Ndzhaka Tented Camp is situated in the heart of Manyeleti Game Reserve, which shares its unfenced borders with Kruger National Park, Sabi Sand, and Timbavati Private Nature Reserves. Ndzhaka, which means "heritage", offers a rustic bush retreat. Recently upgraded, the fully-catered camp is unfenced and electricity-free.
The camp is known and loved for its rustic, no-frills ambiance and maintains a feeling of exclusivity with only 5, 2-sleeper safari tents with open-air en-suite bathrooms all on individual raised wooden decks. As there is no electricity, solar or paraffin lanterns are used for light at night.
Evening meals are often prepared over an open fire and enjoyed in the lantern-lit dining area or on the viewing deck under the giant jackalberry tree with hooded vultures rustling in their nests. The intimate nature of the camp gives adventure travellers an ideal opportunity to meet other like-minded guests.
Included in your stay are daily sunrise and sunset game drives with a guide in an open game viewing vehicle, which ensures excellent game sightings. Whilst the sunrise safaris allow you to experience the awakening of the African bush, the sunset safaris provide sightings of the elusive nocturnal creatures with a spotlight being used after dark to locate the predators.
The two-track roads are reserved for the game drive vehicles of the camps / lodges, thereby enhancing the wilderness experience and thanks to the low density of lodges, it means that there is little to no waiting in line or jockeying for position at a sighting. Because our guides know every road, tree and waterhole, as well as the animals that frequent them, their knowledge of the reserve and their experience at tracking and locating specific animals truly enhances the experience.
Hidden in a dense patch of riverine forest on the banks of the seasonal N’waswitsontso riverbed, the camp is in close proximity to the main dam, which, with the ever-present herds of elephant and buffalo, is an important point of interest for both game viewers and birders. Ndzhaka’s proximity to the dam assures an abundance of wildlife activity around the camp as they move to and from the water to drink. Besides the resident herd of nyalas, big game is often sighted in the thick bush surrounding the camp.
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Ndzhaka Tented Camp
Ndzhaka Tented Camp
Ndzhaka Tented Camp
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The camp is known and loved for its rustic, no-frills ambiance and maintains a feeling of exclusivity with only 5, 2-sleeper safari tents with open-air en-suite bathrooms all on individual raised wooden decks. As there is no electricity, solar or paraffin lanterns are used for light at night.
Evening meals are often prepared over an open fire and enjoyed in the lantern-lit dining area or on the viewing deck under the giant jackalberry tree with hooded vultures rustling in their nests. The intimate nature of the camp gives adventure travellers an ideal opportunity to meet other like-minded guests.
Included in your stay are daily sunrise and sunset game drives with a guide in an open game viewing vehicle, which ensures excellent game sightings. Whilst the sunrise safaris allow you to experience the awakening of the African bush, the sunset safaris provide sightings of the elusive nocturnal creatures with a spotlight being used after dark to locate the predators.
The two-track roads are reserved for the game drive vehicles of the camps / lodges, thereby enhancing the wilderness experience and thanks to the low density of lodges, it means that there is little to no waiting in line or jockeying for position at a sighting. Because our guides know every road, tree and waterhole, as well as the animals that frequent them, their knowledge of the reserve and their experience at tracking and locating specific animals truly enhances the experience.
Hidden in a dense patch of riverine forest on the banks of the seasonal N’waswitsontso riverbed, the camp is in close proximity to the main dam, which, with the ever-present herds of elephant and buffalo, is an important point of interest for both game viewers and birders. Ndzhaka’s proximity to the dam assures an abundance of wildlife activity around the camp as they move to and from the water to drink. Besides the resident herd of nyalas, big game is often sighted in the thick bush surrounding the camp.
The camp is known and loved for its rustic, no-frills ambiance and maintains a feeling of exclusivity with only 5, 2-sleeper safari tents with open-air en-suite bathrooms all on individual raised wooden decks. As there is no electricity, solar or paraffin lanterns are used for light at night.
