Area: Zululand - Babanago

 Click here to view Google Map for this venue 

Travel time: 6-7 hours drive by bus from central Gauteng.

Group Types: Youth, School, Church, Corporate & Private
Accommodation / Group / Capacity: Total 280 pax

Top Tented Camp: more ideal for youth: 120 pax - 10 per tent
Rock Pools River Tented Camp: Youth/Corporate/Private groups

140 pax   -   14 per tent x 10 tents
Total combined youth camps = 260 pax

Botique Lodge: 20 beds -2 per room

Size of property: 3,100ha

Environment: Valley, bushveld, river, mountains / private nature reserve in a true african setting.

Surroundings offer: Historical battle fields, Kraals of the Zulu Kings, Zululand museums
Activities & Programmes: Teambuilding, leadership, environmental education, ecology, Geography, Biology, Science & custommised curricular emphasis, Adventure /  outdoor experience, leadership identification / development, amongst others.

Catering: Excellent quality, quantity & variety served around the campfire. Special diet requirements such as vegetarian, Halaal etc on request.

Requirements: Learners: Must bring own cutlery, crockery, bedding & towels.

Requirements:  Teachers: Cutlery, crockery & bedding are provided. Bring own towels.

Facilities:   Top Tented Camp:  Situated near the main lodge is a little tented village that we like to call “Our Environmental Adventure Centre.” The tents are set up on either side of the central campfire and are shaded by indigenous trees that attract an unusual variety of bird-life.  Overlooking the whole camp is the lapa with a nature table and various other interesting educational displays.  The lapa also becomes a haven when the weather limits our outdoor activities and we can continue undercover.  Evening activities that require one to be indoors, like group dynamics or camp concerts, are also enjoyed in this venue and there is  also  a screen for slide shows and other educational programmes. We have thirteen tents, each sleeping eight or nine children comfortably, depending on the age and size of the group.  On arrival each child will be allocated to a tent and issued with a comfortable mattress for which they will be responsible  for the duration of the tour. We do have electricity in the camp (but not in the tents) and an outside light is left on throughout the night.  At each end of the camp is an ablution block, one for girls and one for boys, with toilets, basins and hot showers. We have designated rooms set aside for your drivers. These are also equipped with a toilet and shower. The drivers join us in the School Camp for meals.

Accommodation for Teachers / group leaders:  The teachers accompanying the tour  will be accommodated in the main Lodge.  Here they will be close enough to keep an eye on the group and offer assistance to the children yet at the same time have a little place to retreat to when the education officers are supervising the group. The Lodge rooms are fully equipped with bedding, towels and an en-suite bathroom. We believe that the teachers need special spoiling as a thank-you for taking precious time away from their own families and homes, and for putting in all the effort to arrange the outing.. which we know is no easy feat. The staff are encouraged to enjoy the Lodge facilities to the fullest and relax around the pool or enjoy a quiet break in the staff lounge.  Your children will be taken good care of and you deserve the break!

The lapa:  forms the central focus of the camp and is used for meals and activities. We cater for Rock Pools in much the same way as for the main camp. The cooking is done in the kitchen behind the lapa and we do all the braaing on a big log fire in front of the lapa.  All meals are served here overlooking the beautiful Rock Pools stream. All the normal educational camp academic programmes, activities and routines apply here as well. Battlefield tours depart from Rock Pools on a daily basis as required.

QUOTATION-BOOKINGS-RESERVATIONS: Don't hesitate, CLICK HERE to contact us now to reserve your dates for a camp to suite your needs.

PROGRAMMES OF ACTIVITIES

History and Culture

Isandlwana & Rorke’s Drift (Full day)

A hands-on, interactive approach including role playing and visual aids.(For senior pupils, the approach will be more detailed). From the lofty heights of the Nqutu Ridge, we enjoy an awesome, panoramic view of the Isandlwana battlefield with Rorke’s Drift (Oskarberg) visible in the distance. After an introductory presentation we move on to Isandlwana and its excellent museum. After a quick review in the museum, we head off to climb Isandlwana to enjoy the sobering view of the battlefield below dotted with white cairns. A 16km drive takes us to Rorkes Drift for lunch and a riveting account of the battle. Return to the Lodge to arrive by about 4.30pm. Mileage: 180 km

