Fodor's Expert Review Tanda Tula Safari Camp

Tanda Tula has a well-deserved reputation as one of the best bush camps in Mpumalanga. When lions roar nearby, the noise sounds like it's coming from under the bed. The reason is simple: you sleep in a large safari tent with huge window flaps that roll up, leaving you gazing at the bush only through mosquito netting. Each comfortable thatch tent has electricity, a freestanding fan, a private bathroom with a Victorian-style tub and outdoor shower, and a private wooden deck overlooking the Nhlaralumi River. First-class rangers give you a very thorough understanding of the environment, local history, and animals without concentrating solely on the Big Five. True adventurers might enjoy getting a taste of safaris of a bygone time at Tanda Tula's non-permanent field camp (open April through to October); after bush walking or driving all day, you set up camp in the bush; there's no electricity and limited cell phone coverage, but you'll be wined and dined at the elegant mess tent.