PABALA PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE - Hankey

Accommodation options include suites with mountain views, safari tents, bungalows, stone cottages, and a farmyard cottage. Some units have a private entrance, desk, wardrobe, and a terrace overlooking the Cockscomb Mountains. The suites feature a fireplace, modern equipment, and a private bathroom with a walk-in shower. Tents have comfortable beds and linen; shared ablutions and a communal kitchen are available. All units provide bed linen and towels.

The restaurant serves local cuisine and offers breakfast with continental choices, pancakes, and cheese. Guests highlight the French toast as a standout dish. Dinner is also available; prices are reasonable. The restaurant has outdoor seating where peacocks roam. Note: the restaurant may close earlier than advertised, so check hours. A small shop sells Pabala gin and honey made on the property.

Guests can go on guided game drives or self-drive tours to see giraffes, golden-brown wildebeest, impalas, and nyalas. Hiking and walking trails are available. The property has a garden, BBQ facilities, outdoor fireplace, and a picnic area. There is a swimming pool. The reserve features a boma and a communal lapa with a well-equipped kitchen for campers. Camping sites are non-level, so leveling a trailer may be tricky.

Pabala Private Nature Reserve is directly off the R330, near Hankey (7.4 km from Hankey Golf Course). It is 23 km from Gamtoos River Mouth Reserve, 31 km from Zwartenbosch Golf & Lifestyle Estate, and 45 km from Swan Island Nature Reserve. Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport is 73 km away. A car is needed as the camping area is a short drive from the restaurant and main facilities.

The property provides free private parking, family rooms, non-smoking rooms, and a restaurant. An invoice is issued upon request. Staff, including receptionist Memory and ranger Etienne, are responsive and helpful. Guests have reported issues with housekeeping cleanliness in some units. The tent decks may need maintenance. No toiletries are provided in some rooms. The reserve offers a game drive service; the driver/ranger is knowledgeable. For camping, bring your own lighting and coffee-making supplies.