Tag Archive for: varty camp sabi sands

The Top 10 Luxury Safari Lodges in Africa

The Top 10 Luxury African Safari Lodges

londolozi private granite suites

Londolozi Private Granite Suites, Sabi Sands Game Reserve, South Africa

The 5-star Londolozi Private Granite Suites are located centrally in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve and shares an unfenced border with the Kruger National Park. The suites are set on the banks of the Sand River, offering a tranquil river experience. This exclusive lodge offers its guests an intimate experience, with only 3 private suits which house 6 guests in total. Each suite is naturally yet elegantly designed, integrating elements of nature with a modern touch. Massive windows and doors open out onto the deck, where incredible views of the riverbed can be seen. Each suite has a large bedroom and lounge area, as well as an indoor and outdoor shower and bathtub overlooking the water. There is also air-conditioning, mosquito nets, a minibar, an outdoor seating area, and a private outdoor heated swimming pool. Activities such as yoga, pilates, trail running, fishing and animal tracking expeditions are offered, and there is also an extravagant spa and gym on the premises. This exclusive luxury lodge offers its guests a once in a lifetime safari experience, with dedicated game rangers and trackers who will make your African safari experience an exciting and memorable one. Accommodation rates start at R33,495 per night.

Angama Mara, Kenya

Angama Mara is a luxury tented safari camp situated in Kenya, which features fifteen large tented suites, reminiscent of a classic African safari. Each suite boasts a spectacular view of the African wild, where every detail has been considered. The lodge delivers extraordinary wildlife sightings, including prides of lion, leopards, black rhinos and an abundance of herds of elephants and buffalo. The lodge has two separate camps of just 15 tented suites, which ensure exclusivity and privacy. Each camp has its own spacious guest area, a fully equipped kitchen, and exceptional staff who will attend to your every need. Angama Mara welcomes children of all ages and has four interconnecting tents, which are ideal for families. Dedicated safari guides, chefs, butlers, housekeepers, and managers provide exceptional service while guests can dine, relax, and explore the beauty that surrounds, including views that extend over the edge of the Rift Valley. Guests can enjoy the fully equipped fitness centre, swimming pool, craft studio, and an African art gallery. Guests are also invited to dine both inside or outside, where they can enjoy a romantic candle-lit dinner or a traditional African barbecue under the African skies.
Angama Mara offers a variety of activities including guided safaris, walking trails through the wild, as well as hot balloon excursions. Rates range from $1,400 per person, per night.

Singita serengeti house tanzania diningroom

Singita Serengeti House, Tanzania

Singita Serengeti House is an exclusive African retreat situated in the open plains of the Grumeti Reserves in the heart of the Serengeti in northern Tanzania, and is located on the slopes of Sasakwa Hill, offering breathtaking views of the wild, where herds of animals can be seen roaming around the area, or stopping for a drink at the lodge’s own watering hole.
Four suites are offered, which accommodate up to four guests in each and each suite features a double bed with an en suite bathroom, an outdoor shower and private terrace, as well as spacious and modern living spaces.
Other amenities include a large media room, a fully equipped gym, a luxurious spa, as well as sporting facilities including a full size tennis court and a croquet lawn, perfect for sports enthusiasts! Guests can also enjoy a 25 meter infinity pool, where they can relax and recharge for their next safari adventure.
Rates start from 16,050 USD per night for 5-8 guests.

chinzombo zambia 1

Chinzombo – South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Time + Tide Chinzombo offers the ultimate luxury African safari experience, with picturesque views of the Luangwa River.

The lodge consists of six luxurious villas, one of which accommodates families with children. Each villa boasts opulent and spacious air-conditioned bedrooms, all en-suite, as well as a private deck with a pool. The villas overlook the riverbank, where hippos and other wildlife can be seen and heard from the distance.

