Whether you are a regular safari-fiend or you’re dying to tick it off the bucket list; South Africa is a fantastic safari destination and you’d struggle to find a better place to stay than the stunning Indlovu River Lodge. The Karongwe Private Game Reserve in which it is situated hosts all of the Big Five animals and you’ll be very comfortable in the luxurious lodge accommodation.
Location
The Indlovu River Lodge is situated on the banks of the Kuvjenami River near Hoedspruit, in the richly diverse 9,000-hectare Karongwe Private Game Reserve which is part of an area of the greater Kruger National Park. Flights from London to Johannesburg O.R. Tambo take less than 11 hours and Virgin Atlantic, British Airways and South African all fly the route direct. The lodge is 450 km from the airport which takes under 5 hours by car alternatively you can take a short 1-hour internal flight to Hoedspruit Airport which is then only an hour’s drive to the lodge.
Style & Character
The intimate boutique lodge accommodates a maximum of just 20 guests. Each of the beautiful villas are hidden under towering Jackalberry trees, with the magnificent northern escarpment of the Drakensberg mountains as a backdrop. You never forget where you are, with the tastefully-done wild African décor.
Service & Facilities
You’re guaranteed an adventure of a lifetime in the thrilling African bush; the lodge prides itself on being one of a handful of lodge’s in the whole of Africa which can boast unique, sunken photographic hides. These offer a remarkable, unique opportunity for photographers to capture close up images. The exceptional hides are very well positioned at the water level of the water holes so you are literally at eye level with the animals. As well as catching a glimpse of the Big Five, there are an abundance of other game species and extraordinary bird life all around the lodge. Your stay includes two game activities per day, choose between a game drive and or a session in the hide. There is also a communal pool and gazebo; the perfect spot for relaxing after your day in the bush. The lodge is family owned and they really understand the needs of their guests; meals and activities are arranged around you and they are exceptional with children, providing little extras like trampolines and bikes that, of course, they love!
Rooms
There are 4 Luxury Suites, each with sleep two people. They are all ensuite with a queen-sized bed and enjoy garden or river views, air-conditioning, coffee and tea making facilities, bar fridge and Wi-Fi. If you opt for a Suite, go for João or Dzombo as they have a lounge area positioned to offer lovely views out to the bush. There are also 3 Luxury Villas; Kambaku, Ndlulamithi and Shingwedzi; the later are both Superior Villas and would definitely get my recommendation, both are stunning inside and include a private pool and deck area. Villa Shingwedzi sleeps four in two double ensuite rooms and Villa Ndlulamithi sleeps two. Villa Kambaku is ideal for a family travelling together as it sleeps eight in four connecting rooms, there are is one double and three twin rooms.
Food & Drink
The food is delicious with very generous servings! Your very friendly chef provides a lighter lunch with creative and appetizing salads and very tasty dinners, with a variety of meats cooked in imaginative ways using quality ingredients and local spices.
Copyright Luxury Travel Diary 2014 - 2024. Duplication outside of luxurytraveldiary.com is forbidden.
Note: Benefits & upgrades subject to availability. Benefits offered correct at the time of writing. Terms & conditions apply. Enquire for more information. Posts may be sponsored by the proprietor or brand being appraised. All opinions remain our own & are in no way influenced.
