It’s almost four years since we covered Babanango Game Reserve, and a lot has happened in that time. The reserve, which is operated in a collaboration between three community trusts and private investors, has since introduced lion and elephant to its 22,000 ha on the upper White Umfolozi and they join the reserve’s thriving rhino population and rich range of plains game. Accommodation options have expanded to four venues: the original Matatane Camp is in a fenced area suited to self-guided walks, while Zulu Rock, Valley Lodge and Madwaleni River Lodge are in the big game zone and offer daily guided walks and game drives. Now, there’s a new overnight trails option with the launch of the Manyoni Ruins Base Camp which can be booked as a standalone activity or combined in a package with one of the lodges.
Manyoni Ruins Base Camp will be offered from next month, and run seasonally from March to September. The ruins are those of an old homestead, a reminder that this land was once ranched, and no doubt its original builders chose the site for its good views. Today, buffalo, elephant and lion roam into sight instead of cattle, and the terrain makes for rugged but enjoyable walking. This style of seasonal walking camp is rare in South Africa, and Manyoni Ruins is unique in Zululand in terms of its comforts; downriver in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, the wilderness trails camps are much more basic. There are dome tents for a maximum of six guests and each has its own bucket shower and chemical toilet. Solo guests can have a tent of their own at no extra charge.
As is usual at such camps, the bulk of the walking takes place in the morning, returning to brunch at around 10 am, with relaxation in camp in the middle part of the day. A game viewing vehicle remains with the group to facilitate exploring interesting corners of the reserve; apart from the wildlife, Babanango is especially rich in geological and archaeological sites. Guests dine under the stars in the unfenced camp, enjoying its off-grid lamp-lit ambience, and the feeling of total immersion in the natural world.
It’s possible to book just the trails camp which is priced attractively at R12,900 per person for a two night stay (for those that bring their own sleeping bags – there’s a premium option with full bedding and alcohol included). But it’s better to factor in time for one of the lodges as well. After all, the reserve’s remoteness makes it a three hour drive from Durban, or five hours from Johannesburg, with access via the scenic R34. A stay of up to five nights is easy to justify, and there’s a variety of packages that combine the trails camp and lodges. The minimum age is 16.
For more info and bookings, see babanango.com.
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