Nthambo

nThambo

nThambo

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nThambo Tree Camp sits in the heart of the Southern Klaserie reserve on the edge of the Kruger. Since the wooden chalets are set at eye level with the trees, the camp provides a magical feeling of being enveloped by nature. As the camp is unfenced, elephant and buffalo sometimes rest under the stilts on which the chalets are built as they venture through the bush. There is a central lounge and dining area which offer lovely views across to a small waterhole and out across the grassy plains, as well as a small pool and decking area.

Our rating: Medium

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Rooms

The treehouse-like chalets have wooden decking for floors, canvas walls and thatched roofs. They are rustic in style but very comfortable, with double or twin beds. Each chalet has an en suite bathroom with hot and cold running water, a shower (there are no baths) and a separate toilet. Each chalet also has a private veranda with views of the distant Drakensberg mountains. Lighting is provided by solar power but there is a socket in each tent for charging phones or cameras. All rooms have standing fans and mosquito nets. Guides escort guests to and from their rooms at night.

Location

The camp is situated in the Klaserie Reserve, one of South Africa’s largest private game reserves which is part of the Greater Kruger, adjoining the Kruger National Park. It is an hour’s drive from the airport at Hoedspruit (Eastgate Airport). nThambo Tree Camp hosts meet guests at the airport and drive them the rest of the way to the camp.

Food and drink

The camp is offered on a full board basis. Food is a wholesome, home-cooked affair and includes traditional South African braaivleis (barbecues). Meals are communal with everyone seated around a large table in the dining room. There is an open air boma (an area where people gather around a fire) which provides a place to relax over an evening drink.

Families

Children aged 12 and older are welcome at nThambo.

Honeymooners

The intimate nature of this eco-friendly camp makes it ideal for honeymooners or those who are celebrating their anniversary and who would enjoy a rustic bush experience with some luxurious and personal touches.

Facilities and activities

The daily program consists of morning and afternoon game drives with an optional walk after breakfast. If you'd prefer a longer walk, nThambo guests can also participate in the Africa on Foot three-hour game walk. Wi-Fi is available in the lounge and bar. There is a splash pool on decking with sunloungers and umbrellas – elephants occasionally visit the pool too.

Our opinion

A charming, rustic safari lodge that offers good value for money and a wonderfully intimate experience of the bush.

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