Welcome to Tshukudu Bush Lodge, an intimate sanctuary nestled away on its own private concession in the heart of the malaria-free Pilanesberg National Park. Just a two-hour drive from Johannesburg, this beautiful retreat is well known for its picturesque topography and extensive plains teeming with wildlife.

The lodge and its ten chalets are wrapped high upon the contours of a rocky outcrop giving it panoramic views of the grasslands and waterhole below – ideal for game viewing throughout the day.

Other than what to wear, you do not need to pack a thing because guests stay on a fully inclusive basis, which consists of breakfast, high tea and dinner prepared to perfection, select local beverages and two daily game drives with our experienced ranger on a private game vehicle.

The lodge’s location makes it an unbeatable destination for a quick romantic getaway, an intimate honeymoon, or an exclusive venue for a small wedding or corporate breakaway. It is truly spectacular; a place where guests can escape the world and just relax, unwind and breathe in the glories of nature.

TSHUKUDU DINING ROOM
Tshukudu’s Dining Room is set just off the main deck area and is a cozy nook for guests to dine inside on cool or rainy days. Adorned with a hand crafted, solid-wood table with seating for up to 20 guests, this is the perfect place to enjoy meals as a group.

Renowned for our exceptional African cuisine, meticulously prepared by our chef, guests can expect an incredible degustation experience starting at breakfast and ending the day with a full five-course dinner.

TSHUKUDU BUSH DINNER
One of the most charming dining experiences Tshukudu has on offer is a short trip into the African bush where our guests can immerse themselves in nature while dining under the stars.

With the fireplace as your centerpiece, expect to be served a starter of warm soup, followed by a traditional South African braai (barbeque) buffet, plated dessert, and an assorted cheeseboard to conclude.

As the meal comes to an end and the moon makes its way across the near-midnight sky, allow our rangers to entertain you for a little longer as they share an assortment of authentic African stories, fables and legends. This is a truly unforgettable experience and not to be missed. Group bookings essential.

MAIN DECK
With its breathtaking views over the plains below, the deck is the ideal venue for all meals at the lodge. Tables are setup and spread across the space, ensuring privacy for guests to enjoy their cuisine in their groups or pairs.

DINING CONFERENCE
The ideal space to host a small meeting or conference, followed with a meal and sundowners on the deck. The intimacy of Tshukudu will ensure both the privacy and personal attention to detail.

CELEBRATIONS
From proposals to anniversaries and birthdays, each occasion is tailor-made and guaranteed to be a unique experience every time. We will work with you to make it a memorable one.

Website: www.legacyhotels.co.za

Rooms: 10

Price: from 656 EUR per night

Perched regally amidst the bush willows on the tip of a magnificent gorge overlooking the Sterkstroom River, Clifftop Exclusive Safari Hideaway is your idyllic sanctuary in the African Bush.

A romantic, secluded hideaway from the world’s worries that caters to an intimate encounter with the magnificent UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere inside Welgevonden Private Game Reserve.

Sip a soothing G&T as you relax in your very own plunge pool overlooking the gorge, or disappear in to the depths of a comfortable wicker chair to watch the glorious scenery and varied wildlife.

Clifftop is a serene sanctuary amidst spectacular scenery; a wildlife retreat of extraordinary beauty and home to a myriad of animal and bird species that call the rocky ravines and rolling wooded mountains of this stunning private reserve home.

Your precious privacy is interrupted only by the sound of the bushveld from your elevated suite deck and the sound of the roaring river a hundred metres below. Relax on your private deck enjoying the cool breeze or sip a full-bodied red wine in front of one of the lodge’s cosy fires.

Whether you’re on honeymoon or simply seeking a romantic sojourn, Clifftop Exclusive Safari Hideaway will soothe your soul; its characteristic silver, grey and white tones, private nooks and natural wood and stone features creating a sense of calm throughout.

The seclusion and romance throughout Clifftop Exclusive Safari Hideaway makes it an incredible wedding destination and heaven for honeymooners. Spend the best day of your life or the days thereafter in intimate surroundings with the one you love.

Clifftop Exclusive Safari Hideaway brings the bush to life, delivering a secluded, romantic retreat within Limpopo’s beautiful Waterberg, just three hours’ drive from Johannesburg. Romance the bush at Clifftop and it will romance you right back.

Accommodation
At Clifftop, we believe that tranquillity, seclusion, and peace of mind begin with design and the careful use of space. Each suite of our eight-room lodge is a luxurious cocoon that offers unrivaled views of the ruggedly beautiful Sterkstroom River gorge and Waterberg surroundings.

The careful use of natural elements and tones, including wood and stone, paired with the opulence of our well–appointed amenities, create an irresistible feeling of sanctuary. You never have to leave the serenity of your private suite to relax in breath-taking surroundings, reenergise, and detox from every day worries.

Enjoy a quiet read in the comfort of your own lounge area shielded from the outdoors by massive floor to ceiling glass French doors, or step outside onto your private timber deck complete with your very own plunge pool, an outdoor seating area, and splendid views of the Sterkstroom river gorge.

You need never leave the comfort of your private Clifftop sanctuary. Relax in breathtaking surroundings, reenergise, de-stress and detox.

Dining and Cuisine
Every dish served at Clifftop Exclusive Safari Hideaway is a culinary masterpiece. Personalised dining experiences, brought to life by your personal butler, entail unforgettable moments that even the most discerning foodies will adore

Enjoy a hearty cold and hot breakfast at Clifftop’s restaurant deck overlooking the Sterkstroom river gorge; the roaring river below and happy chatter of birds accompanying a delicious starter of fruit, homemade granola, cheese and pastries, followed by the tastiest hot English breakfast or omelette.

You may be full but when that clock strikes one thirty, you’ll be scurrying back to devour a delectable lunch of rib-eye steak, lamb chops, Nicoise salad, or even sushi, to name but a few of the mouth-watering dishes served up in stunning surroundings.

A delicious dining experience at Clifftop is incomplete without our delectable desserts. Indulge in our famous crème caramel, strawberry sensation, or a myriad of tasty pastries that our patisserie has on offer

After an evening’s safari and sundowners, you’ll be ushered to your private dining area, specially selected and decorated for you by your personal butler. Oxtail, lamb shank and venison are just some of the incredible dishes prepared by the talented chefs at Clifftop.

A ginger and lychee sorbet clears your palate before you tease your taste buds with cheesecake, apple crumble or a traditional South African malva pudding, among others. All washed down with some of South Africa’s tastiest, award-winning wines.

Then it’s off to the bar for an Amarula nightcap before retiring to the comfort of your Clifftop sanctuary in preparation for yet another gorgeous African day.

Conferencing
Get down to business in the bush. For companies, Clifftop Exclusive Safari Hideaway offers basic conferencing facilities for up to 16 delegates. But it’s certainly not all work and no play as you set off on your safari, devour delicious bush cuisine and bond with your colleagues within a breathtaking setting.

The lodge has been designed for the purposes of catering for corporate workshops, merger & acquisition meetings, and other senior management meetings of a private nature.

As the only official fully commercial site in a reserve designed to be private, we offer companies a secure total experience, away from prying eyes. In addition to the 16-seater boardroom, the lodge boasts numerous “break-out” areas for workshops and brain storming.

Welgevonden Nature Reserve

The Waterberg Biosphere: a hidden treasure of South African Heritage: In 2001, the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) designated the Waterberg area of South Africa as a recognised Biosphere Reserve. Welgevonden Private Game Reserve, our home, is located in the heart of this Biosphere, and adjoins Marakele National Park.

The UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere Reserve is a 6,500 square kilometre (650,000 hectare) paradise named after the water-rich nature that the low mountain ranges and escarpments produce in an otherwise arid region.

As one of three major mountain ranges in the Limpopo Province of South Africa, the Waterberg Mountain Range also contributes to a major water catchment area of the Limpopo Basin.

The unique nature of the mountainous region, coupled with the water-rich soil, produces an abundance of flora and fauna that are endemic to this region.

According to UNESCO, the Waterberg’s rich biodiversity is evident with the presence of more than 5,500 species of plants, of which 43% are endemic to South Africa.

The region is also home to at least 18 threatened plant species, 18 mammal species 11 bird species, 4 reptile species, 4 species of fish, and one butterfly species that are all deemed of the utmost importance for biodiversity conservation.

From a socioeconomic perspective, the region is equally rich and unique. The Waterberg has been inhabited over hundreds and thousands of years and is home to one of the most important San rock art areas in South Africa. Today, more than 80,000 people live in the Biosphere Reserve.

The ideology of a Biosphere Reserve is to preserve both the socioeconomic and environmental distinctiveness of the Waterberg region, helping to strike a balance between the pressures of economic development, the need to generate direct benefits to the local communities, and the conservation of the area’s natural resources.

As tourism is the primary source of income in the region, the Waterberg Biosphere Reserve Committee—an organisation set up after a five year consultation process with all stakeholders concerned—is tasked with ensuring that the needs of all stakeholders are dealt with in an equitable manner.

Clifftop Exclusive Safari Hideaway is privileged to contribute to the innovative conservation of the UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere through Welgevonden Private Game Reserve’s pioneering conservation model.

Through industry-leading, innovative conservation management, Welgevonden itself is home to more than 65 mammal species, including the famous Big Five, cheetah, brown hyena, caracal, aardwolf, and over 300 different bird species.

Located just two and a half hours away on road, or a mere 45-minute by flight, from Johannesburg, the UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere’s accessibility and malaria-free status make it one of the finest places to watch wildlife, soak in the wilderness, and experience a hidden gem of South African heritage.

As South Africans around the country are waiting with abated breath for the next opportunity to travel, we encourage everyone to explore the hidden treasures of our exceptional country.

At Clifftop, we believe that successful ecotourism must generate sustainable outcomes for the environment, for the surrounding communities, and for our commercial viability at every stage of our guest experience.

We reaffirm our commitment to creating an exceptional experience that will generate sustainable benefits for the local community, for tourism, and for the conservation of our country’s inimitable heritage

Safari Experience
Cross through rivers and travel up the rugged hills as you explore the pristine UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere inside Welgevonden Private Game Reserve, accompanied by our experienced guiding team.

As a pioneering Private Game Reserve, Welgevonden is home to more than 65 mammal species, including the famous “Big Five”, cheetah, brown and spotted hyena, caracal, aardwolf, and over 300 different bird species.

Witness the extraordinary ability of elephants to teeter up the steep and rugged mountainside in search of food, soak-in a proudly South African sunset in the company of lions as they prepare to embark on their nighttime adventures, and spend quality time up close with white rhinos crossing the open plains or taking a relaxing mud bath.

Spot the mighty eland, revered by so many, the elusive leopard and the brash honey badger as they go about their daily bush business. Observe the wonders of the bush undetected; your expert guide helping to decipher the mysteries of the bush and its creatures.

Engage in the art of tracking in search of hyenas, cheetah, and more, spot a hippo pod hiding from the heat of the African sun, admire the cacophony of bird calls and plethora of rare bird sightings through the changing landscapes.

A Day in the Life of…
Kick-start your day before the sun rises, dunking a homemade rusk into a steamy cup of coffee before setting off on your morning safari with your assigned ranger.

Watch as the bush awakens around you; the mighty elephants beginning their daily trudge through the bush seeking to fill their bellies with delectable ‘tree-ts’, Burchell’s Zebra grazing on the plains in perfect peace, a lion still feeding on the remnants of her wildebeest kill.

All is quiet in the bush. As the dew glistens on the tall spear grass, you take a break and enjoy a steaming cup of coffee on an open plain surrounded by the impressive mountains on all sides with nothing but the sound of bush birds greeting yet another stunning African sunrise.

The sun touches the red and grey sandstone rocks that dot the hills of the Welgevonden as you wind your way back to Clifftop Exclusive Safari Hideaway for a sumptuous breakfast and true relaxation in the privacy of your very own bush retreat.

Take a dip in your private pool or read a book on your secluded terrace, the African sun will keep you warm and contented. The lodge’s trained spa therapists are available all day to soothe your weary muscles with a Swedish or aromatherapy massage in the privacy of your room.

Sleep the day away or enjoy a delicious lunch of Pear & Brie salad, lamb chops and spicy prawns before preparing for your afternoon safari through the Welgevonden; enjoy a quiet sundowner drink and kudu biltong as you watch the sun set over the bushveld.

Explore the bush as it turns from day to night; bright-eyed bush babies cling to the trees, a Spotted Eagle Owl hunts her prey and the rising Southern Cross directs you home to a romantic dinner, superb South African wine, exceptional hospitality and a roaring fire.

Indulge in one last Amarula on the rocks at the bar or retire to the comfort of your king-size bed in preparation for yet another magnificent day in the African bush, the sounds of the nightjar and bush frogs lulling you to sleep.

Website: www.clifftoplodge.co.za

Rooms: 8

Price: from 772 EUR per night

Built on a hill overlooking the reserve, Leopard Hills boasts eight newly-renovated and exquisitely-decorated luxurious glass-fronted suites. Complete with their own sundeck and plunge pool, the suites offer superb views of the African bushveld.

The suites are generously spacious and luxuriously appointed with air-conditioning and overhead fans. The breathtaking romantic bathrooms include indoor and outdoor showers, which open to a glorious view of the passing cavalcade.

So if you’re looking for luxurious Sabi Sand accommodation, you’re in exactly the right place!

The comfortable beds are fitted with crisp percale cotton linen, silk duvets and pillows, and gracious mosquito netting. Special touches to each suite include special gifts, weather notes and African poems and a fine array of bath salts and amenities.

An inviting lounge with views over the bush creates the ideal setting to relax with a book or while away the afternoon with a pair of binoculars in the comfort of your air-conditioned suite, a wonderful reprieve from the heat of the midday sun.

Enjoy the privacy of your suite and salute the timelessness of Africa over a drink or snack from your fully-stocked mini-bar. Savour the day on your pool lounger outside on your expansive deck, whilst listening to the tranquil sounds of the surrounding bush.

At this Sabi Sand accommodation option, elements of nature have been incorporated into your suite, to provide the ultimate in luxury while experiencing Africa at its best.

Surrounded by the Sights and Sounds of the African Bush
Our team’s dedication and passion to please each guest according to his or her needs is prevalent in every aspect of the Lodge. The main deck is perfect for whiling the day away with a pair of binoculars or using the spotting scope, in the glorious sun or under the shade of an umbrella.

From this view you may find many untold secrets of the African bush while enjoying a sumptuous breakfast or decadent lunch. When the heat is on, cool down on the open-air verandah with an ice cold drink in hand, or sink below the refreshing surface of our main swimming pool.

The bar and lounge entices guests to pre- or post-dinner drinks and fireside chat with their friendly ranger. Our professional barmen will mix together the freshest ingredients to make interesting and unique cocktails and drinks to suit all tastes.

A nightcap of the finest whiskey, port or South African Amarula is the perfect way to end the day. Silver service dinners are enjoyed in our elegant dining room or under the stars on the deck overlooking the floodlit waterhole.

Our wine cellar situated underneath the dining room is a treat for the wine connoisseur, as well as the learning amateur, and is stocked with a selection of celebrated local wines. Our friendly team will assist you in pairing the perfect wine with the menu for that evening.

The library offers a setting of peace and tranquillity, where you are welcome to browse through a large selection of literature and African journals. In addition there is a secluded alcove where online internet access is available 24-hours a day, enabling guests to connect with loved ones at home.

A television is also available for those wanting to keep up to date with the latest news or sports games. We have a fine selection of documentary DVD’s for those wanting more information on African wildlife and its intricacies.

Our curio shop is stocked with a stunning range of African memorabilia – offering traditional ornaments, handcrafted jewellery and beautiful safari gear. The curio shop is enough to entice any avid shopper and collector.

Bush Cuisine
Our team of dedicated chefs ensure that every meal at Leopard Hills becomes a special occasion. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and tea-time treats, prepared by our team of chefs, are of unparalleled quality and incorporate flavours from around the globe complemented with an African flair.

Leopard Hills goes to great lengths to accommodate guests with specialist dietary requirements (allergies, vegetarian and plant based diets etc) – delicious meals will be tailored around individual needs.

