Kam’ Bati River Resort: review

Our recent trip to the Overberg area found us at the beautiful Kam’Bati River Resort for two days. It’s certainly a picturesque place set within walking distance of the meeting point of the Sonderend and Breede rivers. Kam’ Bati River Resort is situated about 20 kilometres outside Swellendam and is named after Jacobus Cornelius Badenhorst who is the grandfather of the present owner Jaco. The grandfather was known to family and friends as “Batie” and this is where the name Kam’Bati is derived from.

There is a short gravel road off the N2 that takes you to the Kam’ Bati oasis. On entering the resort you will immediately be amazed by the lush greenery, manicured lawns and incredible scenery. The campsite are set along the river and all the camping stands have good shade from the large surrounding trees.

There were quite a few people fishing when we were there, and others taking advantage of the river for a swim. The resort does have a swimming pool and play area for children.

Kam’ Bati also has luxury Africamps safari tents and cottage accommodation. There is a large dam at the centre of Kam’ Bati and a wonderful entertainment area with pool and a putt-putt course. Kam’Bati is a fantastic place for couples, families and friends. There are family friendly swimming pools, waterslides, putt-putt, a playground, ensuring kids have the time of their lives.

The resort has close to 100 grassed and shaded stands, which are divided into 4 camping blocks, namely A, B and C block on the river, with the E Block higher up on the river bank.

The camping stands are spacious so you definitely don’t feel cramped when camping, and there is more than enough space to spread out and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

All the stands have access to electricity, and use normal 3-pin 220V plugs, so there is no need for the Blue Adaptor. There are shared taps serving the sites with safe drinking water.

The ablutions at Kam’Bati are outstanding, clean and neat as a pin. There are three ablution blocks, with ample hot showers and toilets. The ablutions are regularly serviced by staff.

Braai facilities are available at each camping stand and lighting a fire is a must when in such a scenic setting. If you’d like a “frosty”, head up to Bati’s Pub where you can order drinks, play pool, or watch the rugby on television. There is also a small shop at reception where basics such as wood and ice can be purchased.

If you feel like taking a short road trip, head into Swellendam, it’s such an interesting town with quaint Cape Dutch architecture, restaurants, art galleries and more. The historical village of Suurbraak is also close by and is worth a visit.

We had the luxury of staying in one of the self-catering cottages which was great. We even woke up on the second morning to find a wonderful breakfast delivered to our outside table in a quaint box filled with eggs, bacon, sausage, tomato, yogurt, cereal, honey, fruit juice and fresh milk. What a way to start the day!

We’ll definitely be back at Kam’ Bati because it is an oasis set in the most incredible surroundings.