Run the Vines is a popular trail running series that has been hosted by Onsite Events for 10 years! Races take place across the picturesque Drakenstein, Slanghoek, Worcester, and Boland regions. Participants can explore the stunning Cape Winelands at their own pace, with a race hosted at a different wine farm every month. The series is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy combining physical activity with great food and wine afterwards.
AfriCamps is a proud sponsor of this trail series, offering each runner a 15%-off glamping voucher at the finish line. Runners can also look forward to an AfriCamps lucky draw at selected races, where one runner will receive a glamping voucher to use at any of our 19 locations across the country. Don’t miss the final run of the year taking place in our own backyard at the beautiful Doolhof Wine Estate!
A 3km kids’ run is available for children under 8 (must be accompanied by an adult)
Kids under 12 can participate for free
You can sign up for each event individually
The series has a cap of 60 entries
Enter the events marked 🏕️WIN below for a chance to be the lucky draw winner of a complimentary night’s glamping! Here’s a list of the upcoming Run The Vines venues and events for 2025:
Saturday, 12 April 2025 at De Wet Cellar in Worcester
Please note: While Run The Vines strives to stick to the dates and venues listed, changes may occur. You will be notified if this happens. For updates and confirmed dates, visit entries.onsite-events.co.za before each event.
If there’s one thing we love as much as glamping, it’s the delicious food we enjoy while doing it! Our lives and adventures revolve around food, and at AfriCamps, we know there’s no better celebration of food (and life) than when the fires are lit, sides are prepped, and the only thing left to do is BRAAI.
Every year on 24 September, we celebrate Heritage Day in South Africa. The braai has become synonymous with our country’s heritage, giving rise to Braai Day in 2005. But make no mistake – South Africans don’t need a reason to light the fires. With thousands standing by with their braai spice in hand every weekend, we’re sharing some of our favourite glamping-friendly recipes.
Suggested by AfriCamps camp owners from across South Africa, each recipe brings something special to the table, whether you’re enjoying them at your favourite AfriCamps location or home.
African Cape Malay Marinade
AFRICAMPS AT DOOLHOF, WELLINGTON
The Doolhof Team believes a braai can’t go wrong if it’s served with “wine, wine, wine!” However, a good marinade can make or break your braai. Try their African Cape Malay Marinade recipe with fish or meat.
INGREDIENTS
2 tbsp cumin seeds, paprika, ground coriander
1 tsp each of thyme leaves and rosemary
3 crushed garlic cloves
zest and juice of 1 lemon
50g fresh coriander
2 tsp plain feta
1 tsp salt
100ml olive oil
100ml sunflower oil
INSTRUCTIONS
Combine all ingredients in a jug blender and blend into a loose paste.
Pour half of the marinade over your meat 30 minutes before the braai and use the remaining marinade for basting as you braai.
Important tips:
Don’t marinate for longer than 30 minutes as the salt and lemon may overpower the meat.
Spices like heat!
Just before the meat is done, baste it one more time.
Remember to take credit for the marinade!
Karoo Lamb Chops
AFRICAMPS AT DE PAKHUYS, CEDERBERG
Thys and Mark, co-owners of AfriCamps at de Pakhuys share the secret to a perfect braai: good company, good food, and a great location. They recommend a glamping tent, a few braai buddies, and a sunny weekend. This delicious lamb chop recipe should round it off perfectly!
INGREDIENTS
Karoo lamb chops from de Pakhuys Farm
salt and pepper (to taste)
lime to squeeze just before coming off the fire
INSTRUCTIONS
Season the lamb chops with salt and pepper (to taste), then braai them to perfection. Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving.
Sit back, relax, and enjoy your delicious meal. And don’t forget to share the secret recipe with your friends.
Karoo Lamb Chop Marinade
AFRICAMPS AT KAROO 1, HEX VALLEY
It should come as no surprise that the owner of a farm in the Karoo recommends a Karoo lamb chop for Braai Day! It’s like a taste of the Karoo, straight from the source.
INGREDIENTS
8 Loin Chops
1/4 cup Olive oil
1/8 cup Fresh lemon juice
2 tbsp Honey
1 tbsp Rosemary
1/2 tbsp Fresh crushed garlic
1 tsp Salt
1 tsp Black Pepper
1/2 tsp Chilli Powder
1/2 tsp Onion Powder
INSTRUCTIONS
In a ziplock bag, combine the olive oil, honey, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Add your chops, seal the bag and massage the marinade into the lamb.
Refrigerate for about 1 to 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavour.
Preheat your braai or grill to medium-high heat.
Grill the chops for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the lamb is cooked through and slightly charred. Be careful not to overcook.
Stuffed Butternut with Spinach and Feta
AFRICAMPS AT STANFORD HILLS, STANFORD
Enjoy this delicious recipe for stuffed butternut with spinach and feta, shared by camp owners Jami and Peter Kastner from AfriCamps at Stanford Hills. This flavourful and filling side dish is perfect for sharing with friends and family, especially those who may be vegetarian. Don’t forget to complete your meal with a glass of wine from Stanford Hills Wine Estate.
INGREDIENTS
1 Butternut (Cut in Half Lengthwise)
1 Hand Full of Fresh Spinach
1/2 Chopped Onion
2 Cloves of Garlic
1 tbsp Butter
1 tbsp Lemon Juice
1/4 Cup Crumbled Feta Cheese
Fresh Herbs
INSTRUCTIONS
Cut the butternut in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
Melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
Add the spinach and cook until wilted. Squeeze out any excess water.