Traditional full English and Continental breakfasts are served on the main deck after the early morning game drive and are the perfect way to start each day at the Lodge.

Lunches are served under big shady umbrellas, and are an occasion in themselves! The team incorporate the best locally produced ingredients to produce cuisine that satisfies the taste buds.

“Cooking with character” is the highlight of every dinner at Leopard Hills. Here, the personalities of the chef and her team are infused with decadent dining and creative settings.

No dinner will ever be the same at Leopard Hills, from dining under the stars in our traditional boma to fine silver service dinners in our dining room, or out on the upper deck where a cool breeze is a welcome relief from the African heat.

The perfect end to a wonderful safari experience; a private dinner on the deck of your suite is offered to couples wanting to spend time together in privacy. The ultimate in romance, private dinners at Leopard Hills will seduce the senses and soothe the soul.

BUSH BREAKFASTS

After an enthralling morning game drive guests may have the opportunity to appreciate the amazing smells and sounds that flow from a new day dawning in Africa, along with the aromas of a sumptuous breakfast in the heart of the bush.

BOMA DINNERS

After an evening game drive, guests will be drawn to the crackling fire, where a traditional African dining experience is enjoyed in the Boma. Here you will find a hurricane lamp lit ‘dining room’ under African skies, and a feast of delicious cuisine awaits.

Where it all Began
Leopard Hills Private Game Reserve, owned by Louis Kruger and Jack Brotherton, opened in March 1998 on the Ululapa Farm, which has been in the Kruger Family since 1983.

Leopard Hills forms part of the western sector of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, and offers over 10 000 hectares of traversing which includes access to the perennial Sand River to the north and the Savannah plains to the south.

The lodge was initially built with five luxury suites and in September 2000 another three suites and the library were added. In 2004 the treatment sala and gym were built which completed the lodge.

In 2003 Leopard Hills formed a school on the premises, providing the children of managers and staff throughout the Sabi Sand Reserve with the opportunity of an education.

Since its inception, Leopard Hills has prided itself in delivering some of the best game viewing experiences Africa has to offer. Our philosophy is to offer guests the ultimate safari experience in a sustainable way, ensuring the safety and security of wildlife for generations to come.

Duncan and Louise Rodgers, Operations Director and General Manager of Leopard Hills, have dedicated themselves to making every guest’s visit an experience of unsurpassed luxury.

With 32 years in the game lodge industry, they believe that Leopard Hills is by far the best camp they have ever had the privilege of being associated with, not only for its location and facilities, but most of all for the amazing staff and owners associated with this establishment.

Leopard Hills’ mission is to offer exceptional hospitality and superb game viewing; while at the same time creating a wonderful atmosphere, where guests become part of ‘the family’.

Giving Back at Leopard Hills
Leopard Hills have taken responsibility for looking after and building a day care centre/crèche for under-privileged children and orphans in the area. With the support of our guests, we have been able to raise sufficient funds to build a new facility in the local village.

Through additional donations of books, clothing, writing materials and blankets, we have also gone a long way to improve the lives and learning of these children. Leopard Hills, in conjunction with our partners, will continue to support this project with the aim of continually making a difference.

GOOD WORK FOUNDATION
Leopard Hills recently partnered with the Good Work Foundation (GWF) to launch a digital learning campus in the nearby rural village of Dumphries. The GWF is an NGO focused on digital learning opportunities for young adults and scholars living in rural communities.

Launched on 26 July 2019, the Dumphries Digital Learning Campus is the latest addition to the “Hazyview Cluster” – a collection of five digital learning campuses in Mpumalanga providing various levels of skills and training.

Sabi Sand Game Reserve
The Birthplace of Sustainable Wildlife Tourism in Southern Africa
The 65,000-hectare Sabi Sand Game Reserve is located on the south-west corner of the world famous Kruger National Park. The Reserve is adjacent to the Kruger National Park and consists of numerous private game reserves.

There are no fences between the Kruger Park and Sabi Sand Reserve allowing the wildlife to roam freely between the reserves.

Two perennial rivers (which the reserve is named after), the Sabi and the Sand flow through this game park, sustaining the diverse fauna and flora of the area, which boasts one of the highest and most bio-diverse wildlife populations of any area in Africa.

Due to the integrity of the environment there is a large population of animals in the area year round. There is limited migration between the Sabi Sand Game Reserve and the Kruger National Park which has ensured genetic diversity with an integrated biodiversity within the entire 2,7 million hectare protected area.

This area is in the process of being enlarged further by incorporating it into the Peace Park concept where it will be with protected areas in Mozambique and eventually Zimbabwe.

History of The Sabi Sand Game Reserve
The Sabi Sand Game Reserve dates back to the 1950’s when the landowners initiated dropping the internal fences and sharing a common environmental management programme.

This association is administered by a Warden who reports to the Park Management Committee. Prior to this, there were a number of landowner pioneers in the 1920’ and 1930’s who initiated the conservation of the area’s wildlife.

Today there are no less than six of these families who are now third and fourth generation landowners – a credit to the foresight of their forefathers who loved and cared for Africa’s dwindling wildlife. Their legacy is possibly the best area in which to view southern Africa’s extensive biodiversity.

Due to considerate game viewing practises where clients remain within the ‘profile’ of the open vehicles and the animals have priority, trackers and game rangers from the surrounding lodges are able to offer exceptional game viewing of wide variety of game species, as well as the ‘high profile animals’.

The success of viewing leopard is legendary and allowing sufficient time in this area animals such as elephant, lion, rhino, buffalo, cheetah, giraffe, zebra and a vast variety of antelope and other species, may be closely observed.

This greater area is home to 336 tree, 49 fish, 34 amphibian, 114 reptile, 507 bird and 147 mammal species. Many of the animals are likely to have never encountered a fence as they exist, free ranging, in this pristine corner of Africa.

Leopards are a main attraction in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, and especially at Leopard Hills. The Leopards are so accustomed to vehicles that they do not take much notice of them.

Even when hunting, a leopard in the Sabi Sands will not mind a vehicle following it, even if this means following it off-road though the bush. Chances of seeing the ‘Big 5’ (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino) are excellent in this reserve.

Weather
South Africa has some of the sunniest weather in the world and we are privileged to have warm, temperate conditions for most of the year.

Spring and summer at Leopard Hills is when the bush is thick and lush and it is the best time of the year to see newborn animals. Autumn and winter can be dry, the bush is less dense and waterholes are frequented more often due to the lack of water.

Temperatures range from 20-30 degrees Celsius in spring, 25-35 degrees Celsius in summer, 19-28 degrees Celsius in autumn, and 08-25 degrees Celsius in winter.

This being said, Leopard Hills can be visited throughout the year and weather conditions will not affect your memorable experience of the South African bushveld. The closest town on the weather map to Leopard Hills is Skukuza in Mpumalanga, which experiences similar weather to Leopard Hills.

Conservation
Leopard Hills recognises and embraces the important role it plays in the conservation of its environment.

Every effort is made to use responsible management techniques that protect and enhance the environment for future generations. Leopard Hills strives to secure long-term sustainability of the South African tourism industry and is aligned with Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa.

Activities
Within the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, the ‘Big 5’, (elephant, lion, rhino, buffalo and leopard), abound and viewing them at close proximity is our speciality. Traversing over 10,000 hectares of incredibly diverse ecosystems makes Leopard Hills the ideal destination to view plentiful game in its natural habitat.

Each day brings something different, as you explore the bush in an open game viewing vehicle. Whether it is a leopard on the hunt, lions roaring at twilight, hippo wallowing in the river, or a crocodile basking on a sandy bank; each viewing will enthrall.

Game Drives
Your knowledgeable and professional ranger conducts early morning and late afternoon/evening game drives, in search of Africa’s big game.

The latest state-of-the-art open game drive vehicles, specifically designed for Leopard Hills, have individual bucket seats and centre consoles, ensuring your optimum safety and comfort.

Leopard Hills prides itself with the best rangers in the business, and they offer a safari experience like no other, from sightings of big game in their natural surroundings, to the smaller flora and fauna, which make this piece of paradise a place we are privileged to call home.

Walking Trails
Exploring the African wilderness on foot provides us with a real sense of place and we become a part of the environment, absorbing every detail, leaving nothing but our tracks behind.

Your senses will become tuned in to the many facets of nature that are often overlooked from a vehicle as you see, smell, hear, touch and even taste the true soul of Africa.

Coming across an attractively marked leopard tortoise, watching a fascinating rhino beetle or a stunningly plumed lilac breasted roller, are just a few of the amazing encounters awaiting you!

Trails are flexible depending on each guest’s requirements. Shorter walks are conducted after the morning game drive and are usually for 1 or 2 hours. Longer walking trails can be arranged anytime and can even be in place of morning game drives.

Our walking safaris are lead by an experienced fully qualified Trails Guide who will tailor your experience based on your specific interests.

After an introductory briefing on the all important “do’s and don’ts” of bush walking safaris, the trail will be structured around the fitness levels of the group. In keeping with safety regulations on guided walks, no children under 16 are permitted.

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY

Those with a passion for wildlife photography will be able to get various tips from their ranger on taking the perfect picture, while on their game drive or walking safari.

Our rangers are avid fans of photography, many of them having entered renowned international and local competitions with great results. Please do not hesitate to ask your ranger for assistance in this regard.

PRIVATE GAME VIEWING

For a truly exclusive experience, why not book a private safari vehicle and guide allowing you to set your own pace on your safari. For avid birders or photographers this is a must as you can take as much time as you want on a single sighting. Please note: This is dependant on availability of vehicles and guides

Your Day in the African Bush
An Enthralling Experience Not to be Missed
Your safari at Leopard Hills has been carefully planned around the best game viewing opportunities. The more productive times to enjoy game viewing are first thing in the morning before the heat of the day kicks in, and late afternoon as the day starts to cool down ensuring further animal movement.

During the heat of the day when the animals have retreated to the shade for some respite, you get to enjoy a light lunch and time to relax around the camp, or cool off in your private plunge pool before enjoying the next round of spectacular game viewing.

Not only do you get to see amazing wildlife on your morning drive, but you will enjoy a steaming cup of coffee and muffins in the middle of the African bush, while welcoming the new day. On your late afternoon drive you will stop at a special site to watch the sun set and toast to a spectacular days safari.

Darkness brings about a time of both danger and respite in the bush which allows you to possibly spot smaller carnivores such as genet or civet not usually seen during the day. This is also the time when most predators hunt so your evening game drive could potentially be the most exciting of all.

For more energetic guests wanting to work up an appetite before their hearty breakfast, guided bush walks or trails are offered half way through your morning drive or in place of your morning drive. Here your guide will show you many fascinating things, sharing a secret or two about the bush.

Guests wishing to go on the early morning game drive, will receive a morning wake-up call at 05h00 in Summer and 05h30 in Winter. Tea and coffee is served upstairs on the deck overlooking the waterhole before departing on the drive at around 05h45 in Summer and 06h45 in Winter.

The morning drive lasts approximately three hours, depending on the game viewing; whereafter breakfast is served. For the more adventurous, there is a bush walk available after breakfast, which offers an ideal opportunity to explore the smaller aspects of our environment; such as tracks, birds and insects.

Lunch is served from 13h00 upstairs on the deck. After a relaxing afternoon, guests will join their ranger for tea, coffee and cake in the dining room from 16h00 in Summer and 15h30 in Winter.

The evening safari departs at around 16h30 in Summer and 16h00 in Winter. Again the drive lasts approximately three hours. On arrival back at the lodge security guards guide guests back to their room to freshen up.

Pre-dinner drinks are served in the bar, after which dinner follows at 20h30 in Summer and 19h30 in Winter.

Included in Your Daily Itinerary
Spectacular ‘Big 5’ game viewing. Morning and afternoon game drives daily in state-of-the-art open game viewing vehicles. Tea, filter coffee and muffins on morning game drive.

Drinks and canapés at the afternoon game drive. Optional Walking Trails after a shorter morning dame drive. Optional Walking Safari in place of morning game drive.

Weddings
Bespoke Intimate Weddings
At Leopard Hills, we pride ourselves on our reputation for warm, world-class service, and the little touches that make the difference. Emphasis is on ultimate luxury and romantic charm, combined with the priceless gift of privacy.

Weddings at Leopard Hills portray just this. This intimate lodge offers a memorable safari experience for couples and honeymooners alike.

Legality of Foreign Weddings in South Africa
The law in South Africa requires a foreign couple to attend an appointment at the Department of Home Affairs before they can be legally married in South Africa.

Since this is quite a cumbersome task for someone on safari, we suggest that you process all legal marriage documents in your home country and enjoy your ceremony on safari in a more traditional way.

Wellness at Leopard Hills
Indulge in the Ultimate Relaxation
Enjoy an array of spa treatments in the privacy of your suite or in the glass walled massage sala overlooking the surrounding bush. What better way to work up a sweat than on our various gym machines while watching a herd of elephant drinking at the waterhole below?

Or indulge in an array of pampering massage treatments in our glass-fronted sala which has a superb vantage point off the main pool deck, offering absolute privacy with spectacular views.

Our core philosophy of natural health is based on self nurturing, personal inspiration and the use of ingredients provided by ‘Mother Earth’, to provide you with the most invigorating treatments imaginable.

CASCADES & CANYON HELICOPTER FLIGHTS
Experience the beauty of the third-deepest canyon in the world, the Blyde River Canyon in the luxury of a Bell Jet Ranger Helicopter.

Mpumalanga Helicopter Company will pick you up at the lodge and fly you through the ancient cliffs of the Blyde River Canyon and along the escarpment passing the famous landmarks of ‘Three Rondawels’ and ‘God’s Window’.

A delicious picnic lunch will be enjoyed at a secluded spot with spectacular views before returning back to the Lodge for your afternoon game drive. For more information, visit: www.mhelicopter.co.za.

SHANGAAN CULTURAL VILLAGE TOURS

We offer excursions to a local community to witness the village culture of the Shangaan people. This outing includes an insight into the beliefs, cuisine, dance and religious aspects of the local community and is well worth a visit. Times of the excursions are from 10.30 am until lunchtime.

ELEPHANT INTERACTION

An unforgettable interaction with elephants offering the opportunity to touch the elephant, exchange trunk greetings and offer tasty treats. For more information, visit: www.elephantwhispers.co.za.

GOLF ON SAFARI
Golfing enthusiasts visiting Leopard Hills can play a round of golf at a world-famous golf course and be back at the Lodge in time to enjoy the late afternoon game drive experience.

Mpumalanga Helicopter Co. provides speedy air transfers in style for up to 10 golfers, from the Leopard Hills helicopter pad to one of three world-renowned golf courses. A wonderful opportunity to slip in a round of golf and also a fabulous way to see the magnificent beauty of the Mpumalanga Lowveld from the air.

Leopard Creek Country Club

Situated on the banks of the Crocodile River near Malelane and designed by one of the world’s greatest golfers, Gary Player, Leopard Creek Country Club delivers a world-class golfing experience.

Highland Gate Golf Estate

Nestled in the picturesque Steenkampsberg mountain range near Dullstroom, the Highland Gate Golf Estate, Ernie Els’ signature golf course is on the bucket list for many local and international golfers.

Hans Merensky Golf Course

Share a round of golf with resident wildlife visitors in a unique bushveld atmosphere at the award-winning Hans Merensky Golf Course bordering the Kruger National Park.

Website: www.leopardhills.com

Rooms: 8

Price: from 2.297 EUR per night

Inyati Game Lodge is situated in the western sector of the Sabi Sand Wildtuin which is a private game reserve sharing a common unfenced boundary with the Kruger National Park.

It spans 50 000 hectares and is renowned for providing some of the best game viewing in Africa. The reserve is not open to the general public with each private lodge having exclusive traversing rights over their area.

Inyati’s rangers drive specially designed safari vehicles which are allowed off-road, ensuring you get exclusive and intimate game viewing opportunities. The reserve has a dense concentration of wildlife and is home to the Big 5 – elephant, lion, rhino, leopard and buffalo.

Cheetah, giraffe, zebra, wild dogs and a vast variety of antelope and other species may also be closely observed, free roaming within their own territories. Inyati is one of the best places in the world to get up close and personal with the elusive leopard.

