Lake Oanob Resort
Situated west of Rehoboth on 6200 hectares in the beautiful Hardap Region and 100
kilometres south of Windhoek, our unique Lake Oanob Resort offers superb lake views, a
choice of accommodation as well as genuine, heart-felt hospitality and is the perfect place to
relax and be invigorated.
Relating to our leading slogan “body and soul in harmony with nature”, it is the Lake Oanob
Resort project’s aim to keep the scenery the way it is. Surrounded by mountains and hills,
the lake and the friendly staff represent a soothing place for your body and especially for
your soul. We will do our very best to offer you this peace, beauty and recreation at any
time!
Would you like to spend a quiet and relaxing time full of peace and beauty? Maybe you and
your family would also like to celebrate any kind of occasion together with a marvellous
view over the lake, the dam and the mountains? Or are you already on your way back home
from an exciting trip and would love to calm down and live again through your impressions,
adventures and new experiences? Then you have found the right place!
Our Accommodation
We offer several types of accommodation ranging from differently sized luxury chalets to
cosy en-suite and family rooms as well as a special suite and attractive campsites in
different locations. Most of our accommodation facilities are situated on the shores of the
lake.
Each luxury chalet has a stunning lake view and includes a living and dining room with
comfortable furniture, a fully-equipped kitchen for self-catering, an outside barbecue area
and a spacious terrace as well as all the comforts and amenities of home.
The family rooms can accommodate a maximum of two adults and two children (up to 12
years of age). There are two single beds for the adults and on the gallery two single beds for
the kids. Here you can also enjoy the lake view from your own terrace.
The 32 camping sites are partly located at the waterfront, partly in the bush and are suitable
for big and small tents as well as cars with roof tents, campers and caravans. All camping
areas are equipped with barbecue facilities, a drinkable water point and electricity. Toilets
and showers with hot water are in the adjacent ablution blocks. Some campsites have their
own toilet and shower.
Our Activities
Leisure activities are virtually unlimited on the beautiful water supply dam and in the
6200ha resort with game park. Canoeing, swimming, hiking, game viewing, fishing etc. will
make your stay an unforgettable experience. Also for weddings and other family and social
events Lake Oanob Resort is the perfect place.
Our Facilities
Due to its unique scenery, Lake Oanob Resort not only supplies the opportunity to clear
your head, but also to pursue new ideas e.g. during workshops or conferences, and to
celebrate events of various kinds such as weddings, anniversaries and birthdays. Our event
venues range from an African lapa, a tented hall, the waterfront restaurant with bar, giraffe
bar, the adventurous bushman's bay camp as well as venues on two different boats.
Makakatana Bay Lodge
Where in the world can you explore the magic and wonder of unspoiled beaches, vast wetlands, enjoy game drives and go on an unforgettable boat cruise on an estuary? Makakatana Bay Lodge is set on the banks of Lake St Lucia and the only privately-owned and owner-managed game lodge within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park World Heritage Site. Our goal is to show off this unique and pristine wilderness gem, the perfect addition to a typical safari holiday.
Your stay at Makakatana Bay Lodge is designed around exploring the amazing iSimangaliso sanctuary on an open game drive vehicle as well as on our private pontoon boat and by dipping your feet into the warm Indian Ocean. You get to experience all of this on our adventure filled beach, lake and park full-day safaris with our passionate and knowledgeable rangers.
Our Accommodation
The main lodge is the heart of Makakatana and is a communal area with personal service designed for relaxation and comfort. All game drives leave from here, and all meals are served on either the raised deck wrapping around the lodge or at the African Boma alongside. Our staff are always happy to make your stay magical, let us know if you have any special requests. The lodge also has a bar, a stunning “old crab” house which it is affectionately called, and a nearby private bush pool on the edge of Lake St Lucia.
Experience this magnificent area from the comfort of our spacious rooms, set on raised decks within the wilderness of this game park. Our 5 standard rooms are equipped with a private viewing deck, an en-suite bathroom, with a bath and a spacious outdoor shower, and modern conveniences. Set in the dune forest, the grounds surrounding these luxury suites are frequented by warthog, red duiker, nyala, bush babies and a variety of bird life. The two family rooms both sleep a maximum of 4 guests each. The main room has a king bed, and the interleading room has two twin beds. There is a spacious indoor bathroom with a shower that opens onto an outdoor bathroom with a bath and outside shower.
We also have a honeymoon room which is situated privately with views out onto the vlei. Romantic and intimate, this room is the perfect retreat after a day spent in the bush or exploring the magnificent area. It has a romantic outdoor shower as well as a bath fit for two. The private deck is also suitable for private dining, which can be arranged with our lodge manager.
