This is the first view that arriving guests get of the public building that makes up the major part of Nambu Camp, a property that has been in the Drinkwater family for almost 4 decades and having been passed down through generations has retained many of the family memories and some of the décor from bygone days has been seamlessly incorporated into the more contemporary design elements.
This building is home to a lounge, dining area, kitchen and offices all sitting side by side in perfect harmony.
The wrap-around deck allows visitors to scan the bush below for signs of wildlife and more often than not, they are rewarded with a variety of different species that go about their business without even knowing that they are being observed. Or perhaps they are aware and don’t care?
Nambu Camp is easily accessed in the Balule Private Game Reserve, 16 km outside of Hoedspruit on the R40.
Did you know?
The Balule area of the Greater Kruger National Park was initially several separate fenced game farms. In early 1990, landowners decided to remove the fences separating their properties to aid conservation and increase the grazing area and diversify the animal gene pool.
During the heat of the day, relaxing here is not an option, it could be seen as a necessity.
You can look out over this particular portion of Balule Game Reserve from the comfort of one of the loungers or the cool water of the pool.
The birdlife in and around the camp is spectacular and I suggest that you keep a camera or binoculars close at hand if your passion is for the feathered variety as opposed to something that has teeth and claws.
This is what can be viewed from the deck. Elephants as far as I could see.
Never a dull moment at Nambu!
When I visited in October, the gardens were filled with copious quantities of Impala Lilies, one of my favourite Lowveld plants.
Did you know?
The Impala Lily is known in Africa as a source of fish poison and arrow poison. The poison is prepared from latex in the bark and fleshy parts of the trunk, but it is always used in combination with other poisons.
Supposedly the plants can be used for the treatment of venereal diseases, wounds, skin diseases, headaches as well as muscle and joint pain.
Winding wooden pathways lead the way from the main reception area to the 6 safari-style bedrooms which can accommodate up to 12 people.
While chatting to Rewald, the owner, he told me that he has plans for major renovations within the camp and the accommodation.
A comfortable king-size bed with superb linen, what more could I ask from a room that I spent very little time in given the fact that the lounge and pool area was welcoming and relaxing?
One of the best ideas that I have seen in a lodge! On the headboard and within easy reach, an absolute bonus and I hope that other lodges will take cognizance of this and follow suit.
And reading lights that LIT my book. Often lodges use bedside lamps that are more for decoration than actual practical use. Well done Rewald.
The modern and stylish bathrooms look out to the bushveld behind the lodge.
As this was my view from the loo, why would I want to sit and stare at my phone?
You can share a shower…or run between the two if you are alone. Or alternate if you are staying for more than one night.
Just one of the corners of the vast and airy public space that is both the reception are as well as a dining space.
It has been immaculately furnished with a variety of new and old, thus keeping it in touch with its roots.
‘Originally a family home, Nambu was built on an old anthill overlooking the landscape. The architecture of this unique building truly makes the most of the spectacular views it has in front, perfectly framing this wilderness scenery. From the website.
The table on the left is where guests can share a meal, discuss the day’s sightings and exchange stories of other bush adventures.
I believe that sharing a long table for a meal is one of the highlights of a bush holiday and what separates it from merely staying in a hotel and interacting with none of the other guests.
That being said, the guest interaction is up to the individuals and is not foisted on them by seating arrangements.
There is an honour bar in the rear corner of the room, and given the temperature when I was there, it was well utilized.
‘Simple, yet modern and stylish cuisine is served in the stunning open dining area. A light and healthy breakfast is served after your morning activity, followed by a more hearty brunch later in the afternoon. Canapés are served at sundowners in the bush then head back to camp for a delicious and elegant evening meal under the stars. From the website.
Given the meals that I enjoyed while staying at this camp, who am I to contradict that statement from their website?
What is a trip to the bush without a fire to congregate around and share stories?
Often referred to as the ‘tv of the bush’, the hypnotic flames seem to cast a spell on those who are within their glow.
I can sit and watch a fire until it has burned to mere embers.
At night the main buildings take on an intimacy allowing guests to relax and enjoy themselves.
Or to sit quietly in the dark watching the stunning night sky.
The lounge at night. Subtle lighting welcomes guests to sit and chat.
For those who do not want to share the long table, or who are celebrating a special event, alternative seating for dinner can be arranged on the deck.
Lit by low voltage battery operated light during load shedding.
Good night from one of my new favourite camps.
To find out more about the camp and what it offers, click on the logo above to visit their website.
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