“If I have ever seen magic, it has been in Africa.”
- John Hemingway
YOUR SOUTH AFRICAN SAFARI STARTS HERE.
Destination: Private Game Reserve in the Greater Kruger Region, South Africa
Inclusions:
Morning and evening game drives in open safari vehicles, accompanied by experienced guides and trackers
Accommodation in luxury suites
All meals and snacks
Local beverages, tea and coffee
Exclusions:
Flights & road transportation
Conservation levies and park fees (subject to change without prior notice)
Drinks including soft drinks, beer, wine, and spirits
Travel, trip cancellation, health and other relevant types of insurance
Any items of a personal nature
Visa and passport fees
Any spa services, massages, and treatments
Gratuities
Please note:
All rates are subject to changes beyond our control including seasonal rates, VAT, currency fluctuations, fuel prices, navigation and departure tax increases — in such cases, rates will be revised and reissued.
Please review Adventurelust Terms & Conditions for comprehensive guidelines.
YOUR SAFARI LODGING
Umkumbe Bush Lodge
LOCATION
Sabi Sand Game Reserve
LOCATION OVERVIEW
Umkumbe Bush Lodge is located in the Sabie Game Reserve, considered by many to be the premier wildlife reserve in South Africa (known for the highest concentration of leopards in South Africa!), and unfenced from the western boundary of the Kruger National Park. Overlooking a waterhole, Umkumbe Bush Lodge is perfectly situated in one of the best Big Five game viewing destinations in Africa.
GETTING THERE
Fly into Nelspruit (MQP) or Skukuza (SZK) airport, road transfer to lodge (1.5-2 hours)
PROPERTY OVERVIEW
Resting comfortably under a canopy of indigenous trees in the southern stretches of the Sabi Sand, sits the inimitable and understated Umkumbe Bush Lodge. This luxury tented camp offers all the creature comforts from home, and is the first of its kind in the reserve. The build of the lodge is based on the idea of glamping, but with a luxurious twist.
SUITES
Named after different indigenous trees found in the region, the stylish accommodation and spacious tented suites at Umkumbe are all positioned on private raised wooden decks nestled in nature. The luxury & superior suites are totally secluded and have their own private view of the drainage line below. It also boasts a bathtub, his/hers sinks and an outdoor shower.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO & PHOTOS
PRICING
R 4950/night per person sharing (R 6550 single) for Luxury Tent
Additional costs:
Fees: R 300 per person per day conservation fee
Transport:
Skukuza - Umkumbe = R4067 per way based on 4 guests
Nelspruit - Umkumbe = R4029 per way based on 4 guests
Please note that the cost of the transfers advised are charged per way and NOT per person.
IMBALI SAFARI LODGE
LOCATION
Mluwati Concession, Kruger National Park
LOCATION OVERVIEW
A 10 000-hectare private concession in the western region of Kruger National Park comprising three lodges – Imbali Safari Lodge, Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge, and Hamiltons Tented Camp, Mluwati Concession was born out of a spirit of ensuring the future sustainability of the National Park. The 10 000-hectare concession borders the northern Sabi Sands and Manyeleti Game Reserves.
Guests will enjoy some of Kruger’s most spectacular landscapes and an extraordinary variety of wildlife, birdlife and plant life within the Mluwati Concession, ensuring that each safari experience will be unique.
GETTING THERE
Fly into Skukuza (SZK) or Eastgate (HDS) airport, road transfer to lodge (1.5 / 2 hours)
PROPERTY OVERVIEW
Imbali Safari Lodge continues the safari tradition of a bygone era, incorporating comfort and luxury in the serenity of the African bush.
This exclusive lodge in the world-renowned Kruger National Park has just twelve private suites, each with their own plunge pool. Each suite has a large king bed and romantic en-suite bathroom with magnificent views of the wilderness beyond. All suites are air-conditioned and have telephones and mosquito nets.
Complimentary wi-fi in the main lodge area allows you to stay in touch with your loved ones, to tell them about your safari adventures each day.
The sparkling swimming pool in the main area promises a refreshing dip while providing the opportunity to enjoy the rich and varied wildlife that visits the Imbali Safari Lodge water hole daily to enjoy for a cooling drink.
Spa treatments are available in the privacy of your suite. These are charged separately, according to the treatment you choose.
SUITES
Guests are accommodated in twelve spacious suites, subtly decorated in neutral colours with enchanting splashes of African tradition, from the ornate wall lamps to the comfortable textured pillows.
