Camp site review: Camp Umshanti in Swellendam

Buffeljags, just outside Swellendam in the Western Cape, is well known for its filling station and the spot with the delicious roosterkoek, by everyone that visits the garden route via the N2. But there is more than a padstal in the area.

We struck camp at Ushanti, which is situated on the banks of the Buffelsjag dam. There are mostly self catering units, but there are three camping sites. This campsite is so popular that you need to book months in advance and most importantly, no day visitors are allowed.

Umshanti is just 9 km from the historic town of Swellendam and about 250km from Cape Town. If you reach the town of Buffeljagsrivier, via the N2 from Cape Town, take a left towards Infanta 4×4. Umshanti is surrounded by the picturesque Langeberge in the background.

The three campsites by Ushanti are on beautiful green lawns and are perfect for those who like to camp with tents, camping trailers or caravans. Each camp site has a braai area, 220V power and a great view of the mountains and dam. Each braai area is equipped with a roof, two wooden benches and a table which the owner, Kosie builds himself. The ablutions are rustic but very eat with gas geysers that ensure warm water for the showers.

As we arrived at the camp site we immediately opened our Front Runner rooftop tent, secured the Cgear groundsheets and rolled out the awnings and immediately lit a fire with some kameelhout in my Madkon braai. Soon the grille was on the fire and we prepared some sosaties and boerewors, followed by braaibroodjies. Nothing beats a braai after setting up camp.

During our visit to Umshanti, we walked down to the deck on the damwall as the sun was setting and enjoyed a sundowner. We could see fish frolicking in the water and a fisheagle in the background completed the picture. It truly felt as if we were in paradise.

We had a early night so that we could get up and enjoy the sunrise. We were up at 6am and quickly got the kettle on the fire so that we could enjoy a great cup of coffee while taking in the morning sights and sounds. Pure bliss.

When visiting Umshanti you are welcome to take your boat along too. For those that don’t have a boat, there is Kosie se boot a double decker boat which can take you on a cruise of the Buffelsjags dam. It has an open deck on which you can braai, a bar and toilet facilities, and can accommodate up to 35 people. Other activities in the area include horse riding, cycling, wine tasting, mountain biing as well as microlight flights.

Umshanti is a must do on your next visit to the area.

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