Tuli Safari Lodge is located between the time-sculpted kopjes of the Northern Tuli Game Reserve and the legendary Limpopo River. Tuli Safari Lodge was once a farm, originally registered in 1957. The history is a little sketchy, though we know attempts were made at farming cash crops (including peanuts) under irrigation. In 1964, just as the Northern Tuli Game Reserve was founded, a Johannesburg businessman Monty Fuhr purchased the property and started transforming the farm into a safari Lodge. Monty set a precedent that has stayed with Tuli to this day by warmly welcoming children of all ages, and by establishing the idyllic gardens which make the Lodge such a relaxing retreat over and above the safari experience.
Tuli Safari Lodges extensive grounds always a few degrees cooler than the surrounding reserve - make the Lodge a really relaxing retreat in its own right. There is plenty to do within the Lodge, with a large swimming pool, waterhole, hide, walking trail and lots of lovely vantage points overlooking the Limpopo River and game reserve.
The heart of the Lodge is little changed from Montys day, retaining the charm and character of the era. The bar is built around the base of a 500 year old Nyala berry tree one local lady recalls being lifted up into the branches of this tree by her grandfather to protect her from Lions!
Tuli Safari Lodge is a hidden gem. Tucked in the eastern most corner of Botswana, it is a unique, timeless part of Africa with spectacular wildlife, breath-taking landscapes and fascinating history. A verdant oasis, in a ruggedly beautiful wilderness the yin to Tulis yang. Time spent in this relaxing retreat perfectly complements the varied safari adventures in the reserve beyond the Lodge gates. Such is the magical soul of Tuli Safari Lodge.
Accommodation at Tuli Safari Lodge:
Just 10 elegant suites nestle in Tuli Safari Lodge`s peaceful, spacious gardens. 8 Tented Suites are under draped canvas and elevated. Large wrap-around decks are designed to provide a relaxing outdoor space with views over the Tuli grounds and surrounding bush. The interiors are a modern take on classic `out of Africa` dcor, with a flowing open plan design.
All suites feature an island bed, lounge area, freestanding bath, separate wet room shower, double basin vanity area, toilet and lots of all-important hanging and drawer space plus tea/coffee facilities, hairdryer and safe. The tented suites are 72m2 plus 60m2 decking.
2 Classic Suites are thatched with solid walls and air conditioning. Both have very similar internal layouts and features to the tented suites, with a shaded veranda area.
All the suites can be made up as doubles or twins and are large enough to accommodate two children under 12 on single beds sharing with their parents if required. We can pair suites for families or friends who would like some separation without being too far apart!
Safari activities on offer at Tuli Safari Lodge are varied, with guided game drives, bush walks, several hides (with the option of sleep outs), night drives and meaningful community visits.
The Northern Tuli Game Reserve’s wildlife roams in abundance and diversity, home to 48 large mammal species, totalling approximately twenty thousand animals, which include Elephant, fifteen large herbivore species and four cat species to mention but a few. Tuli Safari Lodge must be one of the few places where Elephant Shrews and Elephants are (almost!) guaranteed sightings, sometimes from the same spot!
Selfdrive:
Driving from Johannesburg guests should follow the N1 to Polokwane then the R521 to Alldays. At Alldays take a right turn signed to Pont Drift. Cars can be left at the Pont Drift border post, and the short transfer to the lodge is free of charge.
If guests prefer to drive to the lodge, the lodge is approx 5km away and signed from the Botswana border post. When the Limpopo River is flowing the river must be crossed by cable car (P35 pp one way) and vehicles left at the border post.
Road transfers:
Road transfers can be arranged from Johannesburg, Polokwane, Gabarone or other locations.
Air:
SA Airlink operates several flights a day from OR Tambo Airport in Johannesburg to Polokwane (Pietersberg). You can then hire a car and drive to the lodge (approx 2 hours) or Tuli can arrange for a transfer (about R1800 per vehicle one-way).
