Review of Jock Safari Lodge, by Gemma Pitcher

Jock Safari Lodge (named after the dog hero of the South African children's classic Jock of the Bushveld) is a luxury lodge located in a private concession in the south of the Kruger National Park. Forget any notion of roughing it in the bush - the lodge's sumptuous suites come with private plunge pools and terraced decks overlooking a dry river bed. Handsome claw baths look out through glass doors into the surrounding bush, and outdoor showers go a step closer still.

There's a small swimming pool set into the sun deck, and a heavenly spa that provides health treatments and outdoor massages accompanied by the sound of cicadas and birdsong. Food in the open-air restaurant is hearty and well-prepared rather than sublime, with a traditional South African 'braai' (barbeque) every couple of days.

Game drives take place morning and evening, and rangers accompany guests at the evening meal also - which means that unless you specifically ask not to, you will be eating with the other occupants of your game drive vehicle for at least two meals a day. Game viewing is generally good, and guides are competent if not exactly charismatic.

The emphasis is really on clocking up the maximum number of sightings, without any real attempt to go into great detail, which makes Jock a better destination for first-time safarigoers looking for luxury and relaxation than seasoned game viewers hoping to enhance their natural history knowledge.