A variety of activities are offered, including guided game drives and walking safaris, as well as boat cruises on the Luangwa River. Amenities include a swimming pool, fire pit, gift shop, as well as a spa and exercise facilities. Guests also have private entry into the South Luangwa National Park via boat. Guests at Chinzombo will receive exceptional service from a team of dedicated and experienced staff, as well as delicious meals served in the lodge’s lounge or dining area. Seasonal rates for this fully inclusive stay range from $1,150 to $1,595 per person sharing.

Chief’s camp, Okavango Delta, Botswana

Chief’s Camp is a picturesque luxury safari camp and one of only two lodges situated on Chief’s Island in the Moremi Game Reserve in the Okavango Delta. It is the only place in Botswana where rhinos can be found roaming in their natural habitat. The area offers spectacular wildlife viewing all year round, including Africa’s famous Big Five. Extraordinary game drives are led by dedicated game rangers and are offered in the mornings and late afternoons.

The newly renovated lodge has 12 luxurious thatched tented suites, all of which have en-suite bathrooms, as well as an indoor and outdoor shower. Each unit has its own private deck and plunge pool, where you can relax and take in the exquisite views of Africa’s most treasured wildlife.

The lodge’s newly built six-sleeper Geoffrey Kent Luxury Suite has its own kitchen, lounge and private boma and deck area. This exclusive package includes a private game ranger, personal chef, waiter and housekeepers to take care of your personal needs.

All meals, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and game drives are included in this once in a lifetime bushveld experience.

Bisate Lodge, Rwanda

Bisate Lodge in Rwanda is the first in the country to offer a once in a lifetime gorilla trekking experience. Bisate Lodge has been involved with various conservation projects with the aim of reforestation in the area. The lodge is embedded in the slopes of an eroded volcanic crater of the Volcanoes National Park.

Here, six cone shaped thatch villas are nestled within the forest, where guests can look out from their balconies onto breathtaking views of the lush nature and mountainous areas that surround them. Accents of lush green natural colours flow throughout each villa, creating a luxurious yet natural ambiance and all villas have double beds with en-suite bathrooms.

Guests can enjoy full board food and drinks, Transportation to and from the gorilla and golden monkey encounters, as well as self-guided wildlife trails and cultural experiences.

This lodge is the perfect combination of modern luxurious living and traditional Rwandan culture.

Rates start at $1, 155 per night, on top of $1,500 per person for the gorilla trekking expedition.

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Little Kulala, Sossusvlei, Namibia

Little Kulala offers a luxurious desert retreat, where you can experience Namibia’s natural desert surroundings, with private access to the Sossusvlei sand dunes.

This exclusive lodge accommodates guests in 11 chalets, each chalet has a private plunge pool, a rooftop “daybed” for lounging and stargazing, as well as both indoor and outdoor showers. Soft tones of brown and orange are emulated throughout each chalet, creating a natural desert-like ambience.

The lodge offers morning guided drives to the dunes of Sossusvlei as well as guided drives and walks on the private Koala Wilderness Reserve, where expert guides will share with you their in-depth knowledge of the surroundings. Other activities include visits to the Sesriem Canyon, quad-biking, sand-duning, scorpion night walks, stargazing, hot air balloon safaris and horse riding.

Guests can also enjoy sundowner drinks at the lodge’s sun deck, while looking out onto the vast desert plains.

Little Kulala offers an all-inclusive experience with prices starting at  around $680 per person per night, depending on the season.

Singita Pamushana Lodge, Malilangwe, Zimbabwe

Singita Pamushana Lodge is located in the Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve in south-eastern Zimbabwe. Pamushana Lodge is set amongst lush trees overlooking the Malilangwe Dam and sandstone hills, showing magnificent views of the lake and wilderness that surrounds it.

The lodge offers 1, 2 or 3 bedroom luxury suites, as well as a private 5 bedroom villa, all of which have an en-suite bathroom, outdoor shower, a private plunge pool, air-conditioning, a fireplace and a private deck with chaise lounges. Guests can enjoy spectacular views of the lake from the comfort of their own private chalet or villa. A  telescope can be found in each chalet and villa, where guests can explore the constellations of the beautiful night skies. There are also an additional two swimming pools and a Jacuzzi in the beautiful gardens of the lodge.

