North West tented camps are perfect escape plans for stress-strapped city dwellers of Pretoria and Johannesburg.
The North West province, like Gauteng, is completely landlocked. It is defined by the Magaliesberg Mountains north east of the province, and its bushveld – predominated by shrubs and low-lying trees.
Also known as the platinum province for its platinum mines, it acts as a natural thoroughfare for travellers en route to Botswana, and competes with Gauteng to claim the Cradle of Humankind as one of its tourist highlights – the others are, of course, the Pilanesberg National Park, Vredefort Dome, and Sun City.
The province is renowned for its game and nature reserves, many of which have tented camps as part of their offering.
We rustled up an exclusive collection of North West tented camps perfect for a glamping weekend
La Montagne Guest Lodge
You’ll find this lodge in the heart of the Cradle of Humankind, not far from Pretoria, Randburg or Brits.
Its main draw card are the views out over the Magaliesberg Mountains and the Harbeespoort Dam, and its 10 luxury safari tents, each with their own deck, en suite bath rooms, spa baths, huge beds and air conditioning.
Highlight: two swimming pools, an open-air restaurant and tea garden, and an on site salon.
Pilanesberg Tented Safari Camp, Pilanesberg National Park
You’ll find these North West tented camps in the park’s Manyane Resort, an affordable access to safari with local guides and regular visits from local plains game, warthogs and a band of mongooses that continue to surprise.
There are only 5 tents available (so book quickly), each equipped with its own little deck overlooking the camp fire, with access to a tented lounge and dining area, communal bathrooms and a fire pit.
Highlight: full English and continental breakfast, a swimming pool, dinner over an open fire, game drives.
Thakadu River Camp, Madikwe Game Reserve
You’re going to love the intimacy and luxury of these 12 tented Afro-Asian-style suites (4 family units) on one of the province’s most famous game reserves.
Each tent has its own en suite bathroom and viewing deck overlooking the Marico River.
The use of natural stones, fabrics, fibres and carpets blend beautifully with rustic décor and local artifacts. Prepare to be spoiled.
Highlight: the lapa in a glade of natural riverine forest, the views, malaria-free game viewing in Madikwe Game Reserve.
TangleWood Nature Estate, Boskop Dam, Potchefstroom
The tent sleeps two adults and has an indoor / outdoor shower, kitchenette including coffee machine, lounge, King-size bed with percale bed linen, indoor fireplace, private deck and gas braai.
Highlight: Enjoy angling, kayaking, bird watching and a host of other activities at the Boskop Dam
Have you been to any of these North West tented camps? We’d love to hear about your experiences…
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