Stir in the lemon juice and feta cheese.
Stuff the spinach mixture into the hollowed-out butternut squash halves. Wrap each half tightly in aluminium foil.
Place on the grill or braai over medium-low heat. Cook for 45 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Greek-style Leg of Lamb
AFRICAMPS AT PAT BUSCH, ROBERTSON
Lindi and Stephen Busch, the owners of AfriCamps at Pat Busch, share their go-to recipe: Greek-style leg of lamb inspired by Justin Bonello. With a symphony of herbs, this dish will transport you straight to the mountaintop.
INGREDIENTS
Lamb
2.5kg deboned leg of lamb
500ml Bulgarian yoghurt
6 cloves of finely chopped Crushed Garlic
3 Lemons
A Small Handful of Finely Chopped Rosemary
A Couple of Pinches of Smoked Paprika
Salt and Cracked Black Pepper
Vinaigrette
4 Brown Anchovies
A Drizzle of Olive Oil
A Clove of Garlic
Half Squeezed Lemon
INSTRUCTIONS
Lamb
Combine the yoghurt, garlic, lemon juice, rosemary, smoked paprika, salt and black pepper.
Using a sharp knife, make several small holes in the leg of lamb and rub the marinade all over. Cover with cling wrap and refrigerate for two days.
After two days, braai the lamb over medium coals for about 30 minutes, or longer depending on your desired level of doneness.
Baste the lamb with the leftover marinade periodically. You want the lamb to caramelise on the outside, and be cooked, but still pink, on the inside.
Once done, remove the heat, put the lamb aside to rest and rustle up a quick vinaigrette, which will break down the fattiness of the meat.
Vinaigrette
If you have a blender handy, blitz until fine.
If you’re in the great outdoors, use a mortar and pestle to mix the anchovies, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
Three-cheese Braaibroodjie
AFRICAMPS AT KAM’BATI, SWELLENDAM
A braai is not a braai without a traditional braaibroodjie! Jaco and Dene Badenhorst, camp owners of AfriCamps at Kam’Bati, suggest pairing your steak with their delicious three-cheese braaibroodjie (Afrikaans for ‘barbecue sandwich’).
INGREDIENTS
2 Slices of Bread per Sandwich
Butter
KIRI cream cheese
Grated Gouda Cheese
Feta
Sliced Onions
Sliced Tomatoes
INSTRUCTIONS
Spread butter and cream cheese on one slice of bread.
Add onion slices and tomatoes with a sprinkle of Aromat and black pepper.
Add grated gouda cheese and crumble some feta cheese over it.
Place the last slice of buttered slice bread, and close the sandwich.
Place the sandwiches on the braai grid over low heat until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
Ostrich Biltong Potjie
AFRICAMPS KLEIN KAROO, OUDTSHOORN
This uniquely South African dish comes highly recommended by AfriCamps Klein Karoo owners, Arnold and Esti-Mari. It’s a perfect combination of a gamey taste and a smokey, rich favour.
INGREDIENTS
1 Chopped Onion
1 tsp Garlic
1 Punnet of Mushrooms
1 Packet Smoked Cheese Sausages
500ml Fresh Cream
1 Packet Brown Onion Soup Powder
200ml Chutney
750g Pasta of your choice
750g Ostrich Biltong
300g Grated Cheese
INSTRUCTIONS
Heat a little butter or oil to the pot, and add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for a few minutes. Add sliced the mushrooms and sauté with the onion and garlic.
Slice the smoked cheese sausages, add to the pot and cook until heated thoroughly.
Cook pasta in a separate pot. Drain and set aside.
Add the drained pasta to the pot with sautéed onion, mushrooms and smoked cheese sausages.
In a small bowl, combine fresh cream, brown onion soup powder, and chutney.
Combine the pasta and cream mixture and let it simmer for a few minutes to combine flavours. Mix well and add the biltong and grated cheese to the pot.
Let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the flavours have combined.
Rump Tail
AFRICAMPS AT OAKHURST, WILDERNESS
Jake and Claire Crowther, the owners of AfriCamps at Oakhurst, recommend trying the rump tail. This cut, also known as Pichana, is a South American speciality that’s best cooked over a very hot fire to sear the outside and quickly braai the meat. It’s perfect as a flavourful starter!
INGREDIENTS
Rump Steak
Olive Oil
Braai Salt Rub
Course Salt
INSTRUCTIONS
Coat the rump steak on both sides with olive oil and a generous amount of braai salt rub (to taste), and do not remove the fat layer as it is a healthy fat and this is where the tremendous flavour comes from.
Place the steak on a braai grid on a very hot fire. Braai for a few quick minutes on each side, until it’s nicely seared and slightly charred.
Remove the steak from the braai and let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes. Then, slice it into thin 5mm slices.
Sprinkle the sliced steak with a twist of course salt, to taste, and serve immediately as a starter.
Stuffed Kudu Backstrap
AFRICAMPS ADDO, EASTERN CAPE
The Hayter Family, camp owners of AfriCamps Addo, believe the kudu backstrap is a must-try and a game-changer! And we can see why — it’s a flavour explosion of rich, gamey goodness, creamy blue cheese, and smokey bacon.
