Accommodation at Londolozi Private Game Reserve, Mpumalanga, South Africa

Safari Lodges and Accommodation in South Africa

Accommodation at Londolozi Private Game Reserve, Mpumalanga, South Africa

LONDOLOZI PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

Five exclusive camps
Interpretive Big Five safaris
Best leopard viewing in Africa
Day and night safaris to see African wildlife
Sabi Sand Game Reserve
Winner of prestigious ecotourism awards
Near the Kruger National Park
Relais & Chateaux member

Londolozi Private Game Reserve is a 14 000-hectare (34 580 acres) exclusive safari destination situated in the heart of the famous Sabi Sand Game Reserve on the western border of the Kruger National Park in South Africa. Meaning “protector of all living things” in Zulu, Londolozi is renowned for its progressive ecotourism practices, and is one of the most sought-after safari destinations in Africa.

Managed and operated by CC Africa, Londolozi was established as a family bush camp in 1926 by the Varty and Taylor families whose friendship and collaboration continues today. Londolozi has earned an international reputation for its unmatched African wildlife experience, personalised service, superb safari accommodation and excellent relationships with its neighbouring communities – commended as such by Nelson Mandela, who visited the Reserve shortly after his release from prison.

Exceptional African wildlife: Londolozi’s location in the heart of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve bordering the game-rich Kruger National Park ensures one of the best wildlife experiences in Africa. Its three habitats are home to an extraordinary range of wildlife and bird species.
* Big Five
* Best leopard viewing in Africa
* Superlative lion viewing
* Excellent birdwatching with abundance of raptors, owls and savanna birds
* Spotted hyena dens
* Scenic Sand River
* Interpretive game drives led by expert rangers

GAME VIEWING:

Londolozi Private Game Reserve Wildlife Habitats:
Londolozi’s mixed bush savanna habitat is dominated by acacia, marula and combretum trees, with tamboti and weeping boerbean on raised termite mound thickets. A narrow band of riverine forest lines the Sand River and its drainage lines. These wooded habitats provide ideal conditions for leopard, bushbuck and a variety of shade-loving birds. Rocky outcrops (koppies) north of the Sand River support trees such as large-leaved rock fig and jacketplum.

Mammals at Londolozi Private Game Reserve:
Guests are extremely likely to see territorial and individually recognisable leopard and lion which are tracked on a daily basis. Several clans of spotted hyena den in collapsed termite mounds. Impala are the most abundant antelope, with common waterbuck and grey duiker also frequently seen. Greater kudu, bushbuck and nyala favour thickets and riverine forest, whilst buffalo herds graze in tall grasslands. Waterholes attract elephant, white rhino, giraffe, warthog and many other African wildlife species during the dry season (May to October). Cape clawless otter and hippo are resident in the Sand River. Nocturnal white-tailed mongoose, African civet and large-spotted genet are frequently encountered on night game drives. Rock hyrax and klipspringer live on rocky outcrops.

Birds at Londolozi Private Game Reserve:
There are 303 bird species recorded at Londolozi. White-crested helmetshrike, lilac-breasted roller, brown-headed parrot, emerald-spotted dove and scarlet-chested sunbird are among the colourful savanna residents. Woodland kingfisher, red-chested cuckoo and Wahlberg’s eagle are breeding visitors from tropical Africa during the wet summer months (October to March). The distinctive call of African scops-owl punctuates the night throughout the year. Crested francolin and helmeted guineafowl wander on sand tracks during the early mornings and late afternoons. Saddle-billed stork, grey heron and pied kingfisher feed at waterholes and pools in the Sand River.

Other African Wildlife:
Large golden orb-web spiders hang their webs in dense vegetation. Chains of processionary caterpillars are conspicuous as they cross sand tracks at the end of summer (April to May). Dung beetles actively go about their business where elephant and rhino have been. Tree monitor and water monitor are frequently encountered in savanna and riverside habitats respectively. Nile crocodiles are resident in the Sand River. Large leopard tortoise and flap-necked chameleon are other interesting reptiles. The conspicuous meringue-like nests of foam-nest frogs hang above waterholes after summer rains and 18 species of frog may breed in seasonal waterbodies.

ACCOMMODATION:

Classic safari accommodation: Londolozi’s four private camps and intimate Safari Lodge offer world-class sophistication and style in the African bush.

LONDOLOZI PIONEER CAMP:
Cresting a gentle rise with elevated views of the Reserve, this elegant bushveld safari camp features just three suites in secluded bush locations and three unique safari-style chalets with breathtaking river views. This classic colonial-style safari camp is situated on a gentle rise affording breathtaking views of the bushveld and African wildlife.

* Three exclusive suites and three river-view chalets
* Air-conditioning
* Luxurious en suite bathrooms
* Outdoor showers in the African bush
* Intimate guest areas
* Lap pool

Set in a secluded bush location, each suite has a stylish bedroom/ living room with fireplace and personal bar, romantic bath set into the curved bay windows, and a private veranda and sala (outdoor covered deck). The thatched chalets boast beautiful riverside views from spacious bedrooms and private verandas.

