The wonderfully named Vatikaki Bush Camp is situated on Bakenskloof Farm, owned by Reenen Kritzinger and his wife Tracey and three kids.
Created by Reenen and five friends, the group cleared a great camping site on the banks of the river. He later joined an informal bunch of 4×4 enthusiast called the Vatikaki 4×4 Adventure Club. The Vatikaki bunch so enjoyed camping at Bakenskloof farm, one of their members welded up a huge rocket-like donkey boiler for the camp. Reenen in turn built a toilet and a really large double shower, and the Bakenskloof Vatikaki Bos Kamp was born.
The Bakenskloof Vatikaki Bush Kamp ethos, as explained by Reenen, is: “don’t make your problem my problem!” (He does not say “problem”, you can probably figure out what it is from the name of the camp).
The campsite that can accommodate up to 25 people in the same group or three cars if the campers are strangers.
The bush camp has large fire-pits, but remember to bring your own braai grids and stands. There are also dustbins and plenty of taps (the water is unfiltered river water).
Dogs aren’t allowed as the Kritizinger’s two old Labradors don’t like other dogs on their home turf, but you will certainly get a visit from Timmy the Irish Setter, who will probably starting digging for mole the moment after she’s given you a friendly greeting.
There is also the old farmhouse with adjoining dormitory style cottages, each with own bathroom. Large braai facility area and indoor fireplace with a reasonable amount of wood provided. The house has four bedrooms and a fully equipped kitchen. The cottages can also be used as double rooms instead of dormatories.
Ideal for mountain bikers/ hikers or simply to laze by the cosy fire in the winter.