Evening meals are often prepared over an open fire and enjoyed in the lantern-lit dining area or on the viewing deck under the giant jackalberry tree with hooded vultures rustling in their nests. The intimate nature of the camp gives adventure travellers an ideal opportunity to meet other like-minded guests.
Included in your stay are daily sunrise and sunset game drives with a guide in an open game viewing vehicle, which ensures excellent game sightings. Whilst the sunrise safaris allow you to experience the awakening of the African bush, the sunset safaris provide sightings of the elusive nocturnal creatures with a spotlight being used after dark to locate the predators.
The two-track roads are reserved for the game drive vehicles of the camps / lodges, thereby enhancing the wilderness experience and thanks to the low density of lodges, it means that there is little to no waiting in line or jockeying for position at a sighting. Because our guides know every road, tree and waterhole, as well as the animals that frequent them, their knowledge of the reserve and their experience at tracking and locating specific animals truly enhances the experience.
Hidden in a dense patch of riverine forest on the banks of the seasonal N’waswitsontso riverbed, the camp is in close proximity to the main dam, which, with the ever-present herds of elephant and buffalo, is an important point of interest for both game viewers and birders. Ndzhaka’s proximity to the dam assures an abundance of wildlife activity around the camp as they move to and from the water to drink. Besides the resident herd of nyalas, big game is often sighted in the thick bush surrounding the camp.
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Reviews (14)
14 guests' feedbackIt is a very lovely location but people should be aware that the camp is quite run down (e.g. the toilet are very old and stained; cheap rubber-backed sheets are used on the beds, sheets which are no longer used by the hospitality industry and which cause excessive perspiration). The staff are friendly but do no more than they absolutely have to.
I will start with the positive: The location of the camp is really perfect. We were lucky to see elephants and lions so that was a highlight. A map would be handy. The things that bothered: The tent has a beautiful glass door with an open view of the braai area. There were no curtains that we could close and the other guests shone their flashlights in our room. It was a bit of a nuisance and we felt like we had no privacy in our bedroom. Setting up the braai area and communal kitchen: The kitchen is very well equipped with cutlery and it can be very nice. But when we arrived, another group of guests had already taken the entire kitchen for themselves. We had nowhere to put our things, the fridge and freezer were full of their things and even their clothes were on the shelves in the kitchen. They simply took the whole place to themselves. Both nights we were there they made a fire and kept it to themselves for the entire evening. We were two other couples who did not have access to the braai area. I could not grill my meat for the two nights. It was a big disappointment and there was nowhere I could light a fire and barbecue. It might be a good idea to provide five small grills in the area so that everyone can at least cook. The grill, tables and furniture are all over the wall and rusted. It was a nasty surprise to find out our rooms were not serviced. The trash wasn't even emptied. The biggest disappointment was the noise from the other guests, but unfortunately also very loud from the camp. On Sunday night, instead of the sound of hyenas and lions, we listened to the loud music and talking (almost shouting) of the workers. On Tuesday morning we wanted to make breakfast but again I was not able to use the kitchen because it was left in a terrible state by the other guests. I left the camp and went home without eating for two meals. The kitchen was not cleaned and it was already 6:30. It might be a good idea to have the staff start a little earlier.
We managed to see the Big 5 in 2 days. A game drive is a must. The tent accommodation is just lovely. A wonderful opportunity to spend quality time. Bush experience like no other!
The place exceeded our expectations. Die peace and animal sounds at night made us feel at home. The atmosphere is breathtaking. The staff treated us like royals. 10 out of 10 for Prins. He made the whole trip worth it for us. This place is gonna see us again.
Manyeleti Game Farm is a great place to see the big 5 and many others. Ndzhaka is a very comfortable camp with lots of wildlife roaming about. It is neat and tidy and has great people looking after the place. Only negative is that the camp itself needs an upgrade and some TLC. I will definitely go again.
For us it was exceptional! Go see for yourself, experience the bush, birds and wildlife!
Highly recommendable. I will definitely go back.
Would suggest acquiring extra braais as well as mosquito nets for the tents.