Guests can embark in daily guided game drives and bushtreks, as well as fishing and birding experiences.

Experienced safari guides and trackers will escort you on morning and evening game drives into the wildlife reserve, where a variety of game can be viewed such as rhinos, antelopes, cheetahs, lions, leopards and wild dogs. Birding enthusiasts can also enjoy sightings of a variety of different bird species.

Indoor and outdoor dining is offered and there is a bar and wine cellar on site, allowing for a truly magical culinary and wildlife experience. Prices start at $16220 per chalet per night.

Matetsi Victoria Falls River Lodge, Zambezi National Park

Matetsi Victoria Falls River Lodge is located in a private area along the Zambezi River, which is situated 40 kilometres downstream from Victoria Falls.
This river lodge offers an authentic luxury safari experience, inviting guests to experience one of the most incredible sites in the world. Guests can enjoy day and night game drives where they can experience incredible sightings of Africa’s Big 5, as well as other wildlife. Other activities include guided bush treks, canoeing, sunset boat cruises and helicopter rides overlooking the magnificent Victoria Falls.
Guests have the option of staying in the lodge’s private villa, luxury suites or luxury family suites, depending on your desires and needs. All suites open onto breathtaking views of the Zambezi River as well as Zambia’s array of wildlife, which can be seen from the suites’ private outdoor shower or plunge pool.
Prices range from about $850 to $7200 per person per night depending on season and suite type.

Royal Malewane Luxury Lodge Kruger National Park

Royal Malewane, Kruger National Park, South Africa

Royal Malewane is an exclusive private safari lodge situated in the Thornybush Private Game Reserve on the Western Border of The Greater Kruger National Park, where guests can travel via air or road.

The Lodge at Royal Malewane consists of six Luxury Suites, including two Royal Suites, which have two spacious en-suite bedrooms in each, a living room and dining area, as well as a huge outside deck with a pool, allowing guests to relax and take in the magical beauty that surrounds.

The Farmhouse at The Farmstead is a 12 minute drive from the main lodge and is a three and a half bedroom private villa. There are three main bedrooms en-suite as well as a smaller bedroom room which is suitable for children. Each suite has its own private deck and outside shower, and there is a large swimming pool where guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the African bush. Here guests have access to a team of devoted staff including a private guide, housekeeper, babysitter and a photographer to capture your perfect moments and tend to your every needs. The Farmstead is the perfect choice of accommodation for large families or groups as it can sleep up to 14 guests comfortably.

Lastly, Africa House is an exclusive villa with six en-suite bedrooms. Each has its own classic and elegant finishings.

Each bedroom has air conditioning and has a large walk-in shower and bath, with its own private deck and outside shower overlooking striking views of the wilderness.

Guests can enjoy a sensual spa experience in the lodge’s beauty spa, fine dining culinary experiences, as well as incredible sightings of Africa’s Big 5 and other most treasured wildlife.

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Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve – Everything you need to know

Earth Lodge Luxury Suite Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve

About Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve

This luxury game reserve has been operating since 1979 and is a top-chosen getaway for visitors from all around the world. It offers five-star hospitality and a one-of-a-kind African experience.

Where is Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve Located?

Sabi Sabi is a private game reserve located in the South-Western part of the Kruger National Park in South Africa. It is a five-hour drive from Johannesburg, or alternatively a one-hour flight from O.R. Tambo international airport, landing at the Sabi Sabi airstrip. There are no fences separating Sabi Sabi from the Kruger National Park, which allows game to move freely between these areas. Sabi Sabi consists of 65 000 hectares of land. In this region, there is a slight chance of catching malaria during the wet summer months which are from October to April, and so it is advised to take anti-malaria medications.

