Chitwa Chitwa Lodge

Chitwa Chitwa is more than just a luxury private game lodge in the bush. It’s a holistic and sensorial experience which starts at sunrise and captures the very essence of the magnificent wildlife heritage and natural landscape of Africa before sunset.

The luxury lodge basks in the sun on the banks of one of the largest waters of the exclusive 63,000 hectare Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve, which forms part of the greater Kruger National Park.

This area, in turn, is incorporated into the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park – a world-class eco-tourism destination managed to optimise benefits for the sustainable economic development of local communities and biodiversity conservation.

The area shaded in blue represents the traversing area of Chitwa Chitwa – some 5,500ha – this is the area over which we take guests on game drives.

Originally a private retreat of the Brink family, Chitwa Chitwa has been in the Brink family for over 40 years and in 1991 was transformed into the private game lodge it is today.

It now stands as a jewel of South African hospitality, an emblem of the savanna’s most authentic and refined luxury. Charl is dedicated to wise land management, aiming at preserving an African paradise for future generations.

Chitwa Chitwa earned its name as an affectionate ode to the aging giraffe bull who shared the lakeside home as an extended member of the Brink family. According to Charl, the majestic arrival of this regal relative was always signalled by the creaking of his old joints.

Still today, his watchful essence is felt presiding over the lodge. Much like this giraffe, the lodge is magnificent and graceful in appearance, yet humble enough to evaporate into the surrounding beauty of the unspoiled bush of the Sabi Sand.

After its classic transformation into an eclectic blend of European style with African chic, Chitwa Chitwa has emerged as an exquisite balance between unbridled luxury and environmental harmony, an oasis of conservation.

Suites
Great care has been taken to balance unpretentious style with complete comfort when it comes to the Chitwa Suites.

Each of the six individually decorated suites open onto a private lake-view deck with its own private plunge pool, framed by a spacious timber deck that overlooks the nearby water – a popular drinking hole for our wealth of wildlife.

The luxury suites are very spacious, varying from 130 to 180 square metres, and can accommodate 1 extra bed for children under the age of 12 yrs only.

The Charlsy Suite in particular is a superb solution for families or friends travelling together! It consists of two splendidly appointed inter-leading en-suite rooms joined by a comfortable living area. A fabulously spacious common lake view deck with a swimming pool completes this unique unit.

All the Chitwa Chitwa Suites include a bath-tub, indoor and outdoor shower, fireplace, minibar, fan, hairdryer, tea coffee making facility and an iPod docking station.

House

In response to a growing demand for greater privacy and exclusive hospitality, we have created a treasure escape into unapologetic style in the form of the Chitwa House.

Here, guests can enjoy a bush experience tailored to their every whim with the assistance of an experienced house butler and the enthusiasm of a dedicated ranger.

Aside from the striking beauty of the African chic interior, the emphasis is on an element of familiarity as guests set the pace in their own private piece of Africa.

Chitwa House consists of two beautifully appointed en-suite rooms with private decks and outdoor showers. The common areas include a spacious common lounge and dining area and a lake-view deck with swimming pool.

You can go on exciting Big 5 game drives in your own private safari vehicle with a guide and a tracker. Enjoy delicious meals, either served by us or a private chef who can cook up delights in Chitwa House’s fully equiped kitchen.

During down time, enjoy drinks from the fully stocked mini-bar and coffee/tea facilities or watch the private television in your lounge.

A Spectacular Big 5 Experience
The most thrilling and eagerly-anticipated part of any stay with us is undoubtedly the Chitwa Chitwa safari experience. For over a decade, our guests have been treated to spell-binding sightings of our abundant wildlife on game drives and bush walks and have left with affectionate memories of the very best of the African bush.

The experience is further enhanced by our desire to protect and sustain the local environment and improve the well-being of our resident communities.

Located in the Sabi Sand which is the birthplace of sustainable wildlife tourism in southern Africa, Chitwa Chitwa is highly acclaimed for its excellent game viewing, as all hunting in the area has been abolished for decades.

As a result, the animals have grown accustomed to the presence of safari vehicles in their territory and we can boast some of the best opportunities to meet Africa’s Big Five – being the five most dangerous animals to meet on foot: buffalo, elephant, rhino, leopard and lion.

Our highly qualified guides and Shangaan trackers ensure an unforgettable African safari by enriching the experience with their profound knowledge regarding this animal kingdom and its complex habitat.

Safaris, Bush Walks and Feasts
Your safari experience at Chitwa Chitwa is filled with a combination of exciting activities out in the surrounding bush with expert rangers and down time at the camp or in the privacy of your suite.

For an outline of what the general day here looks like, take a look at our programme below.