Marrick Safari
Adventure, peace and tranquillity? Whatever you seek, we are located in the Northern Cape Province of South Africa, approximately 12km out of Kimberley. Nestled in 3000 hectares of unspoilt savannah thorn veld, this family-run business offers a vast expanse of space and silence providing endless opportunities for returning to nature. The property itself sustains a range of ecosystems, from African savannah land to rocky hillscapes to thicker thorny bushveld and there is also an ephemeral wet landscape. At Marrick Safari, there is "something for everybody", with a variety of activities specifically designed to enable guests to get as close as possible to this large, unique ecosystem that is almost free from human interference.
Sunsets at Marrick are extraordinary and there is nothing more relaxing after a hot day in the bush than sipping an ice cold drink next to the Pan. Enjoy dinnertime around an open fire while chatting to friends and other guests before retiring to your luxurious cottage for a good night's rest.
We offer guided 4x4 game drives, mountain bike routes, hiking trails, self drive game viewing and night drives as well as accommodation - 4 self-catering cottages, a luxury guesthouse and camping, with wholesome meals on request, all this for the fervent nature enthusiast.
Mauly Tours & Safaris
Crafting guided African safaris for you since 1983, the Moshi-based tour operator Mauly Tours & Safaris offers dream holidays in Tanzania from their base near Kilimanjaro National Park.
Whether it is trekking tours and climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, a safari through the Serengeti, cultural tours, a beach holiday in Zanzibar, a day trip or adventure activities in breathtaking scenery, our experts have authentic, private and tailor-made packages for you. As we've been in the safari industry for more than three decades we know all the treasures Tanzania has to offer. We also offer vacations to a number of other destinations in Eastern Africa, including Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda.
If you are the adventurous type then you will love the thrill of watching the sun rise from the roof of Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro, on a hiking tour. The clouds spread out below you like a soft carpet and the cold air stings your cheeks as you witness this incredible sight.
In the vast Serengeti feel the earth beneath you tremble and thunder as you witness the annual Great Migration. Head over to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area where wildlife and the famous cultural group of the Maasai co-habit the land peacefully. Perhaps top it off with a vacation in Zanzibar and dip your toes into the soft warm sand. Snorkel around the barrier reefs and enjoy this heavenly island.
Let us plan the trip of a lifetime for you. We know that not all set itineraries suit your needs and we believe you shouldn't have to settle for less. We offer bespoke itineraries, which we can shape into exactly what you need. For those of you interested in making your safari extra special there are a number of add-ons that you can enhance your tour in Africa with: balloon safaris, horse riding safaris and walking safaris through the African bush are all available.
Moholoholo Forest Camp
Nestled beneath the majestic northern Drakensberg mountains lies our Moholoholo Forest Camp amongst the huge African Quinine trees of the Klaserie which is home to a variety of bird and animal species.
Our intimate 20-bed lodge as well as the world renowned Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre are set on the same property of roughly 420 hectares. An all inclusive visit to the centre is an experience of a life time. Our team focuses on personal attention and flexibility, and provides you with a unique opportunity to experience both forest and savannah wildlife as well as the abundant birdlife on game drives and bush walks.
Our Accommodation
The peaceful tranquillity of the lodge will appeal to those who wish to escape the city noise and soak up the true African bush. The regular visits from vervet monkeys, baboons and the rare samango monkey will keep the whole family entertained, and nightly sightings of our bush pig family, bush babys and owls will give you a true taste of our nightlife.
Our child-friendly lodge consists of 10 luxury en-suite chalets overlooking the Quinine forest. Your stay will include full-board catering - three delicious and hearty meals, as well as a game drive on the reserve, a beautiful morning bush walk where our experienced guide will introduce you to the wonderful world of the African bush, including signs, animal tracks and smells, and to top it all, a visit to our world renowned Moholoholo wildlife rehabilitation centre. The two hour tour at the centre will not only leave you with a better understanding of the conservation issues facing South Africa but also with lasting memories of all the resident creatures which you will see up close.
Moholoholo Mountain View Camp
Ideal for a bush breakaway - Our Moholoholo Mountain View Camp is located in a Lowveld Acasia Woodland, approximately 60 km from the Kruger National Park’s Orpen Gate. Situated in the Klaserie close to Hoedspruit, our reserve has become a preferred destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife interest groups and is home to a wide variety of birds as well as wild animals like, buffalos, rhinos, hippos and leopards, to name a few.
Our Accommodation
Our lodge offers basic but neat and comfortable accommodation for up to 28 guests in well appointed thatched chalets which have all the standard amenities and en-suite bathrooms consisting of a shower, toilet and wash basin. There are no kitchens but each holiday house has its own small fridge, a kettle, cutlery and an outside barbecue area. We gladly arrange side dishes for your barbecue.