Dingaan Stad

Visit Dingaan Stad for an introductory talk on the rise of the Zulu Nation. Mgungundlovu (Dingaan’s Royal Residence), has been partially reconstructed, and overlooks KwaMatiwane, Dingaan’s hill of execution where Piet Retief’s massacre occurred. If time allows, proceed to Ulundi where the final battle took place between the Zulu and the British. Includes is a visit to the important cultural museum at Ondini, the site of King Cetshwayo’s royal residence. Have a look around the town, developed by the Zulus as their significant capital, understanding the historical reason why the site is important. Mileage: 160 km

The Spirit of emaKhosini

A new monument has been erected near the Dingaanstad site with spectacular views over the emaKhosini Valley. It commemorates the seven Zulu Kings who were buried in the Valley and consist of a large “ukhamba” or pot, which is surrounded by seven animal horns with open ends which catch the wind as it blows through them creating a wonderful atmosphere. Around the edge of the monument are a number of copper plates depicting the daily life of the Zulu’s. A worthwhile stop if time allows!

Zulu Heritage Village (NB: Additional Charge- A community upliftment project)

An experience of traditional Zulu culture at our Fascinating Zulu Heritage Village highlighting family structures and the influence of Western culture on traditional values e.g. Role of men and women; marriage and responsibility with death; youth in tradition; role of Sangoma’s and Nyanga’s in 21^st century life.

Blood River

On 16^th December 1838, a Boer force of 464 men inflicted a crushing and bloody defeat on the mighty Zulu army of Dingaan. The imposing Boer and Zulu moments today bear mute testimony to the bloody event of that day where the river literally flowed with the blood of Zulu warriors. This is an interesting and thought-provoking tour which presents the historical events from both Zulu and Boer perspectives.

Orphanage Visit

25km away lies a successful story waiting to be told. Take a look into the lives of children left behind by life’s cruelty but still able to stand up and take on the world. Spend the time with them (play soccer with them, read to them, organize a braai etc.) and to lighten up their day you are welcome to take donations with.

 Zulu Village Sleep Out

Spend a morning or afternoon or even for those brave enough to spend the night with our local community, Zulu Village, right here in our Beautiful Valley.  Walk two hours to school with the local kids, herd the cattle, even fetch some water AND each traditional meal prepared Zulu style especially for you!  Challenge your students to step out of their comfort zone and join our locals for some “Local is Lekker” fun.

Geography

Junior Map work (Grade 8 & 9)

Using a sand relief model and 1: 50 000 maps we introduce basic concepts of map work at camp before dividing into groups and setting off on task related activities using map reading and interpretation skills e.g. .Using grid references; map keys and symbols; scale; field sketching etc.

Senior Map work (Grade 10, 11 & 12)

Using a sand relief model and 1:50 000 maps we reinforced concept of map work at camp before dividing into groups and setting off on task related activities using map reading and interpretation skills. Examples of some of the skills practiced: Using grid references, map keys and symbols; scale; field sketching (cross-section and profiles); identifying map-terrain features; distance and height exercises; geomorphology including river features and drainage patterns; aspects; bearings; distance-time calculations, gradient calculation; ecology etc.

Geography: River Flows

Guided walk down to the river to discuss the river flows, stream load, river velocity and dominated processes. Using a comprehensive worksheet supplied, we’ll learn about the rivers channel, shapes and volume, discussing the long profile and ending off with a field sketch.

An urban Study & RDP

Drive up to the village (15kms away) and conduct a study of the various businesses including a sketch map of the town.

Discuss the changes that have taken place over time and the effects thereof. Move on to a vantage point where one can view the “rainbow RDP Village” and discuss the developments that have taken place.

$-a-day exercise

Before departing , students will be tasked with purchasing food for 3 meals (Lunch, supper and breakfast) according to a set menu. Each group will be given a strict budget to work with – the budget will be equivalent to the approximate amount of the rand to dollar exchange rate at the time! This exercise aims to create awareness surrounding the poverty that more than 50% of our world live under.

NB:  Only basic cooking equipment will be provided for the sleep-out/cooking experience later.

Treasure Hunt

This activity is usually included in our “$ a day” exercise.  A treasure with some special treats for the students is hidden at specific location waiting to be discovered by the “hungry hunters.”  They have 5 designated tasks to complete as a team before they are able to get to the treasure.  However, the game is not over yet, now the group has to divide the small treasure amongst their large group.  The objective of this task is to get kids of others before themselves.

Mangeni Falls

Enjoy lunch at the beautiful Mangeni Water Falls, (approx 100 kms round trip). En route we shall compare the rural versus nucleated settlement patterns observed, making comparisons to what we learnt during our Babanango village visit.

Modern Day Zulu Village

A lovely comparison between the past and the present way the Zulu live. Visit a real homestead, look around the “umuzi” and chat to the rural Zulu people and children via a translator. And even learn some basic Zulu.