GENERAL PROGRAMME (15 September to 31 May)

• 05h00 Wake up, meet at lodge for coffee
• 05h30 Depart for a safari (game drive)
• 08h45 Head back to camp for breakfast
• 10h00 Bush walk with your ranger or alternative activities and relaxation
• 13h00 Lunch
• 16h00 Afternoon tea at lodge
• 16h30 Evening safari and sundowners
• 19h30 Head back to camp
• 20h00 Aperitifs
• 20h30 Dinner
• Night Cap

WINTER PROGRAMME (1 June to 14 September)

• 06h00 Wake up, meet at lodge for coffee
• 06h30 Depart for safari (game drive)
• 09h30 Head back to camp for breakfast
• 10h30 Leisure time where bush walks and activities are proposed
• 13h00 Lunch
• 15h30 Afternoon tea at lodge
• 16h00 Evening safari and sundowners
• 19h00 Head back to camp
• 19h30 Aperitifs
• 20h00 Dinner
• Night Cap

An Early Introduction to the African Bush
Chitwa Chitwa has the pleasure of welcoming children of all ages. From the age of 6 onwards, upon the dedicated guide approval, children will be permitted to participate with the adults on safari. For the younger children, dedicated activities will be offered to the family during the arrival briefing.

Library
Chitwa Chitwa’s cosy library offers a large selection of books for your reference reading and relaxation. The library is also equipped with an internet access point.

Boutique
Our boutique is situated at the entrance of the lodge and displays a selection of hand-made African memorabilia created by skilled local craftsmen together with various traditional ornaments and bush-wear.

Gym
With all the great food you’ll be enjoying at Chitwa Chitwa, fitness enthusiasts might want to spend time training in our gym, which comes fully equipped with treadmill, spinning bike, pilates ball, dumbbells, aerobic mats and the all-in-one weight gym.

Spa
Nothing typifies the ultimate in relaxation more than one of the oldest healing arts in the world: the massage.

The far-reaching benefits of massage such as stimulating circulation, removing toxins and relieving the stress and tension of everyday living can be experienced at Chitwa Chitwa with our resident masseuse. Massages, wraps, masks, exfoliations and a variety of other treatments are offered.

Main Central Area
Built around the largest lake in the reserve, one of Chitwa Chitwa’s most endearing features is its seamless integration into the surrounding African bush through its ideal location and design.

Guests can be assured of superb game viewing from the main lounge and dining areas as they are rendered invisible to the various groups of wild animals that congregate at the water’s edge.

Sunset Deck
Shaded by old Knobthorn trees, our large wooden lounging deck affords amazing wildlife sightings of the Big Five (leopard, lion, buffalo, elephant and rhinoceros).

Spacious viewing areas strewn with comfy daybeds and a rim-flow swimming pool enhance the sense of unity with the surroundings – the perfect environment to relax, unwind and absorb the sights, sounds and scents of Africa.

Original Art Pieces and Sculptures
An impelling aspect of the Chitwa experience is the display of the original contemporary art pieces by owner Maria Brink.

Chitwa Chitwa comes alive with Maria’s personal choice of bold art pieces and sculptures. The African wilderness never looked so stylish! Chitwa’s art exudes both a masculine and feminine feel and combines an eclectic blend of European style with traditional African chic.

With a lifelong career in the international fashion, luxury jewellery and art, Maria’s precursor creations have attracted interest and acknowledgement globally. Her work has been also inspired by her love of Francis Bacon’s works and life.

Meet the Dixie Community
When you’re not embarking on wild game drives and bush walks, you can try something more cultural and go on a guided village tour at the nearby Dixie Community. It’s a truly memorable and eye-opening experience, especially for those coming from abroad.

Dixie is a small village situated close to the Gowrie Gate entrance of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. Through our close associations with our neighbours and our love of the area in general, we have cultivated a unique partnership with the Dixie Community in order to contribute to their general upliftment.

The Cultural Village Excursion affords the opportunity to slip unnoticed into a day in the life of the locals, while tapping into the inspiring optimism and energy that is so much part of this little village’s charm.

The transfer will be in a Chitwa Chitwa open vehicle and takes about two hours from the time of departure from the lodge.

Honeymooners
Chitwa Chitwa is a fantastic romantic destination for honeymooners and your hosts will ensure that your time with us is an unforgettable experience. The honeymoon package includes special private dinners and honeymoon turndowns in the bedrooms, among other romantic touches.

Special Celebrations
For celebrating special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries or other milestones we would be delighted to be able to assist in creating a memorable experience. All relevant information needs to be communicated to your reservation consultant in order for the lodge to prepare for it.

Unique experiences like a private dinner in an African riverbed or tribal dancers presenting a special treat can be arranged.

A Unique and Romantic African Wedding.
Imagine exchanging your vows in an African dry river bed at sunset, being serenaded in by African dancers amidst tribal song. Few experiences can be as personalised as a wedding and each experience requires attention to the finest detail.

We promise unrivalled big game viewing, exquisite accommodation, sublime cuisine and above all, a day you’ll never forget. Your safari style wedding will be a celebration of love, tradition and lasting memories.

Wedding Packages

Packages can be arranged to suit specific wishes and vary from an unforgettable sundowner with champagne and snacks in the middle of the bush, to an elegant reception with silver cutlery and white starched linen in our beautiful formal dining room.

We recommend that you book the lodge on exclusive use, so that we can ensure that our full attention is devoted to your function. It can be as glamorous or as understated as you wish.

