Tibani Nature Reserve

Budget Getaways Review

If you love remote and rugged getaways, places where you’re off-grid and left to your own devices, where fancy frills take a distant second to gobsmacking settings, then Tibani Nature Reserve could have your name on it.

Tucked away in the mountains off the Ouberg Pass about 16 kays from Montagu, this 600ha private nature reserve really does place you far from the maddening crowds. Springbok, kudu, blesbuck and black-backed jackel are all on the sightings list at Tibani, not to mention a healthy dose of birdlife as well.

For the outdoor junkie (if you're not one, then this place isn't for you), the hiking and mountain bike routes are in no short supply (keep in mind that it’s hilly and can get pretty hot in the summer months). The hike to the top of the nearby mountain with gorgeous views over the surrounding landscape is said to be a must. There’s even a circular 4X4 trail if you’ve got a rig with low range and plenty of ground clearance. That said, you can reach your accommodation in any high clearance vehicle.

On that subject, you've got two options here, namely Die Botterboomhuisie and for the real outdoor enthusiast, there's Mongoose Campsite. Kicking off with Die Botterboomhuisie, this rustic little off-grid cottage is set in a valley with gorgeous views out over the surrounding mountains. Sleeping a total of four, it’s ideal for a family. The main bedroom has a queen bed and is located on a mezzanine above the living area. A second bedroom with twin beds can be found on ground level.

Bathrooms come in the form of a single bathroom with shower, basin and loo. There’s an equipped kitchen with breakfast counter and a compact living area. Being off-grid, lighting is solar powered and a gas fridge will keep the chardonnay and beers chilled. There's a wood buring stove which makes things super-cozy in winter.

In summer, you’ll need a bit of chilling too, and that’s where your splash pool comes in handy (it's solar heated, to take the nip off in winter!). Sunk into the wooden deck, with the outside braai and picnic table close at hand.

Mongoose Campsite puts you in a lovely little valley, secluded, with a private loo, hot shower and camp kitchen, all useful touches for a couple of nights under canvas. The camp is centred around a large fire pit and a swimming reservoir, a nice place to wallow in the summer months. Total capacity is six campers and two vehicles. If you've got off-road trailers or caravans, you'd get two into the camp quiote easily.

With friendly and informative hosts and a good deal of outdoor activity to keep you busy, Tibani Nature Reserve makes for a great weekend getaway for those looking for something off the beaten track, rustic and fun.