Entertainment
Review: Africamps at White Elephant Safari
As Durbanites, our stay at the Africamps White Elephant Safari exceeded all expectations. From the moment we checked in, the adventure began with a scenic self-drive through the reserve to our campsite. Nestled with the perfect view of the Jozini River, our glamping site was the epitome of luxury in the bush. The highlight was the wood-fired hot tub, right at our doorstep. It required no electricity, so load-shedding was not even a concern – a feature that added to the off-grid experience.
The camp itself is glamping at its finest.
We had a fully equipped 4-plate gas stove and everything we needed, from stylish plates to branded Africamps tin mugs – perfect for that early morning bush coffee. Outside, the braai stand was set up and ready for use. Our first night, we braaiied our own meat, prepared salads, and enjoyed a meal under the stars. It was a quintessential South African experience, glamping style.
The accommodation was spacious and comfortable, with enough room for five people. The air-conditioning was a blessing for hot days, while extra blankets and a heater kept us warm when the temperatures dipped. The large shower and bathroom were a luxury for a group to share comfortably.
On the second day, we woke up early to brew coffee on the gas stove and were treated to an Africamps breakfast basket. It included everything from sausages, bacon, and eggs to muesli, yogurt, and fruit – more than enough to feed five people. The breakfast basket is definitely a must-have for those who don’t want the hassle of bringing their own food – it’s great value for money.
After a leisurely morning, we were picked up for a water safari cruise. Our ranger took us on a game drive en route to Lake Jozini, where we saw an African eagle, zebras, giraffes, and more. It was breathtaking, and we hadn’t even reached the boat yet!
The water cruise itself was unforgettable. We saw rhinos, hippos up close, and even watched a crocodile dive into the water. Our ranger kept us safe and informed throughout, pointing out rare bird species like the lily trotter. It was an awe-inspiring adventure that really brought us close to nature.
Returning to camp after the cruise, we were greeted with a pre-booked braai basket. This was a lifesaver as we hadn’t packed enough food for the evening. The basket had everything – from salad and sides to steak and sausages. While braaiing, we took full advantage of the campsite’s WiFi to stream the Springbok game. Enjoying a good braai, some beers, and the match under the stars made for a perfect ending to our day.
Our final evening was spent soaking in the hot tub, gazing up at the star-filled sky. In the morning, we reluctantly packed up and bid farewell to Africamps. Before leaving, we explored the reception area, which has a large pool and a convenient little shop for last-minute essentials.
Overall, Africamps White Elephant Safari is a must-visit, whether you’re traveling with friends or family. The combination of luxurious glamping, breathtaking wildlife experiences, and thoughtful amenities makes it a top choice for a getaway. Be sure to book in advance – it fills up quickly! Highly recommended!
Check out our reel here.
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Ratings:
Service – 9/10
Location: 9/10
Ambience – 9/10
Food – 9/10
Overall – 9/10
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How do I book my stay at Africamps?
Book your stay through their website here.
Or email: hello@africamps.com
One of South Africa’s longest running and most beloved music festivals, Splashy Fen, is back in 2025 with an electrifying final lineup announcement! Taking place from 17 to 21 April 2025, this year’s festival promises to be bigger and better than ever before, with a stellar mix of international headliners, local legends, and fresh talent.
PHASE 2 LINEUP REVEALED
Adding to an already exciting Phase 1 lineup, festival organizers have now confirmed the full list of performers who will take to the Splashy Fen stages. Fans can look forward to performances from:
International & Local Stars:
- YOUNGR (UK)
- Darren Kiely (Ireland)
- Desmond And The Tutus
- Mafikizolo
- GoodLuck
- Prime Circle
- Ard Matthews Trio
- Neon Dreams (Canada)
- Veranda Panda
- Ben Rodriques
- Hot Water
- Perez
- Cinema
- Sunset Sweatshop
- Nomadic Orchestra
- Booshle G
- Black Mamba Man
- Jamie Lee Sexton
- Jemma Kate
In addition, the Splashy Fen Acoustic Stage will host the #LegendsoftheFen series, featuring unforgettable sets from Cinema, Perez, Madala Kunene, Can Of Worms SA, and The Black Lapels.
A FESTIVAL FIRST: INTRODUCING THE MXD FORTRESS OF FUNK
As if the music lineup wasn’t enough, Splashy Fen 2025 is unveiling an all-new 6th stage – the MXD Fortress of Funk! Get ready to groove all weekend long with an electrifying lineup of funk, soul, and dancefloor anthems.
MORE THAN JUST MUSIC
Beyond the performances, Splashy Fen is packed with immersive experiences to make this an unforgettable weekend for festival goers:
Wellness & Relaxation – Daily yoga sessions, meditation circles, and a wellness zone for those looking to unwind and recharge.
Outdoor Adventures – Thrill-seekers can enjoy river rafting, mountain climbing, and trail runs in the breathtaking Drakensberg surroundings.
Unique Activities – Craft markets, drum circles, parades, and cocktail decks to elevate your festival experience.
Family-Friendly Fun – A dedicated Kids Zone ensures the little adventurers are entertained throughout the festival.
Gourmet Food & Drinks – Feast on world-class festival cuisine and sip on cocktails while taking in the stunning Splashy Views.
