A Site of Your Own
Picture: Romi Boom. Article from the Autumn 2013 issue of Wild Magazine.
Feel closer to nature, not your neighbours, at one of these campsites with limited stands.
Kokerboomkloof, Ai-Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park
At this remote campsite it’s not simply about privacy, it’s also about solitude. There might be eight designated stands, but there’s every chance you could be the only one camping here. Of course, you’ll have quiver trees and curiously shaped boulders for company. This is a destination for the well-equipped. You need a 4×4 to reach the site and there’s no water, wood or electricity. But you’ll be rewarded with an abundance of space, fiery sunsets and masses of stars. If you’re in search of silence, this is the place to find it.
Rates: R180 base rate for 1 or 2 people, R62 an additional adult, R31 an additional child, maximum six.
Contact: SANParks 012-428-9111
Groen Spoeg, Namaqua National Park
The stretch of coast between the Groen and Spoeg rivers is seamed in pretty little bays, interspersed with white dunes and wild rosemary. Wilderness camping is possible at several of these coves. Forget about sharing your sea view with a horde of holidaymakers. With just a few sites in each bay, the peaceful atmosphere is in no danger. This is the West Coast, so there are windbreak walls to protect the tents, but little else. Come equipped because the sites do not have water or ablutions. They do have uninterrupted views, fresh air and quiet.
Rates: R75 or R105 base rate for 1 to six people depending on the site, maximum six.
Contact: SANParks 012-428-9111
Cederberg Wilderness Area
For the chance to camp alone among ancient rock formations, shoulder your pack and set off into the Cederberg wilderness. Hikers are free to sleep under the stars wherever they like, so you can pick a spot all to yourself. The number of hikers allowed in a day is limited and you have to get an overnight hiking permit in advance. Take a gas stove as fires are not allowed, pack a small spade for bathroom breaks and be prepared for changeable weather. The mountains can deliver sudden storms, but also deep silence and stunning beauty.
Rates: R90 a person a night
Contact: CapeNature 021-483-0190
Motswedi, Mokala National Park
Is this SANParks’ best new campsite? With only half-a-dozen stands arranged in a semi-circle around a waterhole, Motswedi offers privacy, comfort and game-viewing opportunities. Each stand has its own neatly arranged bathroom, toilet and kitchen. Solar power provides hot showers, while gas is used for the hobs and fridge. Despite all these conveniences, the focus is still very much on nature as there’s no electricity and no power points. So set up your camping chair with a view of the waterhole and wait for the buffalo to come calling.
Rates: R290 base rate for 1 or 2 people, R94 an additional adult, R47 an additional child, maximum six.
Contact: SANParks 012-428-9111
Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve
Situated just 21 km from Port Shepstone, Oribi Gorge is a world removed from the bustling seaside town. This is a place of sheer sandstone cliffs, dense forest and open grassland. It’s home to the rare samango monkey, the endangered oribi antelope and 255 species of birds. You can descend right to the base of the gorge, where there’s a picnic spot and a delightful riverside walk. The camp overlooks the gorge and is peaceful and intimate with just five spacious, shady sites, each with an electrical power point. You’ll feel smug about your select spot when the time comes for the day visitors to go home.
Rates: R70 a person a night
Contact: Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife 033-845-1000
More info on the town of Clanwilliam | More info on the Cederberg Region |
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