The thrill of sleeping under canvas will forever evoke the explorer in us. We feel connected to surrounding nature, yet safe in our cloth sanctuary. The calls from the wild are crystal clear and soothing. And there’s a sense of harmony between man and beast, a sense that things are just as they should be. andBeyond Ngala Tented Camp is this space, a tranquil camp regaled for its sophisticated tented accommodation that blends the old world pioneering era with contemporary luxury. It’s just magical.
The nine deep-green tents set on platforms blend into the surrounding trees to have minimal visual impact on the environment. But when you step inside, a beautifully decadent space awaits. Whirling overhead fans, cool air conditioning, electric blankets for winter, well-stocked mini bars, and en-suite bathrooms of course, along with décor in warm earthy tones make a clear statement that there are no rough edges here, not one. There’s a sense of space and privacy, and your own deck to laze on. You may even choose to have your dinner served to you right there. Or opt for an in-suite massage, maybe between dips in the pool where elephants sometimes drink in the heat of the day.
Some tented suites have river views and others have vistas of wild indigenous bush gardens – all are thoroughly beautiful. And then there’s another sleep-out option with views over the treetops, to as far as you can see in every direction. Ngala Treehouse is a once-in-a-lifetime experience of absolute wonder. It’s unlike any treehouse you’ve seen before; more luxurious, more enchanting and certainly more romantic. It is four storeys of splendour, and it’s all yours for the night – with discreet butlers in attendance as arranged.
The first level is the kitchen and dining area, up a level is a full bathroom, and on level three a romantically draped king-size bed awaits. On level four is another sleep-out platform with a retractable awning. So, toast the sunset, enjoy a starlit picnic and fall asleep under the Milky Way – if you so choose. Your decadent dinner picnic and breakfast will be left for you to enjoy at leisure. Treehouse is your private wilderness abode for the night. It’s deep in the bush and absolutely safe as it’s protectively fenced from wildlife. It’s simply bush nirvana. A place of starlit dreams, and memories that will certainly last forever.
What we love!
- that you can game watch while having a massage in the sala overlooking the river
- enjoying a romantic lamp-lit dinner in the dry Timbavati riverbed
- such delicious and inventive contemporary cuisine, and gorgeous lunch platters to enjoy on the viewing deck
- the option to have community and conservation interactions, which demonstrate the reserve’s ethos
- the gym in a basket, delivered to your suite on request
What you need to know…
- wheelchair access with assistance
- malaria precautions should be taken
- the camp is not fenced, but game guards accompany guests to their suites
- children over 12 years are most welcome
- the treehouse is for adults only
- Getting there: Airlink flies from Johannesburg and Nelspruit, direct to the airstrip on the reserve. Or drive from Johannesburg on good roads – 6 hours
Reviewed by Keri Harvey