Set on the banks of the seasonal Timbavati River, the all-inclusive Ngala Tented Safari Camp's light footprint minimizes impact on the environment. Track the big five without compromising on luxury.
The canvas-roofed accommodations at South Africa's Ngala Tented Safari Camp are tents in name only. The screen doors lead to a bedroom that is at once elegant and rugged. The pièce de résistance is the long, cast-iron bathtub.
The morning's three-hour game drive starts as the sun rises, and a voice at your screen door, accompanied by a pot of strong coffee, says, "Knock Knock." It is cold, especially speeding through the bush in an open vehicle. Gloves and hats are essential, as are glasses to protect your eyes against the cold air and "flying" branches. On your return to camp, triumphant with tales of lions and cheetahs, a huge breakfast awaits you.
After dark - and the evening drive - a guide escorts you from your tent to dinner. Ngala Tented Safari Camp's Pan-African cuisine is served al fresco on the viewing decks or in the dry riverbed. After dinner, it's back to your tent for a luxurious bath by candlelight and the sumptuous bed.