The reserve has a hot, sub-tropical climate with two distinct seasons and game viewing activities are equally rewarding during both.

The summer season (September to March) is a time when many species breed and prey is plentiful for the lurking predators. Rainfall occurs between October and February and often results in spectacular afternoon thundershowers.

In the winter season (April to August), the animals concentrate at the perennial water sources and the grass is low, making game viewing easier. Although winter days are usually warm and clear, late afternoon and early morning temperatures are distinctly chilly.

ACCOMMODATION
Inyati can accommodate a maximum of 25 guests maintaining the family ambience it’s become renowned for. The lodge consists of three luxury family chalets and eight luxury standard chalets, all tastefully furnished with uninterrupted views of the African bush overlooking the Sand river.

The 3 larger chalets offer an extra length king-sized bed, a double bed and a single bed making it the perfect choice for families sharing.

There are 4 standard luxury chalets with extra length king-sized beds and the remaining 4 standard luxury rooms all have comfortable twin beds. All beds are protected with high quality mosquito nets.

All chalets have 24-hour temperature control – air-conditioning and overhead fans en-suite bathroom with bathroom amenities, outside showers in the standard chalets, insect repellent and hairdryers, direct dial telephones, mini bar fridge (stocked on request), tea and coffee making facilities, mini-safe and in room free Wi-Fi.

FAMILY CHALET
This elegant and spacious chalet features air conditioning and comes with a seating area, mosquito net draped over the beds and in room Wi-Fi.

DINING AT INYATI
Between the warm campfire, divine wine and delicious dishes, evenings on your safari are not just to enjoy dinner, it’s a delightful experience in itself!

THE INYATI WINE EXPERIENCE
Going on safari to witness the majesty of the big 5 free-roaming animals is a dream held by many people, but for wine lovers, there is also the question of “how is the wine on safari?” Fortunately, at Inyati, the answer is “excellent,” we get to show off the delicious and well-balanced wines of our country.

Inyati has for many years collaborated with the family-owned Vriesenhof Wine Estate (Stellenbosch) as the producer of its house wine. We have an extensive wine list showcasing a wide variety of South Africa’s finest wines.

EXPERT RANGERS AND TRACKERS
Inyati prides itself in the safari guiding team and we believe that an experienced ranger and tracker are an integral part of your game viewing experience.

All of our rangers and trackers are registered with The Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA) and have a full trails guide qualification as a minimum requirement.

These qualifications ensure guests enjoy an exceptional wildlife experience – not only while on a game drive but also on foot. Your ranger will be your dinner host, guide, and educator during your stay.

Guests are guided on specially designed safari vehicles which are allowed off-road, ensuring you get exclusive and intimate game viewing opportunities.

The tracker, who sits on a seat at the front of the bonnet, has the job of finding elusive wildlife as well as interpret nature’s subtle clues through acutely honed senses while the ranger engages with the guests.

OUR IMPACT
The majority of Inyati’s employees are from the impoverished Bushbuckridge communities. Inyati recognises the socio-economic issues of the area and we make every effort to address them in a progressive and mutually beneficial way.

Our commitment to transformation extends beyond our employees through our community programmes. We assist local schools and are a major partner in establishing a digital learning centre with Good Work Foundation (GWF) in the Dumphries community on the border of Inyati.

GWF provides learning opportunities to school children, adult learning programmes and connects young rural South Africans to the huge opportunities in the growing economy of wildlife.

We invite guests to join us as we visit The Dumphries Digital Learning Campus, which is about a 15 minute drive from the main lodge. You are welcome to donate towards an item on the wish list or take a gift with you (we have gift packs of necessities available to purchase from our curio shop for your convenience).

Please note that the school is closed during school holidays, if requested in advance we may be able to arrange for guests to view the school premises at times when the school is closed.

INYATI EXPERIENCE
Inyati Game Lodge is situated in the western sector of the Sabi Sand Wildtuin which is a private game reserve sharing a common unfenced boundary with the Kruger National Park. It spans 50 000 hectares and is renowned for providing some of the best game viewing in Africa.

The reserve is not open to the general public with each private lodge having exclusive traversing rights over their area. Our qualified guiding team delivers an unrivaled wildlife experience providing fascinating insights into the complex bio networks of the South African bushveld.

The reserve has a dense concentration of wildlife and is home to the Big 5 – elephant, lion, rhino, leopard, and buffalo.

Cheetah, giraffe, zebra, wild dogs, and a vast variety of antelope and other species may also be closely observed, free-roaming within their own territories. Inyati is one of the best places in the world to get up close and personal with the elusive leopard.

BUSH WALK
Experience the wonders of Africa’s elusive wildlife up-close on Inyati’s bush walks. Walk among the Big 5 and connect with the African bushveld even more intimately than before.

Your knowledge of the bush will also be boosted by the plethora of fascinating facts that can be imparted on a safari walk – the medicinal use of plants bush survival skills, tracking, geology , local folklore and historical info to mention but a few.

The safety of our guests and our wildlife is of utmost importance and all our rangers at Inyati hold, as a minimum, a professional trails guide certification. Please note that the minimum walking age of participants across all bush walks is 16 years old.

GAME DRIVES
Game drives at Inyati Game Lodge are tailored to suit your interests, so you can track your favourite animal or see the birds, flowers, or trees that you love most. To engage with the landscape even more intimately, explore the bush on foot with our expert guides and trackers at your side.

Inyati has been recognised by the Lilizela Tourism Awards for the best “Visitor’s Experience Award for the Best Wildlife Encounters”. All our rangers are specially trained in vehicle handling and maintenance.

There is a special ‘trackers seat’ fitted to the front of the vehicle. With over 9,000 hectares of traversing wilderness, no two game drives are ever the same.

SEASONAL SAFARI TIMING
Game drives are planned for mornings and evenings as this is the time when the animals are most active. The game drives last for about three hours and include a coffee stop for the morning drive and a sundowner stop in the evening.

Inyati generally adjusts safari times accordingly to the seasons to maximise game-viewing opportunities and ensure that guests enjoy a comfortable experience. We suggest that guests arrive in time for lunch on their day of arrival not to miss out on any game drives during their stay.

PRIVATE SAFARI VEHICLES
Exclusive use of a safari vehicle can be arranged upon request but is subject to availability. Only a limited number of exclusive safari vehicles can be guaranteed at any one time. Prices available on request

FISHING
Inyati offers fishing as an extra activity between game drive times. All fishing equipment is supplied by the lodge and is done in the Sand River which is home to over 37 species of fish. Safety is paramount so guests are always accompanied by a ranger or tracker.

KIDS ON SAFARI
Parents travelling with young kids can book them on our fun and educational Young Rangers Programme. Children will be taught how to use their full range of senses to fully appreciate the wonder of nature.

At the end of their stay, children will be issued with an Inyati Young Rangers certificate and will have learnt some of the following:

• How to do tricky bird calls and how plants use offensive smells to deter unwanted predators
• How to use the sense of touch to help identify some of the distinct tree species
• How to track and identify spoor (animal tracks) in order to find animals and avoid danger
• How to use the night sky as a map to find your way home
• How to use plants for everyday activities like brushing teeth, toothpaste, soap, food, toilet paper and even medicine.

THE BIG 5
The term “Big Five” originally referred to the difficulty in hunting the lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and African buffalo. These five large African mammal species were known to be dangerous, and it was considered a feat by trophy hunters to bring them home.

Today, however, the expression takes on a gentler form, referring to seeing the Big Five—not shooting them—during wildlife safaris on the African continent.

BIRDING SAFARIS
The Sand River, which flows in-front of Inyati Game lodge, is a source of a number of rarities including the secretive African Finfoot, Whitebacked Night-heron, Blackcrowned Night-heron, Purple Heron, African Black Duck, Half Collared and Malachite Kingfishers and African Crake.

There are 108 families of birds in Africa, 17 of these unique to the continent. Among the endemic families are mousebirds, turacos, woodhoopoes, sugarbirds, whydahs and guineafowl as well as the Secretary bird and Hamerkop, which are sole representatives of their families.

PHOTOGRAPHY
Inyati is a photographer’s paradise. The ever-changing skies at dawn and dusk, the fast-moving lightning storms in the afternoon and the myriad of fascinating animals, birds and insects keep aspiring and professional photographers alike permanently captivated.

GOOD WORK FOUNDATION
GWF believes in a future where rural African people are confident participants of the fourth industrial revolution. They are agents of change seamlessly plugged into local communities and global networks.

Together with those who are reimagining education with us, GWF will continue to create innovative digital learning campuses, responsive programmes and demand-led social enterprises, all working together to create an accessible, opportunity-packed world for our next generation of rural Africans.

Our goal is for each regional cluster of campuses to deliver wonder-filled 21st-century learning opportunities to rural and marginalised communities. Each cluster will be 80% self-funded, 100% community-powered and 75% women-led. The world is changing fast and the future will not exclude us. In fact, the future needs us.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Through a voluntary Guest Conservation Contribution, every visitor has the opportunity to protect the reserve’s endangered rhino population.

Contributions will be collected from the Inyati guests on departure and are distributed through prescribed channels to the Sabi Sand Nature Conservation Trust. All transactions are independently audited by KPMG, and a section 18A certificate is available on request.

The Sabi Sand Nature Conservation Trust is a Non Profit, Public Benefit Organisation established to engage in conservation, rehabilitation and protection of the natural environment.

Funds raised through Inyati will be allocated directly to the rhino-related expenses of the anti-poaching and response teams both in the air and on the ground. Please help us to ensure that future generations do not look at ours and say that a species vanished from the earth on our watch.

COMMUNITY
The majority of Inyati’s employees are from the impoverished Bushbuckridge communities. Inyati recognises the socio-economic issues of the area and we make every effort to address them in a progressive and mutually beneficial way.

Our commitment to transformation extends beyond our employees through our community programmes. We assist local schools and are a major partner in establishing a digital learning centre with Good Work Foundation (GWF) in the Dumphries community on the border of Inyati.

GWF provides learning opportunities to school children, adult learning programmes and connects young rural South Africans to the huge opportunities in the growing economy of wildlife. We are able to organise cultural tours of local villages or a tour to the GWF digital learning centre in Dumphries.

THE INYATI FAMILY
Inyati is committed to long-term sustainability and to respecting the local community and environment in which we live. We care about our people and ensuring a representative workforce. Inyati employs about 45 permanent staff, most of which are from the local community.

Many of our staff have been with Inyati for more than 10 years making Inyati their home and creating that family atmosphere that the lodge has become renowned for.

We were the first reserve to create a staff share scheme back in 2013 which ensures our staff, as owners, get to participate in the success of our business. Our employment equity certificate demonstrates our commitment to transformation in South Africa.

Rooms: 11

Price: from 1.309 EUR per night

Source: www.inyati.co.za

Elephant Plains Game Lodge is situated in the northern part of the world-famous Sabi Sand Game Reserve, adjacent to the Kruger National Park. Elephant Plains endeavours to offer our guests the opportunity for excellent Big 5 game viewing, combined with luxurious accommodation and sumptuous cuisine.

The lodge caters for the discerning traveller, with a variety of accommodation options, varying from Rondavels and Luxury Suites to the Manyeleti Honeymoon Suite. Elephant Plains Game Lodge is world-renowned for excellent Big 5 game viewing and guests can enjoy two game drives and a bush walk per day.

The property has been in the family for the past 57 years and Elephant Plains Game Lodge opened its doors in 1998. The lodge is owner run and accommodates a maximum of 24 guests.

This guarantees personal service and attention to detail. With the help of our remarkable team of staff members, our unpretentious style ensures that guests regrettably leave, after creating a lifetime of memories!

Elephant Plains Game Lodge is situated on the dry Manyeleti riverbed, overlooking an open area and watering hole. The main lodge houses the reception, dining room, bar, lounge & wine cellar, as well as a small library and curio shop.

Facilities include two swimming pools, a gym and games room. The lodge caters for the discerning traveller, offering different types of accommodation to cater for a variety of needs. Guests are able to choose between Rondavels, Luxury Suites and The Manyeleti, our romantic honeymoon suite.

Mealtimes are sumptuous affairs, with a combination of international cuisine and South African specialities. Breakfast and lunch are enjoyed in the dining room, or on the pool deck, overlooking the open area. Dinner is served around a log fire in the boma, whilst enjoying the mystical nocturnal sounds under the African sky.

THE HISTORY
Elephant Plains Game Lodge is situated in the northern part of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, which forms part of the Greater Kruger National Park. The Sabi Sand Game Reserve was set up in the 1950’s, by a group of private landowners who dropped the fences between their properties in order to create a larger area for the animals to roam freely.

The reserve is named after its two main rivers, the Sabi and Sand Rivers, which both flow to the south of Elephant Plains Game Lodge. In 1993 the fences between the Kruger National Park and the Sabi Sand Game Reserve were dropped, to allow the animals an even bigger traversing area. Currently the Kruger National Park encompasses a protected area of around 2.2 million hectares.

Koot Steyn, his son, Dries Steyn (Etienne’s grandfather) and a third partner, Jannie Wilkens bought the farm Arathusa, from Mr. Tresford in 1962. At that time the only buildings on the property were the old Main Building and two Rondavels (2 and 3). More Rondavels (1, 4 & 5) were added and the camp was used as a winter holiday destination for family & friends.

The infamous Harry Kirkman became warden of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve in 1958 and frequently visited the farm. After captivating friends with his incredible wildlife stories around the campfire, he would always sleep on the porch of Rondavel 2, despite a ready-made bed indoors.

Koot Steyn passed on and the northern section of the farm was sold to Mr Jackel. It has since been re-sold and is currently operated as Simbambili Game Lodge. Jannie Wilkens’s southern section was sold to Mr Abrahams. The farm is now owned by his daughters, Shirley and Joan.

This is the private camp (Arathusa Private) one can see from the original pool deck. Thereafter, Dries Steyn divided his property in two – Elephant Plains Game Lodge and Arathusa Safari Lodge.

The Swart family decided to share their piece of paradise with visitors and on the 1st of October 1998 Elephant Plains Game Lodge opened its doors to the public. We initially only accommodated 10 guests in the Rondavels of the original family holiday camp. With Etienne’s vision, the construction of the new Main Lodge and Luxury Suites commenced during 2003.

THE PHILOSOPHY
Because our environment supports our livelihood, Elephant Plains Game Lodge realises the need to ensure that our presence here is as unobtrusive as possible. It is important that we look after our entrusted piece of paradise, in order to ensure that future generations will also be able to enjoy it.

Our main objectives are the sustainability of a healthy, balanced habitat, through certain conservation processes, as well as making a contribution to the socio-economic development of our surrounding communities. We believe that there is a fine balance between commercialization and the toll taken on the wildlife and its habitats.

We have a conscientious land management program, which endeavours to maintain a naturally diverse ecosystem and to minimize the impact of man’s activities on the environment. In conjunction with the Sabi Sand Game Reserve’s ecological department, we have put certain conservation measures in place.

These include projects like the regeneration of erosion sites, the removal of alien plant species, habitat management through carefully planned block burning and special off-roading precautions undertaken during game drives.

We believe that our biggest contribution to conservation is through education. Our guests are ambassadors for conservation in South Africa. If, during their stay with us, we can expand their knowledge and experiences, then we have achieved our goal.

Amazing wildlife sightings, combined with the lessons learned about conservation, will remain with them and will be passed onto others through their reminiscences. Our staff members are also educated in the sustainability of resources. Most of our staff members are from the local villages outside the Gowrie Gate.

They are also our ambassadors, as conservation principles obtained through education are also shared with their families and different communities, spreading the word far beyond the lodge itself. We use local suppliers and services wherever possible, as this provides local businesses with a steady income.

At Elephant Plains Game Lodge, we work together as a team, combining different types of knowledge and expertise to create a product that is beneficial to everyone. This multicultural community provides the opportunity to learn from one another, as we strive to continually raise the standards and services we offer.

THE MANYELETI HONEYMOON SUITE 
The Manyeleti honeymoon suite provides honeymooners, or guests that are just romantic at heart, with elegance, privacy and a stunning view. This glass fronted suite has all the regular luxuries and also boasts a private splash pool and daybed, ideal for a mid-morning nap.

