Balule Rest Camp, just South of the Olifants Rest Camp in the central section of the Kruger National Park, is a small satellite camp that provides a back-to-basics wilderness experience.
The camp is separated from the surrounding bush only by a low fence, giving visitors the unique and welcome feeling of being a part of the wilderness. With few amenities, camp residents have little option but to let everything go and soak themselves in the wondrous feeling of getting away from it all in this magical part of the Kruger.
The camp lies close to the Olifants River, which makes for some fantastic game drives, especially to see resident elephant bathing in the cool waters of this lowveld oasis. Bookings and info
Getting there: from Gauteng, take the N1 toll-road to Polokwane (Pietersburg). 40km before Polokwane turn right onto the R71 and head for Tzaneen. After Tzaneen, head towards Phalaborwa and the gate. Allow between 6 to 7 hours for the trip to the gate. Balule camp is 85km away from the gate. Allow about 3 hours for the drive to the camp.
More on the quaint town of Phalaborwa | More on the Valley of the Olifants area |