South Africa is undoubtedly home to some of the most scenic landscapes the world has to offer. We have great weather (mostly), great people and a great collective sense of adventure, which is exactly why we’ve compiled the below list of our top 10 favourite camping spots. Whether it’s a weekend escape, or a longer getaway you’re planning, if you decide on any of the below destinations, you’re in for a treat.
1. Beaverlac Camping, Cederberg
Situated in the valley in Cederberg with beautiful views of the surrounding Olifants River Mountains. Beaverlac offers camping and cabins to maximise your enjoyment of nature. There are stunning hikes and trails that can take you up to rock pools, where you can swim and have a cool off when on the trail. This site is also pet-friendly, so you can bring along your furry friend. Campers can purchase wood, ice, beer, snacks and other essential items on the premises.
2. Warm Baths Camping, Limpopo
Warm Baths is a major tourist attraction due to the natural mineral baths, the exceptional facilities and the close proximity to Johannesburg. This family-friendly campsite sports a total of 300 camping spots, of which 15 are luxury and 285 are caravan spots. Breaking away to this lush region of Limpopo means a total de-stress from city life. With loads of fun activities that combines nature and play, this is one camping destination that is perfectly suited to groups of friends and families with kids.
To Book:
Website: https://www.foreverwarmbaths.co.za/accommodation.php
Email: [email protected]
3. Cape Vidal, KZN
The Isimangaliso Wetland Park is a unique coastal camping experience of note. Situated about 37km from St. Lucia, this campsite provides ablution facilities and electricity points for campers. With just 8 camping spots, this secluded gem offers beautiful surrounds, snorkeling, fishing or even bird watching. Located in a sheltered bay, Cape Vidal offers pristine beaches and ample hiking trails to go explore at leisure. Guests have been known to spot hippo, elephants, crocodiles and even leatherback turtles. Be sure to pack your camera, with all that wildlife, you’re bound to snap some great photos.
To Book:
Website: www.kznwildlife.com
Email: [email protected]
4. Bruintjieskraal Campsite, Baviaanskloof, Eastern Cape
If you’ve never experienced the spectacular Baviaanskloof Wilderness area, then Bruintjieskraal campsite is an absolute must for your next camping getaway. Located at Grootrivier Poort, the 10 spacious campsites on the riverbanks each come equipped with hot water, flushing toilets and braai facilities. This campsite is the ideal base from which to explore the surrounding walking routes, dedicated game viewing areas and swimming spots. The ideal getaway spot for the entire family.
To Book:
Website: www.bruintjieskraal.co.za
Email: [email protected]
5. Fiddlers Creek Campsite, Orange River, Northern Cape
If you’ve ever set up camp on the banks of the Orange River, then you know it’s an experience not to be missed. Fiddlers Creek offers a wilderness escape with some modern touches. Each campsite is equipped with an undercover kitchen, basins, running water, electricity and a built-in braai area. There are ample entertainment options available on the premises, however the most recommended activity is the Orange River Rafting excursions. Best suited to a group of friends camping together, this campsite features everything from a bar, pool tables and even volleyball court.
To Book:
Website: bushwhacked.co.za/fiddlers-creek-campsite/
Email: [email protected]
6. Mahai River Campsite, Royal Natal National Park, KZN
Set in one of the Drakensberg’s most beautiful valleys, the Mahai Campsite offers the best of both electrical and non-electrical campsites best suited to family getaways. Clean ablution blocks and washing up facilities sets this campsite apart from the rest. Choose from a wide range of novice and advanced hikes to explore the surrounding scenery – perfect to combine a relaxed weekend getaway with some physical exploration. Be wary of zipping up your tent when leaving the campsite though, as Chacma baboons are known to wander and steal food.
To Book:
Website: http://www.kznwildlife.com/
Email: [email protected]
7. Buccaneers, Cintsa, Eastern Cape
Buccaneers is located on the spectacular eastern shores of the Wild Coast of South Africa. Hidden behind the massive sand dunes on Cintsa Beach, encircled by large guava trees, this campsite is equipped with a jaw-dropping communal kitchen, ideal for a group of friends celebrating a weekend together. The serene beach is a stone’s throw away from the campsite where a wide variety of activities are on offer. Take a horseback ride on the beach, learn to surf or go mountain biking with Cintsa Beach as your backdrop.
To Book:
Website: https://www.buccaneerschintsa.com/
Call: +27 (0)43 734 3012 | +27 (0)82 657 9127
8. Tietiesbaai Beach Camp, West Coast
Tietiesbaai Beach Camp is a stunning coastal oasis located on the western coast of South Africa. Surrounded by pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and rugged cliffs, this beach camp offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. With a range of accommodation options, from camping to self-catering units, Tietiesbaai is the perfect destination for adventure-seekers. Note that there is no electricity on any of the camping sites - ensuring a rugged and beautiful experience that only beachside camping can provide.
To Book:
Website: www.saldanhabay.co.za
Call: +27 (0)22 752 2718
9. Die Mond, Tankwa Karoo, Western Cape
This oasis boasts a large, open-plan grassy area along the riverbank where you can camp on a first come, first serve basis. There’s no electricity, making this the ideal breakaway spot for you and your mates. There are plenty of activities to choose from, whether it be enjoying a braai (bring your own braai grid, by the way), swimming in the river, or hiking in the surrounding areas. Die Mond is the ideal place to take things extra slow, and recharge your batteries.
To Book:
Facebook: www.facebook.com
Call: +27 (0)23 317 0668
10. Koningskop, Citrusdal, Western Cape
Nestled between Citrusdal & Clanwilliam is the relaxing campsite of Koningskop, a luxury campsite just west of the N7. This breathtaking rooibos and citrus farm offers guests the opportunity to explore the nearby farm trails on foot or bicycle, or even jump in the dam for a quick post-hike cool down. Head off on the local 4x4 trails to enjoy the beautiful views of the Swartland and Cederberg mountains, or gear up for an epic fishing mission – there’s no shortage of activities and scenery to keep you wishing you could stay for longer.
To Book:
Website: koningskop.co.za/camping-cottages/
Email: [email protected]