LUXURY SUITES
These exclusive, open-plan suites each have a lounge, double bedroom, en-suite bathroom and a private viewing deck that offers spectacular views over the riverbed and open area. All suites feature air conditioning, overhead fans, fireplaces, mosquito nets, electronic safes, as well as mini bars and tea & coffee facilities.

RONDAVELS
The five rondavels are set in the beautifully landscaped garden of the original family holiday camp and one can still feel the old bushveld charm upon entering.

The rondavels have sundecks, en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, overhead fans, mini bars, tea/coffee facilities, mosquito nets and electronic safes. While elegant and luxurious, the rondavels offer affordable game lodge accommodation.

AFRICAN CUISINE
Mealtimes are sumptuous affairs, with a combination of international cuisine and South African specialities. Breakfast and lunch are enjoyed in the dining room or on the pool deck, overlooking the open area. Dinner is served around a log fire in the boma, whilst enjoying the mystical nocturnal sounds under the African sky.

GAME DRIVES
Bordering the Kruger National Park, with no fences dividing them, the Sabi Sand Game Reserve is world-renowned for excellent game viewing. At Elephant Plains Game Lodge, you can be sure of game drives and bush walks that will live up to the Africa of your imagination!

Not only will you have an excellent chance of close encounters with the Big 5, but you might even be spoiled with the more elusive wild dog and cheetah sightings. As the lodge is situated on a dry riverbed, the surrounding habitat is favourable for leopards, as these creatures prefer the riverine and denser bush areas.

Over time and due to a carefully planned habituation process, some of the animals have become habituated to the game drive vehicles. This enables our guests to view the animals undisturbed, as they go about their daily routine. Keen birdwatchers would also be mesmerized with over 300 bird species to choose from.

There are two game drives per day, during which your experienced game ranger and local Shangaan tracker will share their extensive knowledge and love for the African bush with you. Each drive lasts about three hours with an intermediate break.

During the morning game drive, you will be spoiled with coffee and homemade rusks and in the afternoon your ranger will find a suitable spot, where you can enjoy the stunning views, whilst enjoying your sundowner drink.

After sundowners your tracker will use the spotlight to find nocturnal animals, before returning to the lodge for dinner. Your ranger will discuss the various game drive regulations before you leave camp for your first drive.

During game drive you will note that the rangers sometimes drive off of the road and into the bush. This is one of the many game drive aspects that enable us to bring you closer to the action! We do, however, work in accordance to guidelines set out by the Sabi Sand Game Reserve’s ecologists.

We only allow off-roading in certain areas and with special precautions. The rangers do not drive over sensitive areas, will only drive over small trees if they are encroachment species and if necessary, they will do brush packing afterwards, to limit the impact on the environment.

BUSH WALKS
During bush walk you will have the opportunity to take a closer look at animal tracks, birds, different types of grasses and trees, as well as any other smaller details of the bush that might fascinate you. This is also the ideal time for birdwatchers to get a closer look at their favourite bird species.

The daily bush walk takes place after breakfast and is a leisurely walk of about an hour long. Please take note that you will be accompanied by either your ranger, or tracker. They will share the various bushwalk rules and regulations before leaving camp.

Please adhere to these at all times. Guests are not allowed to leave the camp area and walk on their own. Make sure that you wear comfortable walking shoes and have protection from the sun.

THE BIG 5
The Big 5 is a phrase originally used by hunters to refer to the 5 most difficult and dangerous animals to hunt in Africa. Today this phrase is associated with exiting opportunity to see 5 of the most magnificent animals on the planet. They are the African elephant, the lion, the buffalo, the leopard and the rhinoceros.

Website: www.elephantplains.co.za

Rooms: 12

Price: from 758 EUR per night

A celebration of African style, from its traditional rondavel rooms to the splashes of colourful designer fabrics and earthy tones defining its interiors, Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge exudes a hearty spirit of warmth and welcoming.

Expect an authentic encounter that prides itself upon a relaxed African ambiance in extraordinary bush surroundings; the Kruger National Park, one of Africa’s most renowned conservation areas and home to the Big Five.

Join the Cape-Turtle Doves and Arrow-Marked Babblers as they welcome a new day, heading out in to the bush for a feast of the senses; the smell of damp grasses, the pinks, oranges and yellows of a gorgeous African sunrise, the hissing of hundreds of crickets preparing for a warm bush day.

Spend your afternoon lazing at the infinity pool, watching a parade of wildlife visit to waterhole to quench their thirst – from the majestic elephant herds, to select members of the cat family such as lion, cheetah and leopard.

ACCOMMODATION
Guests are accommodated in six circular air conditioned suites with traditional brightly earth-coloured walls, tapered thatched roofs and folding glass doors that allows one to fully experience the wilderness.

Tsonga tradition runs throughout these comfortable suites; the warm glow of brightly coloured walls, traditional ornaments and little embellishments on lamps, door handles and mirrors bringing this local culture to life.

Relax on your private deck looking out on to the bush, take a long, leisurely shower in the open air or melt in to your comfortable king-size bed for an afternoon siesta. It’s your relaxing, informal bush experience on your terms.

DINING
Homemade baked goods, light salads and local specialties such as beetroot salad and ostrich steak are served in relaxed surroundings; the sounds of the bush providing all the accompaniment you need for a memorable dining experience.

Enjoy a hearty buffet breakfast with a variety of fruits, nuts, yoghurts, breads, pastries and cheese or opt for a full English breakfast with bacon, sausage and eggs; freshly squeezed orange juice and strong coffee at the ready after your morning safari.

Lunch is a light, informal affair with a buffet laden with tasty salads and meats. Followed not long after by High Tea with tea or coffee to wash down a delicious selection of cakes and pastries baked freshly at the lodge.

After a rewarding evening’s safari, warm yourself around Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge’s open-air fire and enjoy a magical three-course dinner under the stars. Good wine and good conversation flow while you listen to the enchanting sounds of the surrounding bush coming alive at night.

SPA & WELLNESS
Enjoy a relaxing & soothing massage with blended aromatherapy oils of ylang-ylang, cedarwood & vanilla to soothe your soul while overlooking the African bush from the comfort of your deck!

Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge offers indulgent spa treatments and a soothing massage in the seclusion of your private deck with the scents of ylang-ylang, vanilla and cedarwood soothing body, mind and soul.

There is no Wi-Fi or cellphone signal at this exclusive and remote safari lodge, allowing complete relaxation for our guests. The suites offer a radio link to the manager at the lodge. The sparkling swimming pool promises a refreshing dip while providing the opportunity to enjoy the rich and varied wildlife that comes to the river for a cooling drink.

KRUGER NATIONAL PARK
The Kruger is one of South Africa’s most iconic parks. In my opinion, probably the easiest access, most budget-friendly safari option with the widest variety of wildlife you will find in one region.

If you want to experience a genuinely undisputed South Africa vacation then a Kruger Safari should be on your list of destinations and here is why:

There are all sorts of incredible things to see, and those lucky enough will see everything they hoped for in the first day or two. But that would be lucky, so we suggest spending a minimum of 3 nights on a private safari.

Kruger is also home to the “Big Five” – comparing of the lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and African buffalo. These five large African animals are known for their size and possible jeopardy. It is also the reason thousands of travellers come to visit annually, leaving them in awe of what Mother Nature has to offer.

From arid semi-desert to thickly wooded areas with flowering trees, it’s a mixed bag of remarkable nature at its best. The region comprises of peaceful savannas, grassland and riverine with a variety of wildlife, birdlife and plants.

Over 140 species of mammals the likes of 1600 plus lions roaming the bush, 13000 elephants, thousands of buffalo grazing and crocodiles bathing in the sun on the riverbanks are found here. The private game drives are never the same, and each drive takes you on a unique journey.

Kruger is South Africa’s largest game reserve and roughly the same size as Wales in England. Covering an area of over 20 000 square kilometres, here you will find a massive diversity of mammals and reptiles.

The utter size is almost beyond recognition. With nearly two million hectares of the unspoiled African bushveld, and a multitude of safari camps, guest lodges and resorts scattering the area, you won’t be left wanting. It’s humbling yet refreshing to stand on a lookout point and know that no matter in which direction you look, it’s wild, untamed, unpredictable African bush.

Easy to get to and around the Kruger. Whether hitting the road by car rental, prebooked transfers or by flying to the nearest airports the likes of Hoedspruit, Skukuza and Nelspruit making air travel with kids a glide.

Road access from Johannesburg via well signposted good quality highways and well-located entry gates, where on arrival, identification, overnight bookings are to be shown and vehicles checked—conveniently located within driving distance of major cities, such as Nelspruit and Johannesburg.

A Kruger safari for me is one of the few getaways which is affordable in the sense of African safari. A luxury holiday will fit into most budgets as there are many different safari options available within the park. Be sure that you plan correctly and select the safari experience that is best suited to your budget and what you would like to experience.

For those who want to travel in 2021, it will be the best time to travel, as many tour operators, hotels, and providers are offering competitive pricing and incentives for people ready to travel soon — current exchange rates are in favour for international travellers as well.

SAFARI EXPERIENCE
A private concession within the Kruger National Park comprising three lodges – Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge, Imbali Safari Lodge and Hamilton’s Tented Camp, Mluwati Concession was born out of a spirit of ensuring the future sustainability of the national park.

As one of the first private concessions in the Kruger National Park, Mluwati has worked tirelessly to ensure the sustainability of this pristine wilderness that for over 100 years has been a sanctuary for over 114 reptiles, 34 amphibians, 336 tree species and 147 mammal species, including Africa’s Big Five.

Keen birders will delight in the hundreds of bird species that call Kruger home. Over 500 species, many of which occur in the Mluwati Concession including the Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill, Crested Barbet and Burchell’s Glossy Starling.

Guests will enjoy some of Kruger’s most spectacular landscapes and an extraordinary variety of wildlife, birdlife and plant life within the Mluwati Concession, ensuring that each safari experience will be unique.

Experience a morning and evening safari during your stay at Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge. Witness the excitement of the first rains; the terrapins playing in river pools, the call of the Pied Kingfisher and steady chirping of tree frogs.

Savour the rich smells of the bush, hear the shrill calls of the Magpie Shrike and see the wind blowing through the feather grass dotting the savannah plains. A Hoyo-Hoyo safari will reveal new scents, curious sounds and the beauty of an extraordinary African landscape to delight your senses.

Accompanied by your private guide, on board the powerful open 4×4 Land Cruiser vehicle, you will have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the one hundred square kilometre private concession area within the Kruger National Park.

Experience the inimitable thrills of a safari inside the National Park in pursuit of the legendary “Big Seven” species that call our concession home. You will be able to join the twice daily safari, morning and afternoon/evening.

If you would like the unrivalled experience of discovering the magnificent Kruger National Park on foot, or would like to spend time focusing on the smaller things out in the bush, our guiding team will be on hand to ensure that we provide you with an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Venture out of the concession and explore the endless wonders and expanse of the Kruger Park at your own leisure from the comfort of your personal vehicle or rental car. Stop off at one of the many picnic sites for an Ice Cream or an ice cold Drink during summer time.

Website: www.hoyohoyo.com

Rooms: 6

Price: from 699 EUR per night

Imbali Safari Lodge is the perfect departure point for your African Safari. Set on the banks of the N’waswitsontso River in the Central Kruger National Park, this palatial haven offers immaculate accommodation and unrestrained luxury.

Experience magnificent wildlife sightings in the heart of the Kruger National Park – Africa’s most iconic game reserve. A well-situated waterhole attracts a great variety of animals on a 10,000-hectare concession within the Kruger National Park.

Luxurious suites with private plunge pool. Separate victorian bath and walk-in shower creates the essence of luxury in the bathroom. Children from the age of 8 years are welcome. Enjoy guided bush walks with experienced guides in a private concession within the Kruger National Park.

Accommodation
Guests are accommodated in twelve spacious suites, subtly decorated in neutral colours with enchanting splashes of African tradition, from the ornate wall lamps to the comfortable textured pillows.

Large French doors run the length of the room to let the beautiful outside wilderness in, on your terms; an expansive deck overlooks the N’waswitsontso River or savannah grasslands with an outdoor pool to complete your leisure bush experience.

Relax on the sunbed with a book or let those bubbles soothe your weary muscles; the chattering of weavers, thrushes and kingfishers providing a magical bush playlist for your relaxation. Each room comes with a complimentary mini-bar with selected beverages, as well as a tea/coffee facility for your convenience in your suite.

The spacious stone and marble bathroom features a Victorian-style bathtub and walk-in shower with signature bath amenities, a hairdryer and fluffy bathrobes. Soak your stresses away as you soak away the modern-day stresses in natural bath salts while looking out on to the peace of the Kruger bush.

Rest for your soul: into the comfortable king-size bed for a quick siesta or a nights rest after your safari; a mosquito net envelops the entire bed in the evening ensuring you are cocooned in comfort. Expect a bedtime story on your pillow or a sweet treat to enjoy before retiring for the night.

Facilities
Imbali Safari Lodge continues the safari tradition of a bygone era, incorporating comfort and luxury in the serenity of the African bush. This exclusive lodge in the world-renowned Kruger National Park has just twelve private suites, each with their own plunge pool.

Each suite has a large king bed and romantic en-suite bathroom with magnificent views of the wilderness beyond. All suites are air-conditioned and have telephones and mosquito nets. Complimentary wi-fi in the main lodge area allows you to stay in touch with your loved ones, to tell them about your safari adventures each day.

The sparkling swimming pool in the main area promises a refreshing dip while providing the opportunity to enjoy the rich and varied wildlife that visits the Imbali Safari Lodge water hole daily to enjoy for a cooling drink.

Spa treatments are available in the privacy of your suite. These are charged separately, according to the treatment you choose. In-room gym bags available for use at the lodge.

Dining
Enjoy an extensive buffet breakfast or order a delicious hot plated breakfast to indulge in after your morning safari either in our gorgeous dining room which boasts an impressive hundred year old Jackalberry rising through the deck of the dining room and thatched roof or under the tree’s on the outside decks.

Lunch is a light, informal affair with a buffet laden with tasty salads and dishes served in relaxed surroundings; the sounds of the bush providing all the accompaniment you need for a memorable dining experience. Indulge in High Tea with a delicious selection of cakes and pastries freshly baked at the lodge before embarking on your afternoon’s safari.

Then enjoy a magical three-course table d’ hote menu under the stars. Good wine and good conversation flow while you listen to the enchanting sounds of the surrounding bush coming alive at night.

We enjoy outdoor dining in our Boma on Tuesday and Friday evenings hosted by your Safari Guide. Although both lunch and dinner are served at the main lodge, guests can arrange for a private meal on their deck or in-suite on request

Wellness & Treatments
Enjoy a relaxing & soothing massage with blended aromatherapy oils of ylang-ylang, cedarwood & vanilla to soothe your soul while overlooking the African bush from the comfort of your deck!

Please book your treatment with the wellness therapist or alternatively you can speak to the camp manager who will arrange this appointment time for you. Our therapist at Imbali Safari Lodge is from the local community and has been professionally trained, empowering the ladies to support themselves by being “hands-on”.

Safaris
Two daily safaris are included in all rates at Imbali Safari Lodge. A private concession within the Kruger National Park comprising three lodges – Imbali Safari Lodge, Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge, and Hamiltons Tented Camp, Mluwati Concession was born out of a spirit of ensuring the future sustainability of the National Park.

As one of the first private concessions in the Kruger National Park, Mluwati has worked tirelessly to ensure the sustainability of this pristine wilderness that for over 100 years has been a sanctuary for over 114 reptiles, 34 amphibians, and 147 mammal species, including Africa’s Big Five.

Keen birders will delight in the hundreds of bird species that call Kruger home. Over 500 species, many of which occur in the Mluwati Concession including the Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill, Crested Barbet and Burchell’s Glossy Starling.

Guests will enjoy some of Kruger’s most spectacular landscapes and an extraordinary variety of wildlife, birdlife and plant life within the Mluwati Concession, ensuring that each safari experience will be unique.

Experience a morning and evening safari during your stay at Imbali Safari Lodge. Witness the excitement of the first rains; the terrapins playing in river pools, the call of the Pied Kingfisher, and the steady chirping of sociable tree frogs.

