Chitwa Chitwa Private Game Lodges - exclusive game lodge accommodation in the Sabi Sand Reserve.
Chitwa Chitwa offers tranquil spaces for relaxation along with superb game viewing and serene environments to unwind amidst nature. Enjoy the cosy library, browse African memorabilia, rejuvenate the body and mind at the spa, and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
Chitwa Chitwa, originally a private sanctuary of the Brink family, transformed into an exclusive game lodge in 1991. Named in tribute to a beloved elderly giraffe, the lodge epitomises South African hospitality and luxury within the Sabi Sand bushveld. It is committed to sustainable land management and conservation, blending classic bush style with modern elegance, creating a sanctuary of sustainable opulence and timeless legacy.
Chitwa Chitwa is dedicated to preserving the environment and supporting local communities through projects and eco-initiatives. The Chitwa Trust, established in 2008, aids underdeveloped communities in Mpumalanga by providing employment opportunities and improving education. As an ecological safari lodge, Chitwa Chitwa ensures minimal impact on the reserve’s natural beauty while promoting conservation and community upliftment.
For over a decade, our guests have been treated to spell-binding sightings of our abundant wildlife on game drives and bush walks and have left with affectionate memories of the very best of the African bush. The experience is further enhanced by our desire to protect and sustain the local environment and improve the well-being of our resident communities.
Amazing wildlife sightings
Main Central Area
Built around the largest lake in the reserve, one of Chitwa Chitwa’s most endearing features is its seamless integration into the surrounding African bush through its ideal location and design. Guests can be assured of superb game viewing from the main lounge and dining areas as they are rendered invisible to the various groups of wild animals that congregate at the water’s edge.
Sunset Deck
Shaded by old Knobthorn trees, our large wooden lounging deck affords amazing wildlife sightings of the Big Five (leopard, lion, buffalo, elephant and rhinoceros). Spacious viewing areas strewn with comfy daybeds and a rim-flow swimming pool enhance the sense of unity with the surroundings – the perfect environment to relax, unwind and absorb the sights, sounds and scents of Africa.
An African Dining Experience
At Chitwa Chitwa, meals are as much a social feast as a culinary one, designed to create a relaxed atmosphere for sharing in the day’s excitement. Lunch and breakfast are served next to the pool in the thatched lapa overlooking the lake, while dinners are served in the open-air boma around a roaring fire or in our elegant and stylish dining room.
An Early Introduction to the African Bush
Chitwa Chitwa has the pleasure of welcoming children of all ages. From the age of 6 onwards, upon the dedicated guide’s approval, children will be permitted to participate with the adults on safari. For the younger children, dedicated activities will be offered to the family during the arrival briefing.
Tailored Activities for All Ages
Our children’s program offers engaging, age-appropriate activities like bush walks, bug identification, and tracking lessons. These fun and educational experiences immerse children in the wonders of nature, sparking their curiosity and teaching them valuable skills.
Our shorter game drives are also tailored to younger attention spans, making every moment of safari exciting and interactive.
Nannies and Parental Relaxation
Parents can enjoy a stress-free safari knowing that we offer experienced nanny services on request.
While your little ones are well cared for, you can go on game drives or enjoy some quiet relaxation. This service allows both parents and children to make the most of their time in the wild.
The Charlsy Suite is a superb solution for families or friends travelling together! It consists of two splendidly appointed inter-leading en-suite rooms joined by a comfortable living area. A spacious lake-view deck with a swimming pool completes this unique unit. The luxury suite includes a bathtub, indoor and outdoor showers, fireplace, minibar, fan, hairdryer, tea coffee-making facility and an iPod docking station.
The intimate Chitwa Suites are ideal for romantic safari holidays. Each of the six suites is a spacious sanctuary, ranging from 130 to 180 square meters. Step out onto your private deck, complete with a plunge pool overlooking a watering hole where wildlife gathers. The elegant furnishings and complemented by indoor and outdoor showers. Explore the Chitwa Suites and book your stay.
Chitwa House is perfect for your luxury family safari or friends travelling together. This exclusive-use luxury villa in the heart of Sabi Sand is a treasured escape into unapologetic style. Enjoy a bush experience tailored to your every whim with the assistance of a dedicated house butler.
Arriving at Chitwa by air.
The lodge is comfortably accessible by air directly from Oliver Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) with a flying time of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Direct connecting flights are also available from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (35 minutes flying time) and Eastgate Airport (Hoedspruit) with 25 minutes flying time. Charter Air Shuttle Services provided Federal Air and CFA.
Arriving at Chitwa by road.
The road transfer from Johannesburg to Chitwa Chitwa takes approximately 5 hours. The lodge is situated in the northern area of the Sabi Sand and access is via the Gowrie Gate (near the Orpen Gate of the Kruger National Park). Chitwa Chitwa is a scenic three hour drive from Nelspruit. Road transfers from the airport can by arranged by Eastgate Safaris.
Children welcome.