A Unique Experience at Bateleur Bushveld Camp
Hey there! I’m currently exploring the spectacular Kruger National Park, checking out all the incredible accommodations it has to offer. My mission is to give you the lowdown on everything you need to know about each place, from where to lay your head to the amazing wildlife you’ll encounter. And today, I’m thrilled to introduce you to an absolute gem – Bateleur Bushveld Camp! So, buckle up and let’s dive right in.
Discover the Magic of Bateleur Bushveld Camp
Out of all the camps in the vast Kruger National Park, Bateleur Bushveld Camp is the tiniest. With just seven units, it offers a truly secluded and intimate experience. This bushveld camp is tucked away on a private road, where day visitors are not allowed, ensuring that the sights are exclusively for overnight guests. While the camp is mostly surrounded by Mopani woodlands, you’ll also come across some koppies in the area. These rocky outcrops provide a refreshing break from the monotonous surroundings.
Welcome to Bateleur Bushveld Camp! Let me tell you about the fantastic accommodation we offer.
Discover the Accommodation at Bateleur Bushveld Camp
Inside our cozy two-bedroom bungalow, you’ll find the main bedroom. But that’s not all! Both bedrooms come with their own en suite bathrooms, providing you with absolute comfort and privacy.
When you arrive at our camp, you’ll be amazed by the seven self-catering units we have available. As you stroll along the winding path that runs beside the fence, you’ll discover these incredible units positioned there, ready to welcome you with open arms.
Among these units, three of them have three bedrooms each and can sleep up to six people. On the other hand, the remaining four units are equipped with two bedrooms and can accommodate up to four individuals. Regardless of which unit you choose, you can expect to find two bathrooms and full kitchen facilities available for your convenience.
But that’s not all! When you stay with us, we believe in spoiling you with rare luxuries. Imagine having access to a microwave and mugs during your stay. After weeks of using the tiny Kruger cups, it’s a delightful change to savor a warm cup of coffee from a proper mug.
At Bateleur Bushveld Camp, we strive to provide you with a comfortable and unforgettable experience. So why not book your stay with us today and discover all that our amazing accommodations have to offer?
In one of the two-bedroom bungalows, you’ll find the second bedroom.
Where to find the best spots
All of the units are situated near the fence, with a river running just beyond. It’s worth noting that the river runs low during the winter months. Unit one is positioned nearest to the bird hide, while unit seven experiences the least amount of foot traffic. Although, it’s essential to remember that Bateleur never gets too crowded in the first place.
When you step into the kitchens at Bateleur, you’ll find everything you need to satisfy your culinary cravings. The outdoor setting is both open and sheltered, making it the perfect spot to relax during those lazy afternoons.
Now let’s talk about the animals
Bateleur is known for its reptiles, so if you’re excited about crossing off some scaly creatures from your list, this is the place to be. Keep an eye out for falcons, the magnificent bateleur, martial eagles, booted eagles, and the majestic leather stripes eagle. In particular, spotting a booted eagle would be a special treat. The area is also teeming with water birds such as white pelicans, pygmy geese, African jacanas, and storks. And on evening game drives, you might just be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a giant eagle owl, spotted eagle owl, or marsh owl.
When you explore the mesmerizing landscapes of this area, filled with koppies and Mopani trees, it’s possible that you may catch sight of a majestic leopard during your drives. Although the area is home to both lions and leopards, sightings of these elusive creatures are not an everyday occurrence. If your heart is set on spotting wild dogs, rhinos, and cheetahs, it might be best to consider other options. However, if you find joy in observing the magnificent buffalo and elephants, then Bateleur is undoubtedly the perfect destination for you!
When you visit Bateleur, you’ll discover its remarkable ability to spot birds. Whether you’re within the camp or exploring its nearby areas, birdwatching is a delightful experience that awaits you.
A culinary adventure
To have a satisfying stay at Bateleur, it’s important to come well-prepared. Aside from wood and ice, which you can purchase at the reception, the availability of other supplies like firelighters and charcoal may vary. To ensure you’re well-equipped, it’s best not to rely solely on the camp’s stock. Utilize the spacious kitchens and outdoor braai areas to effortlessly prepare your meals.
The road I took to reach Bateleur Bushveld Camp was a bit bumpy, but you can easily drive there with a two-wheel drive car.
Let me tell you about some of the highlights of this place. Just like other bushveld camps, Bateleur offers its visitors a special treat – their very own bird hide inside the camp! You can spend some time bird watching and spotting different animals from there.
About 5 kilometers away from Bateleur, there is a lookout point called Tsange. It’s a great spot to park your car and take in the beautiful view of the vast bushland.
If you’re staying overnight at Bateleur, you have access to two dams – Rooibosrand and Silvervis. Both dams are located along the winding roads near the camp. While Rooibosrand is a bigger dam, both places offer breathtaking scenery and a chance to see hippos up close.
So, if you’re up for a unique bushveld experience, Bateleur Bushveld Camp is definitely worth considering. Enjoy the beauty of nature and the wildlife surrounding you!
If you’re feeling a little lazy and don’t want to go on an afternoon drive, the bird hide inside the camp is the perfect spot to relax and watch the beautiful sunset.
How to Get There
Bateluer Bushveld Camp is quite secluded, so it’s best to arrive early to have enough time for a leisurely game drive from the gate to the camp. The nearest gate to the north is Punda Maria Gate, and to the south, you’ll find Phalaborwa Gate. Both gates are about 100km to 130km away from the camp. For a complete guide to all the Kruger gates, you can click here.
As I approach the private road that leads to Bateleur, there it is—a colossal baobab tree standing tall on the left. These trees are a common sight in the northern part of the park.
Just 8km away from Bateleur, Rooibosrand Dam is a peaceful oasis. Its vast and calm waters offer a tranquil escape that you can enjoy for hours. Unlike other popular spots, this hidden gem remains untouched by the crowd.
What you need to know
ATMs: None
Credit card facilities: Available
Mobile reception: Inside the camp, reception is not available. However, if you make a short, five-kilometer trip to Tsange Lookout, you’ll find reception if you explore the area a little bit.