Savour the rich smells of the bush, hear the shrill calls of the Magpie Shrike and see the wind blowing through the feather grass dotting the savannah plains. A safari at Imbali will reveal new scents, curious sounds, and the beauty of an extraordinary African landscape to delight your senses.

Off-road safaris in the concession
Accompanied by your private guide, on-board the powerful open 4×4 Land Cruiser vehicle, you will have a once in a lifetime opportunity to explore the one hundred square kilometre private concession area within the Kruger National Park.

Experience the inimitable thrills of off-roading inside the National Park in pursuit of the legendary “Big Seven” species that call our concession home. You will be able to join the twice-daily safari, morning and afternoon/evening.

If you would like the unrivalled experience of discovering the magnificent Kruger National Park on foot, or would like to spend time focusing on the smaller things out in the bush, our guiding team will be on hand to ensure that we provide you with an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Self-Drives
Venture out of the concession and explore the endless wonders and expanse of the Kruger National Park at your own leisure from the comfort of your personal vehicle or rental car. Stop off at one of the many picnic sites for an Ice Cream or an ice-cold Drink during summertime.

A day in the life of…
Kick-start your day before the sun rises, dunking a homemade rusk into a steamy cup of coffee before setting off on your morning safari with your assigned ranger. Watch as the bush awakens around you; the dew glistens on the webs of the Golden Orb spider and Lilac Breasted Rollers flash their startling sky-blue bellies as they flit past your game vehicle.

See wild dogs laze under the Acacia trees and elephants leave their distinct trail as they chomp through the bush at a leisurely pace. Steal a glance at the leopard eating its prey high up in an old Tamboti tree, zebra foraging alongside large herds of wildebeest and impala flashing their characteristic ‘M’ as they disappear into the thick brush.

Enjoy an extensive cold and hot buffet breakfast in Imbali Safari Lodge’s comfortable dining room; an impressive Jackalberry rising right through the deck of the dining room and the Tsonga-styled thatched roof. Then retire to your room and relax, laze at the crystal-clear infinity pool or request a bush walk for an up-close encounter with the Kruger.

Lunch is a relaxed, informal affair. Served on the deck with beautiful views of the surrounding bushveld and the Nwaswitsontso River, guests are treated to light salads and tasty desserts before retiring to their rooms for an afternoon siesta.

Afternoon tea served on the deck, heralds the imminent departure of your special evening safari through the Mluwati Concession. Spot a pride of lazy lions lounging casually in the tall grass and the associated warning call of nature’s tattletales, the Grey Loerie, as they inform the surrounding species of impending danger.

Sip a sundowner G&T as you watch the sky turn from the brilliance of an African sunset to a bright band of stars; the persistent call of frogs, owls and nightjars accompanying you back to Imbali Safari Lodge for a romantic dinner on the deck, a canopy of stars watching over you.

Website: www.imbali.com

Rooms: 12

Price: from 833 EUR per night

Lukimbi Safari Lodge is a stunning luxury safari lodge situated in the easily accessible southern portion of the Kruger National Park, South Africa. Kruger is home to the Big Five and a wide variety of other animals and birds, which roam freely in their natural habitat.

The main Lukimbi Safari Lodge building welcomes you with its sweeping staircase and artistic fireplace with creatively engraved animals.

Our tasteful lounge overlooks the Lwakahle River where animals often come to drink, and the bar nearby has an award-winning wine list and cellar. No detail has been omitted in our unusual African boma, a favourite outside fire-lit venue.

We also move our tables around in and outside our elegant restaurant and on our stunning deck, so you can enjoy different views on different days – a detail our guests often remark upon. Our library has a collection of both non-fiction and fiction available to guests as well as a computer station for their use.

Why You Should Plan Your Next Company Event at This Kruger National Park Safari Lodge
Conferences, brainstorming sessions, and similar corporate events are great ways of getting similar minded people together to pool their knowledge and create new and exciting trajectories for the business or project in question.

That said, no-one feels inspired by yet another dreary day in a grey room with no natural light or fresh air, watching PowerPoint presentations and drinking watered down coffee. You can picture the scene all too clearly, can’t you?

Which is all the more reason why you should consider hosting your next corporate get together at Lukimbi Safari Lodge in the Kruger National Park.

Kruger Park Safari Lodge
Now, hosting your next company event at a Kruger National Park safari lodge might require a bit of additional planning, but the benefits and rewards are indisputable. We’ve rounded up some of the top reasons to choose Lukimbi Safari Lodge in the Kruger National Park:

Less Interruptions Means Improved Focus
Make sure you hit all your objectives by using the time wisely, instead of wasting it on interruptions. In this tranquil environment away from the hustle and bustle of the office, you can get into the zone and focus fully on the task at hand.

Fresh Surroundings, Fresh Thinking
When you take yourself out of your regular environment, you also free yourself from the same pattern of thinking. With a new environment comes fresh energy and inspiration, all necessary for out-of-the-box thinking.

Stress-Free Solutions
It’s a fact: we perform better when we are relaxed. And what better way to relax than to leave the stress of the city behind and to immerse ourselves in the beauty and tranquillity of nature? Give yourself the space to take a step back and get an objective view.

Return Refreshed
An inspired event is great, but you need to carry that energy over to the implementation phase afterwards. Make sure you return relaxed and ready to change the world.

The Lukimbi Safari Lodge Experience
This 5-star lodge is located in the easily accessible southern part of the Kruger National Park and offers luxurious accommodation, delectable fine-dining, and a host of fun activities. We also have fully equipped conference facilities and experts on hand to help organise every aspect of your event.

Premier Suites

Though the service throughout Lukimbi Safari Lodge is unrivaled, for that extra privacy, and additional space, we recommend our ultra-luxurious King Cheetah and Giant Eagle Owl suites.

They have: a separate bedroom; dining area; larger lounge; main bathroom with huge ‘shareable’ bath; an inside and outside shower; a second bathroom; and private pool with wooden deck, where elephants quite often stop by for a drink. A must for any special celebration or spoiling!

Classic Suites

Enter our classic suits and enjoy your proximity to nature with high windows, a well-appointed bathroom overlooking the trees and river, and your own private deck extending from your lounge. You can’t feel closer to the bush without actually being in it.

Feel spoilt with a spacious bath, inside and outside shower and separate toilet. All suites have air-conditioning; a fan; safe, gauzy, romantic mosquito nets; tea and coffee facilities; and a mini bar. Even with children sharing the room, you can luxuriate in the space and atmosphere.

Wildlife
At Lukimbi, you feel part of nature from the moment you arrive. There is something for everybody: the impressive Big Five of leopard, lion, rhino, elephant and buffalo; smaller creatures and antelope and what are often termed ‘general game’; and a paradise for bird watchers with 420 species to see. Our guides and trackers share their knowledge of these animals with you.

Bush Walks

After breakfast, guests can join qualified guides on a bush walk, which is not more than two hours. This is a great opportunity to see some of the smaller creatures and plants up close, not to mention some of the larger wildlife in their own environment.

Birds
Lukimbi Safari Lodge is a paradise for bird watchers with 420 species to see.

Weddings
Your dream wedding is waiting to happen at Lukimbi Safari Lodge! Whether you want to be married in our charming baroque-styled chapel or in the bush serenaded by an African choir or walk down the aisle to rhythmic drumming, we make sure your day is perfect.

We take care of your theming, wedding cake, flowers, music, legal proceedings and cuisine. Lukimbi Safari Lodge accommodates 32 people. If six or more people are attending, the lodge must be booked for a minimum of two nights, but we guarantee you’d want to do that anyway. It’s magical!

Honeymoons

We know that your honeymoon should be the most special holiday of your lives and we do everything in our power to achieve this.

Our suites exude romance – high ceilings, gorgeous gauzy mosquito nets draping king-sized beds, showers you can share both inside and outside and of course our stone baths-with-a-view.

Enjoy a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine from the privacy of your deck and delight in a private dinner for just the two of you at one of our mystery romantic venues.

Fine Dining
Despite being in the middle of nature, you can expect the highest quality food served to suit every palate and diet. And we like the fact it is not just delicious, but beautiful too! We also have an award-winning wine list.

Golf
Experience an unforgettable game of golf at Leopard Creek – on one of the finest courses in the world. Highlights include:

• Designed by world-famous golfer Gary Player, Leopard Creek will challenge even the most experienced golfer.
• A 505-metre par-five 13th hole, sitting 32 metres above the Crocodile River with views into the Kruger National Park.
• A par-five 18th with its island green and a par-four 9th with its peninsula green jutting out of the same body of water.

Spa Treatments
Relaxation is the objective of any successful getaway, and what better way to achieve this than a trip to our spa?

Pools
Lukimbi has a main pool-with-a-view. It’s not unusual to swim and watch elephants coming into drink at the same time! Our children’s paddle pool is connected by a shallow flowing stream and a waterfall to the main pool.

Website: www.lukimbi.com

Rooms: 16

Price: from 887 EUR per night

Set within 75 000 hectares of safari park, Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge is situated on a rocky outcrop in the heart of the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve in the North West Province of South Africa.

Ingeniously set amongst boulders and age-old Tamboti trees, the private game lodge is situated in the middle of Madikwe, giving visitors a huge game drive advantage over other lodges situated on the borders of the reserve and offers guests the most amazing South African safari adventure.

Madikwe Game Reserve is home not only to the ‘Big 5’ of Africa (Lion, Buffalo, Elephant, Rhino and Leopard), but also to a wealth of over 66 mammal species, including the rare African Wild Dog, as well as Cheetah, Eland, Kudu, Giraffe and a range of more than 300 resident and migratory species of birds.

Accommodating up to 24 guests in expansive, well-spaced and totally private glass-fronted suites scattered across the hillside, camouflaged by tamboti trees and thatch roofs.

Wooden walkways lit by hurricane lamps criss-cross the grounds and connect the secluded suites to the central open-plan lounge, bar, wine cellar, TV room and dining area up the slope, where cooling fans make slow rotations and the giant twisted trunks of leadwood trees hold up the vaulted ceiling.

Dining options at this outstanding Madikwe lodge includes the main deck, which overlooks an active waterhole, the elegant dining room and the vastly popular open-air traditional boma. Private dinners on the deck of your suite are also offered to couples wanting to spend time together in privacy.

The total dedication and passion of the team at this luxury Madikwe lodge ensure that every guest departs with a memory of an African safari never to be forgotten.

From outstanding wildlife holidays to unforgettable safari weddings and honeymoons – Madikwe Hills offers the complete adventure in South Africa. Please note, we do not accommodate children under the age of 10 in the main lodge, making Madikwe Hills the perfect romantic destination.

A Welcome Sanctuary in the African Bush
We have created a friendly and personal atmosphere at Madikwe Hills, offering as much relaxation and luxury for our guests as we possibly can. Formalities are kept to an absolute minimum.

We have created the perfect balance between quality private-time and an opportunity to be social and meet new people from all around the globe. After the evening game drive we alternate between private dining and communal dining experiences.

On the communal dining evenings your ranger would love to host your table with the other guests that joined you on your drive; it is always enlightening to talk to guests from other countries about their cultures or to pick your ranger’s brain for interesting tales or extra information about the game drives you experienced.

Private dinners, either at the main lodge or on the deck of your suite, can be arranged on communal dining evenings should you prefer to dine on your own.

We have a total of 64 staff members who work on cycles. Three quarters of the staff are always on site and the other quarter are on leave. At Madikwe Hills we will make you feel welcome, at home and part of the family.

SEASONS IN AFRICA
Seasons in Africa, a premier tourism marketing and management company, comprising, luxury game lodges (Leopard Hills Private Game Reserve, Kings Camp Private Game Reserve and Tuningi Safari Lodge), hotels and adventures throughout Southern Africa, Seasons in Africa markets Madikwe Hills to the local and International market.

Each of the properties within the Seasons group not only offers all the facilities one expects, but also warm, friendly and personalised service!

HISTORY OF MADIKWE HILLS
In 2003 the five owners, Louis Kruger, Jack Brotherton, Carl Trieloff, Hector Magome and William Stephens, joined forces and invested in the Madikwe Game Reserve.

Many days were spent exploring the proposed koppie, envisaging which room would go where, where to build the main lodge, boma, spa, gym, reception and staff quarters and how the high wooden walkways would link them.

An architect was hired to draw up plans, but it soon became apparent that one could not build from the original plans in the bush, especially not on a koppie! The plans were thrown into the fire and new plans were drawn up for each unique suite.

Striving to keep all the suites completely private and more importantly, keeping the environment as untouched as possible, each suite was ingeniously fitted between rocks, trees and overhangs which created an amazing feeling of genuinely living within the surroundings.

It took a year and a half to build Madikwe Hills, a very challenging feat… Due to the typography, no truck could get close to where most of the foundations needed to be laid, so the builders carried most of the materials and equipment from a drop off point to the building site.

Hard to comprehend now, walking on the raised wooden walkways (the last part of the project) linking the suites to the main lodge and reception. Madikwe Hills opened its doors to the public in August 2004.

Bordering Botswana in North West Province
One of the most luxurious lodges in North West Province, Madikwe Hills is approximately 4.5 hours drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria (last hour is spent driving in the park). Situated near the Botswana border, the Madikwe Game Reserve is the fifth largest game reserve in South Africa.

The reserve boasts a rich diversity of vegetation ensuring a wide range of game while the topography offers ideal game viewing opportunities. Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge is conveniently located in the middle of Madikwe Game Reserve.

Traversing over 75 000 hectares of true, untamed Africa, Madikwe Hills is ingeniously placed amongst the boulders and gently ebb to the pulse of Africa’s drumbeat. If you’re looking for the best lodges in North West, then you’ve come to exactly the right place.

The reserve consists of vast plains of open woodlands and grasslands and is dotted with huge rocky outcrops known as inselbergs. Madikwe is one of few game reserves in the world that was proclaimed a wildlife reserve purely on the grounds of being the most appropriate and sustainable land area for such use.

The Reserve is bordered by Botswana on the northern boundary and the Dwarsberg mountain range to the South. The main Gaborone/Zeerust road to the west and the Marico River to the east with additional land protruding across to the eastern side of the Marico River.

Community Development Initiatives
The Madikwe Game Reserve boasts great beauty and splendour, however it is a place that is still surrounded with poverty. In the late 1980’s the government decided to alleviate poverty in the area.

A land feasibility study was completed and it was decided that the best way of utilizing this land was to establish a game reserve, which was officially opened in 1991.

This opened doors to so many people and was very beneficial to the local communities in the surrounding areas. As the safari lodges were built, new work and employment opportunities arose.

As Madikwe mainly employs people from the local surrounding villages, job opportunities increased. Education and specialisation was the order of the day and lives were improved. Yet one can never help enough.

Madikwe Hills is very proud to play a prominent, active role in the upliftment of the local communities around Madikwe Game Reserve. Madikwe Hills supports Bopa Monyetla, a Non-Profit Organisation.Bopa Monyetla means “Creating Opportunities”.

Accommodation
Uber-luxurious Spacious Suites with Raised Interlinking Wooden Walkways
Searching for luxury Madikwe accommodation? Madikwe Hills Main Lodge boasts 10 supremely spacious and luxurious suites which are very hard to leave.

A cosy living room with huge slate-clad chimney (perfect to snuggle up in front of an open fire on cooler nights) leads into the peaceful bedroom with a gigantic pillow-strewn four-poster bed draped in generous layers of muslin, from where it’s possible to lie and gaze in wonder as herds of wandering animals make their way to the watering hole.

Throw open all the floor-to-ceiling windows and retreat to a sunbed in the shade of an acacia tree, or grab a towel and jump into your own personal plunge pool for the ultimate in relaxed game viewing – you’ll be amazed at what passes by just a hundred feet or so from your deck. The cathedral-like bathrooms are ultra luxurious.

A large deep tub takes centre stage in front of fold-back windows that reveal the same wilderness views and a cavernous step-up circular shower is built into the opposite wall – but that’s not all. Just outside the far door is an open-air extension with a private outdoor shower (with hot water) perfect after prolonged plunge pool dips.

As the sun goes down, there’s nothing better than a candle lit bath open to the elements. Some nights, you may even find a freshly run bath when you return to your room, a trail of rose petals leading the way.