A true Luxury African Safari

A safari at Sabi Sabi is truly a luxury experience and does not come cheap. The cost of staying at Sabi Sabi ranges from R16 000 to R33 000 per person, per night. This price includes day and night safaris guided by qualified game rangers and Shangaan trackers, as well as environmental awareness walking safaris, delicious meals, and a variety of South African wines.

Conservation at Sabi Sabi

Sabi Sabi believes that South Africa’s wilderness needs to be conserved in order to provide a home for flora and fauna. Moreover, they understand the importance of eco-tourism whereby ecological needs are balanced with the needs of the people. Sabi Sabi has an anti-poaching unit which helps safekeep all species. They also initiate controlled burning of the reserve whereby sections of the grass are burnt in order to facilitate the regrowth of new grass and thus attracting herbivores to the area, while in the process recycling nutrients.

Sabi Sabi offers four unique safari lodges which cater for the different needs and wants of guests.

Selati Camp: These suites are intimate and intended for a romantic getaway and are therefore a popular choice for honeymoons. The suites are railway themed with a classic vintage style. Selati camp is named after the railway called the Selati line which transported gold that was discovered in the Drakensberg in the 1870’s. At night, this camp is lit by lanterns, oil lamps and fires, contributing to the romantic aura. There are only seven suites in Selati camp, all with thatched roofs as well as outdoor showers. One of the suites at Selati camp is called the Ivory Presidential suite, where Kings and Queens have stayed due to how grand and luxurious it is.

Bush lodge: This lodge overlooks a waterhole and is therefore a prime location for viewing animals from the comfort of your patio. There are 25 suites in this lodge, including 2 luxury villas with their own private pools. The lodge has viewing decks that look over the Msuthlu riverbed as well as a bar and the Amani Spa. There is also the EleFun Centre offering environmentally based activities for children, making the bush lodge the perfect family holiday.

Little bush camp: This is the newest addition to the Sabi Sabi game reserve. Little bush camp has six luxury suites which look over the riverbed. Each suite has a private jacuzzi on the viewing deck. The suites all have air conditioning and mosquito nets over the beds. The suites are contemporary African themed. Little bush camp is ideal for guests who are looking for intimacy and privacy.

Earth lodge: These suites are very unique in their architectural design and unlike any of the other Sabi Sabi lodges. The lodge is sculpted into a slope of the earth and is almost hidden until approached. Earth lodge offers a calm and serene environment for its guests. There are 13 suites at Earth lodge. The suites are considered ultra-luxurious and were created for the guests to indulge. There is an underground wine cellar with thousands of rare wines. There is an art gallery, library, meditation garden, spa, and gym. Earth lodge is a retreat to unwind and relax.

Wildlife

Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve is home to majestic wildlife, most famously the Big 5 which include the lion, rhino, elephant, leopard, and buffalo. The term ‘Big 5’ was originally used by hunters to describe the 5 most dangerous and difficult animals to hunt. However, the term is now used to simply describe this majestic group of animals. At Sabi Sabi there are also cheetahs, wild dogs, giraffes, hippos, spotted hyenas as well as 350 species of birds. Almost 5% of the world’s bird species can be found in this region of South Africa, which is truly remarkable. Some very rare and localized species such as the Pangolin can be found here. Sabi Sabi offers the opportunity to observe predator-prey relationships amongst the animals, which is an experience like no other. In addition to the animals, the plant life at Sabi Sabi is vast. There are over 330 species of trees that are all indigenous to the region.

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Madikwe Game Reserve – Everything you need to know

Madikwe Game Reserve South Africa

Madikwe Game Reserve - What You should know

Madikwe Game Reserve has been operating since 1991 and is the fifth largest game reserve in South Africa. It is considered one of the best conservation areas in Africa. Madikwe is free from malaria, which is one of the many reasons it attracts guests, as there is no need to worry about taking medications.

Where is Madikwe Game Reserve Located?

