Ogomeni Trails Camp is a guided walking safari at Babanango Game Reserve in Zululand, KZN. It offers 2, 3 and 4-night all-inclusive trails from mid-March to mid-October, across 20,000+ hectares of malaria-free Big Five wilderness. You walk by day with experienced armed guides and return each evening to a comfortable base camp with raised glamping tents, fire-side dinners and stargazing. A moderate fitness level is recommended.
There’s something transformative about experiencing the African wilderness on foot – no engine noise, no distance, just the rhythm of your steps and a direct connection with the natural world. This season, Babanango Game Reserve reimagines the South African walking safari with Ogomeni Trails Camp, taking you into the heart of Zululand.
What’s Different on this South African Walking Safari?
Set across 20,000+ hectares of malaria-free Big Five wilderness, this trail is about connecting with nature – tracking lion prints, learning the uses of indigenous plants, and watching vultures ride the thermals. Ogomeni Trails Camp, named after the hill that rises before it – sits within this vast landscape and forms the base for the adventure.
More Refined Wilderness Living
While the original trail launched last year, Ogomeni has since evolved. The base camp now features:
- Permanent, raised glamping-style tents installed on platforms
- Comfortable beds and fresh linen
- An attached functioning half bathroom
- A separate communal shower and toilet building for added comfort
There’s intentionally no electricity and minimal mobile reception – a complete disconnect is part of the experience. Evenings revolve around the fire, shared meals and stargazing beneath unpolluted African skies.
All-Inclusive Experiences
Trails run mid-March to mid-October in 2, 3 or 4-night options, with small groups and a moderate fitness level recommended. Everything is included:
- All meals and limited beverages.
- Comfortable tented accommodation, beds with linen, room amenities, communal showers, flush toilets.
- Guided walks through Babanango Game Reserve, dotted with large seasonal pans.
Highly experienced and knowledgeable trail guides share insights into Babanango’s history, ecology, and unique wildlife while on walks. Groups set their own pace, tailoring the adventure to their interests and abilities and will return to the Ogomeni base camp daily for meals and hot showers.
A Comprehensive Wilderness Adventure
Our knowledgeable trail guides can provide guests with a unique safari walking experience that highlights the region’s incredibly diverse flora and fauna, as well as the historical and cultural significance connected to the various territories. On this walking trail, you can expect:
- Big Five territory exploration
- Birdwatching in a recognised hotspot region
- Insights into geology and archaeology sites
- Seasonal pans and river frontage ecosystems
- A deep dive into ecology, conservation and local history
- Stargazing at night with clear views of the Milky Way
What to Expect Each Day
Each day has a set rhythm, but no two are the same. A typical day starts with an early tea or coffee before a guided morning walk with armed trail guides, followed by a well-earned brunch back at camp and time to relax. The afternoon walk brings completely different sightings as animal activity shifts – or you can opt for an afternoon game drive with sundowners. Dinner around the fire, stargazing and storytelling round off the day.
Expect the afternoon walk to include completely different sightings from the morning session, as the animal activity shifts. If you’re tired and would prefer, there’s also the option of an afternoon game drive which includes sundowners as the nocturnal animals come alive. The day is finished off with an amazing dinner around the fire, with stargazing and storytelling to top it all off.
The Walking Safari Package
Ogomeni Trails Camp rates, for full immersion in the wilderness (conservation and community levy excluded):
| Duration | Domestic rate (pp) | International rate (pp) |
| 2 nights | R13,450 | R13,900 |
| 3 nights | R18,450 | R19,050 |
| 4 nights | R24,350 | R25,100 |
Note: rates are per person and subject to change – confirm current pricing with Babanango before booking.
When is the Best Time for a Walking Safari in KwaZulu-Natal?
While each season offers something unique, May to August (dry winter months) is often considered ideal for walking safaris in KZN – an area which can get hot in the summer months (December to February). Between May and August, you can expect cooler temperatures, crisp mornings, and sparse vegetation that make wildlife sightings more frequent and walking conditions comfortable.
Another good option is to come in March or April, which is synonymous with lush post-rain greenery and vibrant birdlife. As spring arrives in September and October, you can expect warmer days and the promise of new seasonal life emerging, which makes for really lovely wildlife sightings.
What to Pack on a Walking Safari?
First time on a walking safari? Here’s a packing guideline.
| Personal essentials | Trail kit |
|---|---|
| Sunscreen | Comfortable walking shoes |
| Personal toiletries | Gaiters |
| Sunglasses | Neutral-coloured clothing |
| Sun hat (cricket hat) | Flip-flops |
| Binoculars (optional) | Swimsuit |
| Camera (optional) | Sarong (blanket, sun cover, towel) |
| Waterproof poncho | |
| Jacket and warm sleeping clothes (winter) |
Watch our video below for a glimpse into what you can expect.
Plan Your Walking Safari
Ogomeni Trails Camp balances authenticity with accessibility – a rare chance to explore varied terrain and return to a thoughtfully designed base camp each evening. Find out more about the package and start planning your wilderness adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a walking safari?
A walking safari is a guided exploration of the wilderness on foot rather than by vehicle, led by experienced armed trail guides. At Babanango it focuses on tracking, plants, birds and a close connection with the bush.
When is the best time for a walking safari in KwaZulu-Natal?
May to August, the dry winter months, is often considered ideal, with cooler temperatures and sparser vegetation for easier sightings. March, April, September and October are also rewarding.
How long is the Ogomeni Trails Camp walking safari?
Ogomeni Trails Camp offers 2, 3 or 4-night all-inclusive options, operating from mid-March to mid-October.
How fit do you need to be for the walking safari?
A moderate fitness level is recommended. Groups are small and set their own pace, tailoring the walks to their interests and abilities, and return to base camp each day for meals and hot showers.
What should you pack for a walking safari?
Comfortable walking shoes, neutral-coloured clothing, a sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, gaiters, a swimsuit, a sarong, a waterproof poncho and, in winter, a jacket and warm sleeping clothes. Binoculars and a camera are optional.
Is Babanango Game Reserve malaria-free?
Yes. Babanango is a malaria-free Big Five reserve covering more than 20,000 hectares in northern KwaZulu-Natal.