Talamati Restcamp
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Talamati is a Xitsonga word meaning "Lots of Water”. Yet despite the meaning of the name, the river is actually dry. The clay soil, however, acts as a giant sponge holding a vast reservoir of underground water and keeping the vegetation lush all year round.
Talamati Camp is situated in a large open valley, affording superb game viewing opportunities. The luxuriant grassveld in the area attracts large herds of grazers, and the predators never lurk too far behind.
There are basic Bushveld Camp services here- a mini-shop with wood, ice and phonecards and public phones (note: no food). There is a communal braai area, although each unit also has its own. Power is derived from a solar panel system and not available in the rooms.
There are 11 two-bedroom Guest Cottages which also have twin bunk beds in the living rooms. There is one en-suite, and one separate shower room in each. Kitchenettes equipped with gas stoves with ovens and ceiling fans throughout complete the facilities.
There are also 4 one-bedroom Cottages here. There are extra bench beds in the living room. There are two plate gas stoves without ovens, and ceiling fans throughout.
GAME
Track rhino, elephant and lion on foot while learning and observing fascinating facts about the African bush. Some of the animals to be seen in the area are giraffe, kudu, eland, impala, zebra, rhino, buffalo, lion and hyena. Animal activity at the water hole is an 24 hour experience so insomniacs can keep an eye out after sunset to spot some of the more elusive nocturnal wildlife coming to drink.
BIRDING
Prominent in the area are Red-billed Buffalo Weaver, Glossy, Greater Blue-eared and Burchell's Starling, and Mourning Dove. Also look out for the Masked Weavers and their hanging nests.
At night, Giant Eagle, Barn, Pearl-Spotted and Scops Owls can be seen.
The camp itself is exceptionally active for birds, with many passerines coming to drink, joining the ubiquitous Hamerkop, Green-backed Heron and Great White and Little Egrets. The Blue-cheecked Bee Eater is regularly in attendance, and you can see sunbirds feeding on the aloes in the camp.
Narina Trogon have been recorded here.
VEGETATION
Talamati Camp is a good game viewing region in a sloping valley and hill area, that is dominated by knob thorn and bushwillow trees.