Safaris Archives - Lukimbi Safari Lodge

Glowing Review

“Lukimbi Safari Lodge was the highlight of our visit to South Africa. Even before we arrived, we were delighted with the personal attention we received. Our flight was delayed and we thought we would miss our first game drive. But our driver kept Sean, the manager, updated on our expected arrival. Sean rearranged the game drive groups, holding our ranger back to wait for us so we didn’t miss our first drive. Our ranger Brendan, and tracker Terel, we’re so friendly and knowledgeable. We learned about animal behavior, how to identify footprints, and even plants and constellations. They were as excited to spot the animals as if it was their first time too. The rangers work together, so that if an elusive animal was spotted the other jeeps could rush over and try to see. Because Lukimbi is a private concession, we did not have to deal with crowds making viewing difficult. The location of the lodge meant that we got to see a Buffalo hanging out by the stream behind the lodge, and a kudu just outside our room.”

“The staff at Lukimbi was outstanding. They addressed us by our first names, and we knew their names too. We felt like family. The lodge has only 16 rooms, allowing for lots of personal attention. The food was excellent. And there were lots of little touches that added to the experience. From blankets and hot water bottles for the cold morning drives, to snacks and drinks in the bush, we were well cared for. If you are visiting Kruger, Lukimbi is the place to be.”

Thanks you so much, LaurenKC19, for your wonderful review on TripAdvisor!

(2023-06-18, Review Rating: 100%)

Travellers’ Choice Winner 2023

Congrats to the Lukimbi Safari Lodge team and thank you to all our wonderful guests.

We are in the top 10% of hotels worldwide in the 2023 Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ choice awards.

Every year Tripadvisor recognises travellers’ favourite properties around the world, based on reviews and ratings collected over the last year.

A Blind Safari Experience!

A blind safari experience!

I have to admit, I was a bit nervous about my first safari for a blind guest, but I saw this as an opportunity to challenge myself as a guide, to expand my comfort zone and also to focus more on your surroundings and senses. It makes you realise that seeing the animals is not always the key to going and doing a safari, it is the smell of the bush, the sounds around you and the touch as well. It’s an all sensory experience.

I had a couple of quiet days prior the guest’s arrival at Lukimbi Safari Lodge in the Southern part of the Kruger National Park. I used these days just to listen and focus on my surroundings, closing my eyes while driving with other guides, just to imagine what it must be like to explore the bush without sight. It was rather difficult for the first couple of hours or so, but I focused on touch, smell and hearing. It’s going to be a challenge and I had to think very hard as to how I could create but importantly, achieve a fulfilling, stimulating and successful safari like all the other drives I’ve done before.

My guests arrived at the lodge and it was time for the adventure to begin!

We stopped next to a herd of Impalas and listened as they were chewing on some of the drier leaves and grass. In a very soft “ewe” sound, the ewes were calling their lambs. In the distance there was a Swainson’s Spurfowls raucous “krraae-krraae-krraae” call coming from a tree not to far behind the impalas. Kudus also joined the impala and we could hardly hear them walk past our vehicle as they carefully placed the hind foot exactly where they placed their front foot, in order to eliminate sound – which they definitely succeeded in. “Are we driving in a western direction now?” The guest asked me as we continued with our afternoon drive. I confirmed that it was correct which he responded with a smile: “I can feel the warm afternoon sun, shining on my face.”

We approached a dry waterhole on the concession and I stopped the vehicle. “Reach out to the left.” I told him and I got out of the vehicle. Slowly he reached out and started feeling the smooth surface. “Almost like a polished smooth surface” he said. I explained to him that he was touching a fallen Leadwood that became a rubbing post to rhinos and other animals. As they mud wallow they look for a log, tree or rock that they can use to rub their muddy bodies against and from the continued rubbing against the object, the surface becomes smooth. He could also feel little bumps on the post, which we explained was dead ticks that came from the rhino as it was rubbing against the post.