Climatology

From an elevated vantage point, elements of climatology are discussed with emphasis on the micro-climate of our valley. The influence of topography on valley climate; anabatic and katabatic winds; aspects and temperature inversion form the basis of this study.

Biology & Ecology

Tree Study

An introduction to tree’s where each group will be allocated a specific tree to “interview”. Bringing a leaf sample back to camp, feedback will include the characteristics of each tree, the palatability thereof, where it grew and why, how it protects itself and other features including examining all the leaf samples. Votes will be taken to see the order in which the trees rated. The leaves can be pressed for a bookmark as a memento of Babanango.

Grassland Habitat Study

A look at habitats using grass specie’s to illustrate habitat changes and diversity over short distances. In groups collect as many different grass types on route back to camp where they are laid out and we shall count how many grass species occur. The grasses can be used in many different ways back at school.

Grassland Study

Basic introduction to grasses including the structure of grass, various habitats supporting some of the grasses found as BVL. Discussion includes the importance of grass to man kind, to the environment, to animals, birds, and the ecology in general. We will discuss the differences between grasses found near the river, on disturbed soil, under trees, new lands, and the effect burning has on grass. Veld management, food chains, mans impact on the environment, reason for urbanisation and symbiotic relationships will also be looked at. Trees and plants form a big part of the Grassland biome. We will discuss adaptations, exotics and other interesting facts.

River Study

A hands on study with minimum worksheet material focusing on our limited and valuable water resources, conservation there of, assessing the health risk, water quality and river status. Water quality activities include a sensory exercise as well as water organism identification using “bug dials”, “bug scopes” and identification slides. We also investigate turbidity as an indicator of water quality. The study concludes with groups evaluating the river status followed by a refreshing swim.

Arachnid Study

An informative, educational and hands-on (with safety in mind) study of the ARACHNIDA group. Interesting facts about Arachnids will be dealt with, followed by supervised collection and identification of Arachnid species. Hopefully phobias will be eliminated!

Eco- Trail

Divide into groups and, led by a facilitator, walk through the beautiful savannah grasslands and acacia woodlands observing zebra, warthog, impala, wildebeest and other interesting creatures. Informal trail interpretation including ecological principals and dynamics with pupils’ involvement is a feature of this walk. Hats and water bottles are essential.

Tourism

On a mini tour of the lodge, we discuss the S.W.O.T analysis which gives the students a hands on approach as to what the tourism industry entails.

Urban Study & RDP

The students will do a detailed study and  will have to explain the positive and negative impact the town has on the lodges’ business, which in turn can effect the people.  On a broader scale we can discuss if there are positive and negative impacts in other parts of South Africa.

Educational Sessions

As an additional option we offer educational sessions where the basics of the tourism syllabus are covered.

Camp Presentation

As a fun activity at the end of the camp, the students will be asked to try and “Sell” theLodge to the staff, using all the information they have learnt during the course of the camp.  They will need to ensure that they appeal to the “possible future guests” 5 senses.  This is an exciting activity which allows the teachers to see just how much their students have learnt while they were here.  They are also encouraged to use any other techniques they learnt in the classroom.

Babs Panel Discussion

The students will have the opportunity to “interview” a couple of the staff members from the Lodge.  There will be a “Panel of board directors” who will answer as many questions as possible that the students have in connection with the running of a Lodge.  This will intern help the students in gaining a greater knowledge of the industry.

The activities we offer can be used as part of the students assignments for their syllabus.  For example, the camp presentation can be graded as their “oral.”  When working on their marketing plan, they can use all that they learnt while doing the S.W.O.T analysis.

Leadership & Group Dynamics

 Obstacle Course

Introduce the KISST concept. (This is an approach that encourages the children to: Know your task, involve everybody in the activity, Set an example, support each-other in the activity and build Trust in each other while completing the activity) Varied thought provoking challenging activities involving groups and individuals are features of our obstacle courses. Activities will be assessed by the staff to ensure only the suitable challenges are attempted.

 Out and About- Orienteering

Divided into smaller groups the students set off for a fun-filled exploration of the valley. This activity improves teamwork, map reading and bush orienteering skills as the groups have to work together to find various places on a map. Points are awarded for each place found, and the whole activity has to be completed within a certain time-frame. Working together, planning an operation, leading, following an idea and good sense of humour are all required to complete this fun activity. The following dynamics are a feature of this important session: team work, leadership, communication skills, planning, time management, problem solving etc. The winning group gets a prize!

