Welcome to Thakadu River Camp

The idea of Thakadu camp came about over a number of boozy evenings around the table on kabakae farm in the early 1990’s. A site was chosen at a lovely pan on the limestone ridge which runs through the property.

The ancient Leadwood trees which thrive on this ridge have provided us with natural shade for the campsites and accommodation. Thakadu was opened with a view to providing affordable accommodation and camping in as natural as possible a Kalahari setting.

Features of Thakadu Camp

The Pan naturally holds water for a few months after rain but we supplement this to provide a waterhole throughout the year.

Thakadu opened at Easter 1999 and quickly became a favourite dining place and watering hole for the local farming community as well as for the weary traveller. Thakadu is now managed by Chris and Jeanette Woolcott and offers reasonably priced accommodation in a lovely natural setting.

The San activities at Thakadu centre include walking with the bushman. To walk with these bushmen and witness their skills as gatherers and trackers firsthand, is a revelation not easily forgotten and if requested are available for traditional dances in the evening around the fire.

There are sadly no bushmen living a completely traditional way of life in Botswana Kalahari anymore, but many still have their traditional skills which supplement a life of general dependency in the settlements.

ACCOMMODATION

Accommodation is provided in en-suite thatched chalets, luxurious en-suite meru tents (a chalet in canvas), budget twin bedded cottage tents and camping in our wonderful leadwood shaded campsites.

Camping

Campsites are all situated under shady leadwood trees with an electric light, power points, drinking water and braai stands. Campsites are all within a short distance of our 2 ablution blocks. Firewood is also available.

Accommodation in MERU TENTS

The luxurious raised meru tents provide wonderful rustic comfort. They have electriciy and abundant hot water for dusty travellers. Cars can be parked close by and the merus are a short walk from the the bar and restaurant. They are twin bedded and up to 1 extra bed can be added for kids.

Accommodation in COTTAGE TENTS:

Fully bedded pre-erected safari-style tents. These provide comfortable budget accommodation. All are equiped with electric lights and utilise the campsite ablutions.

Facilities

Bar and Restaurant: We have a well stocked bar, which is a popular waterhole by the waterhole. Cosy restaurant overlooking the pan (waterhole) provides excellent a’ la carte meals at reasonable prices and a selection of wines is available.

There is something quite special about winning and dinning in the bush, as small herds of kudu, eland, impala, wildebeest and warthog come to the floodlit waterhole to drink, graze and play.

Swimming pool: A unique split-level swimming pool with a waterfall, ideal for adults and children was build above the ground because the rock is so hard and this can be a great attractions as temperatures sometimes creep into the 40's and has the added advantage of overlooking the waterhole.

Activities

Guided San Bushman walks, Unguided marked walking trails. Game drives (including night drives), horse trails and Bushman dances are available but should preferably be organised in advance.