We were very pleasantly surprised by our stay at Ndzhaka Tented Camp. The feeling of excitement and anticipation will always be there seeing as there is no fence around the camp which means that the elephants walk a mere 50 m from the camp. I would view the camp as safe enough even though one should stay vigilant. The "Prince of Ndzhaka's" service and interest was excellent. Even the cleaning crew were very friendly. However I would advise that a map of Manyeleti Wild Life Reserve be made available on arrival as well as an indication of what the camp and Mayeleti's rules are. On arrival only the cleaning crew were there to receive us, but we had no idea what the rules were. Because Ndzhaka is situated within a private reserve, we didn't know until what time we were allowed to drive around. The main camp of Manyeleti, in which Ndzhaka Tented Camp is located, had very bad service and was unprofessional. We did receive a map of the area, but because it was so badly printed we could hardly make out what was written on it. The roads in Manyeleti are in good condition although there is no indication of names for the turn-offs and so you can get lost easily. In spite of the condition of Manyeleti Wild Life Reserve our stay at Ndzhaka Tented Camp was unforgettable.
The place is neat and clean, even though a little more could be done with regards to upkeep. The wooden deck and floors in the tents, kitchen and living area looks and feels neglected. The beds, bedding and towels were new and of very good quality. You realise you are not there for luxury, but for the experience of sleeping in an unfenced camp, which you don't really find in South Africa. You find it difficult to go to bed at night, because you don't want to leave the campfire, sitting around listening to the sounds of the night. You wonder what type of game you're going to see next in the camp. We were woken up one morning, early, by a group of elephants who came to graze next to the camp and later we were surprised by a troupe of buffalo walking through the tents. You literally stay between the wild animals. The staff are helpful and friendly. Accompanied game drives are highly recommended seeing as how the tour guides takes you right to the animals, which isn't always possible in your own vehicle. It is worth the trouble to also drive through the nature reserve and we saw lots of game including 8 lions. It is one of those small undiscovered treasure chests in the world and we can't wait to return.
The closest shop is quite far, so remember to buy insect repellent, enough wood, ice and food and drinks and bring it along.
It is a very nice place to relax. The kitchen is equipped with two gas freezer/fridges and three gas burners. When we were there there was only one other couple there. I believe the facilities will not be enough if there are 4 or more couples staying there and least of all if the camp is fully booked. There were enough pots, knives, forks, plates, etc. to meet our needs, but I think visitors should be warned to provide their own lighting in the tents and around the braai fire. Luckily we had a flash, but one should rather take a lamp or two with us. The service was good, the staff friendly and helpful but kept a low profile. At least there were lanterns that lit the paths to the tents.
Relaxing accommodation. Game drive was very nice. Very helpful staff.
In the bush! Slept very well, very clean and tidy. Staff are friendly, except for the security at the main gate entrance. Will definitely stay there again.
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Price Includes
Your first game drive will depart at +/- 3:30pm on your day of arrival so please be sure to arrive at Ndzhaka in time for the safari. On each subsequent day you will have a sunrise and sunset safari and your last game drive will depart at +/- 5:30am on your day of departure. The safaris are of +/- 3 hours duration.
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Rates exclude conservation fees, alcoholic beverages and mixers and all items of a personal nature.Manyeleti Game Reserve Conservation Fees are currently R55 per person per day for South African Citizens (with an Identity Book) and R110 per person per day for Foreign Nationals – these fees are payable in cash at the entrance to Manyeleti Game Reserve. Please note that the Conservation Fees are reviewed in November each year and might be slightly higher by the time of your arrival.
Safari Tent
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Description
A 2 sleeper safari tent with 2 three-quarter beds, and en-suite bathroom with shower, toilet and gas geyser. Each safari tent is situated on an individual raised wooden deck and has a private patio from which you can watch the resident herd of nyalas leisurely browsing around. Don't forget to bring your binoculars with for bird watching. And you might also spot other wildlife ambling through the camp. As there is no electricity, solar or paraffin lanterns are used for light at night.
