This is a destination for the truly adventurous. A place where you stay in 19th Century-style explorer tents fitted with modern conveniences and head out into the bush on foot.

Your Big 5 experience at Plains Camp is a walk into the wilderness, expertly guided by a professional ranger, of course. On your walk, you’ve a good chance of seeing all of the Big 5 in their natural habitat. You can also book a traditional game drive if you wish.

Exclusivity

It all happens in the heart of South Africa’s famous Kruger National Park, where Plains Camp patrons have exclusive access to the 12,000 hectares of the Mutlumuvi concession - Big 5 territory that hasn’t long been open to the public.

A maximum of 8 people are allowed on each walking safari. Handy, then, that the camp only has four tents located in a grove of knobthorn trees, each raised off the ground and accommodating two guests in twin beds – which you can join together to form a kingsize if you wish.

Little luxuries

Your traditional, pioneer-style ‘Out of Africa’ safari experience at Plains Camp will be truly memorable and not without its little luxuries. Your tent is cooled by overhead fans, and there’s lighting as well as a table and chair. Your screened ensuite bathroom features a brass shower and wash basin with hot running water as well as a WC. And your tent opens onto a private deck with seating from which you can enjoy views of the Timbetene Plain and its wildlife.

If that’s not close enough to nature for your liking, sleep out decks are available for you to spend the night out under the stars, getting up close to the sounds of nature which could include a lion’s roar or the thud of a passing herd of elephant. You’ll be safe and snug on a platform raised 4 metres above ground resting under the stars (and a mosquito net). This is the only camp in Kruger where you can experience this, but it’s worth noting that sleep outs are weather permitting, as it’s not possible to enjoy the experience during heavy rain.

The weather won’t prevent you having access to the camp’s communal areas, which comprise a lounge and dining area, a boma, and a plunge pool which offers excellent views of the plain and its active watering hole.

Sustainability

This solar powered camp was constructed with eco-friendliness front of mind. It’s all canvas and wood, with no concrete anywhere to be seen. And no trees were felled to make way for the development.