On Top of the World in Kagga Kamma

Description

One of the perks of working for SafariNow is that you discover an array of getaways from the comfort of your desktop. Gorgeous places keep beckoning until you simply cannot resist and spending another weekend at home is no longer an option. Before you know it, you’ve packed your bags, filled up the tank and are heading off to experience one of these magical places for yourself.

Join Lucy and Tracey as they answer Nature’s call on a trip to the Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve, a unique hideaway in the Cederberg.

After a lengthy trip along a gravel road through mountainous terrain scattered with dramatic rock formations, we reach our destination. From a distance it is difficult to spot any signs of life, as Kagga Kamma is expertly designed to harmonize with the natural surroundings. Hidden away in the middle of nowhere, this rare gem was well worth the bumpy ride.

On our first night we slept in a cave, which was an amazing experience in itself. The cosy and comfortable “cave suite” has a small patio overlooking the magnificent landscape. From here you can get down to some serious chilling while listening to the sounds of silence, occasionally interrupted by the buzzing of an insect or the chirping of a bird. For our second night, we opted to stay in a thatched hut to experience both options. Our hut was wonderfully fragrant from the thatch, and more spacious with a slightly larger patio. We thoroughly enjoyed both nights in these unique and beautiful spaces.

Dinner on our first night was a delightful al fresco affair around a roaring fire in the lapa. Beautifully set up, we were given blankets to ward off the crisp night air, and felt most welcome by the attentive service from the rangers and staff. We enjoyed the delicious West Coast mussels so much that we couldn’t resist ordering it again the following evening. Breakfast was our favourite meal – we would drive back for that alone!

Our prerequisite visit to Doppies Pub uncovered a great vibe and even a TV for anyone needing their fix of what is happening with the sport! The outdoor patio is a fantastic spot to relax and take in the changing yellow, orange, pink and purple hues of the caves and expansive landscape.

Kagga Kamma offers a number of walks, so we chose a short route via a staircase through the caves. Our exhilarating climb to the top was rewarded with yet another achingly beautiful view of the sprawling Tankwa Karoo.

One of the standouts was a stargazing tour with Peter, an informative and knowledgeable guide. We wrapped ourselves in blankets and gazed through the telescope at the distant stars and planets. What an amazing experience to view Saturn and distant galaxies – and from this surreal spot where meeting an extra-terrestrial wouldn't seem out of place!