PLAN YOUR SPLASHY EXPERIENCE
From classic camping spots to luxurious glamping options, Splashy Fen 2025 offers accommodation for every taste and budget. Whether you’re a first-timer or a festival veteran, this year’s edition promises fresh surprises while keeping the magic of Splashy alive.
JOIN US AT SOUTH AFRICA’S FRIENDLIEST FESTIVAL
Splashy Fen 2025 is more than just a music festival—it’s a place where music, nature, and community unite to create lifelong memories.
Tickets are selling fast! Secure yours now at www.splashyfen.co.za.
Stay connected! Follow Splashy Fen on social media for lineup updates, festival tips, and more.
SEE YOU AT SPLASHY FEN 2025!
Create Ceramics Umhlanga is a vibrant ceramic painting café located at 16 Chartwell Drive, Granada Square, Umhlanga. Open daily from 9am to 5pm, it offers a creative oasis for individuals and groups to unwind and express their artistic flair.
Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed and shown to our seats. The inviting atmosphere, complemented by soft 70’s music, set the perfect backdrop for our creative journey. We were offered beverages from their café menu, which includes a selection of tea/coffee, curated wines, and light bites. The homemade 100% beef burgers paired with hand-cut potato chips are particularly noteworthy.
Choosing a ceramic piece was both exciting and challenging due to the extensive range available, with prices ranging from R100 to R650. The selection includes items like butter dishes, bird feeders, salad bowls, and various animals for the kids. We opted for large fruit bowls, appreciating the ample space they provided for our designs.
Before diving into painting, a friendly staff member introduced us to various techniques, such as using stickers, smudging, and scraping designs onto the paint. Her guidance was great and sparked our creativity. With our chosen paints and brushes, we spent the next hour immersed in our artwork, sipping on cappuccinos and enjoying the therapeutic ambiance.
Once satisfied with our designs, lemons for me and grapefruit with leaves for my mom – we signed the bottoms of our bowls with our names and order numbers. The staff informed us that the pieces would undergo glazing and setting, and they would contact us once ready for collection.
Booking and Additional Information
To experience Create Ceramics Umhlanga, bookings can be made through their website or by contacting them directly at 071 234 4927 or info@createumhlanga.co.za.
The venue caters to various occasions, including corporate team-building events, special occasions, family fun days, and anniversaries.
Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a beginner, the studio provides all necessary materials and a supportive environment to help you create a personalized masterpiece.
In addition to the creative experience, the café offers a range of delectable food and beverage options to enhance your visit. From savory dishes to sweet treats, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Our visit to Create Ceramics Umhlanga was truly delightful, combining creativity, relaxation, and quality time. We’re already planning our next visit and highly recommend this unique experience to Durbanites.
The stage is set for the 2025 edition of Splashy Fen, South Africa’s longest-running music festival, happening from 17 to 21 April 2025. Organizers have unveiled the Phase 1 lineup, featuring a mix of international stars, local icons, and emerging talent who are sure to captivate the Splashy Fen faithful.
Stu Berry, festival organizer, shared his excitement about the curated lineup:
“We’ve made a concerted effort in this first announcement to bring artists who haven’t yet experienced Splashy and who our fans haven’t yet experienced at Splashy before. These are mostly amazing South African artists we’ve seen live and who we know will pack a punch in their performances—which is exactly what Splashy is renowned for.”
Phase 1 Lineup Highlights:
– Darren Kiely (Ireland): Making his South African festival debut, this rising star from Ireland promises to bring heartfelt melodies and magnetic stage presence to Splashy Fen.
– GoodLuck: Dance-floor anthems and electrifying performances from this chart-topping trio will have the crowd moving under the stars.
– Ard Matthews Trio: The iconic voice of Just Jinjer returns with a soulful acoustic twist.
– Sunset Sweatshop: Expect feel-good vibes and rock-infused energy from this South African favourite.
– Nomadic Orchestra: A high-energy brass ensemble guaranteed to ignite the dance floor.
– Ben Rodriques, Jamie Lee Sexton, Booshle G, and Angel Mazibuko: These rising stars bring a vibrant mix of styles and sounds, ensuring something for every musical palate.
This exciting lineup is only the beginning, with three more international acts and additional headliners set to be announced at the end of January.
Why Splashy Fen 2025 Will Be Unmissable:
Immerse Yourself in the Magic:
With more than 300 musicians across six stages, Splashy Fen 2025 is a celebration of music, connection, and creativity nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Drakensberg Mountains. Beyond the music, attendees can look forward to:
– Outdoor Adventures: River rafting, mountain climbing, trail runs, and more.
– Wellness Experiences: Yoga sessions, meditation circles, and a wellness zone.
– Unique Activities: Drum circles, parades, cocktail decks, and craft markets.
– Family-Friendly Fun: Dedicated areas for kids, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all ages.
Plan Your Splashy Experience
From classic camping spots to luxurious glamping options, Splashy Fen offers accommodations for every taste and budget. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned fan, the 2025 edition promises to deliver new surprises while keeping the magic alive.
Join Us at South Africa’s Friendliest Festival
Splashy Fen 2025 is more than a music festival—it’s a place where music, nature, and community unite to create lifelong memories.
For tickets and more information, visit www.splashyfen.co.za.
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