INGREDIENTS
Marinade
50ml Soy Sauce
80ml Olive Oil
30ml Lemon Juice
3 Chopped Garlic Cloves
Salt and Pepper
Filling
50ml Butter
2 Chopped Chives
100g Sliced Button Mushrooms
2 Chopped Garlic Cloves
200g Crumbled Blue Cheese
Salt and Pepper
300g – 500g Streaky Bacon
INSTRUCTIONS
Marinade
Create a flavorful marinade in a small bowl by combining soy sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, chopped garlic cloves, salt and pepper, to taste.
Let your kudu soak in this marinade for a day or two in the refrigerator.
Filling
Melt the butter in a pan over medium heat, and sauté the chopped chives until softened.
Add the mushrooms and fry till most of the liquid has disappeared. Stir in chopped garlic and cook until mushrooms are browned.
Remove from heat and set aside to cool. Once cooled, add the crumbled blue cheese with salt and pepper (to taste) to the mixture.
Remove the kudu from the marinade and pat dry with a paper towel.
Slice the kudu backstrap in the middle and fill with the filling.
Wrap the filet with streaky bacon and secure it with toothpicks.
Cabbage on the Coals
AFRICAMPS AT GOWAN VALLEY, THE MIDLANDS
This cabbage recipe from AfriCamps at Gowan Valley has come a long way. Many years ago, Brett, the camp owner at Gowan Valley, and Jake Crowther, the owner of Oakhurst, were touring through Africa. Upon arriving at a farmer’s house, they wanted to impress the farmer’s three beautiful daughters by contributing something to the braai. Their choice? A cabbage! And so, this simple recipe was born. (Tip: Kids will love this veggie, especially if it’s followed by braaied marshmallows!)
INGREDIENTS
1 whole cabbage
brown onion soup powder
butter
foil
INSTRUCTIONS
Cut the cabbage into large slices without slicing all the way through.
Sprinkle brown onion soup and butter between the slices, cover with foil, and braai for 45 to 60 minutes, turning occasionally.
Venison Sirloin
AFRICAMPS AT WHITE ELEPHANT SAFARIS, PONGOLA GAME RESERVE
Dr Heinz and Debbie Kohrs, camp owners of AfriCamps at White Elephant Safaris, bring a taste of the African bush to your table with their venison sirloin recipe. This dish only requires five ingredients and pairs perfectly with a traditional chakalaka game braai wors and a glass of delectable red wine for a truly authentic South African experience.
INGREDIENTS
Olive Oil
Balsamic Vinegar
Fresh Lemon
Ina Paarman Garlic Pepper Spice
400g Venison Sirloin (Kudu or Wildebeest)
INSTRUCTIONS
Pour into a shallow dish and combine a large glug of olive oil and balsamic vinegar, a squeeze of lemon juice and a good sprinkle of garlic pepper.
Lay the venison sirloin in the marinade, ensuring it’s well-coated on all sides. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, turning it occasionally.
Braai the venison sirloin slowly over hot bushveld wood coals (knob thorn or sickle bush wood).
Remember that venison is lean, so medium-rare is the ideal cooking temperature to prevent it from drying out.
After braaing, let the venison rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin medallions.
Sweet Simple S’mores
AFRICAMPS AT MACKERS, HAZYVIEW
Michelle and Ryan, the camp owners from AfriCamps at Mackers, have a sweet and nostalgic treat that’s sure to be a hit. Their s’more recipe only requires two ingredients and is a favourite among little explorers and adults alike.
INGREDIENTS
Caramel Marie Biscuits
marshmallows
INSTRUCTIONS
Toast the marshmallows over an open flame until they’re golden brown and gooey.
Place them between two biscuits, gently squeeze them together to spread the marshmallow, and let them cool slightly before taking a bite.
Brush the steaks with oil and season generously with Robertsons Braai & Grill Spicy BBQ.
Place on a grid over hot coals and braai for just long enough to brown the meat on all sides.
Place a big heat-safe or cast-iron pan on the grid.
Add the butter and Dijon mustard. Place the steaks in the pan and coat them well with the butter mixture.
Cook the steaks in the pan until done to your liking.
Salad
Add beetroot to a large pot, cover with water and bring to a boil then reduce to simmer until soft.
Drain the beetroot and place them aside to cool, then peel and slice for later use.
In one medium-sized bowl, add beetroot, red onion, olives, feta cheese (crumble) mint and Knorr Moringa dressing, mix well and serve.
Succulent Halloumi and Veggie Skewers
AFRICAMPS WATERBERG, LIMPOPO
Juliet and Dr Philip Calcott, the camp owners of AfriCamps Waterberg, share their vegetarian-friendly recipe for succulent halloumi and veg skewers. This flavourful and easy-to-make dish is perfect as a starter or a side dish, and it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
INGREDIENTS
1 Pack Braai Halloumi
Onion or Red Peppers (Optional)
1 Punnet of Button Mushrooms
1 Pack of Cherry Tomatoes
Crushed Garlic
Olive Oil
Braai Skewers
INSTRUCTIONS
Cut 2 cm cubes of halloumi, and if the mushrooms are big cut them in half, otherwise use them whole.
If adding onions or peppers, cut these into similar-sized chunks to the halloumi.