The game reserve is located in the North West province of South Africa. It is near the Kalahari Desert, lying against the Botswana border. Madikwe is siuated 90 kilimeters north of the town Zeerust. The south of the reserve is bordered by the Dwarsberg mountains. It is a 4.5-hour drive from Johannesburg. Madikwe also has an airstrip for private aircrafts.

accommodation at madikwe game reserve

History of the Game Reserve

Before becoming a reserve, the land was used for farming. However, the soil was poor and farming in this area was not very successful and so the South African government decided to turn it into a national park where the area could be economically uplifted. The historically known Mafikeng Road runs through the reserve. This famous road was used by hunters, traders, and missionaries.

Wildlife at Madikwe Game Reserve

When the reserve was established in 1991, 10 000 mammals were brought to Madikwe from other National Parks. 66 mammal species can be found at Madikwe including the Big five – the lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, and buffalo. Three hunting packs of wild dogs can be seen at the reserve, and the African Wild Dog which is highly endangered may also be spotted. It is likely to find giraffe, hippo, cheetah, and hyena at the reserve. There are also around 300 bird species at Madikwe.

Madikwe does not allow day visitors, and so booking at one of their lodges is necessary. Many of the lodges at Madikwe are owned by local people of the communities, which creates a healthy economic environment. Below are some (but not all) of the various lodges available at Madikwe.

Eco bush camp

Mosetlha Bush Camp: This is a family-owned lodge. It is ideal for guests who are looking for private and exclusive wilderness encounters. There is a chef who prepares traditional bush style cuisine.

Luxury lodges

Rhulani Safari Lodge: This lodge is ideal for guests looking for relaxation and tranquility, who want to unwind amongst nature. These luxury chalets include a private plunge pool, fireplace, and air conditioning.

Thakadu River Camp: This is a treetop lodge that overlooks the Marico River. The lodge blends in with nature and offers a peaceful setting for guests. The camp consists of luxury tents that are air-conditioned.

Motswiri Private Safari Lodge: This lodge is situated under a canopy of leadwood trees, offering an intimate setting. It can accommodate 16 guests and guests have the option to book out the whole lodge. The lodge overlooks a private waterhole, making it the perfect place to watch animals without leaving the lodge.

The Bush House: This used to be an old farmhouse and was turned into a lodge. There is a large lawn area where sports can be played. This is ideal for guests wanting a more informal environment.

Bufalo Ridge Safari lodge: This lodge is located on the Tweedeport ridge and access to the lodge is via a wooden bridge. It is owned by the Balete Ba Lekgophung community, which greatly benefits this community. The chalets are thatched, providing a true African bushveld experience.

Ultra-luxury lodges

Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge: This is located between the ancient Tamboti trees, making it ideal for guests who are looking to stay at a remote, private retreat.

Mateya Safari Lodge: This is one of the most luxurious lodges in the world, for guests with high standards who are looking for an exclusive safari experience while personal needs are catered for. It is situated in the Gabbro hills and offers breathtaking scenery. This lodge offers high tea, massages, and gourmet picnics.

Molori Safari Lodge: These suites have floor-to-ceiling glass walls, offering unmatched views, as well as an infinity pool. There is a bar and a humidor with a selection of imported cigars. The chefs use organic, home-grown ingredients to create one-of-a-kind, luxury dishes.

Family suites

Morukuru Family Madikwe: These are luxury homesteads which each include a private butler, chef, host, safari vehicle, tour guide and tracker. Babysitters are also provided if needed and children of all ages are welcome on game drives. Activities are tailor-made to accommodate each individual guest. Guests are able to pick their own wines from the Morukuru wine cellar.

Groups and conferences at Madikwe

Madikwe does cater for large groups as well as conferences.

Tau Game Lodge: This is the only lodge at Madikwe game reserve where each suite has a view of the waterhole. The lodge offers conference facilities as well as a wedding venue. Dinners are held in the cozy bomas, and buffet breakfasts are served on the verandah by the pool.

Self-catering

Rock fig lodge: This is a private, luxurious, and intimate villa with a fully equipped kitchen and dining room, as well as a private plunge pool and outdoor shower.