Our lodge also offers bed and breakfast or full board on request. There is cell phone reception at the camp but unfortunately no Wi-Fi.
Our Activities
A visit to the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre and guided game drives by day and night or bush walks as well as a game tracking course, a visit to the Blyde River Canyon and a delicious breakfast or lunch at the Moholoholo Ya Mati tea garden on the banks of the Blyde River complement your stay at our lovely Moholoholo Mountain View bush lodge perfectly.
Mvuu Lodge
The place of the hippo - Tucked away in Zambia, our stunning Mvuu African Safari Lodge is situated right on the banks of the Zambezi River which is home to a plethora of intriguing flora and fauna. Our friendly staff will make you feel welcome, passionate chefs conjure up superb meals, informed guides make your safari experience completely unforgettable!
The magnificent Zambezi River is undoubtedly a bucket list destination and our team would like to share this enchanting African paradise with you.
Our Accommodation
At Mvuu Lodge we live close to nature. Our luxury tented camps, self catering and bush camp accommodation is situated in a secluded location deep within the game rich Chiawa area, next to the Zambezi National Park and opposite the world heritage site of Mana Pools.
Choose between the 10 luxury stone Bemba cottages and safari tents or for self-catering the en-suite Tonga chalets which are equally comfortable and have one family unit, as well as our famous campsites. Alternatively enjoy a luxurious stay at our elegant flagship tent, Shaka Deluxe, which is tucked away from the main camp and, with its lounge area, a king size bed and two single beds, is equally ideal for a family of four or for a secluded couples retreat.
Activities
Game drives, fishing, canoeing and river cruises. Mvuu has a variety of activities for the whole family. Indigenous bush surrounds our lodge, wildlife roam freely through the camp and the almost un-spoilt, abundant river offers phenomenal game fishing, with trophy, catch and release Tiger fishing being our specialty. Alternatively relax in our swimming pool area.
Dining
Our thatched restaurant and bar, with its stunning deck that extends over the banks of the Zambezi River, is the perfect spot for absorbing those breathtaking sunsets whilst sipping a sundowner, dining out under a canopy of brightly lit stars whilst the evening fire and sounds of the bush fill the background, or for having your early morning coffee whilst the dramatic dawn announces the new day in true African splendour. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner on a set menu basis, and the bar is open from 10.00 till 22:00.
If you are camping or on a self-catering package, you are more than welcome to join us at the bar or restaurant for a meal or two if you are not in the mood for cooking. Please book these meals in advance with your accommodation, so that the kitchen can plan ahead in terms of supplies.
MyTrip Connector
Our native owned safari and travel services company MyTrip Connector has professional travel offices in the United States, and a ground operations team within the countries of southern and East Africa, such as Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Botswana and South Africa.
As destination ambassadors representing our own African countries, we have an accurate and natural advantage to passionately serve all visitors in all aspects of the tourism industry as well as all travel services. Our uncompromising, dedication and quality driven personalized services include, but are not limited to, private tours and group tours.
Tours & Destinations
We offer wildlife and camping safaris, beach holidays, day trips, mountain trekking and tailor-made safaris under our safari options.
Our destinations include, but are not limited to the following: Arusha National Park, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, Tarangire National Park, Mkomazi National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru, Oldoinyo Lengai and Zanzibar.
Why Choose Us?
It is our core belief that it is the quality of guiding that determines the overall excellence of a safari program. Experienced, multilingual and mature safari guides, specializing in wildlife, ornithology, cultural tourism, low environmental impact tourism (Eco-tourism), walking, canoeing and photography, make our safaris in Africa an assured incredible experience.
Because we understand guiding standards and its intricate relationship with accommodation experiences, professional services within the hospitality industry and beyond, and provide our services to clients who live in parts of the world where top level service is a norm, we are the only Tanzanian tour company to create independent and consistent three-tier safari experience gauging standards.
Pezulu Tree House Game Lodge
Whether you're after excitement or tranquility, The small exclusive Pezulu Tree House Game Lodge is situated in the game rich area of Hoedspruit within South Africa's Limpopo Province, and is perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of modern life. With a wide variety of experiences, being near to the world famous Kruger National Park and the scenic Panorama Route, visiting Pezulu is something you'll simply never forget.
Our Accommodation
With each tree house built around the canopy of growing trees, our unique 4 star accommodation fuses nature and comfort. Built to celebrate its surroundings, with a total of 37 people who can be accommodated, this child-friendly lodge is intentionally small, to keep the experience personal for each guest.
Children love tree houses, and ours are no exception. Give your young ones a lifelong memory to cherish with our large family tree houses, and let their imaginations run wild in the South African bush. If it's a romantic get away you are looking for, our tree houses are well spaced from each other and completely private - our honeymoon suites are especially cosy!
