TOURISM NEWS - From malaria-free mountain trails to untamed bushveld, these six nature stays let you walk straight into the wilderness.
1. Shangani Trails Camp – Kruger National Park
Located in the Makuleke Concession of northern Kruger, Shangani Trails Camp offers a rustic, tented bush experience on the banks of the Luvuvhu River. Guests can embark on walking safaris led by expert guides, exploring riverine landscapes, forests, and savannah plains. Trails begin right from the camp, making it ideal for anyone seeking a hands-on wildlife encounter without leaving camp boundaries.
Highlights: Three-night guided walking safaris, proximity to rivers and wildlife-rich wilderness, and full immersion in northern Kruger’s untouched landscapes.
2. Simbavati Trails Camp – Timbavati Private Nature Reserve
Nestled in the greater Kruger ecosystem, Simbavati Trails Camp combines luxury with adventure. Its walking trails wind through the reserve’s 11,000 hectares of bush, allowing guests to encounter game and birdlife up close. Safety is maintained via controlled access while still offering the thrill of walking in the wild. According to the website, the camp is only operational during the cooler autumn-to-spring days from March to November.
Highlights: Guided bush walks starting at the camp, exclusive wilderness experience, and a combination of comfort and nature immersion.
3. Marataba Mountain Lodge – Marakele National Park
Perched in Limpopo’s Waterberg region, Marataba Mountain Lodge sits on a mountainside with views of Waterfall Valley. Guests can embark on walking safaris directly from the lodge, exploring the park’s diverse flora and fauna in a malaria-free area.
Bush Walks: Part of the Morning Safari, bush walks are a special chance to get off the vehicle and get in touch with nature. Your expert field guide positions you downwind of larger game while pointing out smaller creatures often missed on drives.
Highlights: Mountain and valley trails from the lodge doorstep, private walking safaris, immersive bush walks guided by experts, and stunning scenery with eco-friendly lodging.
Highlights: Mountain and valley trails from the lodge doorstep, private walking safaris, and stunning scenery with eco-friendly lodging.
4. Mountain Sanctuary Park – Magaliesberg Mountains
In the tranquil Magaliesburg, Mountain Sanctuary Park offers a private nature reserve with multiple accommodation options. Hiking trails start directly at the lodges, leading through forests, grasslands, and rocky outcrops. It’s an ideal base for travellers who want a mountain retreat with easy access to walking routes.
Highlights: Multiple hiking options, rich biodiversity, peaceful mountain setting.
5. Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve – Western Cape
About 90 km from Cape Town, the Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve offers overnight huts at Landdroskop and Boesmanskloof. Each hut accommodates up to 30 guests across four rooms, which can be booked separately. Bunk beds, mattresses, and water are provided, while wood for fires can be purchased at the entrance gate. Trails start directly from the huts, offering hikers a true wilderness experience in fynbos-covered mountains.
Highlights: Overnight hiking options, well-equipped huts for groups or families, immersive wilderness trails directly from the accommodation.
6. Gondwana Private Game Reserve – Western Cape
Near Mossel Bay along the Garden Route, Gondwana Private Game Reserve offers direct access to hiking trails and wilderness from eco-friendly lodges and tented camps. Guests can explore the 1,200-hectare Protected and Endangered Species Area on foot with a field guide. A short game drive brings you to this fenced-off area, where safety is ensured while you walk among fynbos and encounter endangered species such as Cape Mountain Zebra and Bontebok. Eland, Giraffe, and Sable may also be spotted, making for a truly immersive wildlife experience.
Highlights: Direct trail access from lodges, guided walking safaris, encounters with rare species, and scenic Garden Route landscapes.
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