07/09/2026
**Basic camping essentials for Phangwa Bush Camp – a practical list for new campers**
(Dinokeng Game Reserve area, Gauteng)
Phangwa is a rustic, unfenced bush camp with **8 private powered sites**. Each has its own ablution (hot shower via gas geyser, toilet, basin + washing-up area), power point, water point, braai facility and boma. Plains game (zebra, wildebeest, various antelope, etc.) roam freely — no predators — so walking, running and mountain biking are safe. There’s a swimming pool, and the camp is malaria-free. Guests must bring all their own equipment. Safari Mall (≈16 km) has a supermarket, butchery, liquor store and fuel.
# # # Shelter & Sleep
- Tent, caravan or roof-top tent (sites are level with some shade and seasonal grass/bare ground)
- Groundsheet or footprint (protects grass and keeps the tent cleaner)
- Sleeping bags or bedding suitable for the season (cool nights in winter, warm in summer)
- Sleeping mats, mattresses or stretchers + pillows
- Optional: gazebo or extra shade structure (useful on hot, sunny days)
# # # Power & Lighting
- Long extension cord (20 m+ recommended)
- Headlamp/torch + spare batteries or rechargeable lights
- Power bank / phone chargers
- Optional: small camping fridge or cooler that can plug in
# # # Cooking, Braai & Food
- Braai grid (essential — bring your own)
- Charcoal, wood or firelighters (wood/ice often available to buy on site)
- Camp stove + fuel as backup
- Cooler box + ice
- Cooking utensils, pots/pans, plates, cutlery, mugs, cutting board
- Dishwashing liquid, scourers, tea towels
- Food & drinks (braai-friendly meals work especially well)
- Secure food storage (animals can wander through camp)
# # # Clothing & Footwear
- Light, breathable clothing for hot days
- Warmer layers / jacket for cooler evenings and early mornings (especially winter)
- Swimwear and towel (for the pool)
- Sturdy closed shoes or hiking shoes for walking/trails
- Sandals or camp shoes
- Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
- Rain jacket or light waterproof (summer thunderstorms possible)
# # # Personal & Hygiene
- Toiletries, towel, toilet paper (private ablutions provided)
- Insect repellent
- Hand sanitiser and biodegradable soap
- First-aid kit (include blister care, antihistamines, personal medication)
# # # Safety, Navigation & Activities
- Binoculars and/or camera (great for free-roaming game and birdlife)
- Mountain bike (if you want to cycle) + helmet
- Daypack for short walks or self-drives into the Big 5 section
- Map/GPS or offline maps (gravel roads in the area)
- Whistle / basic emergency items
# # # Practical Extras
- Refuse bags (pack out what you pack in — Leave No Trace)
- Multi-tool or knife
- Duct tape / basic repair kit
- Camp chairs and table
- Cash for wood, ice, conservation fees or self-drive permits
# # # Season-specific notes
- **Summer** (roughly Oct–Mar): Hot days, possible afternoon storms — prioritise shade, sunscreen, insect repellent and rain gear.
- **Winter** (Jun–Aug): Pleasant days, colder nights — pack warmer sleeping gear and layers.
This setup takes advantage of the private ablutions, power and water so you don’t need full off-grid systems.
**Booking contact details**
- Email: [email protected]
- WhatsApp / Phone: +27 67 874 9085
Confirm current rates, availability, rules and any site-specific advice when booking. Enjoy the peaceful bushveld experience with the animals walking through camp!
