Big Cave Camp

Big Cave Camp reposes atop an enormous granite whaleback commanding inspirational views across the famous Matobo National Park. Sophisticated African architecture incorporates colossal boulders into a luxuriously appointed thatch lodge positioned amidst ancient Khoisan rock art.

Retire at day’s end to the natural rock pool and sundeck, the Leopard’s Lair Lounge and Bar, a cave-style boma for pre-dinner drinks or the popular lodge library. Big Cave Camp resides on a 2000-acre private wilderness area that borders Matobo National Park and is included in a World Heritage Area.

There are seven thatched A-frame cottages, each with an en-suite bathroom and a private balcony, which resonate African creative flair. Find solitude within an intimate retreat as secluded as the original Kalanga grain bins that nestle among the rocks. Included is a honeymoon suite as well as family rooms for those with small children.

Game viewing is done both on the private property as well as into the Whovi Game Park. Guests can choose to walk or view the game from open four-wheel drive vehicles to view, in particular, black and white rhino, among a wide variety of plains game. Night drives on the Big Cave wilderness area can be enjoyed, depending on the time of the year, to view the nocturnal creatures of the Matobo Hills.

Matobo Hills boasts one of the highest concentrations of birds of prey anywhere in the world. Big Cave has several nesting sites on and adjacent to the property. The black eagle is one of the more majestic birds to grace the area, and another sought-after species is the elusive Cape Mackinder’s eagle owl. Big Cave offers excellent opportunities for the birdwatcher.

The Matobo Hills has one of the highest concentrations of rock art anywhere in the world. This ancient Khoisan art can be viewed in the both the national park and even within the immediate vicinity of Big Cave Camp. These famous rock art galleries can be visited on foot or by 4x4. One of the more famous sites is Nswatugi Cave, which is normally combined with a trip to Rhodes Grave, World’s View, which is a beautiful drive through the recreational park.

Tours to the nearby Ndebele village and Whitewaters Secondary School provides an insight into the lives of the local people. The school in particular has been supported by guests of Big Cave Camp for many years.