Thread alternate chunks of your ingredients onto the skewers.
Brush the skewers with a mixture of olive oil and crushed garlic.
Braai the skewers until browned, being careful not to burn the ingredients or let the cheese melt and drop off.
For added protection, you can place some tin foil on the braai to prevent items from falling off the skewers.
These skewers are perfect as a starter or a side dish to accompany your main course. Enjoy them with a refreshing salad and a glass of South African wine.
Blueberry and Brie Braaibroodjie
AFRICAMPS AT MILORHO, MAGALIESBERG
Made with the finest export-quality blueberries from their neighbouring farm, Iain and Renee Shields from AfriCamps at Milorho share their blueberry and brie grilled cheese braaibroodjie recipe. This simple dish is a perfect way to savour the natural sweetness of the local harvest.
INGREDIENTS
1/2 Cup Washed Blueberries
1 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar
1 tsp Honey
4 Slices Artisan Bread
Handful of Fresh Basil Leaves
Slices Brie cheese (Desired Amount)
Room Temperature Butter
INSTRUCTIONS
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the blueberries, balsamic, and honey. Stir to mix well.
Gently cook and mash the blueberries until they soften and turn jammy, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
Butter the outside of each slice of bread. On the one unbuttered side, spread a layer of the blueberry mixture, then top with basil leaves, and a few slices of brie, or the desired amount.
Top with the remaining slice of bread, buttered side up. Repeat for the next sandwich.
Place the other slice of bread on top, buttered side up.
Place sandwiches in a folding grilling basket, braai over medium heat, browning each side until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Whether you’re glamping at one of your favourite AfriCamps locations or firing up the braai at home, we hope you’ve enjoyed these delicious glamping-friendly recipes inspired by our South African heritage.
Oscar, Linda, and their two kids Jonah and Milou, better known as Onze Rondreis, are making their way across South Africa. After spending 30 days exploring The Mother City and its surroundings, this travelling family set out for the N1 on a road trip to Johannesburg. Of course, a small detour to AfriCamps Klein Karoo along the way was an opportunity they could not pass up. Read all about their glamping adventure in the uniquely South African town of Oudtshoorn.
From Cape Town via the magnificent route 62, we travelled to a quiet village called Oudtshoorn. At the heart of the Klein Karoo, we stayed in a boutique glamping tent with a dam in our backyard and amazing views of the mountains. While the children went to the playground just behind the tent, we had our first drink on the deck and enjoyed the amazing sunset.
AfriCamps Klein Karoo is a spacious camp with 12 glamping tents, each boasting views of the dam. There is a small playground, a large pool, and a small pool for the little children. The hospitality at the camp is great! While checking in, the host gave us the tent next to the play area (a different tent than we were assigned) so that our children could visit the playground by themselves, fantastic! Small snacks and drinks are available at reception while bottled water, which you can fill up at the reception, is provided in the tent.
We arrived quite late and decided to have dinner at Buffelsdrift Game Lodge Restaurant, a 5-minute drive from the camp. This was also recommended by our host AfriCamps. What a great place! While eating the most delicious burger (or of course other mains), you can hear the honks of hippos. The game lodge also has three elephants (unfortunately, we didn’t get to see them). This is definitely a place you have to go when you’re staying at AfriCamps!
In Oudtshoorn, there are a lot of activities, depending on your preferences. During our stay, we went on a tour at the Safari Ostrich Farm during which we rode on a tractor with a guide. It was fun for both the children and adults and really informative. Before or after the tour you can enjoy the lovely meals while the children have fun at the playground.
Back at the tent, our braai baskets, which we ordered at the reception, were delivered. They included lovely pieces of meat, delicious bread with garlic butter, and two different homemade salads. Of course, we also had some marshmallows for the children! When it started to get cold and late, the children fell asleep in their warm beds (preheated with electrical blankets). With a glass of wine and the wood stove on, it was the perfect end to the day. Tip: in the evenings, go outside and enjoy the darkness. There are so many stars, and if you look around with a flashlight, you might see some impalas or elands walking in front of your tent!
The next morning when we woke up, our breakfast baskets were delivered. With some bread, yoghurt, fruit, muesli, eggs, bacon, sausages, milk, and orange juice, it was a luxury to start the day!
After breakfast, we went to the Cango Caves. During an hour-and-a-half-long tour, we wandered through the caves, 600 meters deep, and visited six chambers. This tour was both informative and fun! The children could walk and explore the caves by themselves! Nice tip: don’t bring jackets, it’s warm and humid, so no need for extra clothes.
After all, we loved our visit to AfriCamps Klein Karoo, the perfect place to relax and enjoy your favourite activities.
Take advantage of our 3-night specials and save R500 on your next AfriCamps adventure. For more information or to book your stay at AfriCamps Klein Karoo, click here. Interested in visiting one of the 13 AfriCamps locations? Click here to learn more.
At AfriCamps we love when families come together – whether it’s for a holiday, a birthday, or just a getaway. There is truly something for everyone at each of our AfriCamps locations. The kids will spend hours swimming, sliding, canoeing, making new friends on the playground or just roaming around to explore. The men love to come together for a braai or a spot of fishing, and the ladies, well, where do we begin?
The ladies at AfriCamps have rounded up some of their favourite things to do, for some inspiration. Try them all on your next AfriCamps adventure.
