Park just outside Joburg – and did we get more than we bargained for…

We excitedly drove into the first fenced area with the young lions – the only vehicle in this camp. The lions all lay in the middle of the grassy area, spaced around a felled tree trunk. While husband was clicking away the cats raised from their resting positions and walked down the road behind us.

…and then one lion walked towards our car. It peeked into the back window like a naughty cat and before we could say or do anything the car got another passenger!

The lion walked the roof. The fear was real, a cat could break through the sunroof and land in the Subaru with us. We made a lot of noise and started to drive a bit to try and scare the cat off. Unfortunately his/her curiosity was greater than expected.

The lion finally climbed down the windshield and checked us out while standing on the extra long Subaru bonnet.

We were more than a little relieved when the lion was off the car and made a beeline for the next camp.

It is so amazing to see animals up close and personal, but I prefer seeing them in their natural habitat like in the Kruger Park – it makes it so much more special when you eventually spot one.

Yes… I played with the lion cubs too and fed the 2 giraffes!