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If there’s one thing, we’ve learned from our recent camping trip to Magoebaskloof and Punda Maria, it’s that no matter how much you plan, nature can throw surprises your way! Camping in the bush brings a sense of adventure, freedom, and connection with nature—but it also tests your preparedness in the most unpredictable ways.
Left to right: Obligatory Pancakes at the Pancake House, Even the lambs were seeking shelter, Entering the misty forest
We thought we had everything covered for our week-long trip. Knowing the weather would be cooling down in Magoebaskloof, we packed warmer clothes, expecting crisp mornings and chilly evenings. However, we never in our wildest dreams imagined the temperature would plummet to a teeth-chattering 2°C. Yes, two degrees! And to make matters worse, the icy wind and mist stuck around for the entire three days we were there, making it feel even colder.
Left to right: No one wants to be out in the freezing cold, Tryinng our best to keep warm
The first night, I genuinely thought I was going to freeze. Layered up in the few warmer clothes we had, huddled in the sleeping bag, the cold seemed to seep through everything. No fire or hot drink could fully take the edge off. It felt like the bush had a personal grudge against us. By morning, we knew we had to make a plan if we wanted to enjoy the rest of the trip.
Left to Right: Our wooly friend who visited us daily, The Woodbush Forest, Ronnie trying to look cool in the cold
The next day saw us driving straight to Tzaneen. Although it was part of the itinerary, as we very much wanted to search for the Magpie Mannikin and Blue-Spotted Wood Dove, we had to prioritise as desperate times call for desperate measures! We stocked up on warmer clothes—jumpers, trakkie pants and woolie socks—the whole shebang. We even picked up a couple of portable heaters for the tents. It’s safe to say, we were ready for the bitter freeze. But nature (or rather our government) had other ideas. LOAD REDUCTION (or whatever other name is given to our all too well known, Load shedding.) Thankfully though, by 8:30pm things started to feel much more comfortable. We sat by the campfire, wrapped in our new layers, laughing at how unprepared we’d been for the bitter cold.
Left to Right: Resting under the canopies of the Forest, Ronnie begging for more adventure, Another Lifer for me!!!
But just as we were starting to feel like we had conquered the cold, nature had another surprise waiting for us. The moment we arrived in Punda Maria, it felt like we had landed on a different planet. Gone was the icy chill of Magoebaskloof—now we were faced with the complete opposite end of the scale. The temperature had tipped to a staggering 42°C! How on earth do you prepare for that kind of extreme flip?
Left to Right: Ice Creams all round, It really was that hot!, Which way would you choose to go?
We went from huddling around a fire to hiding in any scrap of shade we could find. It felt like the bush was playing a cruel joke on us—first freezing us out, now cooking us alive. The heat was intense, and no amount of cold drinks or swimming in the pool could take the edge off. We were in the full blaze of the African sun, and it was relentless.
Left to right: Crooks Corner, Pafuri Picnic Site, Babalala Picnic Site
This experience got me thinking—can you ever be prepared enough for a camping trip to the bush? Sure, we had done our research, checked the weather forecast, and packed accordingly. But nature has a funny way of humbling even the most seasoned of campers. There’s always an unexpected challenge, be it wildlife encounters, wild weather changes, or equipment malfunctions.
So, what’s the takeaway? While you can’t predict everything, being flexible and resourceful is key. Here are a few lessons we learned that might help you survive nature’s extremes:
1. Pack for All Seasons: Even if the forecast looks mild, it’s always smart to pack for both extremes. The bush can be unpredictable, with wild temperature swings, so throw in extra layers, blankets, and even lighter clothes for hot spells.
2. Portable Heaters and Fans: If you’re camping in colder months or regions with unpredictable temperatures, small portable heaters can be a game-changer for your tent. Likewise, fans are lifesavers in extreme heat. Just make sure they’re safe for camping use!
3. Prepare for the Unexpected: Sometimes, a general weather forecast doesn’t account for drastic changes. Always consider where you’re camping—mountains can be cold and misty, while savannas can be scorching.
4. Be Ready to Adapt: You can’t plan for every scenario, but you can be mentally prepared to adapt quickly. Whether it’s a quick run to town for supplies or changing up your activities due to bad weather or heat, staying flexible keeps the adventure fun.
At the end of the day, camping is about embracing the unpredictability of the wild. You can be as prepared as possible, but part of the magic of the bush is the element of surprise. Whether it’s the stunning wildlife or a not-so-welcome cold snap or heatwave, it’s these experiences that make the memories worth it. So next time you head out for a camping trip, pack for all the seasons—because when the bush decides to surprise you, you’ll want to be ready!
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