in search of darn good digs

As the editors of Darn Good Digs, we can’t help but put together our own wish list of must-visit digs around the world. After all, that’s part of the fun of running our accommodations website. For our must-do budget safari that sounds absolutely amazing, we’re waiting three more years (when our son turns eight) to head to Mosetlha Bush Camp. Mosetlha is a rustic family-run safari in the Big Five Madikwe National Park, where you sleep in open air raised platforms, the cooking is done over an open fire, and the service is five stars all the way. Based on every review we’ve read, and every email we’ve received back from travelers who have booked Mosetlha through Darn Good Digs, this is the safari to join for the true bush-camp experience. Here is our review for Mosetlha:

Mosetlha Bush Camp

What makes the Mosetlha Bush Camp so Darn Good? The Mosetlha Bush Camp is a family owned and run, unfenced eco-lodge in the heart of the Madikwe Game Reserve. The field guides are exceptionally knowledgeable, the staff is friendly and accommodating, and the service is brilliant. Birdlife at the camp is amazing and you just might get some odd visits from bigger things!

Location: Madikwe, located in North West Province on the border of Botswana, is a 4 hour drive from Johannesburg or Pretoria. This is Big Five country and on your morning or evening safari, you might spot elephants, rhinos, buffalo, lions, and leopards, as well as African wild dogs, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, hyenas, and much more!

Mosetlha Bush Camp

Rooms: Mosetlha’s nine open wooden cabins are simple, comfortable, and raised on platforms to keep out the crawlies! All cabins have twin beds with good mattresses and proper duvets, and shared bathrooms are just a short walk away. The eco-lodge doesn’t have electricity, is lit up at night by paraffin lamps, and has safari showers heated through a donkey boiler – we’re talking a true bush camp experience!

Food: Cooking at Mosetlha is done over the open fire. The traditional South African meals are fresh and plentiful, a must because you are always so hungry in this environment! Guests dine together at a huge table under the open sky, and the Bush Camp has a bar and gas fridges to keep your beer cold!

Mosetlha Bush Camp

Vibe: Mosetlha is down to earth and REAL! The Lucas family goes out of their way to make you feel at home.

Things to Keep in Mind: Remember your toiletries, torch, binoculars, sunscreen, insect repellant, cash to settle your beer bill, tips, and reserve fees, and a good book – you’ll have leisure time between game drives! Also, advise in advance if you are a vegetarian.

Price Range: R1350 per person (includes 3 meals & 2 daily safaris)
# of Rooms: 9
Kid-Friendly: only over 8 yrs old

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As always, if you’ve stayed at any extraordinary independently owned accommodations for budget-minded travelers, please nominate them today!