Lake Panic bird hide near Skukuza in Kruger National Park, tranquility epitomized.

Lake Panic is one of many bird hides in Kruger Park, but it is the most popular, being close to Skukuza, the largest camp in the park. Only eight vehicles are allowed at one time and in general visitors stick to the rules but there are always some that feel entitled. It is best to be there early in the morning to get a good spot and we had a leopard waiting for us at the gate in the parking area early one morning. It disappeared down to the water quickly and we made a dash for the gate. It was one of two cubs and we could see mother and the two cubs through the bushes but never clear enough to get footage. The birding is good and the early morning chorus from the bush waking up is amazing.