The Dinokeng Reserve, on Jozi’s doorstep, needs no introduction. The Big Five hang out there, you can go on self-drive game drives, and there’s a large variety of campsites – both fenced and unfenced. We pick our top five.
Jabula Bush Camp
Jabula is the Zulu word for ‘joy’, which is exactly what this beautifully maintained and unfenced camping spot offers visitors. Jabula Bush Camp is about 7km from the Tau Gate and offers four glamping selfcatering tents and five unfenced campsites. The spacious stands (25m in diameter) provide ample space for two camp trailers/caravans or up to four ground tents. Each has a private ablution block with warm water, a shower, basin, flush toilet, outside shower and wash-up facilities. Note, however, that the campsite has no power points – only solar-operated lights in the ablution block.
TYPE OF ACCOMMODATION: Camping and glamping
PET-FRIENDLY: No
FISHING: No
CELL PHONE RECEPTION: Yes
ACCESSIBILITY: Gravel roads (accessible to most vehicles and road caravans)
RATES: From R160 per person per night (during the week) and R210 per person per night over weekend, plus R55 per campsite per night. Children from 6 to 12 years old pay R60 per night during the week and from R95 over weekends.
CONTACT: +27 78 948 6781| info@jabulabushcamp.co.za | www.jabulabushcamp.co.za
Dinokeng Resort
The Dinokeng Resort offers the ideal getaway for young and old, boasting the perfect balance between some fabulous super-tubes, swimming pools and ample space for children for run amok, coupled with the relaxing atmosphere of the bushveld and even a river and a dam for those who want to try their hand at fishing. Guests can choose between stands with private or communal ablution facilities or stay in one of the self-catering units. The campsite is immaculately maintained, and each of the 83 stands offers a braai facility, electricity and water points. Note that no day visitors are allowed.
TYPE OF ACCOMMODATION: Camping and self-catering
PET-FRIENDLY: No
FISHING: Yes
CELL PHONE RECEPTION: Yes
ACCESSIBILITY: Tar and gravel road (accessible to all vehicles and road caravans)
RATES: From R665 per stand per night and R935 for private ablution caravan sites. Rates include four people and one car per stand, with additional occupants at R135 per person per night (to a maximum of six).
CONTACT: +27 60 970 5990 / +27 63 711 6856 | info@dinokengresort.co.za | www.dinokengresort.co.za
Thorn Tree Bush Camp
From magical sunrises to excellent game viewing, Thorn Tree Bush Camp guests can truly experience the African bushveld at its best. There are six stands (separated by trees and shrubs to ensure privacy) with a toilet, shower, electricity and braai facilities – three of them are ideal for up to six people, while the rest cater for larger groups of up to eight people or those with larger caravans or trailers. Additionally, there are limited off-grid campsites for the more adventurous campers – offering a truly wild experience, camping in the unfenced area amongst the free-roam Big Five. All wilderness campers must be self-sufficient, with their own water, ablution facilities and solar power. No generators are permitted, and two porta-potties are available for rent. Game drives on open game vehicles and bush walks are also available.
TYPE OF ACCOMMODATION: Camping and luxury tented camps
PET-FRIENDLY: No
FISHING: No
CELL PHONE RECEPTION: Yes (limited in the wild camp)
ACCESSIBILITY: Tar and gravel road (accessible to all vehicles and road caravans)
RATES: From R520 for up to four people.
CONTACT: +27 82 494 0491 / +27 71 359 5657 | info@thorntreebushcamp.co.za | www.thorntreebushcamp.co.za
Koedoesrus Boskamp
Boasting extra-large, spacious campsites and endless landscapes, the 4ha fenced Koedoesrus Boskamp offers a true escape from the stresses of modern-day life. Five campsites with braai facilities are located near the splash pool and communal entertainment area featuring a boma. This camping site is ideal for group bookings; all sites have electricity and ample shade. Suitable for serious nature lovers, the campsite does not offer much entertainment for the little ones but the authentic, uninterrupted bushveld experience more than makes up for it. Campsites have an electricity supply but do not cater for loadshedding, and generators are not allowed.
TYPE OF ACCOMMODATION: Camping
PET-FRIENDLY: No
FISHING: No
CELL PHONE RECEPTION: Yes
ACCESSIBILITY: Tar and gravel road (accessible to all vehicles and road caravans)
RATES: From R250 per campsite (for up to four people)
CONTACT: +27 82 469 0914 | koedoesrus@gmail.com | www.koedoesrusboskamp.wordpress.com
