It is not often that accommodation options, great value and ‘Africa’s Big 5’ are used in the same sentence. Hilltop Camp has all this and more.
The camp sits on the summit of the highest forested hill in the northern section of Hluhluwe Park. It boasts stunning panoramic views and the terrace café is a perfect place to view eagles and vultures.
The camp is made up of several types of accommodation, some self catering and some not. There are rondavels with shared ablutions and kitchens. Self catering two and four bed chalets along with non catering chalets are also available. There is also a luxury lodge. The non catering units are closest to the main reception area which houses a restaurant, pub and curio shop which also stocks basic supplies.
Game drives can be booked from reception along with guided walks, both are accompanied by experienced field rangers. For cooling off there is an outdoor swimming pool complete with sun loungers.
Opting to self cater means you can mix and match your meals to suit both your days activities and your budget. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are available in the restaurant and there are many options through the daily menus. We found there to be excellent choices and value for money.
Beyond the camp we explored the parks self drive tar, gravel and sand roads. I had never seen so many elephants, both lone bulls and family herds. We also spotted a pride of eight lions lazing in long grass. There was no shortage of white rhino and we were even lucky enough to encounter a black rhino not far from the camp entrance.
The only problem with visiting Hluhluwe, is having to leave.