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Bathroom
Price Includes
Rates include all meals, tea, coffee, fruit juices and two scheduled game drives per day. Your first game drive will depart at +/- 3:30pm on your day of arrival so please be sure to arrive at Ndzhaka in time for the safari. On each subsequent day you will have a sunrise and sunset safari and your last game drive will depart at +/- 5:30am on your day of departure. The safaris are of +/- 3 hours duration.
House Rules
Rates exclude conservation fees, alcoholic beverages and mixers and all items of a personal nature.
Manyeleti Game Reserve Conservation Fees are currently R55 per person per day for South African Citizens (with an Identity Book) and R110 per person per day for Foreign Nationals – these fees are payable in cash at the entrance to Manyeleti Game Reserve. Please note that the Conservation Fees are reviewed in November each year and might be slightly higher by the time of your arrival.
Cancellation policy
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Description
A 2 sleeper safari tent with 2 three-quarter beds, and en-suite bathroom with shower, toilet and gas geyser. Each safari tent is situated on an individual raised wooden deck and has a private patio from which you can watch the resident herd of nyalas leisurely browsing around. Don't forget to bring your binoculars with for bird watching. And you might also spot other wildlife ambling through the camp. As there is no electricity, solar or paraffin lanterns are used for light at night.
Safari Tent Double
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Description
Safari Tent Double is a 2 sleeper, thatch-roofed, canvas fronted safari tent. It has a queen-size bed and en-suite bathroom with shower, basin, toilet and gas geyser. Each safari tent is situated on an individual raised wooden deck and has a private patio from which guests can watch the resident herd of nyalas. As there is no electricity, solar or paraffin lanterns are used for light at night.
Room Arrangements
Rates
About This Room
Services
Bathroom
House Rules
Rates exclude conservation fees, alcoholic beverages and mixers and all items of a personal nature.
Manyeleti Game Reserve Conservation Fees are currently R55 per person per day for South African Citizens (with an Identity Book) and R110 per person per day for Foreign Nationals – these fees are payable in cash at the entrance to Manyeleti Game Reserve. Please note that the Conservation Fees are reviewed in November each year and might be slightly higher by the time of your arrival.
Cancellation policy
before check-in
before check-in
before check-in
Description
Safari Tent Double is a 2 sleeper, thatch-roofed, canvas fronted safari tent. It has a queen-size bed and en-suite bathroom with shower, basin, toilet and gas geyser. Each safari tent is situated on an individual raised wooden deck and has a private patio from which guests can watch the resident herd of nyalas. As there is no electricity, solar or paraffin lanterns are used for light at night.
The camp is known and loved for its rustic, no-frills ambiance and maintains a feeling of exclusivity with only 5, 2-sleeper safari tents with open-air en-suite bathrooms all on individual raised wooden decks. As there is no electricity, solar or paraffin lanterns are used for light at night.
Evening meals are often prepared over an open fire and enjoyed in the lantern-lit dining area or on the viewing deck under the giant jackalberry tree with hooded vultures rustling in their nests. The intimate nature of the camp gives adventure travellers an ideal opportunity to meet other like-minded guests.
Included in your stay are daily sunrise and sunset game drives with a guide in an open game viewing vehicle, which ensures excellent game sightings. Whilst the sunrise safaris allow you to experience the awakening of the African bush, the sunset safaris provide sightings of the elusive nocturnal creatures with a spotlight being used after dark to locate the predators.
The two-track roads are reserved for the game drive vehicles of the camps / lodges, thereby enhancing the wilderness experience and thanks to the low density of lodges, it means that there is little to no waiting in line or jockeying for position at a sighting. Because our guides know every road, tree and waterhole, as well as the animals that frequent them, their knowledge of the reserve and their experience at tracking and locating specific animals truly enhances the experience.
Hidden in a dense patch of riverine forest on the banks of the seasonal N’waswitsontso riverbed, the camp is in close proximity to the main dam, which, with the ever-present herds of elephant and buffalo, is an important point of interest for both game viewers and birders. Ndzhaka’s proximity to the dam assures an abundance of wildlife activity around the camp as they move to and from the water to drink. Besides the resident herd of nyalas, big game is often sighted in the thick bush surrounding the camp.
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