1. Early morning run
Our locations boast the most scenic tracks for an early morning ladies run. And what better motivation than knowing breakfast will be waiting… Happily prepared by dad and the kids.
2. Enjoy breakfast with friends and family
All AfriCamps locations offer sumptious breakfast baskets including the best fresh produce and dairy for you to prepare. Breakfast baskets differ slightly between our locations, as each location fills their baskets with the freshest local produce.
Freshly baked muffins, muesli, fresh fruit, yoghurt, juice, preserves, eggs, bacon, sausage, freshly baked bread, fresh milk, coffee and rusks are some of the items you can expect to find in your basket.
Pre-order your breakfast basket from R110 per person.
Photo taken at AfriCamps Champagne Valley, Drakensberg
3. Get a head start on your tan
Grab a deck chair, catch some rays and relax! The deck is the perfect tanning spot, but depending on your location, you can relax and catch a tan next to a swimming pool or find a quiet riverside spot. Remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours – the hot African sun can be brutal in summer.
Photo taken at AfriCamps Waterberg, Limpopo.
4. Sundowners with a view
It’s not an AfriCamps experience without spending some time relaxing on our decks and enjoying the views. (It’s even better enjoyed with a pink G&T, or whatever your heart desires.)
5. Walks among fauna and flora
From beautiful blooming Proteas at Stanford Hills to walking among various buck species at Ingwe or Klein Karoo, all AfriCamps are located on beautiful properties where the unspoiled nature can be enjoyed.
6. Finish that novel you’ve been reading for months.
Whether you do it curled up in front of the fire or stretched out on the deck. Whether it’s The Great Gatsby, Gulliver’s Travels or Eat Pray Love – take a time-out and get lost in a good book.
Photo taken at AfriCamps Waterberg, Limpopo
7. Did someone say wood-fired hot tubs?!
Visitors to AfriCamps at Ingwe in Plettenberg Bay can warm up in our outdoor wood-fired hot tubs. Simply light the fire and let the brilliant design do the work. Sit back and soak up that Tsitsikamma view.
8. Find your zen
Our guests have proven our decks to be the perfect spot for stretching out with yoga or pilates. Bring your yoga mat, leave your worries behind.
9. Massage at Mackers
Our newest camp, AfriCamps at Mackers in Hazyview offers massage treatments from the comfort of your own tent. Book a treatment and prepare to be pampered to the sound of the Sabie River. View the Mackers activities page for the price list.
10. Take the scenic route
All AfriCamps’ are in close proximity of attractions that make for memorable day drives. Visit Kruger National Park from AfriCamps at Mackers in Hazyview, go wine tasting form AfriCamps at Stanford Hills in Stanford or Pat Busch in Roberston. Explore the 4th oldest town in the country, when staying at afriCamps in Kam’Bati Swellendam, or meet the ostriches and meerkats at AfriCamps Klein Karoo. AfriCamps at Ingwe is surrounded by Garden Route attractions like the Tsitsikamma forest and Plettenberg Bay.
How did two Dutchies create South Africa’s favourite boutique camping brand? The Dutch travel magazine, Oog Voor Afrika recently interviewed AfriCamps’ co-owners Jeroen van Rootselaar and Manou Bleumink on the origins of AfriCamps and their road to success. We couldn’t keep this story from our local community, so, here it is! The story of how two Dutch entrepreneurs revolutionised glamping as we know it in South Africa.
A NEW START
After arriving in South Africa, Manou Bleumink and his girlfriend Willemijn started a homeshare B&B in their rented house to help make ends meet. The demand for student accommodation grew and so they founded Cape Town Rocks. Their successful company filled a gap in the market for the rental of beautiful apartments, houses and student rooms. This was their first encounter with the tourism industry in South Africa.
Jeroen van Rootselaar and his partner Katelijne arrived in South Africa in 2006 with two backpacks, some surf equipment and a website about internships. As a student, Jeroen completed an internship in Cape Town and fell head over heals for the city. The couple saw a gap in the market after their own internship in the Mother City and started the internship agency, 4exchange.
The two companies overlapped in the market for student housing, but after a chance meeting over a beer, Jeroen and Manou clicked instantly.
Soon we started brainstorming about starting a business together and, coincidentally we both thought of different forms of tents and camping gear. That’s how AfriCamps was founded.
THE CHALLENGE: AFRICAMPS
Manou: ‘We both saw a glamping trend starting in Europe. At various farms and campsites, you suddenly saw cheerfully decorated “safari” tents. That was funny to see for the Dutch in South Africa because the original form of the safari tent really comes from here. The tents in Europe, with their double bedrooms, kitchen and bathroom, however, seemed more like canvas cottages suitable for the whole family. Our idea was to import the glamping trend to South Africa. We could not find local tents that met our requirements and importing tents was too expensive. We decided to buy a sewing machine and learn how to work with industrial sewing machines and canvas.
With the help of YouTube videos, we tried to familiarise ourselves with industrial sewing machines and canvas.
After eight months of designing, sewing canvas, building furniture and welding couplers, we built a life-size glamping tent in an old asbestos factory building.
Jeroen: ‘Then things went quickly. Investors picked up our plans and with their financial help we set up a production facility in Atlantis. Atlantis has a huge youth unemployment rate, so we trained young, local labourers.
