Top camping spots in South Africa
Where to camp in South Africa can be a tough decision because the country is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, from rugged coastlines and majestic mountains to vast savannas and lush forests.
It’s no surprise then, that it’s also home to some of the best camping spots in the world. Here are the top camping spots in South Africa that should be on every camper’s bucket list.
Kruger National Park
The Kruger National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Africa and is home to an incredible array of wildlife.
With over 20 campsites to choose from, ranging from basic to luxury, there’s something for everyone here. The best time to visit is between May and September when the weather is cooler and the game viewing is at its best.
Kruger has 12 main rest camps, 5 bushveld camps, 2 bush lodges, and 4 satellite camps
Garden Route National Park
The Garden Route National Park is a nature lover’s paradise, with a variety of ecosystems to explore, from lush forests to pristine beaches.
There are three camps in the park. Storms River (Tsitsikamma Section), Nature’s Valley (Tsitsikamma Section), and Wilderness (Wilderness Section).
Addo Elephant National Park
This park is located in the Eastern Cape and offers a unique camping experience where you can camp right next to elephants, lions, and other wildlife.
Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park
The Richtersveld National Park is a rugged and remote wilderness area that offers a true wilderness experience. There are 18 Campsites in the park.
Augrabies Falls National Park
The Augrabies Falls National Park is home to the awe-inspiring Augrabies Falls, a series of waterfalls that cascade down a rocky gorge.
There are several campsites in the park.
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a vast and remote wilderness area that straddles the border between South Africa and Botswana.
With its vast open plains and red sand dunes, it’s a truly unique camping experience. There are several campsites in the park, including the popular Twee Rivieren and Mata Mata campsites.
Golden Gate Highlands National Park
The Golden Gate Highlands National Park is a stunning mountainous area that is home to a variety of wildlife, including baboons, jackals, and antelope.
There are several campsites in the park, including the popular Glen Reenen and Basotho Cultural Village campsites.
Sodwana Bay
Sodwana Bay is a popular beach camping spot that is home to some of the best diving and snorkeling in South Africa.
The campsite is situated just a stone’s throw away from the ocean, and visitors can expect to see a variety of marine life, including sharks and turtles.
Golden Gate Highlands National Park
Located in the Free State province, this park offers stunning views of the Maluti Mountains and offers a range of camping options from basic to luxury.
Cederberg Wilderness Area
Located in the Western Cape, this park offers a unique camping experience where you can see ancient rock art, hike through stunning landscapes, and camp under the stars.
Tsitsikamma National Park
Located on the Garden Route, this park offers a range of camping options from basic to luxury and is home to a diverse range of plant and animal life.
Mountain Zebra National Park
Located in the Eastern Cape, this park offers a unique camping experience where you can see zebras, wildebeest, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Bontebok National Park
Img: Pixabay
Located in the Western Cape, this park offers a range of camping options from basic to luxury and is home to a range of antelope species including the rare Bontebok.
These are popular sites but not the only campsites in South Africa and there is much more to know about camping and campsites in South Africa or see a more comprehensive list of campsites.