Jembisa Bush Home

As a result of the existence of the Palala River, there are several sites of archaeological importance at Jembisa where ancient peoples lived. These include a full iron-age village site, circumcision stations and bushman paintings.

Due to the great diversity of habitats on the reserve, there are large numbers of native and migrant species. Our game rangers have very good knowledge and there is also the option to bring in a specialist birding guide. There are over 400 species on our bird list.

Join our chefs in preparing some of their own recipes using some unusual local ingredients and learn how to make a pizza oven out of a termite mound! Discover our bush tucker- the edible plants and berries in the wilderness.

There is nothing closer to nature than spending the night sleeping under the African stars, around a blazing campfire. Snuggle up under the milky way, searching for shooting stars after a delicious campfire dinner. Listen to the sounds of the bush and wake up to the African dawn to feel, hear and sense the bush wake up around you. A guest favourite.

We have a small curio shop that sells African crafts, jewellery, some clothing, hats and postcards.

It is not necessary to go far to appreciate the diverse fauna and flora of the Waterberg. The animals come into the camps, and the trees and wildflowers are in abundance and vary between the different habitats on the reserve. The best time for wildflowers is Spring (October - January).

The classic way to enjoy exploring and game viewing is in 4x4 open vehicles with experienced guides and trackers. Our diverse habitat makes game drives fascinating and thrilling, and includes drives across open savannah, through syringa woodland, evergreen forests, cliff roads and across rivers. Our guides enthral all ages with their knowledge and stories.

For even more relaxation you can choose from a selection of massages that can be enjoyed al-fresco, listening to the birds and river or in your room. Pure bliss.

An exciting way to view game is on a mountain bike. Cycle alongside herds of zebra or get up close to a giraffe whilst getting some exercise at the same time. There are a variety of cycle routes to suit all ages, abilities and energy levels.

Enjoy the opportunity to see nocturnal animals, such as jackal, brown hyena, leopard, porcupine, aardwolf, civet cats, bush babies and the rare aardvark. Surrounded by the vast starry canopy of African night, the atmosphere is different and senses are heightened. Wildlife is seen by 'spotlighting' for eyes with a lamp from the vehicle, guests have the opportunity to do this too.

A local astronomy expert - Dr Philip Calcot, will set up his big telescope and screen in the middle of Jembisa and provide a fascinating experience of the southern hemisphere stars. Find out how to navigate the true south from the southern cross, look at where stars are born in star nurseries and see the planets close up. Zero light pollution provides the perfect viewing environment. (This activity often combined with campouts).

The opportunities for landscape, wildlife, birds and flora photography are abundant at Jembisa and in the Waterberg area generally. We have teamed up with some professional photographers who will conduct a full photographic safari including workshops and tutorials. Outings to specific local points of interest are included. Please contact us for more details.

Get behind the scenes and shadow a game ranger for a day, helping with fence patrols, bush clearing, wildlife husbandry, game viewing and much more.

With 7km of the Palala river meandering through the reserve, a river walk is a delight. Wildlife species to be encountered are hippo, crocodile, otters, monitor lizards, pythons plus the general game of the reserve come down to drink. Water birds are abundant. At lunch time, picnic on the banks, cool off in the rapids and try some fishing.

Learn how to track and approach game, and explore the fauna and flora. A never-to-be-forgotten experience in this magnificent wilderness.