Bárbara Reviews: HillsNek Safari Camp
After travelling to the heart of the malaria-free Eastern Cape of South Africa, my visit to HillsNek Safari Camp was a delightful mix of refined luxury and authentic African bush tranquillity. Characterised by having wide-open landscapes and no fences around the main camp area, this family-owned lodge delivers an authentic safari experience with the quality that comes with a 4-star ranking. Whether you’re relaxing in the common area’s lounge that overlooks a small stone swimming pool and passing wildlife or watching the starry night sky from the lantern-lit boma area, the precious feeling of a true, wild adventure is exceptional and omnipresent.
Location
Only a 50-minute drive from Port Elizabeth Airport, HillsNek Safari Camp is the smallest of the properties on Amakhala Game Reserve, situated in a secluded corner of the reserve. Upon arrival, a staff member was ready to accompany me to the camp, after which I found myself nestled in a vast valley set on the banks of the Bushman’s River. By sundown, the sky features dazzling hues of tangerine spreading over rolling hills and golden grass plains as far as the eye can see.
Activities
During the time spent at the lodge, the presence of the surrounding wildlife felt almost tangible. Experiencing wildlife comes in many forms, allowing you to discover nature in all of its glory, from animals like the renowned Big 5 to over 250 species of birds. You can set off on a game drive in an open safari vehicle and listen to experienced rangers sharing their vast knowledge while moving across 5 different biomes, never knowing what you’re going to encounter next. You can also opt for boat cruises, guided bush walks, or horseback safaris. I was told that elephants occasionally use the small pool near the lounge area as a waterhole, making it a tad too dirty to swim in, but it surely provides an intriguing visual, which I would welcome!
Rooms
Accessible by wooden walkways, the luxury tents are found at the bottom of the hill and look out onto the vastness of the reserve, magnifying the awestruck feeling I held since entering the grounds. The camp only has 4 tents, which supports the air of exclusivity, each with a small surrounding fence keeping unexpected wildlife guests at bay. The classic safari tent and its elegant, African-inspired decorations are the perfect honeymoon-level stay. In contrast, the family tent with its double setup is perfectly suited for an intimate family getaway. These tents are private and set on elevated platforms, taking full advantage of their majestic views with wraparound wooden decks and outdoor showers. While there isn’t Wi-Fi available in the rooms, the public areas by the main lodge give you access to a free connection.
Food
Because this camp is so secluded, you shouldn’t expect a quick trip to dine in town, but luckily HillsNek has an excellent on-site restaurant where all meals and beverages are included during your stay. Staying true to the safari theme, you can go down to the boma area, where the staff will light a bonfire and allow you to delight in special bush-inspired cuisine under the stars.
Sustainability
I was delighted to discover that HillsNek shares my passion for green living. I appreciated how they practised sustainability in even the small things like reusing bottles for their filtered water. HillsNek contributes to Amakhala’s strong conservation ethic and community projects while upholding its values. Brent Cook, the owner of HillsNek, is a notable figure in rhino conservation and the co-founder of Chipembere Rhino Foundation. Their beloved land is home to the first dinosaur fossil discovery in South Africa, and this drives their commitment to conserving palaeontology and this historically important site.
My highlights
There is no end to the wide-open, panoramic views and the platforms from which to enjoy them.
I loved how the common area was so integrated with the landscape and, by extension, the inhabiting wildlife.
The people I interacted with were lovely and put their passion for what they do on full display.
Is it for you?
I wish I could’ve spent more time at HillsNek, so if you also want to experience a secluded getaway and lose yourself in a wild wonderland, I will encourage you to make sure you stop (and stay) here! Plan your trip with Viatu today.
In 3 words: secluded, wildlife, vistas
