Kapula Camp

One of the very few self-catering options in Hwange National Park

Introduction

Kapula Camp is one of kind when it comes to camps in Hwange National Park. They aim to be different by offering affordable, self-catering, self-drive accommodation, as opposed to the luxury safari camps which are a majority in Hwange. Kapula Camp is located approximately 20km south of Sinamatella, 90kms from Hwange Main Camp, and is adjacent to the Masuma Dam picnic site, in the heart of Hwange. It is also about 175kms from Victoria Falls. We would recommend a high clearance vehicle, preferably a 4x4 to get there.

During the dry season, Kapula Vlei is a game-viewing paradise, with large herds of elephants and buffalo seen just from the viewing platform in camp. Plains game also roam the area, and at night, guests can hear lions roaring from their rooms. Other points of interest in the area include the water trough between the Kapula and Masumu Dam - worth a drive with sundowners; and drives to Mandavu, Deteema, and Shuma picnic sites, spotting wildlife and birdlife along the way.

There are now three sections that make up Kapula Camp, each with a unique offering. North Camp is booked as either half of the camp, or the whole camp altogether. South Camp is booked on a per person basis with a minimum of two and maximum of four in each unit. The Platform is the newest addition, set away from the North and South camps, it is for up to four guests at a time. All camps are serviced daily.

North Camp is their more executive-style option, with spacious raised tents sitting on timber platforms. All of the tents overlook the Kapula Vlei. The main tent sits in between the four guest tents, and this is where the plug points are located (there aren't any in the guest rooms). The main tent consists of an open lounge with views of the Kapula Vlei, dining section which seats 12 people, and a fully equipped kitchen. The fire pit is just a few meters away from the main tent.

South Camp guest tents are at ground level sitting on a individual concrete slabs. Three of the tents sleep two guests, and the forth one is a family tent for up to two adults and two children. South Camp has a separate kitchen tent, which is fully equipped. The elevated viewing platform is further in front, and has an open lounge and dining area, overlooking the Kapula Vlei. The fire pit sits between the kitchen tent and the elevated platform.

The Platform is actually 3kms away from the main camp, and closer to Masuma Dam and picnic site. It is a private setting and fenced for guest's protection.The double storey platform sleeps up to four guests. Other facilities upstairs include seating with views of the the waterhole, and a small but fully equipped kitchen area and dining table. Downstairs is where the bathroom is located. The front section facing the waterhole is enclosed with a wooden barrier/boma, and the back section is mesh fence with an entrance gate which is to remain closed at all times.

Our Opinion

Kapula Camp is a good option for budget self-drive and self-catering travellers. Groups can book an entire section for a private holiday. If you're not looking for a luxury safari camp experience with all the trimmings, Kapula Camp might be for you, or for your family. Camps are serviced everyday, and fires and boilers are sorted for guests, so all you have to bring is your food and drinks (and parks fees of-course).

Summary

• Self-catering camp in Hwange National Park
• Located in good game area
• Recommend 4 x 4 to get there
• Nearby points of interest for self-drives
• Three camps with unique offerings
• North Camp with elevated tented rooms
• South Camp with ground-level tented rooms
• Double storey Platform 3kms from main camp

Accommodation at Kapula Camp

• South Camp - 4 tents in total which can accommodate 8 adults and 5 children
• 3 double or twin tents with optional mattress for a child
• 1 family tent with double or twin beds plus 2 stretchers
• North Camp - 4 luxury tents in total which can accommodate 10 adults and 8 children
• 4 tents with twin or king bedding, plus optional mattress for a child
• 1 guide tent (optional for additional guests) with twin or king bed
• The Platform - One elevated platform which can accommodate up to 4 guests on 4 bedrolls

All rooms have:
• En-suite bathrooms
• Bedding and towels
• Mosquito nets in North Camp tents only

Advantages

• Great game viewing in a good area in Hwange National Park
• Game viewing deck overlooks a waterhole in the Kapula Vlei
• Comfortable lodging for a relaxed self-catering stay
• Private concession with no outside traffic
• Close to Masuma Dam pincic site
• Great for groups and families on a budget

Disadvantages

• Driving distance, typical of safari areas like Hwange
• Required 4 x 4 for self-drive

Dining

• North Camp - main lodge has a fully equipped kitchen, and a 12-seater dining table.
• South Camp - kitchen tent contains stove, fridge, utensils, cutlery and crockery. The viewing deck has a dining table and benches which can seat 8 people comfortably.
• The Platform - small kitchen and dining area for up to 4 people on the upper level of the Platform. Braai facility available.

Facilities and Services

• Solar powered lighting
• Borehole water supply
• Main tents have power supplies to charge camera batteries, laptops, etc.
• Daily servicing of guest tents by Kapula staff
• Kitchens and dining areas in North and South camps
• Fire pit in both North and South camps
• Licensed Park ranger/guide can be booked in advance
• Waterhole in front of main tents

Children

• North Camp: If half the camp is taken, max 2 children under 13 years. If whole camp is taken, max 4 children under 13 years.
• South Camp: Children 0 to 3 years old stay free of charge in their own cot. Children age 3 - 13 years old are charged the child rate, only when sharing a tent with adults, otherwise they pay the full adult rate. Children 13 years and over pay full adult rate.
• Platform: Children charged the same rate as adults.

How to Get to Kapula Camp

• Access to Kapula is best by self-drive. Entrance fee into Hwange National Park can be paid at Main Camp or Sinamatella camp.
• If you are coming from Bulawayo, turn from the A8 highway towards Hwange Main Camp and go for 24kms. After you pay Park fees there, continue for another 95kms (3.5 to 4 hours game drive) to Kapula Camp.
• Alternatively, turn into Hwange town from the A8 highway, and on to Sinamatella Camp (40km on a dirt road). After you have paid your Park fees, go for another 28kms into Kapula Camp. This option is preferable especially if you need to get supplies for your stay at Kapula Private Camp.

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