If you need to unwind on those hot summer days in the African bush, the magnificent rock pool is the place to be. Grab a pool lounger and let the stress melt away! Once the heat of the sun subsides, enjoy a drink at the panoramic lookout point as the sun sets over the Drakensberg mountains.
Pezulu is a one-of-a-kind place, with a friendly team who strives to provide unmatched experiences and service to ensure every minute is a memory. The thatched main building of the lodge is interweaved with a large Marula tree. Inside you'll find a cosy lounge, the reception, a dining area, a curio shop and a charming bush bar.
A delicious 3 course dinner is served under the stars around a log fire in our beautiful Boma, and if you'd like to celebrate something special, simply ask!
Pondoro Game Lodge
Welcome to the majesty of the South African bush and the award winning Pondoro Game Lodge in the Balule Nature Reserve. Expect an intimate and luxurious safari adventure like no other, a truly bespoke experience. We strive to provide the perfect balance for those looking for a getaway that is both romantic and exclusive, while offering you a wide range of activities ranging from safari drives to romantic picnics at our tree house hide.
Our Accommodation
At Pondoro Game Lodge you will have the opportunity to choose from 5 truly luxurious suites. All our suites are air-conditioned and offer modern comforts in an exquisite African wildlife setting. Each suite has a private patio, lounge area, an outside shower and Jacuzzi built into the wooden deck in front of the suites facing the river. This is truly game lodge accommodation at its finest. Each suite offers complete privacy to compliment the romantic setting.
Pondoro Game Lodge also has three tastefully designed chalets decorated in keeping with the African aesthetic and overlooking the Olifants River. All chalets have en-suite bathrooms (with a shower and bath overlooking the river), air-conditioning, mosquito nets and a wooden deck.
Pondoro boasts an overnight Treehouse Hide Experience as well. This hide overlooks a spotlit waterhole in the middle of the bush and is a must for those with a taste for adventure. Your adventure will begin after dinner with a late night drive to the hide. You will be picked up again during the morning safari.
The lodge was awarded the Best Small and Exclusive Property in Africa, Asia and the Middle East at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2026.
Our Facilities
With no boundary fences between Balule Private Nature Reserve (50 000ha) and the Kruger National Park a great diversity of wildlife is found here. Game drives on our safaris traverse an area of 10 000 hectares (24 700 acres) and strict vehicle limits at sightings ensure the exclusivity of your game viewing experience. Off-road driving on most areas enables the best possible view of any exceptional sighting and rangers are constantly in 2-way radio communication with each other to keep track of animal movements. Our experienced guides will not only use all their vast knowledge and bush craft to try and show you the famous Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo) and other plains game such as zebra, wildebeest, giraffe, but they will do their best to paint memories of an Africa that will never fade away.
Dining at Pondoro promises a fusion of Traditional African Cuisine and modern European trends. Vegetarians are specially catered for. To compliment the food, wine can be selected from our extensive wine cellar. Our bar also stocks a selection of some of the finest Whiskies in the world; whether you’re looking for an exquisite blend or smoky single malt. After dinner you’ll be able to relax with a Cuban cigar and enjoy a glass of Port or Cognac, should that be your fancy. All meals are served on a wooden deck high up in the tree canopy overlooking the Olifants River. An unforgettable bush dinner will await those who stay for a third night.
Serenity Spa at Pondoro Game Lodge offers an indulgent escape from the wild, where one is surrounded by elegant décor and cascading waterfalls to create a relaxing ambient environment. Revitalize your mind, body and soul with classic Southern African spa treatments. Our exclusive personal approach incorporates innovative and authentic spa and face treatments which range from a glass covered steam room, a spa bath under the wide African sky to a massage in the privacy of your room.
Pondoro Game Lodge is a private wedding or honeymoon destination that offers the finest safari experience on a scale that delivers an intimate experience. Your African honeymoon safari will be tailored according to your needs and we will ensure that no stone will be left unturned in your quest for the perfect, romantic honeymoon. Allow us to spoil you with a romantic private river dinner, a candlelit romantic bath in your suite and a whole lot of other honeymoon surprises. We will tailor a romantic safari wedding that will exceed your wildest dreams.
Raptor Retreat Game Lodge
Escape from the ever-moving and bustling cities to our Raptor Retreat Game Lodge within the African bush of the Balule Parsons Nature Reserve, a place where time seems to stand still and part of the Greater Kruger National Park to which we offer easy access to its gates. Experience the thrill of the untamed animals looking you in the eye, making you feel the true beauty of being alive while luxuriating in absolute comfort. Raise your awareness of the wild breathing around you and acknowledge that these animals share a heartbeat just like yours.
