An all-encompassing Safari Experience

Mount Camdeboo Private Game Reserve, a beautiful 14,000-hectare Reserve, located in South Africa’s tranquil Great Karoo region proved to be a magical delight on a recent visit. Upon arrival, we were welcomed with a perfectly heated hand towel and a convivial homemade lemonade to quench our thirst after our travels.

We were ushered to the main manor’s outdoor lounge area to unwind and it goes without saying that an instantaneous feeling of serenity immediately bestowed upon us whilst sipping our drinks and overlooking the sprawling green lawns.

Not knowing what to expect we were more than charmed when our beautifully decorated and spacious farm-style rooms were revealed to us. Camdeboo Manor, one of the accommodation options the reserve has to offer, presents a true feeling of luxury in a homely setting.

Before the sunset, we were spoilt with a private game viewing adventure, accompanied by our knowledgeable and extremely witty ranger, Salomon. Salomon has been in the industry for many years and had in-depth knowledge on all things wildlife, from tracking various animals by a mere footprint to describing each and every fynbos plant that crossed our path.

Mount Camdeboo recently became home to the Big Five, making the game viewing experience second to none. Guests have the option of game drives at their disposal, allowing them to customise their experience at Mount Camdeboo any which way they like.

We set out just before sunset with Salomon’s promise of some exceptional game viewing ahead. From lions to wildebeest, our first game drive out didn’t disappoint especially with the breathtaking sundowners at one of many spectacular hillside spots Mount Camdeboo has to offer.

The next day we joined the initiative to dehorn the rhino which truly turned out to be an emotional, once in lifetime experience. Being built on the pillars of conservation to fiercely protect its wildlife and surrounding ecosystem, Mount Camdeboo, also offers a natural habitat where wildlife, including rhinos roam freely. Sadly, these majestic African creatures are not always free from poachers which is why the reserve decided to be proactive in their approach to save these incredible animals.

We were privy to the conservation initiative as veterinarian, Dr William Fowlds, with the assistance of 16 veterinary students, embarked on dehorning the reserve’s rhinos.

Peter Chadwick, Mount Camdeboo’s Conservation Reserve Manager, facilitated and oversaw the successful dehorning operation and reiterated the emotive sentiment felt by everyone who was part of this intervention. The sentiment of rhino forming an integral part of Africa’s soul and in losing rhinos to poaching, we lose a large part of Africa’s heart.

An honor and privilege bestowed upon us by Mount Camdeboo for the opportunity to be part of an unbelievable conservation exercise. I would highly recommend not only going to Mount Camdeboo to witness their incredible efforts in conservation, but their continual contribution to the preservation of Africa’s wildlife.

If you are looking for a family-friendly getaway in the bush, Mount Camdeboo is the perfect fit for you and your little ones. Enjoy laying at the pool, reading a book while the kids swim and play on the endlessly grassy lawns within enclosed spaces. All of this bundled with a unique Big 5 wildlife experience.