Nambu Camp
A Step Into The Bush
Nambu Camp
Nambu is a charming and sophisticated hilltop lodge nestled in the heart of the Big 5 Olifants West Nature Reserve, offering guests an unforgettable safari experience with exceptional guiding and warm hospitality. Perched atop an old anthill, the lodge provides sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, where tawny eagles soar above and herds of elephants gather at the river below. The lodge’s open design ensures that the stunning natural surroundings are seamlessly integrated into the architecture.
The camp features six luxury chalets, each with private entrances and decks, offering breathtaking views of the reserve, riverbed, and waterhole. Chalets three and five are garden-facing and set back from the other chalets, ensuring privacy and tranquility.
Nambu has been in the Drinkwater family for nearly 40 years, creating a legacy of cherished memories with both family and friends. The name “Nambu” means ‘river’ in the local IsiThonga language, reflecting its connection to the river that flows through the reserve.
Guests can unwind at the poolside during the heat of the day, enjoy birdwatching from the lodge’s expansive viewing platform, or savor a midday brunch in the main camp. The wrap-around wooden balconies offer incredible views of the landscape, while the spacious lounge, surrounded by large glass windows, overlooks the bushveld. The boma area and pool with decking provide additional spaces to relax outdoors, with the chance to spot giraffe, elephants, and plains game crossing the riverbed below.
The lodge offers simple yet stylish cuisine in an open dining area, where guests can enjoy a healthy breakfast after the morning game drive, followed by a hearty brunch in the afternoon. Sundowner snacks are served in the bush, and the day concludes with an elegant evening meal under the stars.
Winding wooden pathways lead from the main camp through lush gardens to the secluded chalets, offering a serene and intimate experience. The six safari-chic chalets (two of which are interleading) accommodate up to 12 people. Each chalet is equipped with modern amenities, including air-conditioning, hotel-standard wall sockets with USB, USB-C plugs, and ample storage space. The rooms feature comfortable king-sized beds and stylish bathrooms with views of the bushveld.
Nambu offers two game drive activities per day in the Big 5 Olifants West Nature Reserve, each accompanied by coffee and sundowner stops. The guides and trackers at Nambu are renowned for their expertise, ensuring an exceptional safari experience.
Full Board + Activities
1 January 2025 - 31 December 2025- All meals, game drives & bush walks, teas & coffees.
Fully Inclusive
1 January 2025 - 31 December 2025- All meals, all local drinks (soft & alcoholic) game drives & bush walks, teas & coffees.
Information
Facilities
WiFi
Wi-Fi is available at the lodge, ensuring guests can stay connected during their stay.
Pool
The lodge features a tiled swimming pool, which is heated when necessary, offering stunning views of the waterhole. Sun loungers and occasional chairs are scattered around the poolside.
Charging Points
Each chalet is equipped with hotel-standard sockets, including plugs, USB, and USB-C charging ports conveniently located next to each side of the bed.
Bathrooms
The bathrooms are en-suite and feature luxury rain showers, with bathroom products provided for your convenience.
Laundry
A daily turndown service is provided, and laundry can be arranged upon request during your stay.
Boma
The lodge features a boma area with a fireplace, where fires are lit each day before the evening meal.
Lounge Area
The lounge area is furnished with a comfortable three-seater daybed, two armchairs, and a table perfect for enjoying card games
Cooling
All chalets are equipped with air-conditioning
General Information
Location
Nambu Camp is situated in the Big 5 Olifants West Nature Reserve, at the heart of the Greater Kruger, just 16.2 km from Hoedspruit. The camp is easily accessible, with Eastgate Airport located a convenient 45-minute drive away for fly-in guests. For those opting to self-drive, Johannesburg is a scenic 5-hour drive from the camp.
Wildlife
Nambu Camp is nestled in the heart of the Olifants West Nature Reserve, which is open to the Kruger National Park. This diverse and untamed reserve is home to the Big 5 and a wide variety of wildlife. The camp overlooks a winding dry riverbed and waterhole, with natural springs scattered throughout, creating an oasis that attracts numerous animals. The undulating landscape offers numerous vantage points to spot giraffes, elephant herds, and predators roaming the bush below. The Olifants River flows through the reserve, providing a constant source of life, with large pods of hippos and basking crocodiles frequently seen. The birdlife here is exceptional, with riverine species drawn to the waterway, including the rare Pel’s fishing owl, kingfishers, herons, vultures, and various eagle species. Birdwatching at the camp is a highlight, with tawny eagles nesting nearby and vibrant sunbirds frequenting the lush gardens surrounding Nambu.
Weather
The average annual rainfall in the area is 350mm, with the majority of rainfall occurring between November and February during mid-summer. The rainfall typically comes in the form of thunderstorms, with heavy downpours that rarely last more than a few hours. Average maximum temperatures range from 24°C in July to 34°C in January, while the average minimum temperature occurs in July at 8.5°C.
Malaria
The Olifants West Nature Reserve region is considered a low-risk malaria area. It is recommended to consult your local doctor for advice on the appropriate precautions. Common malaria medications for the Kruger area include Malarone, Doxycycline, or Melfloquine. Mosquitoes are more prevalent during the wet, warmer months, so using mosquito repellent and creams is advised as additional preventative measures.