We are situated in the Mopani region, approximately 40 km north of Hoedspruit and only a 4 km game drive from the banks of the Olifants River.
Our Accommodation
Our owner-managed game lodge offers you excellent service and luxurious accommodation, delving into wilderness and ranging from two private, air-conditioned lodges, each with their own splash pool, to an exclusive safari tent and an air-conditioned two bedroom cottage. You will feel right at home with comfortable accommodation set deep in the African bush, game drives etching you into the ebullience of your surroundings and the careful touch of true hospitality.
Safari Activities
With the possibility of having the Big 5 on your doorstep and an abundance of birdlife all around you, feel free to explore by booking a guided game drive or bush walk, accompanied by an experienced ranger, promising you much more than just a game viewing experience. This unspoiled corner of South Africa is also renowned for its abundance of wildlife, mountainous scenery with cascading waterfalls, indigenous forests and diverse cultures.
Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge
Experience with us a luxury safari in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Big 5 Park, the oldest nature reserve in Africa. Our Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge is the only private lodge in the iconic Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park. Situated on the western boundary, our game lodge offers a chic alternative to the traditional park visit, with exciting extra options thrown in.
Our Accommodation
What sets Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge apart is a breathtaking combination of its expansive natural views and visionary architecture which strategically makes the most of its prime position overlooking the local drinking hole and wild game of the Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park. The exquisite surrounding wilderness is brought into the lodge by incorporating open spaces and maximising the expansive views over the reserve. Accommodation rates include two game drives per day.
As a luxury safari lodge, we make every effort to ensure that our guests enjoy a true African safari experience - without compromising on luxury and comfort. The lodge features slick, contemporary design and boasts a deck that extends along one side of the lodge, an 11 metre infinity lap pool and a sundeck as well as a spa.
The 18 modern guest rooms are nestled high up on the ridge with views of the game reserve and offer utmost privacy. Choose between four room types: 2 honeymoon villas nestled in the indigenous bush with private plunge pools overlooking the reserve; 8 glamorous bush villas with deep baths and open fireplaces; 4 safari rooms with showers opening out onto the bushveld; and 2 child-friendly safari suites ideal for families.
Activities
At Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge, we want you to have the opportunity to have a taste of the places, people, fauna and flora of wildest Africa. Our safaris through the Big 5 Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park are all about that you enjoy truly what Africa has to offer. That’s why we offer a range of activities to enrich your stay with us, including guided gorge and bush trail walks, game drives and cultural experiences. Our Zulu homestays give you the unique opportunity to step into the world of a traditional Zulu family.
The Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park is home to an incredible array of creatures great and small, including the Big 5. Whether on an interesting safari drive, on a bush walk, or even from the comfort of your room, the exciting sightings will make your trip a memorable one.
Wellness
Complete your Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge experience with a rejuvenating wellness treatment in our in-huose Spa. Best of all, our tranquil treatment rooms overlook the African bushveld below. Where else can you spot a rhino, giraffe or zebras while indulging in the ultimate relaxation on your spa holiday in South Africa?
Rhino River Lodge
Situated 30kms north of Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, our family-owned and operated Big 5 Rhino River Lodge is located in the magnificent, 23,000-hectare Manyoni Private Game Reserve in the very heart of Zululand. This area is renowned for its African wildlife and rich cultural heritage.
Our relaxed safari lodge has a reputation for excellent customer service and superior value for money. Experience South Africa at its best, amongst untamed nature and warm hospitality. Join us for our guided game drives in an open safari vehicle, where a knowledgeable ranger will show you the Big 5 and many other African animals and birds. Enjoy hearty South African cuisine highlighting local ingredients, served under the stars around a campfire. Indulge in a comfortable night’s sleep in our well-appointed safari accommodation.
Accommodation
Rhino River Lodge offers three types of accommodation to suit our guests’ various needs. Guests can choose from double en-suite luxury rooms, family chalets or one of our two-bedroom private safari homes (the Cottage and the Homestead). The camp accommodates a maximum of 24 people at any time. Our game lodge grounds sprawl through an area of thick riverine vegetation, rich with bird and animal life, and filled with magnificent fig and fever trees. The grounds include the reception with curio shop, a swimming pool, a dining room with bar and a guest lounge. Wi-Fi is also available.
Safari Activities
We have become one of the premier wildlife viewing destinations in Kwa-Zulu Natal and feature beautiful varied landscapes from acacia thornveld to open savannah and riverine forest. Game drives are regulated by the reserve and coordinated by ecotourism businesses to minimize the impact on the environment and the wildlife and to provide guests a better and more intimate game viewing experience.
