Samara Karoo Reserve's Plains Camp: Reconnecting with Nature in Elegant Simplicity

Samara Karoo Reserve near Graaff-Reinet in the Eastern Cape’s Great Karoo region is one of South Africa’s most diverse safari destinations – a landscape of space, stars and silence brought back to life by a pioneering rewilding project. Now home to the Big Five, 60 mammal species and 225 bird species, Samara provides a uniquely soulful safari for discerning visitors.

Samara’s newest ecotourism launch, explorer-style Plains Camp evokes the era of mobile safaris with a focus on grounding experiences in Nature for up to eight guests.

Located in the southern section of the reserve on the Plains of Camdeboo and nestled against a low hill with sweeping mountain views, the camp benefits from undisturbed privacy and no light pollution. Designed with sustainability in mind, the camp comprises a mess tent, swimming pool area and four guest tents, with the spectacular landscape as a backdrop.

The surrounding area teems with wildlife. Large resident herds of zebra, black wildebeest, springbok, gemsbok and red hartebeest meander the plains, alongside giraffe, blue crane and smaller creatures like bat-eared foxes. Nearby thickets and waterholes provide opportunities for tracking elephants, white rhinoceros and black rhinoceros. Cheetah and lion are also often found in the area.

Guided bush walks depart every morning, focusing on the little things often unseen from the safari vehicle. Tracks, flowering bushes, ostrich eggs and beetles are identified by the knowledgeable guide and tracker team, bringing to life the semi-arid landscape. Afternoon game drives with wildlife tracking, sundowners and stargazing complete the experience.

Back at camp, guests have access to home comforts including fully-catered meals cooked over the fire, a well-stocked bar, a deliciously refreshing plunge pool and comfortable areas in which to relax – all furnished in a Karoo style by local artisans. Each of the four guest tents comprises a spacious bedroom area leading to a bathroom with indoor loo and outdoor “bucket” shower with hot water provided on request. Tents are warmed in winter by a small fireplace and cooled with a fan in summer.

As a purpose-driven business committed to sustainability across its operations, Samara’s focus with Plains Camp was to create an ecologically sensitive camp that rests lightly on the Earth and embodies a uniquely Karoo experience. To this end, innovative technologies to manage environmental resources and minimise carbon emissions have been deployed, and the majority of furnishings have been sourced from within the Eastern Cape Karoo.

With no Wifi or electricity, Samara’s Plains Camp is a space to switch off from modern life and reconnect with Nature in elegant simplicity.

Plains Camp Launch Special – R4,750 per person per night sharing on a Stay 3 Pay 2 basis, inclusive of meals, twice daily safari activities and accommodation. Valid for travel dates up to and including 30 September 2023. Terms and conditions apply.