South Africa is globally renowned for its diverse culture and nature. KwaZulu-Natal, jam-packed with history, culture and natural beauty, is one of the best examples of how diverse our country truly is. Rikus Truter from Lekker Kampplekke shares his favourite camping spots in this area.
- Hluhluwe Bush Camp
If you seek beautifully hidden campsites in the middle of natural forest, then Hluhluwe Bush Camp fits the bill. It’s ideal for adventurers who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Each site has its own braai area, so campers can relax and recharge around the campfire while searing their steaks. There are also luxury safari tents that ensure a comfortable and relaxed experience. The campsite borders the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and is only a 20-minute drive from the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, which is the oldest game park in Africa. The camp is located on one of the Rhino Mountain Bike Trail routes.
NEAREST TOWN: Hluhluwe (12km)
SHOP: Yes
PET-FRIENDLY: No
FISHING: Yes (ocean)
CELL PHONE RECEPTION: Limited
ACCESSIBILITY: Gravel road (accessible to non-4WD vehicles)
RATES: R300 per night, per campsite for one vehicle (each campsite can accommodate up to six people)
CONTACT: +27 78 396 9391 / +27 79 107 5273 | info@hluhluwebushcamp.com | www.hluhluwebushcamp.com
2. Mbumbulu Bush Camp
Those outdoor and off-road enthusiasts looking for a proper 4×4 experience will enjoy their stay at Mbumbulu Bush Camp. Situated between Sodwana Bay and Kosi Bay in the north-eastern tip of KwaZulu-Natal, this camp is extremely secluded and will make you feel like you’re light years away from civilisation. It is located near Lake Sibaya in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and offers driving access to many pristine beaches, including Nine Mile Beach, Mabibi, Island Rock (Manzengwenya), Lala Nek, Rocktail Bay, Black Rock, Dog Point, Bhanga Nek and Kosi Bay Mouth. Lala Nek, in particular, is known as one of the best snorkelling beaches in KwaZulu-Natal. iSimangaliso Wetland Park is, of course, a coastal conservation area and offers among its delights the expansive Lake St. Lucia, home to many hippos, crocodiles, pelicans, and flamingos.
NEAREST TOWN: Sodwana Bay (35km)
SHOP: No
PET-FRIENDLY: No
FISHING: Yes (ocean)
CELL PHONE RECEPTION: Yes
ACCESSIBILITY: Gravel road (4x4s only)
RATES: R185 per person per night
CONTACT: +27 83 273 3370 | mbumbulubushcamp@gmail.com
3. Mountain Splendour Eco-Resort
This family-owned and managed four-star resort, located on an 80-hectare farm, offers a safe, relaxed and peaceful atmosphere. During peak holiday seasons, the little ones can choose from a range of activities, which makes it an ideal family getaway destination. On arrival, the friendly staff will greet you with a cup of tea, and help you set up camp. The excellent ablutions have both communal and private options, plus there is the option of booking fully-equipped tents – ideal for that fun family reunion to meet with friends or family who are not equipped for camping. The tents are pitched just before the guests arrive, and when it’s time to head home, you only have to pack your personal belongings – no wet tents and gear to worry about!
NEAREST TOWN: Winterton (25km)
SHOP: Yes
PET-FRIENDLY: No
FISHING: Yes (dam)
CELL PHONE RECEPTION: Yes
ACCESSIBILITY: Tar road
RATES: Daily rate from R196 per person per night, plus the campsite cost, which varies depending on the time of year you book and which site you reserve (from R100 per night).
*Various self-catering options are available from R368 per person per night.
CONTACT: +27 36 468 1172 | info@mountainsplendour.co.za | www.mountainsplendour.co.za
4. Cycad Rock Fishing Lodge
This lodge, next to the Jozini Dam, offers some of the most spectacular views of this beautiful dam. It offers great fishing spots with comfortable and spacious campsites. Experience the thrills of tiger fishing or simply enjoy a peaceful weekend on the water, surrounded by amazing scenery and an incredibly rich birdlife. A private jetty is available for your boat, and guests can also be taken out in one of the lodge’s boats. If the water and fishing aren’t for you, visitors can also enjoy short hiking trails at the lodge.
NEAREST TOWN: Jozini (7km)
SHOP: No
PET-FRIENDLY: Yes
FISHING: Yes (dam)
CELL PHONE RECEPTION: Yes (Wifi)
ACCESSIBILITY: Gravel road (The final 1km stretch is not accessible for vehicles with low ground clearance)
RATES: R300 per person per night
CONTACT: +27 83 378 9727 | www.cycadrock.co.za
5. Tugela Mouth Resort
Get lost in the incredible scenery at this birdwatching paradise with over 260 species to look out for. The resort boasts 39 well-equipped campsites, each with its own braai (bring your own grid), water faucet, light and power point. Tugela Mouth Resort is popular amongst caravan clubs and offers an ideal base from which to explore the area. Visitors will find a golf course, reptile park, crocodile farm and various nature reserves within a 50km radius. During the December holidays, various adult-supervised activities are offered for the youngsters.
NEAREST TOWN: Tugela (4km)
SHOP: Yes
PET-FRIENDLY: No
FISHING: Yes (ocean)
CELL PHONE RECEPTION: Yes
ACCESSIBILITY: Tar road
RATES: Available upon request
CONTACT: +27 82 803 6339 | info@tugelamouth.co.za | www.tugelamounth.co.za
*Prices and facilities highlighted in this article are subject to change without notice. – Ed.
Lekker Kampplekke’s camp etiquette
- Never move uninvited through a fellow camper’s camping area.
- Keep things quiet and peaceful. Don’t play your music or television loudly and keep voices down – not everyone in the camp is interested in your opinion. Also, keep your language use around the campsite PG-rated.
- Do not leave small children unattended at the ablution facilities as they tend to be rather messy and could ruin the bathroom if left alone.
- When you have used the ablution facilities, clean up after yourself – do not leave the sink full of beard stubble or toothpaste. Also, do not shower for an eternity and use all the hot water. Always flush the toilet and clean it if you’ve made any kind of mess.
- Don’t speed around in the campsite and, unless you have permission, never park in front of your neighbour’s campsite.
*By Gerhard du Toit, for Lekker Kampplekke.
*For more information on camping sites near you, visit the Lekker Kampplekke website: www.lekkerkampplekke.co.za