While on a guided safari at Rhino River Lodge you will have the opportunity to not only see the Big 5 - rhino, elephant, buffalo, leopard and lion, but also cheetahs, wild dogs and much more game. Your day will begin just before the sun rises as guests meet up at the main lodge area for a cup of coffee or tea and freshly baked muffin before the three hour morning game drive begins at first light, which includes a midway coffee/tea break.
Upon returning to camp, enjoy a full English-style breakfast. After breakfast the day is yours to relax and at approximately 1:30 a light lunch will be served. The afternoon game drive begins about 2.5 hours before sunset. Just before sunset the game drive vehicle will stop for a special safari tradition, the sundowner. As the sun sets, take in the air, sights and sounds of the African bush while having a refreshing beverage. The drive will continue on for a short while after the sun sets, in search of the more rarely observed nocturnal animals.
Back at camp, a hearty three-course dinner is served, weather-permitting, under the stars around the campfire under the stars. After dinner, you are welcome to join us around the campfire for a night cap.
Samara Karoo Reserve
Welcome to a unique BIG5 African safari experience 55 km from Graaff-Reinet in South Africa's Great Karoo semi-desert. Samara Karoo Reserve is an award-winning conservation journey in a heart-stoppingly beautiful setting. Born in 1997 of a desire to restore the Great Karoo to its former glory, this private game reserve has pioneered the rewilding of a landscape that had been turned over to agriculture for the best part of three centuries.
Assembling 11 farms totalling 67,000 acres, Samara’s founders vowed to restore the magic of this place, embarking on an ambitious programme of land restoration and wildlife reintroduction. Today, thousands of wild animals roam this born-again wilderness and Samara is working with local stakeholders to extend the conservation ethic to over 3 million acres. 26 guests at a time are invited to join Samara’s conservation journey and help to shape it for the future.
Whether you want to go on safari with the whole family or on foot, you are looking for a romantic retreat and want to sleep under the stars, have a bush picnic or would like to celebrate a special occasion or even experience the game reserve on a mountain bike, Samara is a BIG 5 game reserve where guests get their own private piece of Africa to play in.
Luxury Accommodation
Two intimate, five-star and owner-run lodges, with a true sense of place and sleeping 26 people, offer a quintessentially warm Karoo welcome, with myriad activities on offer to explore, entertain and educate. Whilst on safari at Samara you will bask in the exclusivity of being one of few people in a vast wilderness of the African bushveld.
The Karoo Lodge
Encircled by a natural amphitheatre of mountains, the lovingly renovated farmhouse sits in perfect harmony with its wild surrounds and lies on the first property bought by the Tompkins family when they started Samara in 1997. Combining modern day comforts with a rustic and welcoming feel, Karoo 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. With 9 double rooms of varying sizes, it caters for individual travellers, couples and families.
The Manor House
Contemporary style meets Karoo living in the Manor House which can also be booked exclusively. This luxury villa offers a contemporary take on Karoo living, sleeping up to 8 guests in comfort and style. The villa opens up into two living areas and two smaller breakaway lounging alcoves. In summer large glass doors are cast wide open to the patio, with a large infinity pool, and in the winter months you can unwind by the fireplace where a crackling fire burns. 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.
Reconnecting with Nature
Regenerating South Africa's Great Karoo region through rewilding and responsible tourism - 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 and a deep reconnection with nature.
Our aim is for every guest to leave Samara Karoo Reserve empowered by the healing energy of nature, having reconnected with what's truly important.
Sentinel Mara Camp
Enjoy authentic Out of Africa safari elegance close to nature at the luxury, owner-run and eco-friendly Sentinel Mara Camp & Safaris, which is tucked away in a riverine forest within the Big 5 Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya.
Our Accommodation
Apart from the safari lounge, fine dining tents, gourmet bush picnics, 3 lounge tents where Wi-Fi as well as charging facilities are available, and game viewing or Maasai cultural activities, this gorgeous boutique camp offers excellent privacy with 8 spacious en-suite safari tents facing the Mara River as well as 2 forest facing tents. Each tent is tastefully furnished with campaign furniture to capture the romance and adventure of a bygone era.
This excellent safari camp is situated in the prime Musiara Marsh area of the Masai Mara National Reserve, renowned for its outstanding game viewing. It is here where both the BBC "Big Cat Diaries" and Disney's "African Cats" were filmed. You are assured of an excellent game viewing experience. During the annual migration, various crossing points are easily accessible from Sentinel.
The camp itself is set up along the Mara River with wonderful bird life and the private and natural setting ensures that you have a most enjoyable, authentic experience of the African bush. Being on high banks above the river means that there are always hippos and crocodiles in the river below to be seen with other animals coming to drink, or crossing the river at times.