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Londolozi Game Reserve Specials

LOndolozi African Safari Deals

Londolozi Game Reserve Specials

Londolozi Game Reserve is truly one of the most spectacular game reserves in Africa. It has something of a legendary status amongst seasoned African Safari enthusiasts, and not without reason. It offers not only some of the most incredible game viewing experiences, but the lodges and hospitality are amongst the best out there. Any visitor to Londolozi will leave having experienced a true luxury African Safari experience. Londolozi Game Reserve Specials are not available very often, so please contact us to find out if there are any specials currently available.

Londolozi Tree Camp

Located in the Londolozi Private Game Reserve, Londolozi Tree Camp offers a unique experience. The camp is nestled among leadwood trees, and its six luxurious suites are beautifully appointed with white decor and personal plunge pools. The lodge offers excellent dining facilities, an outdoor deck, and extensive game viewing.

The camp’s game drives are led by expert trackers and guides. They give guests opportunities to see the Big Five in their natural habitat. The more than fourteen thousand hectares of land are the ideal setting for close encounters. These drives are guaranteed to thrill and excite. Highlights include spotting leopards in the trees. Londolozi’s team boasts over 350 years of combined experience. They search for fresh animal tracks and drive through thickets to catch elusive animals. This intimate experience gives guests the opportunity to experience Africa at its best. Note – Londolozi Tree Camp does not allow children under the age of 16.

Londolozi Tree Camp Sabi Sands

So how long should you stay at Londolozi? The recommended stay is 3 to 4 nights as a minimum. Obviously if you are able to, a longer stay is preferable, but to really start absorbing the energy of this magnificent Game Reserve, a 3 night stay would the very minimum length of time we would advise.

Beautiful Londolozi Varty Camp

Londolozi Varty Camp

Guests staying at Varty Camp can indulge in a variety of activities during their trip. Activities include game drives, bush walks, birdwatching, fishing, cultural visits and stargazing. The camp also offers several amenities, such as a spa, bar, and golf course. To ensure that your stay is stress-free and filled with unforgettable experiences, travel insurance is available. Londolozi Varty Camp is a family-friendly camp and children are welcome at this camp.

The camp has daily Game Drives and even has a daily Yoga session for those who like to unwind at the camp.

The camp is situated on the banks of Sand river and is known for its abundance of game. The camp is surrounded by lions and leopards and boasts two of the country’s 17 master trackers. Guests can also make use of a gym and a living boutique. Guests can also look forward to eating delicious food that is free-range, organic and served buffet-style. Londolozi Varty camp’s rooms all have their own private swimming pool, so guests can cool-off in privacy, while taking in some amazing views of the game reserve. The rooms are also kitted-out with King-Size beds for the ultimate in comfort.

Located in the central area of the Sabi Sands, Londolozi Varty Camp is an ideal family-friendly safari lodge. It is built on the site of a historic camp and is elevated above the ground to provide spectacular views of the riverine bush.

dining on honeymoon kruger national park
Londolozi Pioneer Camp Suite

Londolozi Pioneer Camp

The Londolozi Pioneer Camp is the jewel in the crown of this magnificent game reserve. The three ultra luxurious suites are situated in a secluded part of the reserve and feature breathtaking river views of the Sand River.

Londolozi is South Africa’s first private game reserve and a pillar of global ecotourism. This family-run business is known for progressive land and wildlife management and productive community involvement. The camp’s philosophy of conservation is reflected in the name, which is derived from a Zulu word that means ‘Protector of All Living Things.’

Guests enjoy a plethora of activities while on safari. Morning and evening game drives provide a chance to see a variety of wildlife. Guests can also enjoy bird watching in the area. The pristine wilderness surrounding Londolozi provides a truly unforgettable experience.

Guests can experience the spirit of the pioneers while on a luxury safari in this exclusive camp. Located on the banks of the Sand River, the camp offers guests access to more than sixteen thousand acres of wilderness. The Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve borders the world-renowned Kruger National Park and boasts an abundance of wildlife.

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