Home / Travel

This Treehouse Lets You Sleep Under the Stars in the African Bush

By Jessica Stewart on March 9, 2020

Nestled between South Africa's Timbavati Nature Reserve and Kruger National Park, Ngala Private Game Reserve is an oasis in the wilderness. Sprawling across 36,000 acres, the unfenced reserve makes for an undisturbed experience while taking in Africa's spectacular wildlife. Now the reserve's tour operator, &Beyond, is adding to their offerings by introducing the Ngala Treehouse Experience, which allows visitors to get off the grid while cocooned in luxury.

The four-level treehouse features two sleeping areas, one of which is under a retractable awning for an al fresco slumber. The treehouse also comes with a fully stocked bar and coffee station, with guests being offered a picnic or tapas-style dinner. A king-sized bed, hot running water, and a separate flushing toilet provide all the comfort needed during your stay.

With no Wi-Fi, guests are encouraged to put down their devices and soak in the surroundings. But don't worry, solar panels allow visitors to charge their cell phones and cameras, so no photo opportunity will be lost during this once in a lifetime experience. The environment is only amplified by the lack of artificial light, as the nearest camp is three miles away. Guests are also encouraged to partake in game drives, which can be done day or night, and bush walks with experienced rangers.

If you are looking to stay in the treehouse, it's worth noting that this opportunity is only available to guests who are already booked in at either the Ngala Safari Lodge or Ngala Tented Camp. While there is no limit to the number of nights guests can spend at the treehouse, during the day they must return to either the lodge or camp.

The Ngala Treehouse Experience is priced at ZAR 8,500 (about $560) per night.