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Big Cave Camp

  • Lovely ‘lodge on the rocks’ – on top of a whaleback rock in Matobo Hills
  • Eight thatched chalets, including family and honeymoon options
  • ‘Leopard’s Lair’ lounge, diner and bar, library, boma, rock pool, sundeck
  • Great game drives, rhino tracking, biking, birding, cultural excursions
When To Visit Matobo National Park:
When To Visit Matobo National Park:
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"Nestled among the Matobo Hills rocks, this camp is truly one of a kind. With stunning vistas of the park and exceptional value for money, Big Cave is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers seeking a base from which to explore the region's natural wonders. Experience the beauty of the area without breaking the bank at this unique and picturesque camp."

OVERVIEW:

Service standards are high at Big Cave Camp. Over the years, the Waddys have gained loads of experience in operating their property – and it really shows! The staff are very welcoming and friendly, to the extent that you will truly feel at home here. Food and drink are hearty and delicious – and sundowners in the boma is a fantastic experience.

ACCESS & LOCATION:

It is situated on top of a vast whaleback rock on the border of Matobo National Park

ACCOMMODATION & FACILITIES AT BIG CAVE CAMP:

The camp’s ‘Leopard’s Lair’ is home to a lounge, dining room and bar. These areas are set against a breathtaking backdrop of enormous boulders. The Lair boasts comfortable seating, a long dining table and chairs for communal meals, and a bar that has trees growing through its roof! Next door, there is a library with a fireplace and a good selection of reading matter. Outside, a rock pool and adjacent sundeck is a great place to chill between activities, while the camp’s boma offers a relaxing environment in which to enjoy sundowners, in the warm glow emanating from lanterns.

The guest accommodation at Big Cave Camp comprises eight thatched chalets, ranging from twins to triples to a honeymoon suite to family options. All chalets are A-frame, built into the surrounding boulders with some enjoying the shade of trees. They have stone walls, glass windows, tiled floors, and an elegant combination of plain and patterned soft furnishings. The en-suite facilities consist of flush toilet, basin and shower. Each chalet has a balcony facing east, providing spectacular views of the sunrise over Matobo.

*Please be aware that we are unable to book this property for families with young children under the age of 6 years, for safety reasons relating to the balconies/decks/walkways.*

ACTIVITIES AT BIG CAVE CAMP:

Big Cave Camp offers an excellent assortment of activities.

  • Game drives take place both in the private concession and in the national park, as well as Whovi Game Park. These are game-rich regions and guests often enjoy spotting leopard, zebra, wildebeest, sable antelope, impala, birdlife, and of course tracking on foot the famous black and white rhino!
  • Night drives are available in the camp’s own wilderness area.
  • Keen cyclists have fun biking through the hills, while travellers who like a little culture relish the opportunity to visit the final resting places of Cecil Rhodes and Leander Starr Jameson and to check out the wonderful rock art located in caves around Matobo.
  • It is also possible to tour the local village Ndebele and secondary school Whitewaters, which has been supported by guests to Big Cave Camp for years. Finally, the camp has a Yoga & Wellness programme, for beginners, intermediates and experts alike.

*This property is unfenced and located in a wildlife area, so large and potentially dangerous animals do pass through. If you opt to stay here, always be alert when walking around the camp and request for a member of staff to escort you if you have any concerns. Any guest is escorted after dark as a matter of course.

Matobo National Park

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