Comfortable living areas feature antiques and welcoming sofas and armchairs. An interactive kitchen is open to the indoor and deck dining areas, and delicious Pan-African cuisine is prepared before your eyes. Elaborate lamp- and fire-lit dinners are enjoyed in the intimate boma (outdoor dining area), or in the African wilderness.

ACTIVITIES:

Twice-daily Big Five game-drives:
Experienced CC Africa rangers and trackers will lead you on morning and afternoon/evening game-drives in open 4x4 safari vehicles. The Sabi Sand Game Reserve and Kruger National Park are of the finest Big Five game (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino) destinations in Africa and you stand an excellent chance of spotting the elusive leopard. Londolozi is renowned for its world-class rangers and Shangaan trackers who are regarded as among the best in Africa.

Interpretive bush walks:
Explore the Sabi Sand Game Reserve on interpretive wilderness walks led by experienced CC Africa rangers or expert Shangaan trackers, and learn more about the area’s intriguing fauna and flora. Guided bush walks bring you face-to-face with wild Africa at its best. Londolozi boasts three senior trackers, graded by Louis Liebenberg’s Tracking School.

Shangaan cultural walks:
Enjoy an interpretive walk through the staff village, visiting the school and community crafts centre where you may interact with staff engaged in self-employment projects, such as candle-making and recycled paper and cards. You may also visit a small Shangaan village within the staff village and observe traditional local dwellings and visit the sangoma (witch doctor). Londolozi’s ongoing community projects may also be observed in the neighbouring communities of Huntington and Lilydale.

LONDOLOZI FOUNDERS CAMP:
Charming and intimate, Founder’s Camp comprises five chalets and one suite, all with private verandas affording magical views of the Sand River and lush riverine bush. En suite bathrooms with glass walls offer tantalising views of the African wilderness. Situated in a dense riverine forest overlooking the Sand River, this charming safari camp offers breathtaking views of the bushveld and African wildlife.

* Five safari chalets and one suite
* All with expansive river views
* Air-conditioning
* Luxurious en suite bathrooms
* Thatched game viewing deck
* Lovely riverside pool

Founders Camp comprises comfortable sitting areas which lead to an elevated wooden walkway ending in a relaxing game viewing deck – perfect for watching herds of waterbuck grazing on the riverbank. Each chalet and suite features a beautiful glass-walled bathroom with enticing wilderness views. A sparkling swimming pool is contoured to complement the curves of the Sand River.

Delicious Pan-African cuisine is served in the boma (outdoor dining area), or on the dining deck overlooking the river. Londolozi is renowned for wonderful bush banqueting in scenic wilderness settings.

LONDOLOZI BATELEUR CAMP:
Characterised by a timeless safari ambience, eight chalets and four suites all feature private plunge pools and decks with expansive river views. Londolozi’s rich history is preserved and recorded in the original camp built in 1926. One of Africa’s best-loved lodges, this elegant safari camp reflects Londolozi’s rich history, ensuring a unique and interpretive safari experience.

* Eight chalets and four suites
* Air-conditioning
* Plunge pools and leisure decks
* Great vaulted guest areas
* African craft gallery and interpretive centre
* Large camp swimming pool
* Wine cellar

Characterised by classic safari ambience, Bateleur Camp’s suites, chalets and impressive guest areas afford remarkable views of the Sand River. The main deck is the perfect setting for delicious breakfasts and lunches, and dinners of Pan-African cuisine are enjoyed in the dramatic boma (outdoor dining area) illuminated by dozens of lanterns.

Comfortable guest areas showcase Londolozi’s remarkable history with photographs from its early days as a rustic bushcamp. Built in 1926, four original rondavels now house a wine cellar, an early bedroom, a library and an Internet/information room and presentation area, where you may learn more about Londolozi’s role in conservation development in Africa.

LONDOLOZI TREE CAMP:
This romantic camp comprises six sumptuous suites furnished in African safari style, each with its own private oasis – a plunge pool and luxurious sala (outdoor covered deck). Inviting guest areas and a large sparkling swimming pool add to Tree Camp’s charm. Surrounded by huge shady trees, this small and exclusive safari destination offers the height of sophistication and romance in spectacular African wilderness surrounds.

* Six intimate suites
* Air-conditioning
* En suite bathroom and outdoor shower
* Private plunge pool and relaxing sala
* Spectacular game viewing dining deck
* Large sparkling swimming pool

Tree Camp’s exclusive suites feature luxurious bathrooms with large baths set in a stone base, pebble-inlaid floors and standing candelabras. Each suite has its own private oasis – a plunge pool and sala (outdoor covered deck) overlooking the lush banks of the Sand River.

Spacious living areas are furnished in classic African safari style, and lead out to a generous wooden deck shaded by an ancient ebony tree. Elegant candlelit dinners of Pan-African cuisine are served in the boma (outdoor dining area), or enjoyed in a spectacular bush setting.