If you are celebrating your wedding or have booked the Honeymoon Suite, you will not be able to resist the claw-foot bath tub built into a well-concealed outdoor corner for secluded soaks under African skies.

There is absolute privacy here, and it really is quite a feat to tear yourself away for your game drives, especially when you are treated to your own private show of elephants in the waterhole below…

If you’re looking for more secluded Madikwe accommodation, two of the lower 10 Suites (room number 9 and 10) from the Main Lodge can be combined with the Private Villa at Little Madikwe forming an exclusive and private camp for small groups and families up to 8 people.

Facilities & Services
A Celebration of Safari Style in the Heart of the Madikwe Game Reserve
Along with a warm and friendly atmosphere, Madikwe Hills offers the highest standard of service, ensuring that each guests’ needs are satisfied during their luxury South African safari stay. The central area is an important part of everyday life at the Lodge.

From the threshold of majestic, age-old East African doors, you immediately feel the cool breeze emanating throughout our central area. Each table in our lounge is stocked with beautiful books, waiting to be read and explored.

The bar entices guests to enjoy a pre-dinner drink and fireside chat with your friendly game rangers and managers, while the main deck overlooking the waterhole is the perfect place to while away the day under a cool umbrella.

Our main swimming pool offers cool respite from the harsh African sun, and is a great way to relax with a cocktail in the afternoon. Dinners in our dining room are a silver-service experience of memorable proportions.

Beautiful Teak tables in the dining room await guests to serve up meals of the highest standard. With beautiful artwork on the walls and cutlery and crockery fit for a king, the dining room is the perfect place to spend an evening.

Fine cuisine is accompanied by superb South African wines, which can be found in our extensive wine cellar next to the dining room. The cellar is a treat for the avid wine connoisseur as well as the learning amateur, and our staff will assist you by suggesting the perfect wine in accordance with the menu of that evening.

An intimate, circular room at the Main Lodge has a television with a satellite decoder for anyone who has to watch an important sports game or news. There are also a few books for those who wish to read a bit on the deck of their suites.

For those wanting to keep in touch with family members back home, complimentary Wi-Fi is available in your suite, reception and the Main Lodge.

During the day, guests are welcome to wander up to the reception area to browse through our well-stocked curio shop, where you can select gifts and African memorabilia for your friends and family back home.

The shop is stocked with an assortment of beautiful safari gear. Our winter gear and fleece scarves, hats and gloves are perfect for keeping the chills at bay on your evening game drives.

More than half of the items in the curio shop come from Community Projects, helping and benefiting the communities who make these beautiful pieces of art.

Bush Cuisine
Seducing the Palate Under the Star Studded Skies
Dining at Madikwe Hills is an experience on its own. From the varied delicious cuisine to the unique dining options, you will not be disappointed and will always look forward to the next delicious delight.

Our chef passionately creates a variety of wholesome and satisfying dishes, leaving guests alive to the possibility of fusion food mixed with the finest in African ingredients and decadent local and international flavours.

A culinary marvel in our own right, our chef has perfected the art of combining freshness with flavour and turning simple ingredients into cuisine of great visual appeal with every plate that makes its way from the kitchen.

Our chef acknowledges passion as the secret ingredient when perfecting that ultimate safari dining experience. Traditional Full English and Continental breakfasts served on the main deck are hearty and unpretentious; we like to call it “comfort food with a twist!”

In addition to the English breakfast, there is also a selection of Eggs Benedict, Eggs Onassis, Breakfast Ciabatta, French Toast with Coppa Ham, Cranberry sauce and Camembert slices as well as a Modern style Frittata.

We also have a full Vegetarian breakfast menu. Breakfasts at Madikwe Hills are a relaxed and fulfilling affair to start your day whilst on an African Safari. Lunches under shady umbrellas on the main deck are a highlight of each day.

Our chef and the team have kept a careful balance between old and new and traditional African cuisines, but have stuck to the basics of simplicity, authenticity and freshness, reviving old classics into ‘food with soul’.

Dinners at Madikwe Hills are without compromise, ensuring that style and substance is the main priority. Come and dine under the stars in our traditional boma, fine dining in our dining room, or next to the fire on the main deck.

We cater for allergies and preferences – no need for you to miss out on tasty, mouth watering food just because of allergies. We have Kosher cutlery and crockery, pots and pans and cooking utensils.

Kosher foods can be arranged on request. You will experience a variety of different healthy venison meats (venison is free range and organic!).

Boma Dinners

A traditional and elegant buffet safari dining experience with a warm and friendly atmosphere. Ask your ranger to explain the signs in the beautiful start-strewn sky or enjoy the mesmerizing, hypnotic effect of the boma flames dancing in the fire.

Bush Breakfasts

End an enthralling game drive or invigorating bush walk with a hearty breakfast under the shade of an old Tamboti, soaking up the sights and sounds of the surrounding bush.

Breakfast at Madikwe Hills is the simply the best way to start your day. Bush breakfasts arranged on request for whole main lodge groups or Little Madikwe groups.

Private Dining

The perfect end to the ultimate safari experience! A private dinner on the deck of your suite is offered to couples wanting to spend time together in privacy. The ultimate in romance, private dinners at Madikwe Hills will seduce the senses and soothe the soul.

Little Madikwe Private Camp
The Luxury of Setting the Pace of Your Safari
The ultimate in luxury and privacy, Little Madikwe boasts an opulent self-contained 2-bedroom Private Villa (±390m²) accommodating 4 to 5 guests, with its own game drive vehicle and game ranger, as well as a villa attendant to take care of your every need!

A diverse wine selection, gourmet kitchen and lounge complete the picture. By reserving suites 9 and 10, Little Madikwe forms a completely private camp accommodating up to 8 guests, ideal for families and small group safaris.

This Private Villa also boasts a large swimming pool and offers extended amenities to groups of guests wanting to truly get away from it all on a wildlife safari in Africa. A personal luxury is being able to set your own meal and safari game drive times, making this the ideal, exclusive family escape in Africa.

Your sumptuous gourmet experiences are enjoyed in Little Madikwe’s beautifully decorated and enchanting dining room, and prepared in the state-of-the-art gourmet kitchen by your personal chef. You can even pick up a few culinary tips whilst you watch your meal being prepared!

A villa attendant is on hand to respond to the group’s every need. A dedicated game ranger and game viewing vehicle means that Little Madikwe’s guests can enjoy private game drives at their leisure, for as long or as short as they wish.

Parents need not worry about their young ones disturbing the peace for other guests, as Little Madikwe’s reception room is also equipped with a satellite TV and DVD collection.

Should parents wish to dine at the Main Lodge or enjoy a quieter game drive without the kiddies, a child minder can be arranged at a small hourly fee.

Nowhere else in South Africa can groups be accommodated in such privacy and luxury, whilst being able to experience the ‘Big 5’ in South Africa, with Wild Dog viewing at their leisure – creating a truly unforgettable experience that far exceeds expectations.

Open-air decks, plunge pools, luxurious décor, outdoor showers, fireplaces, air-conditioning, and concertina glass doors that open the room up entirely; are all standard in each suite at Little Madikwe.

Private Group & Family Safaris
An Intimate Affair
Little Madikwe Private Villa or exclusive Camp, welcomes children of all ages (the Main Lodge does not cater for children under 10 years), making it ideal for families wanting to spend special safaris together.

A permanent child minder is on hand for young family bookings, allowing you time to truly indulge in time ‘me time’ as well as family time. A comforting fact for families with young children is that the Madikwe Game Reserve is one of a few game-viewing areas in Southern Africa that is malaria-free.

This secluded environment and outstanding service is also an ideal game reserve retreat for corporate groups needing to get away and focus; whether with the objective of strategizing, or simply spending time relaxing together as a team.

The complimentary Wi-Fi and outstanding, yet discreet, service ensures corporate teams can stay focused on their work. Little Madikwe is also available for private and exclusive safari weddings, or small celebrations, catering for parties of up to eight people.

Activities
An Exceptional Safari Experience in the Madikwe Game Reserve
Traversing over 75 000 hectares, Madikwe Game Reserve is where the plains still team with game and the acacia savannah symbolizes a paragon of beauty. Madikwe Hills is in the middle of the Reserve, giving you a huge advantage on game drives.

The malaria-free Madikwe Reserve is home not only to the ‘Big 5’ of Africa, but also to a wealth of other fascinating creatures, including the rare Wild Dog.

Our team at Madikwe Hills looks forward to showing you Africa’s wonderful wildlife, and to fulfilling your every wish. Wildlife can be viewed on game drives, walking safaris, and from the privacy of your suite deck.

GAME DRIVES & BUSH WALKS
Explore the wonders of the African bush in state-of-the-art open game vehicles with bucket seats ensuring your optimum safety and comfort. Knowledgeable and professional rangers conduct early morning and late afternoon, or evening game drives in search of Africa’s big game and smaller wildlife.

On morning game drives, should you be feeling energetic, you may choose to experience an up-close-and-personal glimpse of the African bush on foot with a gentle bush walk through the bush back to the Lodge.

This experience provides exceptional close encounters with the smaller inhabitants of this wilderness. Due to the heat in summer, winter is the best time for walking safaris.

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY
Those with a passion for wildlife photography will be able to get various tips from their ranger on taking the perfect safari picture, while on their game drive.

Our rangers are avid fans of photography, many of them having entered renowned international and local competitions with great results. Our rangers will be happy to assist in any way they can.

PRIVATE SAFARI VEHICLES & RANGERS
Make your safari experience exclusively yours by booking Little Madikwe where the experience is yours with no mixed groups, no competing for views with other guests, and no conflicting interests.

You have maximum flexibility, comfort and wildlife viewing. Your safari time is yours and you decide the length of your drive, what animals you would like to see and where you would like to traverse (within the allocated traversing rights).

Your ranger will be completely devoted to you and your party – answering all your questions and tailoring each experience to maximize your interests. This is fabulous for photography enthusiasts where the time is yours and the vehicle can be manoeuvred for you to get your perfect shot.

Should you wish to book a private vehicle as a Main Lodge guest, this can only be confirmed a few days prior to your safari as it is dependent on Lodge occupancy.

If three suites are booked in Main Lodge you automatically qualify for a private vehicle. Contact the Lodge or reservations for rates on private vehicles. Remember, Little Madikwe comes with its own private vehicle and game ranger!

Weddings
A Unique & Intimate Way to Celebrate Your Love
There is something about a wedding in the heart of the African bushveld that cannot be forsaken! Small intimate weddings from two up to twenty-four guests are catered for at Madikwe Hills, and we pride ourselves on our meticulous attention to detail. At Madikwe Hills, we like to keep things simple, but exceptional.

Special Occasions
Engagements, Anniversaries & Birthdays, We Will Make it Memorable
Please contact management for more details on these special occasions and what we can offer – would hate to spoil the surprise for your partner by giving too many details here! You need not worry… it will be extra special.

Spa & Wellness
Enjoy a unique spa treatment based on the study of Africa, Africology, which encapsulate the behaviour, experiences and the healing potential of Africa. Set the mind at ease and embrace the energy of the bush.

Experience the soul of Africa, not just through an emotional, but also a physcial wellness. Africology brings ancient wisdom to today’s world, by using some of South Africa’s indigenous healing plants, namely Rooibos, Aloe Ferox, Marula ane African potato.

FULLY-EQUIPPED GYM
The fully-equipped, air-conditioned gym at Madikwe Hills, with treadmill, spinning bike, rowing machine, fitness flyer, weights and bench, dumbbells and barbells and aerobic mats, allows guests to keep up with their fitness regime, or is a place to release the guilt built up after indulging in mouth-watering delights.

Junior Rangers & Kiddies
Truly Memorable Interactive Safari Experiences
The African bush is a unique and exciting playground for the youngsters. An intriguing experience for all ages. At Madikwe Hills we go the extra mile to ensure your kids leave educated and enlightened.

Madikwe Hills Main Lodge caters for children over 10 years, while kids of all ages are welcome at Little Madikwe. From experienced sitters for the babies and fun activities for the kiddies to informative Junior Ranger programmes creating an awareness of this special bush environment, Madikwe Hills creates memorable family experiences.

JUNIOR RANGER PROGRAMME
This is a must-do experience… The Junior Rangers learn all the different interesting aspects of the bush through a range of fun exercises. At Madikwe Hills the Junior Rangers enjoy a hands-on experience by touching elephant dung, looking at tracks, finding out HOW to track.

Learning about termites while standing right next to a large termite mound etc this is an exciting and education experience for all ages.

The Rangers are given “funwork” not “homework”, a booklet they can complete before or during the afternoon drive which is marked and each child receives a certificates stating they are a Junior Ranger of Madikwe Hills.

This programme can be run for 1 – 2 hours in one day, or if the guests are staying for more than two nights it can broken up into two days. The fun never stops at Madikwe Hills.

Madikwe Game Reserve
The Malaria-Free Madikwe Game Reserve is a Wilderness Haven
Madikwe Game Reserve covers about 75 000 hectares of bushland stretching all the way up to the Botswana border, and is one the largest and most popular game reserves in South Africa.

Once farm land (up until 1991), the Reserve has now been restored to its former natural environment with 86 mammals (from mice to elephant), 420 bird species (110 being rare) and 104 tree species.

Predominantly grasslands and bushveld, intermingled with lone mountains and rocky outcrops, the Reserve is home to Cheetahs, Wild Dogs, Leopards, Hyenas, Lion, Elephant, Black & White Rhino, Buffalo, Zebra, Giraffe and various antelope.

HISTORY & PHILOSOPHY
The Madikwe Game Reserve, which is a malaria-free area boasting the ‘Big 5’, is the North West Province’s most extensive conservation area, being over 75 000 hectares in extent. Development of the Reserve and reintroduction of game began in 1991.

Madikwe is unusual in many respects. The rich diversity of the vegetation in the Reserve is a reflection of its complex geomorphology. The vegetation, hydrology, topography, climate, soil and other factors such as the previous farming activities in the area, have a direct bearing on the varied fauna present in the Reserve.

The unusual variety of fauna range from Impala in the bushveld areas, Gemsbok in the dry savannah sections, Bush buck along the Marico (Madikwe) River and species such as Klipspringer and Mountain reedbuck that prefer the various rocky outcrops and mountainous regions.

Madikwe’s Operation Phoenix is the code name for the largest reintroduction of game (10 000 large mammals) undertaken by man in any Game Reserve in Africa.

During the early 1990’s, the relocation of entire breeding herds of elephant, various antelope species, buffalo, black and white rhino, zebra and more recently lion, cheetah, spotted hyaena and endangered wild dog have increased the large mammal population to over 16 000.

Some species such as kudu and leopards occurred naturally in the area; in fact the Dwarsberg kudu bulls are reputed to have the most spectacular horns in the country. The area is also rich in cultural history reflecting times of turmoil and peace.

HISTORICAL POINTS
From the centre of the Dwarsberg range through to Derdepoort runs the famous Mafeking Road (now spelt Mafikeng), which during the 19th century was the main road Northwards from Cape Town to Bulawayo.

Many explorers, traders, hunters, missionaries and of course Mzilikazi and his followers passed this way during the making of South African History. Herman Charles Bosman lived among and wrote about the inhabitants of this area, also travelling along this road.

You can easily visualise his Oom Schalk Lourens sitting under a Karee boom, contemplating the finer points of life, or recovering from some of the alcoholic delights of its berries.

A visit to the historical town of Groot Marico, featured in Bosman’s stories, is essential if only to sample his infamous “Mampoer”, a locally made alcoholic beverage, and to meet its hospitable inhabitants.

A dilapidated Jesuit Mission Station steeped in history and now in need of restoration work can also be found along the Mafeking Road within the Madikwe Reserve.

TOPOGRAPHY
The Dwarsberg Mountain range geologically related to the Magaliesberg range, forming the southern boundary of the Reserve, runs from east to west.

This range has been drastically eroded; with Brandwacht in the highest point in the Dwarsberg range within the Reserve, reaching only 1228 metres, with a slightly higher peak of 1250 metres situated to the west of Brandwacht on the Reserve’s border.

Northwards into the Reserve an undulation plateau covered in dense bushveld vegetation suddenly drops away at the Tweedepoort escarpment to a lower flat savannah plain. Scattered inselbergs dot this savannah bringing relief to an otherwise flat area.