Our Activities
In addition to time spent relaxing at the camp with the river and wildlife seen from this amazing location, there are a number of activities for you to enjoy. Our bespoke approach to safari hospitality means that each group enjoys a personalized and flexible experience to match their particular preferences while at our camp.
Daily game drives can be complimented by guided bush walks in a nearby area with our naturalist, or a bird walk in the forest around our precincts. We offer a longer walk on the escarpment with amazing vistas of the savannah plains.
You can also visit a Masai village for an opportunity to see their lifestyle and learn about their customs and culture. A balloon safari with champagne breakfast is another option. Our passionate and well qualified guides are always ready to engage in conversation ranging from history and current affairs to culture and conservation in a way that is entertaining and educational. They have a whole range of stories to tell you!
Shikwari Nature Reserve
Situated close to Kruger Park and the Panorama Route, our Shikwari Nature Reserve offers two camps as well as giraffes and other African wildlife such as zebras, wildebeests, kudus, impalas, nyalas, waterbucks, bush bucks and steenboks as well as duikers and ostriches plus many birds. A full breakfast and dinner are offered and usually served al fresco on the veranda or deck Boma. Enjoy a friendly, relaxed service in amazing bushveld surroundings where we also have wonderful areas for celebrations and weddings.
Our Accommodation
Shikwari Suites, 4 star rated with the TGCSA - Free Wi-Fi is available for both camps in the lounge/veranda area of this main camp. Relax on the shady lodge veranda taking in the view and cool off in the pool with an amazing view. All meals are taken at this camp. The breakfast is a buffet Continental and a plated English; dinner is a 2 course meal - main and dessert, including homemade bread and dips as an appetizer.
Six luxury thatched suites are tucked into the natural bush, are decorated with stylish furniture and offer each a private bathroom and outdoor shower, a small patio, a mini fridge stocked on request as well as a choice of beds with percale linen. Enjoy the hospitality tray with fresh ground coffee, a French coffee press, a choice of quality teas and homemade cookies. There is also a turndown service with homemade nougat/chocolates and a paid laundry service. Guests at this camp are only booked on a half board option.
Please note there is no capacity for more than 2 adults neither in the suites nor in the rondavels - However, 2 children, between 5 and 12 years, may share each unit with their parents or an older sibling.
Pangolin Rondavels - These are in a separate area from the Shikwari Suites and not graded. This comfortable budget option camp is located approximately 500 meters from the main lodge and offers 4 traditional thatched rondavels grouped around a pool.
There is no television or Wi-Fi in this camp. However these are available at the Shikwari Suites lounge, including satellite premium DSTV and free Internet connection. This camp consists of two rondavels with bush bathroom - with outdoor shower, covered toilet and basin, plus the other two rondavels share a separate bathroom as well as an outdoor shower.
Beds offer percale linen and towels are supplied. All rooms have a wardrobe, seating, ceiling fans and a hospitality tray with kettle, milk, coffee and teas. One room is air-conditioned.
A Boma is available for braais (barbecues) where guests need to bring their own braai tools, tableware and charcoal. Breakfast is included in the Pangolin rate and there is a half board option as well. All guests take meals booked at the main Shikwari Suites camp.
Activities
Guided game walks are available at the lodge and trips to Kruger National Park with our FGASA guide in an open game vehicle. The reserve is also close to many other exciting day trips such as the Panorama Route and the Graskop Gorge Lift, Blyde boat cruise, Jessica Hippo, Hoedspruit Endangered Species, Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation and Echo Caves plus some exciting adventure options such as quad biking, paintball and abseiling as well as canopy tours. Please note: We are unable to accept day visitors.
Shindzela Tented Camp
Situated within the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve as part of the Greater Kruger National Park of South Africa, our small, affordable and eco-friendly (solar-powered) Shindzela Tented Camp is the perfect place where one can feel part of the African bush. We offer you an authentic African safari as well as a fascinating wildlife experience. Established in 2009 as a mere walking trails camp with small bow tents, Shindzela has grown into the wonderful tented lodge and bushveld paradise that we would like to introduce to you.
Our Accommodation
Our intimate camp can accommodate a maximum of 16 guests in 8 safari tents where you will be treated to our warm South African hospitality in a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy and soak up the true African wilderness.
The safari-style tents are situated under thatch (grass-roof structures) and can be made up in either twin or double-bedded accommodation. Enjoy your morning coffee on your wooden deck or freshen up in your semi-open en-suite bathroom.
After you have arrived and checked in at our game lodge, enjoy lunch before embarking on your first safari.
Afterwards, relax in the pool with view of the African bush where the game is roaming freely. Enjoy a drink at the bar in our Lapa lounge before we spoil you with a delicious dinner in our African Boma under the star studded-sky.