On 1 November 2015, exactly two years after the purchase of our first sewing machine, we opened our first camp at one of the biggest working ostrich farms in Oudtshoorn.
Now we have eight camps at the most beautiful locations in the Western Cape. Since 1 July 2018, there is also a camp in Hazyview, Mpumalanga. All camps can be booked separately, or as a route. Our vision is that guests can experience how an authentic South African family lives in their country, while learning everything about real South African products. As an AfriCamps guest, you will meet the farm owners, become acquainted with their produce and the unique fauna and flora of the area.’
Jeroen: ‘The future of AfriCamps is bright. People show a need for meaningful travel experiences where the local people, the country and food can be experienced in an authentic way. AfriCamps offers that experience like no other. With the opening of AfriCamps at Mackers in Hazyview, Mpumalanga, we have taken the first step in our national expansion plan.’
People from Namibia, Botswana and even Zimbabwe have expressed their interest in AfriCamps. Signs are promising that we can make AfriCamps the glamping brand of Southern Africa.
Manou: ‘There are countless! But what really stood out was when I arrived with my family at our first camp in Oudtshoorn. We looked out over the dam and saw the tents looming in the distance under the splendour of the setting sun. An unforgettable feeling.’
Jeroen: ‘The moment our investors decided to invest a serious amount in the wild plans of two boys, a sewing machine and a self-made glamping tent. Manou and I dreamed enormously and all of a sudden there were serious entrepreneurs who dared to dream with us! I got the opportunity to start up a unique company for the second time and, once again, realized that South Africa is the country of unlimited possibilities.’
What are your favourite spots in South Africa? Where would you take us?
‘That’s easy. Of course, we’ll take you on a 21-day glamping tour through the Western Cape, where you’ll visit all our camps.’ • AfriCamps at Doolfhof in Wellington. Glamp on a working wine farm in the Cape Winelands and learn everything about some of the world’s greatest wines. • AfriCamps at Stanford Hills. Owner Peter Kastner tells you all about the protea floriculture, about his wines and you can enjoy a delicious lunch at his own restaurant. • AfriCamps at Kam’Bati in Swellendam. This is a children’s paradise with activities on the farm and Breede River. • AfriCamps at Oakhurst in Wilderness. A beautiful dairy farm with mountain bike trails through the woods, a private waterfall and a very special church. • AfriCamps at Ingwe, Plettenberg Bay. See beautiful views of the green hilltops of Plettenberg Bay, hiking trails through the primeval forests and the beach around the corner. • AfriCamps Klein Karoo, Oudtshoorn. Learn all about a working ostrich farm, with a beautiful view over the Cango Valley and the Swartberg Mountains. • AfriCamps at Pat Busch Mountain reserve. This is one of our most popular camps with gorgeous views of the mountains in the reserve. A true hidden gem!
There are few places in South Africa that could be called paradise. One springs to mind, especially for those who are familiar with the popular resort of Plettenberg Bay. Conveniently situated only within half an hour from this town is a gem of a destination, The Crags.
You will be almost overwhelmed with the plethora of activities, adventures and places to visit. A definite favourite for locals and tourists alike is the boutique wine estate, Bramon Wine Estate.As the first wine estate in The Crags, they pioneered vineyards with their first vines, Sauvignon Blanc, resulting in Plettenberg Bay being classified as a Wine of origin region.
Winning awards both nationally and internationally (most recently double gold in 2015), this family run estate lead to the birth of Plettenberg Bay’s own Bubbly and Wine Route
The aspiring owners Peter and Caroline Thorpe hope to create a ‘Sparkling Wine Route’ in the near future. Enjoy the restaurant uniquely set in the vineyards and gardens overlooking the Elephant Sanctuary and Tsitsikamma Mountains; or the cathedral-like cellar.
For the more adventurous, the pristine indigenous forest of AfriCamps at Ingwe offers a haven for plant, bird and animal life and is a very special location to restore your soul. Relish in a pre-hike breakfast or lunch picnic as you are guided along a hiking trail in the natural forest, hearing about the flora and fauna of the region. Or savor celebratory sundowners as part of your hike.
The Eden to Addo Corridor, being the most bio-diverse corridor in the world, passes through a portion of the farm where AfriCamps at Ingwe is situated.
For the intrepid adventurer, the family hike with the Eco Warriors is guaranteed to quench your thirst for adventure and exploration and is also for a good cause, namely the Green Ticket
Orienteering, trail running, mountain biking and horse riding are also among the numerous activities on offer. Or plant a tree in support of the local NPO. For those wanting a restful time, soak up the tranquil sounds of nature, breath in the fresh air and enjoy the spectacular forest, mountains and calm surroundings.Discover delightful water adventures with the Keurbooms River Gorge, Bitou River & Wetland and Keurbooms Lagoon; all offering guided canoeing eco adventures. The Keurbooms River Nature Reserve is a world heritage site with sightings of ververt monkeys, blue duiker, mongoose, grysbok and the elusive leopard. This is best suited for the active traveller who loves the outdoors while having fun on the water. Each of these canoeing adventures offers something distinctive.
Paddle on the lagoon, venture to the other side to visit Keurbooms beach or canoe to either the Bitou or Keurbooms River. In and around the lagoon there is lots of wildlife to be seen, such as flamingos, spoonbills and oyster catchers.
