SAN CHA LEN GUEST FARM

AUGUST 2024

In August 2024 we camped for a week at San Cha Len, a small guest farm situated close to Bela-Bela next to the N1 North. The resort caters mostly for long term campers as well as permanent campers, however there are several stands available for those that are just in need of a short bushveld weekend breakaway not too far from the city.

San Cha Len is an hour's drive, 80 km’s from Pretoria. If you are travelling on the N1 towards Pietersburg, take the Bela-Bela offramp, turn left and almost immediately on your right, you will find a fuel station with a short gravel road leading to the campsite. There is sufficient signage at the beginning of this road so that you will not get lost.

The gravel road is in good condition but there are places with some sand, so it is best not to stop if you get the feeling that you might get stuck, just keep going, the sand is not that thick, and you should easily manage with a normal road caravan.

Booking at San Cha Len was not difficult and can be done over the phone or via e-mail. When arriving at the gate just give the owners a call and they will come and collect you and take you to your stand. If you have not pre-booked a specific stand there is an opportunity to arrange for one of the other sites provided, if they are available.

The main camp consists of approximately 23 caravan or tent stands with a second bush camp being developed at the time of writing. All the stands are paved and level with ample space. We were able to easily set up two Senior Tentco Tents with a Gazebo and space to park two vehicles.

The stands are well spaced out, some with small vegetation in between. It never felt as if we were camping on our neighbour's doorstep. Two of the stands have their own ablution and scullery facilities.

Most of the stands are located amongst lush indigenous trees, and you are guaranteed some or partial shade during the day. We camped late in the winter and even then, there was enough shade.

All the stands are equipped with 220v electricity, three-point plug, dustbin and there is a water tap close to every site. There is also a standalone braaier at every site. Some of the stands also have an open-fire pit and it was lovely sitting around the fire at night listening to the sounds of the bushveld. Dustbins and braai facilities are cleaned daily.

The ablutions are within a short walking distance of most of the sites. All the ablutions are well looked after and cleaned daily. There are separate facilities for men and woman. These facilities all come with toilets, showers, and wash basins. The water pressure was good, and we never experienced any problems with hot water. All the shower cubicles have a small bench and some hooks to put your towels and clothing.

San Cha Len also caters for those that prefer staying in chalets; at the main camp there are three self-catering units as well as a separate family camp with its own units and swimming pool.

Note that the campsite is close to the N1-highway so you will hear some noise from the trucks and other traffic passing during the evenings, but it does quiet down later, so it is not too much of a disturbance.

This is one of the few guest farms that are pet friendly and smaller dogs are welcomed but be mindful, not all campers are animal lovers. Apart from the wildlife there are also other animals such as chickens and geese that roam freely throughout the campsite, so keep an eye on your pets. On their website the owners do request that prior arrangements are needed before you bring your pets.

As far as activities are concerned you will find an outdoor pool as well as a smaller indoor heated pool at the main camp. Should you wish not to spend the day at your campsite there are also several shared entertainment areas, braai facilities, as well as a trampoline, putt-putt and play area for the children.

Most of these facilities are kept neat and clean but can do with an upgrade. The long-term campers and permanent campers do host regular events such as bring and braais as well as small jukskei tournaments, everyone is welcomed.

For those that prefer the company of their mobile phones, there was good reception for all the networks, including Telkom.

Guests are encouraged to walk around and explore the farm; this is something that we really enjoyed at San Cha Len. There are several wildlife species on the farm and during our morning and late afternoon walks we encountered impala, wildebeest, nyala and duikertjies. Mountain Biking is also welcomed at San Cha Len.

Although there is a small kiosk on-site where you can purchase some ice and wood it is sparsely stocked and the lady that oversees the shop is not always available, so it is best to come prepared. Other necessities can be purchased at Bela-Bela which is the nearest town, approximately 10km from the camp.

Guest can also take a short walk to Rondevue-ini-Bos, the Guest Farm next door to San Cha Len, where they have a lovely restaurant overlooking a dam. You will find an extensive menu. Regular weekend events are also hosted at this guest farm.

As far as security at San Cha Len is concerned the entire farm is fenced, and the owners do patrol the area regularly at night. Although there were no visible security guards at the farm, at no point did we feel unsafe. But this is South Africa, and it is always best to remain vigilant and be aware of your surroundings.

The farm has a social media presence where you can find updates and exclusive offers throughout the year; reviews are mostly positive. Their website can be easily navigated and all the information needed to make a booking at the Farm is readily available.

Would we recommend San Cha Len Guest Farm? Definitely. If you prefer long-term camping or just want to spend a few days in the bush relaxing, reading, taking a leisurely stroll or mountain biking, then San Cha Len is a great Guest Farm. The owners and staff are friendly and very professional.

What to expect: A tranquil bushveld haven for long-term and permanent campers seeking a like-minded community.

Website: www.sanchalen.co.za

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