LONDOLOZI SAFARI LODGE:
Set on the banks of the Msuthu River, this lovely lodge comprises just six charming chalets with thatched verandas overlooking the riverbed – perfect for game viewing and birdwatching in the surrounding African wilderness. Known as Londolozi’s ‘best-kept secret’, this small and intimate lodge is set on the banks of the Msuthu River.

* Six air-conditioned chalets
* Luxurious en suite bathrooms
* Indoor and outdoor showers
* Private Big Five game viewing deck
* Sparkling swimming pool
* African craft shop

Safari Lodge offers an unforgettable African safari with the ambience of a family camp and friendly, attentive staff. Each chalet has a private thatched veranda overlooking the riverbed – perfect for viewing game and birds in the surrounding African wilderness.

A gracious sitting area leads to the dining deck where delicious Pan-African cuisine is served. Dramatic dinners are often served in the dry riverbed, or enjoyed in the boma (outdoor dining area). Londolozi is renowned for exceptional bush banqueting in beautiful wilderness settings.

THE SABI SAND GAME RESERVE:
This 65 000 hectare (153 000 acre) wildlife sanctuary forms part of the greater 2,3 million hectare (5,7 million acre) Kruger National Park game preservation area. No fences exist within this area and animals are free to roam unhindered through this enormous conservancy.

Whichever camp you choose to visit, your safari will be experienced in Africa's most successful "big 5" private game reserve.

The history of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve dates back 50 years to 1949 when the landowners formed this private nature reserve. Credit for this association, however, should go to the original pioneers of this private game reserve in the late 1920's and early 1930's. Of these pioneers, no less than six of their families are now third and fourth generation owners of the land - a credit to the foresight of their forefathers who loved and respected Africa's flora and fauna. The origins of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve started in the early half of this century as hunting concessions in the dry winter months during the dormant period of the mosquito and the malarial parasite. Since 1962, the Sabi Sand Game Reserve has transformed its role into one of a commercial photographic safari conservancy.

The Sabi Sand Game Reserve is an association of freehold landowners, many of whom manage commercially active photographic safari operations on this property. Unfenced between landowners and sharing a common environmental management program, this association is administered by a warden reporting to an elected executive committee. The Sabi Sand Game Reserve employs a team of staff managed up by a warden and assistant warden. Employees’ responsibilities range from security guards for the entrance gates, field rangers responsible for internal security and field workers whose tasks include road maintenance, fence repair, fire control and environmental management.

The Sabi Sand Game Reserve shares a common 50km (31 mile) unfenced boundary with the world famous Kruger National Park in the east. Two perennial rivers service the Game Reserve with a valuable water supply. The Sand River flows through the Sabi Sand Game Reserve for 50km (31 miles) from north west to south east and the Sabie River flows on the southern boundary which ensures that this area enjoys one of the highest and most bio-diverse wildlife populations of any area in Africa. Such is the environment that the wildlife, save for the migratory birds, remain in their territories all year round.

The 82 km (51 mile) western boundary of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve is protected by an 2,4 meter electric fence. The construction of this fence ensures both predators and large game including elephant, rhinoceros and hippo are prevented from breaking out and destroying crops or hunting livestock in the adjacent agricultural areas.

The Sabi Sand Game Reserve enjoys one of the highest bio-diversities of any area in Africa. In addition to the “big 5” (lion, leopard, white rhinoceros, cape buffalo and African elephant) you may see wild dog, cheetah, hyena, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, baboon, other antelope and a multitude of lesser species.

For the bird watchers over 400 recorded species abound the area. This number may differ from season to season as migratory birds significantly increase the species count in the summer months.

There is no 'best time' to visit the Sabi Sands Reserve. It's just great to visit anytime. There are however two distinct seasons that could determine when you would prefer to visit:

Summer season (September - March) is the season during which all the animals flourish because of the rain - it's the time of plenty. Thunderstorms occur mostly late afternoon or at night. As a result the reserve is transformed into a green paradise. It's the time to enjoy beautiful trees and flowers. Hundreds of Impala lambs are born; staple diet of all the predators.

During the summer season be prepared for average temperatures of 32 C with maximum temperatures reaching 47 C. There is more consistent rain during the day, towards the end of the summer season - February to March.

Winter season (April - August) is the dry season. Because it virtually doesn't rain in winter, the reserve is transformed into a brown and almost barren landscape. The animals have to concentrate at the perennial waterhole's. The grass is low, the bushes and trees have lost their leaves. As a result one can have an unobstructed view through the bush making the game viewing much easier.

During the winter season be prepared for temperatures dropping to 4 C at night and in the mornings, with daytime temperatures reaching a comfortable 24 C.

The logo of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve is the Waterbuck (kobus ellipsiprymnus). These large and gentle creatures are so named for their preference for riverine habitat where they are commonly located. They are characterised by their long hair and a white ring on the rump. A gregarious antelope, they will be found in small herds comprising a bull, adult females, sub-adults and calves.