The Keurbooms River Gorge is one of the most beautiful in the world, with numerous secluded beaches amidst the natural forest and high gorge solid with vegetation in an untouched atmosphere
Along the way, settle on white beaches with picnic baskets, a good book and a bottle of wine; while the kids safely explore. The Bitou River section winds along a channel through a wetland system, with plenty of birdlife including South Africa’s national bird, the Blue Crane; and the African Fish Eagle. Enjoy the Keurbooms Lagoon with the beauty of Bird Island and the largest breeding colony of Kelp Gulls, amongst other bird species.
One can easily understand now why this region is named the ‘Jewel of the Garden Route’, with its splendid natural selection of beauty in its forests, beaches, lagoons and magnificent mountains.
If you are planning to visit one of our AfriCamps camps, you should know that the camps also offer some activities.
AfriCamps at Klein Karoo offers you a sunset game drive and stargazing. You can rent mountain bikes and do hikes at AfriCamps at Pat Busch; and you can play putt-putt and enjoy the nice swimming pools at Africamps at Kam’Bati.
Sunset drive in Klein Karoo
Experience a close encounter of the fauna and flora (excellent bird watching opportunity) of the Little Karoo with our specialist guide. During the drive there is the possibility to view some wildlife and ending the day with a beautiful sunset over the mountains. Thereafter returning to your tent for dinner. Duration +- 2 hours. This is all including drinks and snacks.
Star gazing
Join us for a fascinating 45 minutes tour of the Southern Celestial Hemisphere at the comfort of your own tent (Subject to availability, amount in group and clear skies). And enjoy the beautiful starry sky of Oudtshoorn.Thank you Fabrice Debatty for the picture
Rent a Mountain bike at AfriCamps at Pat Busch
In 2014 we purchased two new Axis 90 mountain bikes with front suspension & Shimano 18 speed parts. These bikes are great quality and very comfortable.Try out some fun mountain bike action over the weekend or explore the Klaasvoogds Valley by cycling to nearby restaurants for breakfast or drinks. Bike rental includes helmets.
Hiking in our private mountains
Beautiful scenery awaits the nature lover! The reserve offers several trails, from mountain fynbos & protea hikes to kloof hikes along wooded streams. Hiking trails are not open to the public – exclusively for the enjoyment of our overnight guests so that guests can walk or hike in complete safety. Each cottage has a detailed map of our trails. Please remember to never hike alone, and to be prepared with enough food & water, good hiking boots, common sense and a jacket. Take nothing but photos and leave nothing but footprints. Hikes take 3-5 hours and can be difficult.
Swim at AfriCamps at Kam’Bati
There are 3 swimming pools and water slides at Kam’Bati. The relatively new (Jan Hagen) landscaped entertainment area is situated at the old conference centre parking area in the middle of the resort. Besides that there are some nice play areas next to it. For the parents there is a new pool lounge to relax in while the kids are playing!
Play putt-putt
Next to the swimming pool you can find the putt-putt hole course, this course consists of 8 holes. This is fun for the kids and adults who can thoroughly enjoy it! So as you can see you don’t have to leave the property to have an awesome stay at AfriCamps at Kam’Bati! If you want to know more, check our website here!
Sometimes a holiday at one camp is just not enough. Now that we have three camps on the Garden Route and Route 62, we are introducing a full glamping tour.
Yes, why not stay at all three!
At the moment we are planning this route with different activities on the route and in the area. We will focus on three different groups of people, families with kids, couples and a group of friends in more details later.
The route is planned for a total of 9 days, with a 3-day stay at each camp. You can add in a stop or two at different places on the Garden Route as well. For instance Mosselbay, George, Amalienstein, Hartenbos, Calitzdorp and Montagu are beautiful. It is also possible to do a shorter tour, of course, we just want to show you the possibilities.
There is so much to see in the Western camp and along this route you can be sure that this will be a road trip that you won’t forget.
Let’s go.
AfriCamps at Kam’Bati
Starting from Cape Town it’s a 2.5-hour drive to our first camp AfriCamps at Kam’Bati in Swellendam. On your way there you can have a break at the Stormsvlei Restaurant & Farmstall, this is our recommendation for a great lunch. During your stay there you can also do a lot of things in the area.
3 days in Swellendam will give you ample time to relax in your tent and to also explore the area. Some activities in the area are horse riding, canoeing, hiking and you can even book yourself a massage (can also be enjoyed in your tent) from Rain Spa. Do you want more info on the highlights surrounding AfriCamps at Kam’bati?
Breakfasts and braai packs are also available for purchase at the farm.
After your stay in Swellendam at Africamps at Kam’bati, you can move onto our next camp, AfriCamps Klein Karoo in Oudtshoorn.
This drive will take you 2 hours and 50 minutes. If you go straight of course. However, if you want more of a scenic route you can take a detour and visit one of these three beautiful towns; Mossebay, Hartenbos and George.
If you do not have a lot time then you can drive straight to Oudtshoorn through Barrydale where you can have take break at Clarke of the Karoo or visit the famous Diesel and Creme for a good lunch.
Detour options
Mosselbay, a harbour town is a beautiful place to visit. Thank you for the picture Reece Briesies.
Hartenbos, a small town near to the beach is a perfect stop for a quick swim and some relaxing time on the beach. Thank you Perot Louw for this picture.
