Camping

The joys of camping in the African bush

We think there are few experiences more exhilarating and fulfilling than camping out on your own in the African bush. It is a truly exciting adventure and an incredible opportunity to discover the wonder of your surroundings first hand.

Our Land Rovers are equipped with fabulous roof-tents that are extremely easy to erect, comfortable to sleep in and ready made up for you with sheets, duvets and pillows. They have large openings at the front and back, with both canvas and mosquito net zip-up covers. There are net-covered side-openings as well, allowing for a cool breeze on warm nights and for great visibility if you have wildlife coming into your camp.

It is enormously satisfying arriving at your campsite, unfolding your roof tent, setting up your camp and building a fire, putting out your table and chairs and sitting back with a relaxing sundowner to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of Africa.

Its up to you how much camping you do

You are free to do as little or as much camping as you wish but we cant fail to recommend at least a couple of nights out on your own beneath the African sky! We will direct you to some gorgeous, secluded locations within game reserves or beside national parks where you can establish your camps. Before you set off on your safari, we give you a detailed trip book that covers the basic rules and regulations for camping in game reserves and national parks along with useful tips and well-chosen advice to make sure you get the maximum satisfaction and enjoyment from your experience.

We can help you get the most from it

Ever since we began organising self drive safaris, the camping has been one of the things that people seem to have enjoyed most. Those who have shown slight misgivings prior to departure have often been the ones to rave about their experiences the most on their return!

Over the years, weve gathered all sorts of tips and advice for a successful trip, which weve included in the handbook that our clients take with them. Here are a just a few tips from our handbook to give you an idea of what to expect:

A Selection of tips from our handbook

• There is no reason for bush-cooking to be unadventurous. In the past, our campfire successes have included olive bread, chocolate cake and even pavlova!
• Dried food can be changed into a gourmet delight with a few fresh vegetables, herbs, garlic, wine and stock cubes.
• Build fires in the leeward side of your vehicle to offer shelter from any breeze.
• Never leave your tent at night without extreme caution, there could well be game in your camp.
• Always be aware that lion, cheetah, leopard and hyena are around but may not be seen.
• Take your rubbish with you. If you bury it, hyenas and jackals will dig it up with unattractive consequences.
• Monkeys and baboons can be a big nuisance so pack away all your food (not in your tent). Put away all your equipment at night as they'll take anything, even glasses.
• If you see a predator, elephant, hippo or buffalo, be sensible and get into the vehicle until it has moved on. Do not rev the engine or blow the horn, just be patient until it departs.

Safari Drive camping is a unique and very special experience. You simply need to treat your surroundings with respect, follow a few basic rules and then sit back and enjoy your extraordinary encounter with Africa.