A big old Marula tree right next to the road. I stopped and let him touch the trunk of the Marula Tree. He could feel the distinctive circular discs on the bark, a way that the marula tree is easily recognisable and he also felt a part of the trunk was smooth. The smooth part was the area where the tree got damaged by Elephants as they were peeling of the bark to gain access to the cambium layer which comprises the vascular tissue of the tree. This is where the tree transports water and nutrients from the roots to the leaves of the tree. Sometimes it happens that when the elephants remove the bark, they also ring bark the tree and it then dies, but in this case, the tree managed to repair itself and the scars could be felt clearly. We touched a couple of different trees, like the knobs from the Knob Thorn, the softness, almost toilet paper soft leaves from the African Weeping-wattle and we tasted the bitterness of the Magic quarri (because of the high tannin level in the leaves) when we were making tooth brushes. While busy explaining a bit about the Magic quarri, my tracker spotted movement between the top branches… none other that a big Flap-neck chameleon. I broke off a small branch from the quarri and held it towards the chameleon, allowing it to climb onto my branch and handed it to the guest. He could feel the weight of the chameleon on the branch he was holding, and it gave him an idea how big it was. We slowly and carefully placed the branch back into the bush, where the chameleon safely climbed off and slowly disappeared deeper into the quarri.

Suddenly, a roar in the distance!

It was starting to become dusk and we could feel the cooler autumn air against our skin as we were heading into the direction that we heard the lions roar. Obviously a sound you wish every guest can experience but not always able to accomplish. And there they were, lying in the riverbed. Females, cubs and two beautiful dark maned male lions. On our arrival, one of the females suddenly got up and started walking into our direction. 25m away from us, 15m… 10m…5m I counted down so that the guest understood why the footsteps and breathing of the lioness could be easily heard and also assuring him that we were safe. She stopped in front of us. Then, the moment I hoped for! Both males in the riverbed, right in front of our vehicle started roaring at the same time! The lioness joined, where at this time she was at the back of our vehicle. There we were, surrounded by the largest African carnivores, roaring like never before. A sound you feel vibrating in your bones. I looked at the guest and he was smiling. In the days prior their arrival, I was able to make a mould of the track of a male lion we spotted close to camp, using Plaster of Paris. As the lions moved off that got so close to us. Huge male lion track is almost the same size as a humans hand.

The early evening sounds were entertaining us as we stopped for sundowners. Orange-pink skies were visible on the horizon as the Bubbling Kassinas and the White-faced Whistling Ducks were singing from the big pan. With the assurance that everything was fine and we were safe, we listened as a big herd of Elephants made their appearance at the pan. Splashing and drinking water. An odour followed. A rich, wet, earthy smell, almost like land after first rain. That was the wet mud on their bodies and the water they splashed on them to cool down. We could hear a rumbling sound, produced by the vocal chords and amplified by the upper region of the trunk – it’s the Matriarch telling the rest of the family its time to go. The faint noise of their footsteps could be heard as the giants disappeared into the darkness. Another successful day in the bush ended with the characteristic night sounds of Fiery-necked Nightjars, whistling, ‘good lord, deliiiiver us.

The guest summed up his experience as, “Silent Appreciation!!”

Christa Bohmer

Outdoor Safaris for Spring

Ideas for Outdoor Safaris for Spring in the Kruger National Park and the Surroundings

Spring is a great time in the Kruger National Park and the surrounding areas. New flowers are blooming, wildling babies are born, and the weather is ambient. While it can be quite hot during these months, it is still very acceptable compared to the stifling summer months. This is when the magic happens in the Kruger National Park and the environment around it! Plantlife that has been dormant during winter suddenly springs to life, wild animals give birth, and the rains and thunderstorms return.

These are only some of the reasons why outdoor safaris for spring are so popular. The climate this time of year is also enjoyable. There is none of the stifling heat and humidity of the summer months, and the evenings are cool and clear. Many wildlife babies are born during springtime, which makes it a very special time to visit game reserves such as the Kruger National Park.