Another coastal town to add on the list, should you choose the detour route is George, This will leave you with an hour and a half to head off to AfriCamps Klein Karoo.
Thank you Beautiful Towns and Cities for this perfect picture.
Ostriches and Cango Caves, both possible when you stay at AfriCamps Klein Karoo in Oudtshoorn. This location has become a favourite among many international guests as it offers something unique to their holiday. Besides the standard activities in the area, we offer sunset game drives and biking trails on the property.
Breakfasts and braai packs are also available for purchase at the farm.
After 3 days in Oudtshoorn, it will be time to move onto Robertson. During this 3-hour drive. You can stop at Calitzdorp, Amalienstein and Montagu. Why not try something different with Vilioensdrift wines & cruises for lunch and wine tasting, before checking in.
On Route
Calitzdorp is a quaint karoo town. Thank you The Inside Guide for this picture
One of the most beautiful stops close to Robertson is Montagu. This town is a favourite among locals for it’s beautiful location and it’s great restaurants and coffee shops. Montague is also the home to Sanbona Wildlife reserve, why not add in more wildlife to your trip.
Being a wedding venue and a nature reserve, you know you are in for a treat when it comes to this view. Try a hike through the surrounding mountains or just enjoy a dip in the pool or dam on the property. At AfriCamps at Pat Busch you are surrounded by great wine and olives, why not hire some bikes and explore the area? There are a lot more that we can recommend, take a look at our blog about the
There are a lot more that we can recommend, take a look at our blog about the things to do in Robertson.
Breakfast baskets are available for purchase at this camp.
With only 2 hours back to Cape Town you can drop in at Nuy on the hill for lunch, wine tasting and more spectacular views. This place is in a beautiful area, we are sure you would love it.
Make the most of your time at AfriCamps Klein Karoo and send us the memory in either photo, video review or blog post. Then upload it to either our Facebook or Twitter page (tag AfriCamps in and use #WeAreGlamping) or send your entry via email to hello@africamps.com.
Our first entries came in and showed us that guests were taking to the view, the relaxing atmosphere and were making us envious with their braai skills.
Most of February had perfect skies and beautiful weather. These guests showed us that there is much more to the dam than only adding to the view, as they spent some of their time fishing.
The one thing that we have come to realize about the game on the farm is that they are not shy. These guys seem to bring out their best poses for guests, as every photo which is sent to us seems to capture their model moments perfectly.
A massive congratulations to Francisco and Sofie who are our winners for February and a big thank you to everyone who entered.
Ostrich farm tours are famous for this region. The tours which run at AfriCamps are headed up by Laura and her team, on one of the largest Ostrich farms in South Africa.
As seen on the ostrich farm tour
We chatted to Laura to get the behind the scenes look at how it all got started and to find out a bit more about these birds.
When did you first start the Ostrich farm tours?
About 15 years ago, just after I met my husband. My mom in law asked me to show her guests at the B & B she was running at the time, the farm, as I speak German and Dutch.
How many Ostriches did you start with?
About 1000, and we now farm with over 25 000 birds, ages ranging from one day to about 15 years’ old.
As seen on the Ostrich farm tour
Did you name them all?
No, we do not have so many names, to start with……
As seen on the Ostrich farm tour
Do you or Piet have a favourite Ostrich?
We had a little dwarf female that grew to about half a metre, and then stopped… But unfortunately we had to kill her when bird flu was diagnosed on our farm about 6 years ago. All the birds had to be killed then, it was a very sad day. We had to start all over again.
Can you see different personalities in these birds?
Ostriches are very stupid animals. Their brains weigh about 40g, compared to the eye that weighs 60g! So you can just imagine. They stress very easily and they are frightened by the slightest noise or light. When thunder strikes, the just keep running around in circles like a chicken without a head. The breeding males are very aggressive; they do not allow anyone near them.
As seen on the Ostrich farm tourAs seen on the Ostrich farm tour
How old is the oldest Ostrich that you have?
Our breeding males are about 15 years old. We have one breeding pair on the farm, Jannie and Rosie, named after my mom and father in law. They are about 25 years old.
It basically says on Wikipedia that male ostriches’ have one true love. Is this true?
Yes, they say that ostriches mate for life. We have at least 2 females to each male, and they have to stay together on the farm. After the breeding season – Aug – April – they separate the males and females. They get a 4-month holiday, during which we harvest the feathers to export to Rio for the Carnival. Then we must make sure that the same males and females are put together again. They have tags on their necks to identify and help with this process.
As seen on the Ostrich farm tour
Who takes care of the ostriches?
Japie Potgieter has worked on the farm with us for over 13 years. He knows everything there is to know about ostriches. When to pluck, vaccinate, feed, weigh etc. How many birds at any certain time on the farm – and he is responsible for about 10 000 of these birds! He has a team of dedicated workers (not everyone on the farm knows how to work with ostriches).
As seen on the Ostrich farm tourAs seen on the Ostrich farm tour
Ostrich Farm Tour Information
Witness first-hand how these large birds are plucked, fed, weighed, and how we raise these peculiar birds from day old to 12 months. On this 2-hour tour, you might have the opportunity to see them hatch and take their first breaths.
R250 per adult
R125 per child (6-12)
We have family packages available – please enquire.
Daily scheduled tours @ 9h00. Private tours (outside of the scheduled times) for smaller groups available on request.
