Lukimbi Safari Lodge

Lukimbi Safari Lodge is situated in the game rich southern section of the Kruger National Park. Bounded by 3 major river systems, the extensive 15000 hectare area offers a diverse array of habitats.

The area is heavily wooded and interspersed with lush riverine thickets. The sheer wilderness of the plains and valleys is breathtaking. Few people have passed this way since the 1870`s gold rush when an ox wagon route existed between Lydenburg and Delagoa Bay (now Maputo).

Several tracks allow the passage of open Land Rovers for exciting game drives. Many areas, however, remain in an absolute pristine state and can only be explored and enjoyed on foot.

Highly qualified rangers and Shangaan trackers render these excursions unforgettable and provide insight into the ways of the wild as well as traditional African customs and beliefs.

The remoteness and exclusivity of Lukimbi allows guests a unique African safari experience, which can be tailored to their specific requirements.

The utilization of highly qualified field guides allows Lukimbi to offer the privilege of Big 5 walks and off-road viewing of large game.

Conde Nast Traveler Magazine has selected Lukimbi Safari Lodge as one of the best new properties in the world for 2003.

The Lodge
This is a lodge with art, color and exciting furnishing, but at the same time your eye is drawn outwards to the beckoning bush beyond.

The openness of the architecture ensures that you are aware of the bird calls and movements of the animals outside.

However, the height of the lodge above the river provides a viewing point with a feeling of safety. The raised walkways provide guests with clear and easy access to their suites.

The cool and spacious lounge overlooks the river and the open game plains beyond. On rare cold evenings, a seat near the beautifully decorated lounge fireplace is a great place to enjoy a glass of estate wine.

The dining room has a spectacular view over the river and the open grassland. The boma (or meeting place) serves as the magical setting for firelit dinners. Hand packed freeform walls provide a dramatic backdrop for the chef`s gourmet meals.

The beautiful pool features a waterfall dropping into the jacuzzi cavern, before flowing gently into the main swimming pool.

A very well equipped gym is available and the library has many interesting books, whether it is fact or fiction guests prefer.

A computer station is available for sending emails to the family or office.

Accommodation:
Executive suites
The King Cheetah and Giant Eagle Owl suites each have a separate bedroom, lounge, dining area and two bathrooms.

Decks lead from the bedroom and lounge to the inviting private pool below. The pools at these suites are the ultimate in peace and tranquility.

Elephants are frequently sighted close to the pool and whilst none have as yet come in for a swim, they certainly have come for a sundowner drink.

Standard suites
Each suite has air conditioning, fans, minibar, tea and coffee facilities, safe, inside and outside shower and bath with an amazing view.

The secluded deck is the ideal place watch birds, see the animals coming down to the river and to relax in a world of your own.

Activities:
Game Drives
Game Drives go out in the early morning and late afternoons in open Landrovers. Our Guides love to share their extensive knowledge, and work closely with our Shangaan trackers to get the best sightings. There is great communication between the two and our Trackers are encouraged to share their knowledge of local uses of herbs and trees, animals and birds.

We can follow the Big 5 off road in careful, controlled circumstances, this is an experience few guests would like to miss. Guests are able to get really close to the animals and experience truly fantastic photographic opportunities. Early mornings start off a little cold, but a stop is made later for warming drinks, or cold ones, if preferred. A highlight of late afternoon drives is the time spent at sundowner time. This is the moment to appreciate the magnificence of an African sunset, whilst sipping sundowner drinks.

Bush Walks
Lukimbi is the place to enjoy wonderful walks, because it is so large and unspoiled. It is quite a different experience to see animals on foot and always very exciting. The walks offer the opportunity to look at and learn about the smaller things and just to appreciate the special smell of the African bush, listening to the calls of the many species of birds. Walks are generally taken after breakfast and guests are always accompanied by an armed Ranger.

Full Day Walking Safaris
We are proud to introduce Full Day Walking Trails at Lukimbi Safari Lodge during our cooler winter months.

Anybody who is reasonably fit and healthy, and is looking for something adventurous will certainly enjoy “bushwacking” on foot. There are emergency evacuation points along the route if there is any kind of problem. The Wagon Trail, the Lwakahle Trail and the Gabro Trail depart at approx 07h00 and guests will return back to camp around 17h00.

Lukimbi can take a maximum of 8 guests, from 16+ years on a walk. Guests do need to request the full day walk at time of reservation, as it is subject to availability and there is a huge amount of logistics involved. There is an additional charge of R550.00 per person per walk.

If you love to walk, but not too keen on roughing it, our walks provide the best combination of exercise, fresh air, fabulous game viewing, all done in complete comfort, with rangers who clearly love the whole experience.