Quick Facts
E 19°14'19''
Budget Getaways Review
Now, with the “glamping revolution” all the rage, even the slickest of city slickers is opting to try a night or two under canvas. But what about those looking for something a little “off beat” within the realm of cushy camping. Well folks, then Southern Yurts new Yurt Camp is where you want to get yourself to, and pronto!
For those who haven’t got a clue what a Yurt is, don’t fret. It’s a super-cozy canvas tent, rondawel shaped, which has been used by nomads in central Asia for at least 3000 years. Unlike the fairly utilitarian models of old, Southern Yurts have added some stylish South African flair to their yurts, meaning you’re in for an uber-comfortable stay.
The setting at The Yurt Camp is suburb, tucked away between a towering cliff face and a burbling mountain stream, amidst the Diepklove Nature Conservancy near Botrivier, waking up here can certainly be described as exhilarating.
Taking a look around the camp itself, the area is split into two separate sites, namely Malachite and Kestrel. While the two sites are screened off from each other, if you’re after complete privacy, bring some mates along and book both. Malachite Camp sleeps a total of four and is made of two small yurts, while Kestrel Camp has one yurt with a double bed.
Common to all are quality bedding and linen, towels and solar lighting.
Adding to the comfort and convenience of “yurting SA style” is that within each of the two camps is your own private bathroom, kitchen area and lounge space. Bathrooms are equipped with flush loo’s, hot showers and even soap and shampoo. Kitchens are kitted out with gas stoves, fridges, cutlery and crockery, the lounge areas have a comfy day bed and a dining table, braai areas are ready and waiting with firewood and firelighters… in fact, all you need to bring along is yourself, some grub and of course your tipple of choice.
There’s lots to do here and you’ve got access to the whole farm and conservancy during your stay. Hikers have a choice of a number of short trails within the conservancy, mountain bikers can explore the neighbouring farms (Paul Cluver and Oak Valley trails are just 30 min away), birders won’t be disappointed - there’s some great birding to be had at the farm dam and of course there are the resident black eagles which nest in the cliffs above the camp. There’s also a lovely stroll down to the river course or you can just head to the dam and cool off with a dip.
With it’s gorgeous setting, creative comforts and good platter of things to do, Southern Yurts: Yurt Camp makes a great getaway for two couples or even a small group of friends wanting to escape into the wilds, but with a few luxuries thrown in for good measure.
Additional Info
- If you'd like to explore more of the Conservancy, there are a number of hikes around the farm that give good views and expose the vast array of flora unique to the region
- Cape Canopy Tours zipline is nearby
- When you want to be near the water, there's a light 5-minute walk to the dam, you can swim its length, or enjoy a sundowner under the weeping willow
- Mountain bikers can cycle on nearby farms, with the most notable trails being on Paul Cluver (20-30 mins from Porcupine Hills)
- For�wine tours, check out Beaumont Wine Estate, they do wine tastings and are located 16km from Southern Yurts/Porcupine Hills Guest Farm
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