Large French doors run the length of the room to let the beautiful outside wilderness in, on your terms; an expansive deck overlooks the N’waswitsontso River or savannah grasslands with an outdoor pool to complete your leisure bush experience. Relax on the sunbed with a book or let those bubbles soothe your weary muscles; the chattering of weavers, thrushes and kingfishers providing a magical bush playlist for your relaxation.
Each room comes with a complimentary mini-bar with selected beverages, as well as a tea/coffee facility for your convenience in your suite.
The spacious stone and marble bathroom features a Victorian-style bathtub and walk-in shower with signature bath amenities, a hairdryer and fluffy bathrobes. Soak your stresses away as you soak away the modern-day stresses in natural bath salts while looking out on to the peace of the Kruger bush.
Rest for your soul: into the comfortable king-size bed for a quick siesta or a nights rest after your safari; a mosquito net envelops the entire bed in the evening ensuring you are cocooned in comfort. Expect a bedtime story on your pillow or a sweet treat to enjoy before retiring for the night.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO & PHOTOS
PRICING
R 9 403/night per person sharing
Additional costs:
R135 per person gate access fee
Complimentary transfer from either Skukuza or Hoedspruit Airport, subject to availability.
JACKALBERRY LODGE
LOCATION
Thornybush Game Reserve
LOCATION OVERVIEW
Thornybush is a 14,000-hectare private nature reserve that shares a fenceless border with the famous Kruger National Park in South Africa. Big 5 encounters are the standout experiences for our guests, with visitors particularly impressed with the lion and leopard sightings. It’s the vast diversity of wildlife, however, that has seen Thornybush emerge as a leading safari destination.
GETTING THERE
Fly into Eastgate Airport (HDS), road transfer to lodge (approx 40 minutes)
PROPERTY OVERVIEW
There’s just something about the location that makes you happy to sit back at Jackalberry Lodge, listen to the sounds of the bush on a quiet afternoon and watch the light slowly change on the northern escarpment of the Drakensberg mountain range.
Nataly and Natasja will make you feel right at home, while Ocean’s infectious laugh rings throughout the Jackalberry lodge while also impressing you with his exhaustive knowledge of bird calls.
Jackalberry is a place to slow down and unwind while also mixing in the thrill of world-class game viewing. Overlook a nearby waterhole often visited by elephants (one of the big 5 safari animals) and antelope, guests can enjoy wildlife sightings, without having to leave the comfort of the main area.
The hacienda has mottled shade for long, relaxed lunches, while the pool and firepit are also firm favorites with guests. Combined, all these elements create a special feeling at Jackalberry, that keep guests coming back time and again.
SUITES
Each of the seven thatched suites accommodate two guests each and come with a private deck and an outside shower.
The thatched suites have a home-away-from-home feel, allowing guests space and privacy while also being close to the lodge’s main area.
All suites have both inside and outside showers, as well as a large bath. The private veranda allows for some casual game-viewing or a perfect place to read a book.
The classic safari decor adds a bit of local flair to the chalet-style suites, which are all en-suite.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO & PHOTOS.
PRICING
R 8000/night per person sharing
Additional costs:
Transport: Eastgate Airport to Jackalberry Lodge: R 1892.00 per vehicle. One way. Based on a vehicle for 4 – 10 guests.
Fees: R320 per person per day community levy / conservation levy / TOMSA levy
ELEPHANT PLAINS GAME LODGE
LOCATION
Sabi Sand Game Reserve
LOCATION OVERVIEW
Bordering the Kruger National Park, with no fences dividing them, the Sabi Sand Game Reserve is world-renowned for excellent game viewing. At Elephant Plains Game Lodge, you can be sure of game drives and bush walks that will live up to the Africa of your imagination! Not only will you have an excellent chance of close encounters with the Big 5, but you might even be spoiled with some more elusive wild dog or cheetah sightings.
GETTING THERE
Fly into Eastgate (HDS) airport, road transport to lodge (approx. 2 hours)
PROPERTY OVERVIEW
Elephant Plains Game Lodge is situated on the dry Manyeleti riverbed, overlooking an open area and watering hole. The main lodge houses the reception, dining room, bar, lounge & wine cellar, as well as a small library and curio shop. Facilities include two swimming pools, a gym and games room. The lodge caters for the discerning traveller, offering different types of accommodation to cater for a variety of needs.
