Nambu Camp

Sitting comfortably on an old anthill elevated above the landscape, rests a simple and sophisticated camp called Nambu. The location in the heart of the Big 5 Olifants West Nature Reserve, combined with its stellar guiding and warm hospitality, makes Nambu a sought-after lodge in the greater Hoedspruit area. This hilltop lodge is a wildlife haven where tawny eagles soar above and herds of elephants drink down below.

The 6-bedroom safari lodge boasts views of the Drakensberg Mountains in the distance, a dry riverbed and waterhole. The open design of the lodge takes advantage of its aspect, ensuring the picturesque surroundings become part of the architecture.

The camp has been in the Drinkwater family for almost 40 years, passed down through the generations, and is home to many memories with both family and friends. The name Nambu means ‘river’ in the local language of IsiThonga, and this unique lodge has many ties to this natural source that flows through the traverse.

During the heat of the day, you can relax at the camp’s poolside or bird watch from the lodge’s vast viewing platform before a mid-day brunch up at the main camp.

Wrap-around wooden balconies above the landscape boast exceptional views of the landscape beyond, while an extensive lounge area cocooned by huge glass windows overlooks the bushveld. A boma area and pool with decking are other signature spaces to relax outdoors. It’s not uncommon to sport towering giraffe, bumbling elephants, and abundant plains game crossing the riverbed below while relaxing in the boma or around the poolside.

Simple and stylish cuisine is served in the stunning open dining area. After your morning activity, guests can enjoy a healthy breakfast followed by a more hearty brunch later in the afternoon. Snacks are served at our sundowner stops in the bush, after which you will head back to camp for a delicious and elegant evening meal under the stars.

Winding wooden pathways lead the way from the main camp, through the lush gardens and to the secluded rooms, nestled into the bush. There are a total of 6 safari-style chalets accommodating up to 12 people. Two of the chalets are luxury chalets (modern with private balconies) and four are standard chalets furnished in an authentic, safari style. Two of the standard rooms have double showers, while the rest are single showers with high-pressure, rain shower heads.

All chalets are well equipped for a stylish and comfortable stay in the bush, each room has air-conditioning, storage space and all the creature comforts from home. Comfortable king size beds with modern and stylish bathrooms which look out to the bushveld behind.

At Nambu there are two game drive activities per day, which take place in the Big 5 Olifants West Nature Reserve, complete with coffee and sundowner stops. Both guides and trackers at Nambu are known for being some of the best in the area.

A recent TripAdvisor guest said, “Our stay at Nambu camp was truly amazing, we wished we could stay even longer! The lodge, the staff and the food were perfect! Every day it was a real pleasure to enjoy the beautiful views from the terrace. Very friendly owner who gave great recommendations! Also the tracker + guide Terrence was truly amazing, so skillfull and friendly. He really did an amazing job every time we went on safari.”