The Tshwene Tshwene group of hills, more or less in the centre of the park reach 1326 metres, making it the highest point in the Reserve.

The Molatedi Gate on the eastern boundary is close to Lotteringskop, and the entrance gate on the western side has a good view of Abjaterskop which at 1144 metres and 1377 metres respectively, are both landmarks referred to later.

WILD DOGS OF THE MADIKWE
Wild Dogs, also known as ‘Painted Wolves’, were once called Cape Hunting Dogs. The Wild Dog is the largest of the wild canids in Africa and is now one of Africa’s most endangered carnivores.

It is estimated that less than 5,000 Wild Dogs still survive in the wild and viable populations are only found in larger reserves and uninhabited areas in Southern and Eastern Africa.

Wild Dogs are extremely gregarious animals and are usually found in packs of between five and fifteen members. Each pack has a clearly defined social hierarchy and is led by a dominant (or alpha) male and female.

Working together in these highly organised units, the Wild Dog is an effective predator, capable of bringing down prey as large as Buffalo. They are also able to defend themselves against their natural enemies, Lions and Spotted Hyenas.

The bonds between all the members of the pack are very strong, all the dogs cooperate in caring for and feeding any pups as well as any sick or injured members of the pack. In most packs only the dominant (alpha) male and female successfully reproduce.

Although persecution by man, susceptibility to diseases such as rabies, and diminishing natural areas have all taken their toll on Africa’s Wild Dog population, there is now a concerted effort to conserve and protect these fascinating animals.

In December 1994, as part of the huge game translocation operation called Operation Phoenix, wild dogs were relocated into the Madikwe Game Reserve.

Three female dogs, captive bred at a breeding station for rare and endangered species, were put into an enclosure in the reserve with three male dogs captured just outside the Kruger National Park.

The six animals formed a new pack and were then released into the reserve. The project was resoundingly successful and today the Madikwe Game Reserve has a viable and thriving population of Wild Dogs.

MADIKWE CHEETAHS
This history of cheetah in the Madikwe Game Reserve dates back to 2012, when 6 males were introduced into the reserve. Four males were from the Eastern Cape, and two were sourced from another reserve. Later that year, one of the two males was killed, most likely by the four from the Eastern Cape.

In 2015, two males were sent to Welgevonden and two were sent to Phinda. That same year, two males from Phinda, two males from Sable Ranch and two females from the Eastern Cape were received.

Unfortunately, one female died after choking on a piece of meal, one female was killed by the males, and one female was caught outside the reserve and sent to Pilanesburg.

In 2016, another female was introducted into the reserve, but after getting out and then recaptured, she disappeared. The next year, three unrelated females were brought in from De Wildt – tagged red, blue and green as per their GPS collar IDs.

In 2018, an unknown female was found in the park, shortly after which she was killed by a leopard. That year, the female cheetah with the green tage died from a lung infection. She did receive treatment from the vet, but unfortunately, it was too late.

In early 2019, one of the males from Sable Ranch was attacked by the Phinda males. The vet tended to him, but he was found dead the next day. The blue and red tagged femals are doing fine so far – blue gave everyone a scare when she got sick in early 2019, but she was treated by the vet and is being monitored.

Weather
A Dry Climate With Very Warm Summers, Experiencing Beautiful Quick Thunderstorms and Cooler Dry Winters
We are privileged in South Africa to have hours of sunshine, amongst the highest in the world. At Madikwe Hills, spring and summer give way to green, lush and thick bush. It is the time of the year where there are many newborn animals.

Autumn and winter can be dry, the bush being less dense and waterholes frequented more often due to the lack of water. The Reserve experiences summer rainfall with the bulk of the rain falling between November and March. Months of no or very little rainfall are May to August.

The southern area, just north of the Dwarsberg range, normally receives over 600mm of rain per annum. The annual rainfall average is less in the northern section of Madikwe with the north-eastern corner receiving less than 500mm per annum.

The varied rainfall naturally has an impact on the vegetation and fauna in the various regions of the Reserve. Generally the summer days are hot and the evenings mild with the winter days being mild and evenings cold.

SUMMER: November – March
This is the rainy season with spectacular thunderstorms that can last anything from 10 minutes to 2 hours. Since our yearly rainfall is only about 500mm, it does not rain every day; sometimes only once in two or three weeks. The days are hot, anything between 25°C and 40°C making the private plunge pools a welcome retreat. The bush starts off brown and bare in November and then soon turns into lush greenery with beautiful wild flowers. Loads of antelopes have their young during this period.

AUTUMN: April – May
The days are still warm, between 20°C and 35°C. No rain is expected in Autumn. No rain means very few bugs and insects. The bush is still beautifully green. Autumn is great for photography, the light is not as harsh as in summer time.

WINTER: June – August
Day time temperatures are comfortable, between 15°C and 25°C. You will not be enjoying your plunge pool during these months unless you don’t mind ice cold water! It gets quite cold on game drive in the early morning and evening.

Night time temperatures can be anything between 0°C and 15°C. The bush turns brown and bare, the trees lose their leaves, making it easier to see the animals.

Animals also tend to visit the waterholes more often (the smaller waterholes dry up during winter). There is no rain and no bugs in winter – not even dung beetles.

SPRING: September – October
In Spring the days start to warm up again but probably not enough for you to enjoy your plunge pool. Temperatures will range from 20°C to 30°C, but early morning and late afternoon game drives will still be cold (wind chill factor).

The bush is at its driest, almost no leaves on the trees, brown grass everywhere making game spotting much easier. Spring is great for photography! Especially the beautiful sunrises and sunsets.

Rooms: 10

Price: from 1.470 EUR per night

Source: www.madikwehills.com

Award-winning Samara Karoo Reserve is a conservation journey on 67,000 acres of born-again wilderness in South Africa’s heart-stoppingly beautiful Great Karoo region.

Founded in 1997, Samara has pioneered the rewilding of this semi-arid yet uniquely biodiverse landscape, catalysing an ambitious vision to expand the conservation estate to a 3-million-acre footprint in a Global Biodiversity Hotspot.

Today the reserve is one of South Africa’s most diverse safari destinations, comprising five vegetation biomes across strikingly varied topography, home to over 60 mammal species including the Big Five and cheetah, as well as 225 bird species. Three intimate lodges welcome guests for considered, meaningful and exceptional safari encounters.

In staying at Samara, every guest plays a role in safeguarding the landscape in perpetuity. Yet for those who visit, Samara’s magic extends beyond its conservation importance.

To immerse oneself in this soulful landscape of infinite horizons is to experience a recalibration of the frantic modern mindset, a deep reconnection with Nature and a heart-lifting vision of hope for the future.

THE HISTORY
It was a very strange feeling because it was totally unprompted and quite unexpected. A battlefield is not normally the sort of place one associates with affairs of the heart. However, the battle sites of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift in KwaZulu-Natal must have inspired some primal emotions that led to conduct quite markedly in contrast to our normal, rational behaviour.

After a long dinner accompanied by several glasses of superb South African Cabernet up in Northern Natal, the site of British triumph and Zulu tragedy, we started chatting to a chap from quite a different part of South Africa – the Great Karoo.

Magical tales were woven about the millions of springbok that once roamed this area, the “Vanished Kings”, the black-maned Cape lion who majestically reigned over the Plains of Camdeboo, the rhino, the cheetah, the now-extinct quagga, the explorers, the characters of yesteryear and the haunting beauty of the semi-desert land.

The dream continued – amass enough land to have a self-sustaining ecosystem that would support wildlife: the herds of antelope that used to inhabit this area, and the predators to keep the balance that helps maintain these fragile ecosystems.

67,000 acres and a quarter of a century later, Samara’s rewilding journey has picked up pace. The land is beginning to recover from the effects of generations of agricultural exploitation. The haunting beauty of the landscape that first inspired this campaign of rejuvenation has returned.

An ambitious programme of land rehabilitation and wildlife reintroduction has brought Samara’s valleys, plains and mountains back to life. Herds of springbok, black wildebeest, zebra and eland now roam the Plains of Camdeboo. Rhinoceros, elephant and cheetah meander across the veld once more. Almost two centuries after it was last seen, the lion reigns again.

Samara’s vision now extends beyond our borders to the creation of South Africa’s 3rd largest protected area in a Global Biodiversity Hotspot, providing a winning plan for the people and wild places of the Karoo.

INTIMATE LUXURY LODGES
Whilst on safari at Samara you will bask in the exclusivity of being one of few people in a vast wilderness. With just three intimate luxury lodges sleeping a maximum of 40 people on the vast reserve, it will feel like you have Samara’s 67,000 acres all to yourself.

The Manor offers a contemporary take on Karoo living, sleeping up to 8 in comfort and style. Plains Camp is Samara’s latest eco-tourism offering, an off-grid tented experience for up to 8 guests.

Karoo Lodge is a restored farmhouse with a rustic, authentic charm. Undergoing extensive renovations during the period 06 May – 14 December 2023, Karoo Lodge will reopen on 15 December 2023 with expanded facilities sleeping 24 guests. The renovation will not affect The Manor, Plains Camp or the Samara experience.

THE MANOR
The Manor’s uniquely warm design reflects the local environment and traditions with a light, modern twist. Upon arrival, your eye is drawn through the glass double doors flanked by beaded African artwork and Karoo antiques to the 21-metre infinity pool and breathtaking views beyond.

The Manor can be booked on an exclusive-use basis, an option well-suited to families and groups looking for privacy, indulgence and complete relaxation.

When booked exclusively, The Manor guests have access to a private vehicle, guide, chef and host as well as a tailor-made programme of activities. Suites within The Manor can also be booked individually, an ideal option for couples or smaller groups.

The Manor is small enough to feel intimate, yet large enough to give all guests a feeling of space and privacy. The villa opens up into two living areas and two smaller breakaway lounging alcoves. Unwind by the fireplace where a crackling fire burns in the winter months and the large glass doors to the patio are cast wide open in summer.

Dining takes places in a well-appointed dining room adjacent to the comfortable bar area. There is also a small breakfast room next to the kitchen, which can double up as a study.

When the weather is fair, candlelit dinners are set up on the verandah, on the lawn under the purple-flowered Jacaranda tree, or out in the bush beneath a star-studded sky. A Karoo-style boma, fashioned out of an old water reservoir, is the perfect place for pre-dinner drinks around the fire.

Four spacious suites are found in The Manor. Each suite comprises a bedroom and bathroom with shower and free-standing bath. A private patio with outdoor seating looks out over a mountain landscape — the perfect location for lazy afternoons reading “Plains of Camdeboo”, the classic book of the Karoo.

KAROO LODGE
Encircled by a natural amphitheatre of mountains, Karoo Lodge sits in complete serenity with its wild surrounds. The lovingly-restored farmhouse with a true sense of place lies on the first property purchased by Samara’s founders in 1997.

Combining modern comforts with a quintessentially “Karoo” welcoming feel, this family-friendly safari lodge is the perfect place to relax and allow the tranquillity of the Karoo to envelop you – on the wide verandah in summer or by the cosy fire in winter.

Closed for extensive renovations from 06 May 2023, Karoo Lodge will re-open on 15 December 2023, retaining its current charm so beloved by Samara guests but with expanded and upgraded facilities with a focus on sustainability, including new living, dining and learning spaces.

Upon re-opening, Karoo Lodge will comprise 10 suites across two room types: eight Karoo Suites and two Karoo Family Suites, sleeping up to 24 guests. The Manor and Plains Camp (from 15 June 2023) remain open for booking throughout the Karoo Lodge renovation period. The Samara experience is not affected in any way by the renovation.

Antiques, family heirlooms and vintage books permeate the décor throughout. Karoo Lodge offers a warm and inviting living room with a fireplace as well as a cosy bar area. There is a small TV area off the bar.

A large dining room with fireplace is used for indoor crystal dinners. When the weather is clement, candlelit dinners are set up on the verandah, on the lawn under the stars, or in the boma, a traditional reed enclosure warmed by a roaring fire.

KAROO SUITE
Eight Karoo Suites are standalone cottages a short distance from the main Karoo Lodge homestead. Ideal for couples, each spacious suite contains a four-poster bed, fireplace, air-conditioning and luxury en-suite bathroom with large separate bath and shower and two washbasins, and an outdoor shower.

Private covered patios with outdoor seating look out over a waterhole, providing the ideal location for morning coffee or a nightcap under the stars.

KAROO FAMILY SUITE
Set within the Karoo Lodge garden, two Karoo Family Suites are standalone cottages comprising two inter-leading suites, each with fireplace, air-conditioning and luxury en-suite bathroom with large separate bath, shower, outdoor shower and two wash basins.

A shared private covered verandah with outdoor seating provides the ideal location for morning coffee or a nightcap under the stars. The maximum capacity in each Karoo Family Suite is 4 adults plus one child under the age of 12 on an extra bed in the shared living area.

PLAINS CAMP
An off-grid experience with spellbinding views, Plains Camp focuses on walking safaris and reconnecting with Nature in elegant simplicity. No wifi, no electricity, no high-tech distractions — just a grounding, humbling experience in Nature.

This is the ethos of Samara’s brand-new ecotourism offering, Plains Camp. Four deluxe tents welcome 8 guests for a unique explorer-style experience with a focus on the ultimate luxuries — time and space.

Located in a remote part of the reserve with spellbinding views and abundant wildlife including the Big Five, this unpretentious eco-conscious camp lets the landscape do the talking, allowing guests to disconnect from their busy lives in soothing solitude.

Nestled against a low hill with sweeping views of plains and dolerite-capped mountains, Plains Camp blends into its natural surroundings whilst providing a front row view to this piece of paradise and its plentiful wildlife.

Zebra, black wildebeest, springbok and gemsbok meander these plains, alongside giraffe, ostrich and cheetah — the tableau only further enhanced by the unmistakable call of the ground-dwelling korhaan bird.

Designed to touch the ground lightly and with sustainability in mind, the camp echoes the semi-permanence of mobile camps set up during safaris of yore. A communal mess tent houses an indoor dining and lounge space with open sides for soaking up the views.

Antique and locally-made furnishings add a touch of authenticity to the setting without compromising on comfort, creating the perfect spot to cosy up with a book or binoculars. Lit by candlelight and oil lanterns, the camp has no electricity, but plenty of atmosphere. A small farm-style plunge pool provides respite from the midday heat.

A slow and considered experience focusing on guided walking safaris is designed to bring the semi-arid ecosystem to life. Daily morning bush walks focus on the little things so often ignored or unseen from the vehicle. Tracks, flowering Karoo bossies, ostrich eggs and beetles — all these natural wonders form part of the day’s sightings.

In the afternoon, game drives provide an undeniable thrill as guests are able to get up close with cheetah, rhinoceros and giraffe under the supervision of expert guides and trackers. As the coolness of evening approaches, sundowners are just what the doctor ordered, followed by spectacular stargazing.

Four deluxe guest tents are positioned to enjoy spectacular undisturbed mountain views, providing a tranquil sanctuary to return to after a long day of exploring. There’s nothing quite like “champagne air” to make for a restful night’s sleep!

Tastefully furnished with all the essentials, the intimate bedroom and seating area are warmed by a small fireplace in winter and cooled by a fan in summer. A simple en-suite bathroom at the back of the tent contains an indoor loo, a washbasin and a separate open-air “bucket” shower — filled from the outside with hot water on request.

Simple, wholesome meals are cooked by the chef over the campfire and taken either in the well-appointed mess tent or al fresco under a Jacketplum tree. A bar in the mess tent stocks a variety of chilled drinks as well as tea, coffee and Amarula hot chocolate.

THE GREAT KAROO
A timeless landscape of space, stars and silence, a magical region known as the heart and soul of South Africa. A vast semi-desert stretching across four provinces, the Karoo is South Africa’s answer to the Australian Outback or North America’s Chihuahan Desert.

Characterised by extensive open plains bordered by dolerite-capped mountains, the immense, heart-lifting spaces of the Karoo have a unique, humbling kind of magic. The Karoo is split into roughly two sections: the expansive Great Karoo to the north-east and the smaller Little Karoo (Klein Karoo) in the south-west.

