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Big Cave Camp sits right on the boundary of the Matobo National Park with mesmerizing views over the intriguing granite flecked landscape. This part of Zimbabwe doesn't always get the attention it deserves, with its rich social history, beautifully preserved San Bushman rock art, variety of wildlife and spectacular geography -- there's no wonder why it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And this upmarket lodge provides one of the most comfortable and intimate ways to make the most of it. The lodge takes full advantage of its setting and fits seamlessly into the granite rocks surrounding it.
From $380 person/night
Take a full day's hike (14km) to Inanke Cave which is the most remote of the famous rock art galleries. The walk combines high granite ridges and pristine natural forest and the paintings are amazing in both quality and diversity.
Sneak up to a white rhino on foot - thanks to the special effort that ensures Matobo Hills has one of the most significant populations of rhinos remaining in Zimbabwe.
Matobo is a mountain biking wonderland where cyclists can ride through the national park and on the private reserve around Big Cave, lead by the enthusiastic owner, Dave.
The communal lounge, dining room and Leopard's Lair bar are set into massive granite boulders that are incorporated into the design. The dining area, for example, features a huge rock as its centerpiece, while trees grow through the thatch roof. A small library leads to a natural rock swimming pool and sundeck with a few loungers. And there's an unconventional cave-style boma, softly lit by lanterns and the central fireplace - a great place for a drink before and after dinner.
There are seven different A-frame cottages which include a triple, four twins/doubles, a family chalet and a honeymoon suite. Set into the rocky countryside, the wood and stone combined with thatch roofs and tiled floors, keeping the rooms nice and cool. Each cottage has a lovely balcony with breathtaking views and they all have en suite bathrooms.For more budget-minded travelers there's also a beautifully maintained campsite with well-maintained communal facilities and a few traditional Ndebele huts.
Looking out from your room across the peaceful and majestic scenery might fool you into thinking you have this corner of the world to yourself. The personable guiding and service, along with the convivial atmosphere will make you feel right at home.
There are plenty of activities available so you can stay as busy as you like. Explore on foot (short walks and full day hikes) or take a gentle game drive. There's wildlife to be seen around camp as well as in the adjacent Whovi Game Park (where you can do night drives) and Matobo National Park. Take a tour to an Ndebele community nearby, or the tomb of Cecil John Rhodes at the magnificent "View of the World." Be sure to take in some of the spectacular cave paintings that are as old as 9000 years. The camp also offers yoga classes; or just take it easy and enjoy a sundowner atop a massive granite kopje (outcrop) while the magical light dances on the surrounding plains and boulders.
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