Although nThambo Tree Camp is only a few km from Africa on Foot, the two camps could not offer guests more different experiences.
The changes that had occurred since my previous visit were immediately noticeable as I walked through the door into the main reception area.
The design palette is centred around the colours of a Glossy Starling, hence there is now a lot of blue in various shades visible.
There was leather furniture, but it seems that a local hyena took a liking to that and devoured most of it. That being said, there are now security measures in place to keep the guests, the furniture and the hyena safe and separated.
Years ago I stayed at a private lodge where guests were warned about a resident hyena the staff had named George. They were asked NOT to leave anything leather in the lounge as the probability of it being eaten was high.
Needless to say, a guest forgot the instructions and left a briefcase on a chair. In the morning, all that was recovered was the handle and the metal hinges!
Turn left when you arrive and you go up a couple of stairs to the coffee and tea station
And be WARNED…This lodge serves similar cookies to the ones available at Africa on Foot!
I did not want to be caught with my hand in the cookie jar, so the staff kindly put some in my room.
One of the advantages of being a pensioner?
Although in the middle of the bush, this camp almost has a beach feel, given that the predominant colours are shades of blue and cream/white.
It transforms the usual ‘safari colours’ into a space that has a renewed energy and visually brightens up the area.
Even the bottles on the bar counter are in shades of blue.
I never knew that Amarula made a gin…but now I do.
The redone lounge and bar, as seen from the dining area.
The camp serves 3 meals a day, and their understanding of the words “light lunch” might differ from what you and I perceive as a “light” meal…
Don’t say that I did not warn you.
From the outside looking in.
This deck is directly in front of the lounge and is therefore a great place for guests to relax and, if the mood takes you, to slip into the refreshing waters of the communal pool.
However, be warned that you might have to share…
I was most impressed with this young British visitor who sat quietly filming this elephant herd as they went about their business.
Although close enough to touch, they showed no interest in him and as he remained respectful, it was a moment I am certain he will remember for a long time.
I will always wonder what his mates thought of his experience when he posted his video.
My accommodation, and although it was just a short distance from the main building, the guides do insist that they walk guests back after dark.
This necessity was enforced when walking back to my accommodation with a guide one evening, we saw both a Honey Badger as well as a leopard within the confines of the camp.
What changes have been made to the accommodation?
I can only share my experiences from the chalet I stayed in, however, I should imagine that similar alterations have been undertaken in all the accommodation.
The first thing I noticed was the fact that the deck had been enlarged. Upon enquiring why, I was told that splash pools will be installed in the not-too-distant future, together with extra furniture to make sitting here and watching the game trundle across the vast plain in front of the camp seem like an extra game drive.
Another Sun Destinations property where the bedside lights are functional rather than merely decorative! Well done to the design team.
A comfortable bed and crisp linen completed the decor.
Don’t feel like getting up?
You can lie in bed and watch the various species make their way to and from the waterhole that in in the centre of the open plain in front of the camp.
Or you can sit on the recently extended deck and marvel at the same vista with a beverage of your choice close at hand.
These loungers had been added since my last visit and I discovered that their comfort was in direct proportion to how tired I was. A good spot for a siesta.
The interior shower has been altered to make it more open and accessible. It almost feels like you are showering outdoors.
The bar/ lounge by night. Subtle lighting accentuates the colours of the decor and creates an atmosphere that is conducive to mingling and chatting.
For me, it is THIS particular aspect of being at a game lodge special. The camaraderie from spending time on a vehicle together, and watching wildlife go about their ‘business’ is more often than not a bonding experience.
During my decades of bush travel, I have made friends who are still in touch almost 30 years down the line.
Bringing the curtains (mosquito next) down on another fantastic day in Africa.
Click on the logo to find out more about the camp.
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