Our Activities
We strive to offer an affordable wildlife safari during which you can explore the African wilderness on two game drives per day in open 4x4 vehicles - one early-morning and one late-afternoon/early-evening. You can choose to substitute one game drive with a guided morning walking safari. Your professional, knowledgable and fully qualified guides will endeavour to track the big mammals in the bush, including the Big 5 as well as the smaller but just as interesting wild animals, inform you of the insect and plant life and point out some of the 350 bird species in the area.
We are passionate about conservation and our staff is determined to provide you with an enjoyable and fulfilling experience in this exceptional wilderness area.
Sibuya Game Reserve
After arriving at the reception of our breathtakingly beautiful and malaria-free Sibuya Game Reserve in Kenton-on-Sea, you embark on a 45 minute boat cruise along the Kariega River. Sibuya is one of the country’s most unique safari destinations. From its reception near the ocean, it is unique in that it has more navigable river than any other game reserve in South Africa. Consequently, with nearly 400 different species, as a birding destination it is hard to beat. It is also a sanctuary to an abundance of diverse wildlife from elephants to otters, and almost everything in between, including the Big Five, which guarantees you fantastic game-viewing experiences.
Our Accommodation
We offer accommodation in two luxury tented camps as well as superb cuisine. On arrival at either the Forest Camp or River Camp, you will settle first into your luxury en-suite tent on a raised wooden deck, and then proceed to a scrumptious buffet-style lunch. With just four tents at River Camp or eight luxury tents at Forest Camp, our guests are ensured of a secluded and personalised stay.
Almost exclusively run on solar power, both camps do not make allowance for Wi-Fi, air conditioning, fans, hairdryers and the like. Guests are invited to relax and enjoy the simplicity of life without these modern conveniences. We highly recommend if you require these extra features choose rather to stay at our secluded and luxurious bush lodge which has grid electricity and caters to these needs.
Guests staying at our luxury, thatched bush ldge, lying in a pristine valley just outside the main reserve, enjoy a short transfer with their guide in a game drive vehicle from the river to their lodge where a delicious buffet-style lunch awaits. As the bush lodge has only five suites, you will be spoilt by the professional and friendly, ensuring a memorable stay.
Activities
Sibuya’s extremely knowledgeable and professional guides share their passion on personalised and informative game drives, a variety of relaxing or exciting activities and exclusive boat trips. Relax afterwards by the pool or in a hammock.
Volunteering
As part of a gap year, a sabbatical or eco travelling, the Sibuya Wilderness Experience offers volunteers the unique and exciting opportunity to get behind the scenes and involved with the conservation efforts of Sibuya Game Reserve. This is the perfect eco volunteer program for you, if you are looking for a meaningful travel opportunity abroad that puts your passion for nature, environment and wildlife to good use, trying to make a difference.
Spion Kop Lodge
Experience an unmatched getaway between Ladysmith and Winterton. Situated on an expansive 700 hectare game farm, our Spion Kop Lodge is set against the backdrop of the majestic Drakensberg Mountains on the Kwazulu-Natal battlefields route. Our lodge offers visitors an awesome sense of space and beauty, supreme comfort and warm hospitality as well as the perfect base from which you are able to explore the battlefields, berg, bush and birds of this region of Kwazulu-Natal.
The turn of the century farmhouse has been beautifully restored in Natal colonial style. The converted barn now forms the magnificent dining room that boasts spectacular views. Guests savour fine cuisine and excellent service whilst appreciating the African landscape and battlefields.
Our Accommodation
We offer 9 luxurious, double en-suite guest rooms as well as two individually furnished and appointed Colonial style chalets which are located in the park-like grounds, each ensure luxury en-suite accommodation in an out-of-Africa setting, with the majestic Drakensberg mountains nearby. You have the choice between full board or self-catering facilities.
Cool down in the natural rock pool surrounded by water features. Enjoy a quiet drink at the pub or spend time in the historic library.
Activities
There are a multitude of activities on offer such as sunset boat cruises on the Spion Kop Dam and game viewing amongst rhinos, giraffes and a variety of antelopes as well as over 320 bird species.
Conferencing & Events
Our well equipped conference venue near the Drakensberg offers exceptional packages and team building activities to suit all guests and ensure a successful conference in South Africa. The venue can accommodate up to 40 delegates. The lodge and game farm also offer an ideal wedding venue.
History
The Battlefields Experience - Relive the memories on the historic battlefields route and walk in the footsteps of three great leaders, Winston Churchill, Mahatma Gandhi and Geneneral Louis Botha. Your host, Raymond, or his son, Alastair, will accompany you to the many historic sights. Tours to the various battlefields can be made on horseback or in the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle.
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