Mosetlha Bush Camp & Eco Lodge in the heart of South Africa’s malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, offers an authentic African wilderness experience as the reserve’s only genuine eco lodge. This unfenced camp provides intimate accommodations in 10 raised wooden cabins for up to 16 guests.
The camp operates completely off-grid, embracing traditional bushveld simplicity with open-fire cooking, safari-style showers, and oil lamp lighting. Guests can experience spectacular wildlife viewing of the Big Five, endangered wild dogs, and cheetahs through twice-daily game drives led by award-winning local guides. The camp’s commitment to environmental sustainability and community involvement makes it an ideal destination for responsible travelers seeking an immersive African safari adventure.
Their story
Established in 1995 by Chris Lucas, Mosetlha Bush Camp & Eco Lodge was originally designed as a guide training location. Over time, it has evolved into the only authentic unfenced bush camp and true eco-lodge in the area. Taking its name from the local Setswana word for Weeping Wattle tree, the camp was thoughtfully built around a large Mosetlha tree.
Now run by Chris’s daughter Caroline, the lodge maintains a delicate balance between wilderness immersion and basic comfort. Without electricity or running water, Mosetlha offers visitors a true off-grid African bush experience while upholding strict eco-tourism principles and supporting local communities. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The camp utilizes natural building materials like wood and local stone, with raised wooden cabins that blend into the surrounding vegetation.
- The unfenced property operates completely off-grid, using solar power, safari-style bucket showers, and oil lamps instead of electricity.
- The camp’s minimal infrastructure ensures it could naturally decompose back into the landscape if abandoned.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- The lodge uses solar power for essential lighting and relies on traditional donkey boilers heated by wood for hot water.
- Oil lamps illuminate pathways and communal areas at night, while passive cooling through raised wooden cabin design eliminates the need for air conditioning.
- Gas-powered appliances supplement basic energy needs, and the camp’s eco-friendly setup allows it to leave virtually no lasting footprint on the environment.
Pioneer in waste management
- Food waste is carefully composted on-site to create natural fertilizer.
- Recyclable materials are separated and transported to recycling facilities in nearby communities.
- Staff follow strict protocols for responsible disposal of non-recyclable waste.
- The camp uses minimal single-use items, opting instead for reusable containers and supplies.
- Waste water is properly treated through eco-friendly systems.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- The camp uses traditional bush-style cooking over open fires and potjie pots, serving authentic South African cuisine made with fresh seasonal produce, free-range meats and eggs.
- They utilize Wonderbags for energy-efficient cooking.
Actively protects nature and community
- Mosetlha leads sustainable safari experiences through responsible eco-tourism in Madikwe Game Reserve. The unfenced camp supports local communities by employing area residents and guides who share deep knowledge of the land. The lodge follows strict environmental practices.
- Their conservation efforts help protect diverse wildlife including the Big Five, while educating guests about ecological preservation. The intimate 16-person capacity allows them to maintain their commitment to treading lightly on the land while providing authentic African bush experiences.
Most Popular Activities Near Mosetlha
- Twice-daily guided game drives spotting Big Five wildlife and 475+ bird species.
- Four-hour game drives in Madikwe Game Reserve, one of 42 South African Game Reserves, with sundowner stops led by award-winning local guides.
- Evening stargazing and storytelling around the campfire.
Best Time To Visit Mosetlha
- The best time to visit Mosetlha Bush Camp is during the winter months from May to September. During this period, vegetation is thinner, and wildlife gathers more frequently at waterholes. The dry season offers exceptional game viewing opportunities, particularly for spotting the Big Five. While mornings and evenings can be chilly, daytime temperatures remain pleasantly warm. The lodge provides warm duvets, hot water bottles, and blankets for game drives.
- Summer months (October-April) bring lush vegetation and newborn animals but higher temperatures and occasional afternoon thunderstorms.
- The lodge operates year-round, with each season offering unique safari experiences.