Consideration needs to be given to weather and the fact that we are in a nature reserve so certain restrictions apply. Ministers from most denominations are easily accessible, as are photographers, cakes, hairdressers and florists.

Special menus and dining venues can be allocated when the lodge is booked exclusively. All you need to do is sit back, relax and leave it all up to us while you enjoy massages, sunset cocktails and game drives. Our weddings are renowned for their beauty and excellent service.

Hire photographic equipment while on safari
One of the many joys of a safari is photographing the incredible wildlife. In fact, many of our visitors travel exclusively for the chance to photograph the magnificent animals on our doorstep.

But what happens if you don’t have the right camera equipment to capture the lions, elephants, leopards and more of the Kruger National Park? That’s where we come in. Our guests can hire camera equipment to allow them the chance to take amazing action shots and close ups of our famous inhabitants.

Using the right equipment will give you the best chance of taking high quality photographs. Our guides will ensure you get as close as you can to the wildlife and then it’s in your hands to capture the magic. Even if you’re an amateur with a brand-new camera, you can bring home some truly special shots.

Here are a few top photographic tips for game drives:

• Size matters – For wildlife photography you generally need a longer lens if you hope to capture the action. Anything over 200mm is good, preferably with an image stabiliser. Some point-and-shoot digital cameras also have good zoom ranges.
• Be ready – When a lion is sauntering in front of you you shouldn’t be scrambling for your lens, bean bag or camera. By the time you get everything together, the lion will probably be gone. Get yourself organised before you go on a game drive.
• Automatic fanatic – Unless you really know your stuff, it’s much easier to go automatic and let the camera do the thinking for you. In fact, some of the best wildlife photographers will tell you it’s the only way to go. With wild animals, there’s seldom enough time to fiddle with settings. Rather just get the shot.
• Prepare with a spare – Take along spare batteries and an extra memory card for your camera. You’ll kick yourself if you don’t and you run out at the crucial moment.
• Bean there, done that – Try to keep as still as possible or your pictures will be blurred. You can do this by using a bean bag on the window of the car as a rest for your camera lens.
• Remember where you are – Keep the animals in mind. There are times when you can get close to animals, and times when you cannot. Be respectful and listen to your guide.
• Golden hour – The best light is early in the morning and late in the afternoon, exactly when you will be on the game drives. Shoot with the sun behind you, unless you’re specifically looking for a silhouette or a backlit effect.
• Hurry up and wait – Be patient with your subjects. They won’t always be doing something interesting as you arrive. Learn to anticipate what the animals might do.
• Dust is bust – Try not to change lenses while on a game drive. Dust is the enemy when it comes to sensitive digital camera innards.

Doing Good
At Chitwa Chitwa we are dedicated to preserving the environment we work and live within, and have invested plenty time and money into community projects and eco-initiatives.

From The Chitwa Trust which we was founded in 2008 as a non-profit organisation that provides aid to the underdeveloped communities close to us in Mpumalanga, to our going green conservation schemes, read on to find out more and get involved.

Steps to Limit our Eco Footprint
Chitwa Chitwa is proud to be a benchmark green-eco lodge in the Sabi Sand. We have implemented the following green initiatives over the last few years and are committed to running a sustainable lodge and ensuring your stay at the lodge has as small an impact as possible on our environment.

• Lighting: The use of led and compact fluorescent lighting technology in 75% of the lodge. Chitwa House is completely free of incandescent lights.
• Water Heating: Chitwa’s villas are retrofitted with solar water heating systems using evacuated tube solar collectors. “Geyserwise” intelligent electronic devices improve the efficiency of our solar heaters. All exposed piping is insulated for maximum heat retention.
• Pool Pumps: We have replaced all our pool pumps with “VF Intelliflow” variable speed pumps reducing the power consumption by 90%.
• Grey Water Recycling: A grey water recycling system is installed in our laundry, which together with our eco-friendly washing machines, enables us to reuse all laundry water for garden irrigation.
• Waste & Refuse Removal: All our waste is removed from the property weekly and taken to an approved waste management site so no waste is buried or burned on site.
• Air Conditioning: All our air conditioners have been fitted with “airco saver” energy savers, which reduces the energy consumed by our air conditioners by between 20-35%.
• Detergents & Cleaning Agents: The cleaning materials we use are all ecologically approved and all washing powders are phosphate-free.
• Natural Thatch Roofs: The use of natural highveld grass on our roofs acts as an insulation to reduce heat in summer and heat loss in winter, which necessitates less use of air-conditioning.

The Chitwa Trust
We are invested in not just showing our guests the best African experience possible, but also in giving back to the communities around us. The Chitwa Trust was founded in 2008 with the purpose of meeting two of South Africa’s greatest challenges: unemployment and lack of education.

The Trust is a registered non-profit organization that provides aid to underdeveloped areas of Mpumalanga in a way that involves both conservation and community upliftment.

Website: www.chitwa.co.za

Rooms: 8

Price: from 1.270 EUR per night