The Great Explosive Caper

Working in groups the teams are expected to build a miniature raft at the river using a length of string and natural material found in the area. They are tasked with transporting a “bomb” (a small rock) from one part of the river to another without it sinking! Objectives involve communication, team building and problem solving. Debriefing includes who won, how, why, what would you change next time etc.

Solitaire 

After spending much time with peers, a chance to re-examine your own priorities & objectives out in the field where it is just you and nature. Time to think, sleep, do some art, write in your journal or just sit and enjoy nature at its best

Group Dynamics – Main Camp

A number of different activities making the groups work together as a team. Each activity includes a 5 min intro and planning session, 20 min to complete the task, and a 5 min reflection and conclusion. Objectives: team work, leadership, support, communication, problem solving etc. A few examples of the exciting challenges:

1) Electric Field: The objective is to get the whole team from inside a square to the outside without touching the “electric fence” through a network of ropes.

2) Alphabet Bar: Getting the whole team balanced along the beam in alphabetic order during a set time period, without speaking to each other!

3) Spider Web: Getting the whole team through a rope web without touching the ropes without using the same whole twice.

4) Drum Roll: Working as a team, weave a drum around a wooden structure without touching the ground.

5) Blind leading blind: Leading each other along a sensory course while blind folded. Listening to the leader is vital due to the obstacles ahead.

Group Dynamics – Rock Pools

A number of different activities making the groups work together as a team. Each activity includes a 5 min intro and planning session, 20 min to complete the task, and a 5 min reflection and conclusion. Objectives: team work, leadership, support, communication, problem solving etc. A few examples of the exciting challenges:

1) Electric Field: The objective is to get the whole team from inside a square to the outside without touching the “electric fence” through a network of ropes.

2) Alphabet Bar: Getting the whole team balanced along the beam in alphabetic order during a set time period, without speaking to each other!

3) Spider Web: Getting the whole team through a rope web without touching the ropes without using the same whole twice.

4) Trust Fall: Trusting your team standing below, you “fall” backwards off a platform into the grip of their armssong to be completed by the time the entire team is on the platform.

5).Singing platform: Get the whole team onto a platform, without falling off, and at the same time composing a

General Interest

Community Project

We have recently visited the School up in Town and wow there is such a need!  We have since then introduced a “community outreach” program where each school will be given the opportunity to make a change!  It can be anything from painting the kitchen, to providing writing paper or even picking up litter.  By helping them, we are touching many families, creating awareness in and amongst the people surrounding us and improving their standard of learning, making going to school a pleasant experience.

Introduction To Copper Mine

An introductory experience where we learn about the early history of the mine, mining procedures, explore a shaft with torches, learn about interesting rocks and rock formations, discuss conservation/preservation versus mining and search for “fools gold”. Optional activities can include creative writing, art, bat appreciation, drama and rock identification.

Hiking Trails

The valley we're in is a natural heritage site and so we have over 35kms of  scenic hiking trails ready to be explored, beautiful but challenging mountains to be concurred and a lovely ambience of flora and fauna to be experienced.

Evening Activities 

Evening Programmes will be confirmed upon arrival and include:

Stalk the lantern: a game incorporating communicating skill, building trust and consideration for others.

The night sky: A look at the solar system, stars, satellites and falling stars.

Evening hike: Night walk as a group.

Solitaire:  After spending much time with peers, a chance to re-examine your own

priorities &   objectives.

Camp Concert: own choice of groups or individual performances.

Group dynamics & leadership skills: Based indoor or out. Increasing

team building, self concepts, problem solving.

QUOTATION-BOOKINGS-RESERVATIONS: Don't hesitate, CLICK HERE to contact us now to reserve your dates for an outstanding quality camp of a life time.

Team Challenge 1

A competitive six-point challenge where teams compete against each other for points. Numerous skills are utilized and extended including leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, lateral thinking, listening and communication, initiative, social interaction, personal confidence etc. Meaningful self-evaluation within the team context concludes this programme.

Team Challenge  2

Teams work against time to locate and solve riddles located at hidden stations (the location of which is found in clues). The first team back with the most correct answers wins! Problem-solving, team work, listening and communication skills are but a few of the dynamics involved. Evaluation and feedback are important activities in concludes this exercise.

Bridge Building challenge

Pupils are divided into groups and given the challenge of building a bridge across the river strong enough to transport the whole group to the other side without getting wet. Each group uses poles and ropes in which to complete this task. Essential to this challenge is the ability to apply “design a technology” principles; planning; communication; teamwork and listening skills.