Camp Figtree, Near Addo National Park, Eastern Cape, South Africa - Explore & Book
"If you like the idea of spotting wild creatures without scrimping on creature comforts, you’ll like Camp Figtree. Perched atop a peak on the fringes of Addo National Park, in the folds of the dramatic Zuuberg Mountains, it offers a wonderful blend of affordable safari-style adventure and classic colonial elegance. Scattered around the grounds of a restored 1920s homestead, now housing a cosy lounge and dining area within its traditional tin walls, are 7 stand-alone suites. Some sit on stilts above a wooded slope, others have bunkbeds for children; there’s even a spacious family cottage sleeping 6-8 with its own pool and garden. All have private verandas, deep bathtubs and bird’s eye views in every direction. Daily game drives take you up-close-and-personal with Addo’s 500 or so elephants (as well as giraffes, zebras, leopards and more), while horse riding, mountain biking and guided nature walks allow you to explore the forest, bushveld and fynbos of the lodge’s 1,000-hectare reserve. Return for a dip in the pool, a sunset G&T and a hearty dinner served under a blanket of stars. We have yet to visit, but feedback tells us we’re in for a magical experience when we do. Highs It's great value - the suites are well-priced, and you only pay for the activities you want to do (unlike expensive all-inclusive camps)Perfect for families, but four-poster beds and a spectacular setting mean there’s plenty of romance for couples, tooThe feel is utterly remote, with complete silence at night, yet it’s only an hour north of Port Elizabeth airport and easily accessible from the Garden Route Friendly and knowledgeable staff who can organise anything from elephant rides to lion-spotting tripsExcellent food, with tasty local meat and plenty for vegetarians - plus weekly South African feasts around a boma (campfire) Lows No electricity overnight (10pm to 6am), but solar-charged lanterns are provided and it adds to the fun of staying in the wildernessIt's reached via a steep, bumpy road, though normal hire cars can manage itAddo can get very busy with visitors and vehicles, but Camp Figtree is 20 minutes from the entrance, so you’re away from the hubbub and can dip in and out as you pleaseNo air-conditioning, though the mountain-top location means you're unlikely to miss itThere's a fairly hefty deposit to pay within 7 days of confirming your reservation" - Handpicked by our hotel experts