Samara Karoo Reserve sits within the Great Karoo, which covers more than 400,000 km² – an area larger than Germany. The name Karoo comes from an ancient San word meaning Land of Great Thirst, a reference to the arid landscape and harsh climate.

Yet, for a semi-desert, the Karoo is extraordinarily diverse. In particular, the area within which Samara sits represents the meeting point of an astonishing variety of topographies, vegetation biomes and wildlife.

It is known as the Camdeboo region, loosely translated from San language as Place of the Green Hills. This part of the Karoo has been designated as the western-most extent of one of just 36 Global Biodiversity Hotspots, the Maputaland-Pondoland-Albany Hotspot.

Since time immemorial the Karoo has held a special place in the hearts of many South Africans, its stark and desolate beauty the stuff of legend. With a vastness stretching as far as the eye can see, the Great Karoo holds a mysterious energy that highlights humanity’s insignificance – the perfect antidote to the stresses of modern living.

There is no better place to clear your lungs, reconnect with your senses, and feel the stresses of daily life begin to slip away. Climb to the the top of a rocky outcrop on the edge of the Karoo basin, look out over an ancient and timeless landscape, and feel your heart soar. To immerse yourself in this landscape of infinite horizons is to place everything in your life in perspective once more.

Karoo hospitality is equally renowned – warm and genuine with tasty farm cooking to boot. Dotted around the Karoo lie small towns – dorpies – where original settler architecture, eccentric characters and a distinctly “Karoo” way of life collide in charming fashion. The fascinating histories of the settlements and pioneering peoples of the Karoo add to its magic.

Samara is fortunate to be located just 45 minutes from Graaff-Reinet, South Africa’s 4th oldest town, a picturesque settlement rich in history and character, and well worth a visit before or after your Samara trip.

A KAROO SAFARI
Samara is uniquely situated at the meeting point of five of South Africa’s nine vegetation biomes: Grasslands, Nama Karoo, Savanna, Thicket and Forest.

This diversity of vegetation creates a multitude of habitats for species that are specially adapted to the Karoo’s arid environment. Explore each of these biomes during your safari at Samara with our experienced guides, who will bring each biome to life during bush walks and game drives.

MOUNTAIN GRASSLANDS 
Our “Samara Mara” is formed of thousands of hectares of mountain-top grasslands. Here, grasses dominate the landscape, with trees and shrubs along natural springs and drainage lines. Herds of eland, black wildebeest, gemsbok, blesbok and Cape mountain zebra are regularly seen on the plateau.

Keep an eye out for baboons, porcupine, aardwolf and regal Secretarybirds. Samara’s cheetah and lion also love these grasslands and can be spotted camouflaged amongst the grasses, taking in the view of the plains below.

SUBTROPICAL THICKET
The Thicket biome is characterised by dense vegetation in the valleys and on the mountain slopes. This habitat tends to be quite rocky and is favoured by browsers such as kudu, eland and black rhino.

A particular favourite plant of theirs is Spekboom – a light green succulent-type shrub that literally translates as “Pork Bush” for its high nutritional content. Samara has engaged in an ambitious plan to restore thousands of hectares of Spekboom thicket – contributing to the fight against climate change and providing jobs in rural communities.

THE SAVANNA
Samara’s savanna biome hugs the ephemeral rivers on the property. Characterised by tall trees including Senegalia (formerly Acacia), this habitat is subject to the changing water levels in the rivers. In times of heavy rains, the rivers burst their banks, flooding the savanna around them.

In this biome, you’re likely to spot troops of vervet monkeys, elephants, buffalo, giraffe and red hartebeest. If you’re lucky, this is also where you’ll see an aardvark – they dig their burrows and forage for ants and termites in the soft, rich earth.

NAMA KAROO
Samara’s southern section consists of flat plains typical of the Karoo, interspersed with waterholes and thicker bush clumps. The dominant vegetation is low shrubs and grasses. The fossil record in the Nama Karoo is world-renowned, with mammal remains millions of years old preserved in the shale deposits.

Wildlife in the Nama Karoo is varied, with herds of plains zebra, springbok and gemsbok sharing the landscape with steenbok, jackal and bat-eared foxes. This is also the perfect place to see blue crane in flocks of up to 200 in winter.

FOREST
As well as the four biomes outlined above, Samara remarkably also contains several patches of forest, characterised by elevated continuous canopy with multi-layered vegetation below. These are located at the very top of valleys and underneath cliff faces on the mountain slopes, in areas where the soil has a high moisture content due to natural springs.

Key species moving through these forests include mega-herbivores such as elephants and birds such as the rameron pigeon, a fruit-eating forest-dweller. These animals help to disperse the seeds of trees found there, from yellowwoods to wild olives.

SAFARI EXPERIENCES
With 67,000 acres of wilderness at your disposal, there are many ways to enjoy Samara, whatever the type of holiday you are planning. From romantic getaways to child-friendly safaris, adventure travel to milestone celebrations, Samara has something for everyone.

Those with an interest in conservation can also choose to combine their luxury getaway with conservation activities during their stay. Of course, if the pure Karoo air and serenity of our lodges compels you to simply relax and recharge by the pool, you’ll have no less of an enjoyable time. As Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “adopt the pace of Nature: her secret is patience”.

TRACKING CHEETAH ON FOOT 
One of the highlights of a stay at Samara is the opportunity to track wild cheetah on foot. Thanks to a number of relaxed individuals, starting with our famous Sibella, we have been able to offer unrivalled wild cheetah viewing to many years of Samara guests.

Several of Samara’s cheetahs have radio collars for research and monitoring purposes to inform our conservation management. These collars also enable them to be tracked more easily. This is essential given the type of terrain they live in – from hunting in the thicket adjoining the rivers to giving birth on steep mountain slopes.

Depending on the vegetation, your guide will also teach you to track the old-fashioned way – pointing out the signs of a cheetah’s presence, from tracks to dung to scratch marks on a tree trunk. The cheetah tracking experience is available to all guests at no extra charge.

GUIDED WALKING SAFARI 
Want to truly experience Africa, its smells, sounds and that unmistakeable wilderness feeling? Then get off the safari vehicle and walk a little closer. Samara is one of few game reserves where walking forms an integral part of the safari experience.

With fragile ecosystems and a “tread lightly” policy, our preferred form of off-roading is on our own two feet, providing the ideal place for an unforgettable walking safari.

Let our experienced guides walk you through our five vegetation biomes, pointing out the signs of the wild invisible from the vehicle. Marvel at busy termites as they go about their daily business, listen out for the call of the Honeyguide leading you to wild honey and feel your senses heighten in every way as you navigate the sort of landscape our prehistoric ancestors dwelled in long ago, once again home to the Big Five.

Every tree, every rock and every track has a story to tell. During your walking safari, breathe in the silence and space so foreign to our everyday urban lives and feel yourself reconnecting to Nature.

No one can fail to be moved by the sound of trickling water in a stream, the gentle whistling of the wind rustling the leaves, the sense of suspense and awe at walking to within metres of endangered cheetah and rhino.

If the conditions are right, you’ll get the opportunity during your walking safari to track these iconic animals on foot, with safety always top of mind. What a privilege to enter their space and witness these animals living wild and free. An unforgettable and humbling experience awaits.

CONSERVATION SAFARI
Every Samara guest helps us to achieve our conservation vision simply by choosing to support us. We also offer active participation in our various conservation projects. For those who want to delve a little deeper, to understand how a game reserve truly operates behind the scenes, we offer hands-on conservation sessions and personalised tours of our rewilding projects.

These can be pre-booked at the time of reservation, or you can opt for our Conservation Journey package – a thoughtfully-crafted itinerary that enables participants to develop a meaningful understanding of Samara’s conservation efforts, without compromising on 5-star comforts.

You might wonder what makes Samara special. Aren’t all game reserves beacons of conservation achievement? The reality is a little more complex. Samara’s focus on conservation is not a fashionable marketing tactic – it is in our DNA.

Samara was founded in 1997 with the vision of rewilding 67,000 acres across eleven former livestock farms, restoring degraded landscapes and returning wildlife which had been absent from the region for centuries.

ROMANTIC RETREATS
Samara’s exquisite scenery and unique experiences make for a special romantic escape. Whether you are planning a proposal, honeymoon, anniversary or even just a treat for your loved one, Samara provides the ideal destination.

Escape the stresses of city living in this magical wilderness. Awaken to the sounds of the bush – quiet, gentle, soothing. Open the curtains to reveal views that stretch to the mountains beyond. Breathe in the fresh Karoo air. Unwind.

The Samara team is passionate about creating special memories for you to cherish. Get in touch with us and we will be happy to assist you in curating your perfect romantic experience. Romantic extras include special turn-downs, private vehicle, wilderness picnics, couples massage and complimentary sparkling wine.

Samara’s abundance of stunning landscapes lends itself perfectly to outdoor dining at its finest. Whether on your own private verandah or out in the bush, treat yourself to an intimate dining experience as the night sky unfolds to reveal a carpet of stars. In the height of summer, request a romantic lunch for two in the river – and sit back in your canvas chair as the cool, clear water flows past your toes.

STAR BED
Breathe in the vastness of the Karoo landscape, lit by a canopy of stars. Samara’s star bed on the Milk River will provide you with a romantic wilderness experience to take your breath away.

Arrive at sunset for a picnic dinner and drinks. Watch as the local wildlife descend to the water to quench their thirst. Take in the spectacular views over the mountainous landscape, free of light and noise pollution.

As the night sky develops, marvel at the Milky Way, pointing out different constellations with the aid of our star books, before drifting off to sleep wrapped in a thick mohair blanket. Awaken to the big skies and birdsong of the Karoo as another beautiful day dawns in Africa.

FLY CAMPING 
Samara’s fly camping experience is an immersive adventure encompassing a guided bush walk and a sleep-out in one of Africa’s most exquisite wildernesses. In the safari days of yore, explorers setting up camp in big game country had to make do with little more than a fly sheet to protect them from the elements and the wildlife.

Fly camping takes its name from this tradition, and although today’s camps are typically more substantial, there’s an undeniable thrill to going back to basics. Samara’s fly camping excursion pays homage to these origins and takes full advantage of the reserve’s vastness and diversity, offering an experience that is simple yet spectacular.

The adventure begins with a guided bush walk through Big Five territory with an armed ranger and tracker team. The opportunity to explore Samara on foot is a thrilling one, awakening the senses and showcasing the landscape from a different perspective.

At dusk, guests arrive at their private camp, where tents have been set up and the fire is ready to be started. Here you will be treated to sundowners and a traditional South African braai, cooked over the fire by your ranger and tracker (with optional assistance from any budding chefs in the group!).

Your evening will be spent around the campfire, sharing safari stories, watching the stars appear and listening for the nightly chorus of jackals and nightingales punctuated by the occasional roar of a lion – a sound you are unlikely to forget.

You’ll retreat to the comfort of your tent, where your bed will have been prepared for you – foam mattress, soft linen and extra blankets to ward off the night air. The smell of firewood and coffee, and the sounds of an African dawn, will coax you out of your tent to take in the magic of the sunrise. You can then choose either to walk or drive back to the lodge.

WILDERNESS PICNIC
What is it that makes food taste better when eaten outdoors? We’re not sure of the exact recipe, but it probably has something to do with the smell of the campfire, the hunger-inducing fresh air, and the pleasing parallel of sipping your G&T on the rocks, well… on the rocks.

At Samara, the wealth of stunning landscapes positively begs to be the setting for a delicious meal, whether it be a well-earned breakfast buffet, light lunch in the shade of a shepherd tree on one of our wilderness picnics or dinner under the stars. Aside from the beautiful locations, gourmet picnic food has a certain je-ne-sais-quoi that just epitomises holiday mode.

As well as dining on your lodge verandah or in the outdoors “boma”, a traditional reed enclosure at Karoo Lodge with a campfire at its centre, there are myriad other dining options to enjoy at Samara.

From a picnic lunch in the riverbed at the height of summer with cool water flowing past your toes, to our iconic mountain picnic experience on the Samara Mara, you’ll struggle to go back to dining in urban eateries.

We aim to organise a wilderness picnic or bush dinner for all guests staying for a minimum of 3 nights (of course, this is weather dependent). Options include a simple picnic blanket and basket meal, a seated dining affair or a custom-made mealtime. Please advise Reservations of any particular requests and we will do our best to create a magical dining experience for you.

MOUNTAIN BIKING 
With a variety of routes both easy and technical, Samara offers mountain biking for beginners and advanced cyclists. Two options are available: guided and non-guided rides. The guided routes are located within the game-fenced area, as guests will need to be accompanied by a member of the Samara Team.

Non-guided routes are located in an area without dangerous game, and guests wishing to cycle by themselves can do so in this section. They will be provided with a radio and a map of the route.

SAMARA MARA CYCLE ROUTE
The Samara Mara guided route is 33km, with 656m total ascent. You’ll cycle through all four of Samara’s vegetation biomes. From the foothills of Kondoa Mountain you’ll begin a 7km ascent to the plateau grasslands above.

Once on the Samara Mara, you’ll ride amongst herds of eland, gemsbok, wildebeest and Cape mountain zebra, set against a backdrop of purple mountains. The ride back down to the lodge will take you down the exhilarating Wolvekloof pass. This route is technical and a good level of fitness is required. Experienced bikers only.

MILK RIVER CYCLE ROUTE
The Milk River guided route is 12km. You’ll ride through the riverine vegetation that hugs the meandering Milk River, across dry riverbeds and through open plains where you might spot monkeys, kudu and, in winter, the elusive aardvark. This route is gentle and is open to bikers of all abilities.

VULTURE MOUNTAIN CYCLE ROUTE
The Vulture Mountain non-guided route is 44km, with 676m total ascent. You’ll cycle through the riverine thicket of the Milk River before moving towards the base of Vulture Mountain. A 1.5km climb up the mountain will present you with a challenge – but the views of the Plains of Camdeboo from the top will be worth it.

Ride along the mountain plateau with another, smaller ascent, before a fast 5km downhill bringing you back to the lodge. This route is technical and a good level of fitness is required. Experienced bikers only.

WILD OLIVE GROVE CYCLE ROUTE
The Wild Olive Grove non-guided route is a more leisurely 20km. You’ll head out up a valley with lush vegetation either side for 8km, before turning off into the riverine thicket. After 1.5km you’ll reach the river and a grove of 800-year-old Wild Olive trees – the perfect spot for a picnic lunch. The return leg is back from where you have come.

A FAMILY ADVENTURE
Samara offers an adventure for all ages. Family-owned and family-run, we are passionate about educating the next generation of eco-warriors and opening their eyes to the wonders of the wild. Samara’s malaria-free Big Five wilderness offers an exciting new world just waiting to be discovered.

Upon arrival, kids are enrolled in the Samara Cubs Programme, jam-packed with fun activities and inspiring educational experiences, for all ages from toddlers to teens. Parents can opt to relax and unwind or join in, creating opportunities for the whole family to reconnect — with Nature and with each other.

CLUBS PROGRAMME
Experienced staff will engage your kids in a variety of age-appropriate activities, including track identification, painting like the Khoi-San people, walking stick carving, storytelling, T-shirt painting, Spekboom planting, orienteering and navigating.

Children receive a goodie bag with activities and treats to enhance the magic of their Samara stay. Using the bush as an outdoor classroom, kids will learn about the multitude of other creatures we share our planet with – from bugs and beetles to the “Funny Five”.

ADVENTURE CLUB
The discerning tastes of older children are catered for with more grown-up adventures, designed to showcase the beauty and thrill of the Great Outdoors. Activities include air rifle target practice, bush walks, sleep-outs, conservation activities and overnight trails.

Walks in Big Five territory have a minimum age limit of 16 years. These activities can also include parents, allowing the whole family to reconnect on an exciting wilderness adventure.

CHILD-MINDING
High chairs and cots are available for infants and toddlers. When parents are away from the lodge on game drives, babies under 3 years of age must be placed under the care of Samara’s experienced child-minders.

Whenever possible, our preference is for “active babysitting” – meeting the tortoises that meander onto the lodge lawn and exploring the garden. This service is also available over meal times.

Website: www.samara.co.za

Rooms: 9

Price: from 701 EUR per night