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Introduction: A Unique, Unfenced Safari Experience
After visiting 62 countries, I’ve learned to appreciate destinations that deliver a powerful experience with simple logistics. The Bontle campsite in Marakele National Park is a perfect example. Located just a few hours from Johannesburg, it bridges the gap between a convenient weekend getaway and a genuinely wild safari adventure.
The name “Bontle” means “beautiful” in Setswana, and it lives up to it. But its real value lies in its unfenced design. This guide will break down the campsite system, the essential activities, and the practical steps you need to plan a successful trip, based on direct, on-the-ground experience as the first major stop on our 18-day overland safari from Johannesburg to Cape Town.
The Bontle Campsite System: A Detailed Breakdown
From a planning perspective, Bontle offers two distinct types of accommodation. Choosing the right one depends on your gear and desired comfort level. Both provide direct access to the same incredible environment.
| Accommodation Type | What You Get | Power & Facilities | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Safari Tents | Permanent canvas tents on wooden decks, usually with two single beds, basic bedding, a small fridge, and a braai (BBQ) area. | Equipped with power points. Guests use the shared campsite ablution blocks. | Travelers without their own camping gear, or those wanting a bit more comfort while still having an authentic bush experience. |
| Campsites | Numbered, level plots of land for ground tents, rooftop tents, or caravans. Each site has a power point and a braai stand. | Shared power points per site. Clean, shared ablution blocks with hot water showers and washing-up sinks serve each camping loop. | Self-sufficient campers and overlanders. It’s the classic South African bush camping experience. |
What to Expect on the Ground: Facilities & Layout
Bontle is well-maintained but rustic. The campsites are arranged in several loops, which helps to spread people out and provide a sense of space. The ablution blocks are clean and functional, serviced daily by SANParks staff.
A critical point to understand is that the camp’s electricity runs on a generator, which is typically switched off overnight (usually from 10 PM to 5 AM). Make sure your devices are charged before then. Crucially, there is no shop at Bontle campsite. You must bring all of your own food, drinks, and firewood. The nearest town for supplies is Thabazimbi, about a 20-minute drive from the park gate.
Key Activities in Marakele National Park from Bontle Camp
While the in-camp wildlife is a highlight, the real magic of Marakele lies in its dramatic landscapes. Here are the essential activities.
The Main Attraction: The Lenong Viewpoint 4×4 Drive
This is non-negotiable. The drive up the Waterberg mountains to the Lenong Viewpoint is one of the most spectacular in any South African national park. While the lower section of the road is paved, the final steep ascent is a concrete track that requires a vehicle with 4×4 and good ground clearance.
The view from the top, looking out over the mountains with Cape Vultures soaring below you, is simply breathtaking. I remember reaching the top just as the afternoon light was hitting the cliffs. We were the only ones there. It’s a core memory.
Self-Drive Game Loops in the Lower Plains
The area around Bontle camp offers several easy self-drive loops. The terrain is a mix of bushveld and plains. While Marakele isn’t a “Big Five” park in the same league as Kruger, it has a healthy population of elephants, white and black rhinos, and numerous antelope species like kudu, waterbuck, and impala. These loops are perfect for a relaxed morning or afternoon drive.
Wildlife at Bontle: More Than Just a Campsite
The game viewing starts the moment you set up your tent. Because the camp is unfenced and situated on a wide-open plain, animals treat it as part of their natural habitat. It’s not a question of *if* you will see wildlife in camp, but *what* and *when*.
Guaranteed Sightings: Rhino and Antelope
You are almost certain to have close encounters with white rhinos grazing peacefully just meters from your campsite. Warthogs, impala, and kudu are also constant residents. This provides an incredible opportunity for photography and observation in a relaxed setting.
Nocturnal Visitors
At night, the camp comes alive with different sounds and animals. You’re likely to hear the call of a jackal or see the glowing eyes of a genet in the trees. It’s a powerful reminder to secure all your food and waste in your vehicle before going to sleep.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Booking Bontle Campsite
Booking is handled exclusively through the official South African National Parks (SANParks) system. It’s a reliable but sometimes confusing process for first-timers.
- Go to the SANParks Website: Navigate to the official SANParks booking portal.
- Choose Your Camp: Select “Bontle Rest Camp “.
- Enter Your Dates: Use the calendar to select your desired arrival date and number of nights.
- View Availability: The system will show you which campsites or safari tents are available. You can even view a map to select your preferred site if you wish.
- Pay the Deposit: You’ll need to pay a deposit online to confirm your booking. The remainder is due upon arrival.
Remember that on top of your accommodation fee, you will need to pay a daily conservation fee per person. This fee is waived if you hold a SANParks Wild Card, which is an excellent value if you plan to visit multiple parks. We had it as we touched multiple parks and it was worth it. In addition it makes it much easier when you enter a park.
Common Mistakes & Pro Tips for Your Stay
- Underestimating the “Unfenced” Rule: This is not a gimmick. Do not leave food out. Do not walk around in the dark without a powerful flashlight. Respect the animals’ space at all times.
- Missing the Lenong Viewpoint: Some visitors with 2WD vehicles think they can see the whole park. You can’t. The mountain drive is the park’s best feature. If you don’t have a 4×4, it’s worth booking a guided drive with the park to get to the top.
- Forgetting Supplies: Showing up at Bontle expecting to buy firewood or a bag of ice is a common mistake. You must bring everything you need with you from Thabazimbi.
Conclusion: The Verdict on Bontle Campsite
The Bontle campsite in Marakele National Park is a superb destination that punches well above its weight. It offers an authentic, immersive wildlife experience that is incredibly accessible from Johannesburg. While it may lack the Big Five prestige of Kruger, the unique, unfenced environment and the stunning mountain landscapes make it a must-visit.
For overlanders, it’s the perfect, low-risk shakedown stop. For families and weekenders, it’s a chance to have a truly wild encounter in a safe and well-managed setting. It remains one of my top recommendations for anyone starting a safari in northern South Africa, and it served as the perfect launchpad for the rest of our sprawling 18-day adventure through Namibia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bontle campsite safe for families with children?
Yes, provided you are vigilant. SANParks has run unfenced camps like this for decades. The key is to supervise children closely, never let them wander off alone, and ensure everyone is inside your tent or caravan after dark. The animals are generally habituated to the presence of people and vehicles.
Do you need a 4×4 for Marakele National Park?
You do not need a 4×4 to access Bontle campsite or drive the main game loops on the lower plains. However, a 4×4 (or at least a vehicle with high clearance and a low-range gearbox) is mandatory to reach the Lenong Viewpoint at the top of the mountain, which is the park’s main highlight.
How far is Bontle campsite from Johannesburg?
The drive from Johannesburg (O.R. Tambo International Airport) to the Marakele National Park gate is approximately 250-300 km (155-186 miles) and typically takes 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic. Bontle campsite is located just a few minutes inside the main gate.