Zingela Safari and River Company, Weenen

The romantic river camp of your dreams

Accommodation

We often get asked for a description of the accommodation and have found it easier to say what it is not than what it is! You will not be staying in a chalet, rondavel or tent. Each en-suite design is unique and has been built in unity with its immediate environment. We have used river stone, reed and canvas as materials.

Activities

The Zulu Kingdom boasts superb all year round sub-tropical weather with an average of 320 days of sunshine a year! Zingela’s average rainfall of 600mm falls mainly over the summer months This is when the peaceful Tugela wakes up from its hibernation and provides some of the most exciting rafting in the country.

With these statistics in mind you might decide to do absolutely nothing while unwinding at Zingela. The camp is ideally situated for guided game walks, birding or fishing. Sitting in the shade of a thorn tree with a good book is also a wonderful alternative. African time rules here and the Tree of idleness might find you a common visitor!

Adventure activities are largely dictated by the seasons and nature has provided a wonderful playground.

White water rafting – Summer is all about white water rafting and Zingela has twice hosted the South African White water rafting championships. There is an excellent 20km stretch of rapids and pools on this section of the Tugela Canyon including the intimidating Washing machine and Finger rock rapids. Water levels alter the mood of the river but whether the river rises along with adrenalin levels or whether the water converts to a “smell the roses” experience, these adventure trips are unforgettable. Rafting on big water is traditionally between November and April but as always Mother Nature has the final say! On big water we use the eight and four man rafts while in lower water the two man crocs and one man kayaks are ideal. Our experienced guides are trained by and registered with the African Paddling Association. Many of our clients are novices so no previous rafting experience is necessary.

Mountain bikes – Zingela offers some wonderful single track riding and interspersed with rugged 4×4 vehicle bush tracks. The ride in from both Weenen & Colenso offers 30kms plus dirt road riding at its best. The abundance of game in the bushveld wilderness adds to the riding experience. Guests are welcome to bring their own mountain bikes. Eco-friendly quads are also a great way of seeing the area and sensible riding often results in excellent game viewing along with the 4×4 terrain.

Also available – kayaking, fishing and zip sliding, abseiling, spectacular terrain for 4x4s, quad and mountain biking. The variety of birds, trees and game that makes every walk an adventure.