Barkly East Accommodation / Wildside Barkly East Accommodation / Camping Accommodation in Barkly East

Situated on the banks of the Kraai River, Wildside is a haven for people looking to experience nature in a safe and remote environment. The site has stunning views of the river and spectacular sandstone cliffs. The stands are in secluded clearings around a grassy lawn, with river frontage and shade is plentiful.

We do aim for a tranquil and relaxed atmosphere so restrict the numbers of campers and ask all visitors to be respectful to others in terms of noise.

Accommodation

Camping
Four large stands are well spaced out around a green lawn, under shady poplar trees and on the banks of the Kraai River. Each stand has its own fire pit, braai area and food preparation table. The ablutions are a short walk from all stands and have unlimited hot showers (gas geyser) and flush toilets.

En-suite Safari Tents
For couples who want the romance of camping, but with some luxury thrown in we have a luxury double safari tent. This large tent sleeps two (with a very comfy double bed) and has an ensuite bathroom with shower/WC – unlimited hot water and private verandah area. The tent has its own braai area and firepit, an alfresco dining area and is fully equipped for self-catering with a gas stove, gas fridge and crockery/cooking utensils. Linen and bath towels are provided, however please bring your own swimming towels.

Facilities

• There is no permanent electricity supply on site, however we do have a generator which can be powered up on request to charge cellphones etc
• Water is very safe for drinking and is piped to the site from a natural spring

Activities and Attractions

Wildside lives up to its name, and keen birders should look out for our resident Black Eagles, Gymnogene, Bald Ibis and three species of kingfisher, just a few feathers away. The variety of habitat on-site includes river, forest, sandstone cliffs, farmlands and grass veld giving sighting opportunities for a wide variety of species. We also have regular sightings of other indigenous mountain wildlife including buck, baboons and otters.

There are some small San rock art paintings on site, and we can also arrange guided hikes to a fabulous cave with over 100 well-preserved images.

Activities on site include:
• Gentle riverside walks and swimming in the unpolluted Kraai
• Guided hikes to well-preserved San rock art sites
• Fly-fishing for wild trout (brown and rainbow) and yellowfish
• Birding – nesting Bald Ibis, Verreaux (Black) Eagle and African Harrier Hawk (Gymnogene) on site
• River rafting trips on the Kraai
• We have mountain bikes for hire for those who want to explore the farm roads
• Children’s pony rides

For those who want to explore the wider district of the Eastern Cape Highlands, Wildside is centrally located in the region, giving good access to:
• Eight mountain passes of the Eastern Cape Highlands (as featured in Drive Out / Weg Ry and Getaway magazines during 2011)
• Day trips to the historic villages of Rhodes and Lady Grey
• Horse riding

Access

Please note that a high-clearance 2x4 is required and 4x4 is recommended when the roads are wet. A park and shuttle service is available for those with smaller vehicles.

Accreditations

Member of the Wartrail and New England Community Tourism Organisation.