Mealtimes are sumptuous affairs, with a combination of international cuisine and South African specialities. Breakfast and lunch are enjoyed in the dining room, or on the pool deck, overlooking the open area. Dinner is served around a log fire in the boma, whilst enjoying the mystical nocturnal sounds under the African sky.
SUITES
The natural design and architectural flow of these glass-fronted, Luxury Suites fall softly on the eye. The exclusive, open-plan suites each have a lounge, double bedroom, en-suite bathroom and a private viewing deck that offers spectacular views over the riverbed and open area.
All suites feature air conditioning, overhead fans, mosquito nets, electronic safes, as well as mini bars and tea & coffee facilities.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO & PHOTOS
PRICING
R 7050/night per person sharing
Additional costs:
Fees: R 300 per person per day conservation fee
Transport:
From HDS airport: R 1 292.00 Per person. (This amount also covers the gate fee to Sabi sands.)
From Elephant Plains to HDS airport: R 1 120.00 Per person
SABI SABI BUSH LODGE
PROPERTY
Bush Lodge takes you on a breath-taking expedition through Africa, inspired by the adventures of its owners and celebrating their love for the continent.
An eclectic collection of styles is evident - from reception through to the viewing decks....original paintings, objets d’art and artefacts adorn the walls. The new copper clad bar area is a quirky “mash up” of styles, and showcases local crafts beers, gins and boutique wine and the centerpiece calabash- shaped beaded chandelier takes pride of place.
The viewing deck features various styles of seating and a fascinating mix of hand-woven, mismatched baskets which have been repurposed into lights. The safari lounge is sophisticated with enormous round leather ottomans, built-in seating covered with African scatter cushions.
This is the Sabi Sabi of Today and brings together a passion for Africa’s people, arts and culture.
SUITES
Bush Lodge is a luxury home in the bush, and all suites feature naturally sourced décor to blend into the surroundings. Each en-suite glass fronted bathroom has indoor and al-fresco showers and leads onto a private patio. Suites come standard with relaxing day beds, featuring draped netting. Views are expansive and private – the perfect haven from which to view wildlife in their natural habitat.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO & IMAGES.
PRICING
Approximately R15000 per person sharing per night
Transport:
R750 per person from Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge to Skukuza Airport
Inquire within for updated rates.
LUXURY LODGES
Lion Sands Narina Lodge
Property Overview
Narina Lodge offers a traditional safari experience in a sophisticated waterside haven. Perched on stilts amongst a canopy of 100-year-old trees, the lodge reflects its surrounds with organic chic décor, while its open design creates an air of relaxation.
The main lodge connects via raised wooden walkways to nine individual suites. Each is built to afford complete privacy in a wilderness where guests can watch the animals come down to the water from their private pool and deck, as well as bed and bath.
Experience & Activities
When you’re right on the Sabie River, watching the animals, surrounded by bush and sky, you really feel like you’ve escaped from the world. With 5,000ha of wilderness in this private concession within the world-renowned Kruger National Park, you can go exploring off-road, follow in the footsteps of a leopard, track down a herd of elephant, or simply wait for them to come to you.
Accommodations
Suite
The Suites are built to afford complete privacy in a wilderness where you can watch the animals come down to the river from your pool and deck, as well as bed and bath. Glass sliding doors and windows open up your sanctuary to the outside, while a romantic canopy bed, sink-into-me couches, an egg bath you can wallow in up to your chin, and a personal bar all add to the delight of being in Africa – in style.
Fast Facts
Highlights
Kruger park, covering 2-million hectares (nearly 5-million acres), is home to more mammal species than any other game reserve on the continent
Renowned for the quality of leopard viewing
500+ bird species
Lion Sands has more river frontage at 49km/30mi than any other reserve in South Africa Treehouse experiences
Activities include twice daily game drives, evening safaris, and bush walks
Guest spa sala, offering a spa and beauty treatments by expert therapists
Quick facts
9 luxury suites
18 guests max
Private lounge and plunge pool
Main lodge bar, guest lounge, dining area, boma, viewing/dining deck, and firepit lounge Kosher dining available
Wine cellar – private tastings and dinners can be arranged
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO & PHOTOS
PRICING
R 18 830 - R 23 935 per person per night (dependent on date)
Additional costs:
Conservation Levy: R 345 per person per night
Sustainability Levy: R 115 per person per night
Transfer from either Skukuza or Nelspruit Airport: Approx. R 3750 (inquire within)
Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge
“Celebrating the future of tomorrow and the mineral wealth of our continent - this is the past, present and future. Allow your senses to drink in the quiet opulence of a world class masterpiece.”
Earth Lodge has been recreated, taking its cue from South Africa’s mineral wealth with veins of these precious elements subtly reflected in the sophisticated furnishings around the lodge.
Each of the 13 suites glows with warmth and the glass-fronted bathrooms with indoor and al-fresco showers, lead to secluded private plunge pools with lounging chairs facing the bushveld.
A meditation garden leads to the spa and underground cellar with its enviable wine collection and a unique ‘day bar’ has been created, where guests relax looking out at the waterhole while enjoying refreshing cocktails.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE IMAGES & INFORMATION.
PRICING
R 22 000 per person per night.
Additional costs:
Conservation fee: 220 per adult per night
Transfer from either Skukuza or Nelspruit Airport approximately R 1300 per person (inquire within).
KEY LINKS
ADVENTURELUST SAFARIS
About Adventurelust Safaris
Up close & personal encounters
Connect intimately with nature
Lodging vetted for you
With all the luxuries & comforts
Prioritizing your safety & enjoyment
Experience the true African wild
Adventurelust Safaris encapsulate all the reasons I fell in love with Africa and its animals, and I feel so passionately that you will too! Your safari is in the true African wild, witnessing animals in their rightful and natural habitat, and you never know what kind of encounters Mama Africa has in store! They are luxurious experiences where you will be taken care of and treated to an exquisite, rejuvenating, therapeutic getaway in nature, a perfect chance to disconnect from your daily stresses and reconnect with yourself and this beautiful planet. Safaris are an adventure I truly wish everyone could experience at least once in their lifetime, and an experience you will never forget!
TYPICAL DAY ON SAFARI
Daily schedule is as follows (depending on season):
5:00 AM – Wake up call followed by coffee and rusks at the lodge
5:30-8:30 AM – Morning game drive
9:00-10:00 AM – Breakfast is served
Chill time! Nap, go through photos, lay by the pool, read, use Wi-Fi to make your friends and family back home jealous…
1:00 PM – Lunch is served
More chill time!
4:00 PM - High tea
4:30 PM-7:30 PM – Evening game drive
8:00 PM – Dinner is served
WHAT TO PACK
Here is a list of suggested items to consider bringing on your safari. Please bear in mind the luggage restrictions of your aircraft.
Good quality sunglasses - preferable polarized.
Sun hat, like a wide-brimmed hat or peak cap, that will stay on while driving
Clothing: Wear comfortable clothes in neutral colours, golf-shirts, T-shirts and long-sleeved cotton shirts, shorts and skirts, long trousers or slacks. All in light breathable fabric, like cotton. Light long-sleeved shirts or shirts with UV protection for those who are sun conscious to wear during the day. Avoid white and red on safari activities! Black and blue are also not ideal as attract the Tsetse fly in certain parts of Africa. Colours to go for: neutral, olive, khaki and beige.
If travelling in winter, please pack layers as it can get very cold in the early mornings! A warm winter jersey, Warm Anorak, wind breaker or Parka and scarf and gloves for the cold winter months (May to September) and early mornings and late evenings.
Light rain gear for summer months
Sarong – can provide warmth and protection against sun or wind and can be used for almost anything!
Good walking shoes (running/ tennis shoes are fine)
Sandals or flip flops
Swimsuit
Camera equipment, extra batteries and chargers, extra memory
Electrical Adaptors
If you wear contact lenses, we recommend that you bring along a pair of glasses in case you get irritation from the dust
Binoculars of at least an 8x30 magnification
Personal toiletries (basic amenities supplied by most establishments)
Malaria tablets (if applicable - consult your Travel Doctor if unsure)
Moisturizing cream & suntan lotion, we recommend at least an SPF30 or higher
Lipbalm with SPF
Insect repellent e.g. Tabard, Peaceful Sleep, Rid, Jungle Juice, etc
Basic medical kit (aspirins, plasters, Imodium, antiseptic cream and Anti-histamine cream etc)
Tissues or wet wipes
Visas, tickets, passports, money etc
Waterproof/dustproof bags/cover for your cameras
A good book or load your iPad or Kindle with reading material
A day back pack for your water and snacks, camera etc.