Because the weather is so comfortable and there is so much to see and do in the Kruger National Park, a lot of visitors from all over the world flock to this area to experience outdoor safaris for spring. During this time of year, you can comfortably enjoy time outdoors during the day and the night. The Kruger National Park is popular because of its wide range wild African game and its exclusive game lodges, such as Lukimbi Safari Lodge.

At Lukimbi Safari Lodge, we do our best to facilitate fascinating and interesting outdoor safaris for spring. We conduct daily game drives in the Kruger Park that enthrall and entice our guests. In addition, we also offer a range of other entertaining excursions to important locations, such as endangered animal sanctuaries where guest can interact with the wild animals that are being cared for there. After a tiring day, our guests just love to return to our luxury lodge to relax next to the pristine pool or enjoy a cocktail on their private balconies overlooking the wildlife passing by below.

Outdoor safaris for spring are particularly popular because this is the time when there is plenty to encounter during game drives and other excursions. The surrounding areas around the Kruger Park are also filled with awesome sights and sounds.

If you are looking for one of the most desirable locations to enjoy outdoor safaris for spring, book your stay at Lukimbi Safari Lodge. We aim to provide all our guests with the most amazing experiences that they will never forget. Contact our team for more information.

Kruger Park Safari Lodge

Why You Should Plan Your Next Company Event at This Kruger National Park Safari Lodge

Conferences, brainstorming sessions, and similar corporate events are great ways of getting similar minded people together to pool their knowledge and create new and exciting trajectories for the business or project in question. That said, no-one feels inspired by yet another dreary day in a grey room with no natural light or fresh air, watching PowerPoint presentations and drinking watered down coffee. You can picture the scene all too clearly, can’t you? Which is all the more reason why you should consider hosting your next corporate get together at Lukimbi Safari Lodge in the Kruger National Park.

Now, hosting your next company event at a Kruger National Park safari lodge might require a bit of additional planning, but the benefits and rewards are indisputable. We’ve rounded up some of the top reasons to choose Lukimbi Safari Lodge in the Kruger National Park:

Less Interruptions Means Improved Focus

Make sure you hit all your objectives by using the time wisely, instead of wasting it on interruptions. In this tranquil environment away from the hustle and bustle of the office, you can get into the zone and focus fully on the task at hand.

Fresh Surroundings, Fresh Thinking

When you take yourself out of your regular environment, you also free yourself from the same pattern of thinking. With a new environment comes fresh energy and inspiration, all necessary for out-of-the-box thinking.

Stress-Free Solutions

It’s a fact: we perform better when we are relaxed. And what better way to relax than to leave the stress of the city behind and to immerse ourselves in the beauty and tranquillity of nature? Give yourself the space to take a step back and get an objective view.

Return Refreshed

An inspired event is great, but you need to carry that energy over to the implementation phase afterwards. Make sure you return relaxed and ready to change the world.

The Lukimbi Safari Lodge Experience

This 5-star lodge is located in the easily accessible southern part of the Kruger National Park and offers luxurious accommodation, delectable fine-dining, and a host of fun activities. We also have fully equipped conference facilities and experts on hand to help organise every aspect of your event.

Contact Lukimbi Safari Lodge for more information on our facilities, or to get in touch with the team to help you plan your event at this incredible Kruger National Park safari lodge.

Lukimbi Under Lock Down

When our President declared a state of disaster and the Covid 19 made its presence known throughout the world, we took a very difficult decision to close Lukimbi for the month of April until things settled down. Little did we anticipate how long it would take for “things to settle down “.

So far, the lodge has been closed since 27 March but that hasn’t meant that everything has come to a grinding halt, certainly not for Sean, Shelley and Reece who were the only people left on the property. Level 5 was very difficult for them, they had to see to the closure of the lodge the last staff members left on the afternoon of the 25^th March to ensure they managed to return to their homes in time for the lockdown to commence. All windows and doors were locked and secured and all the furniture was covered to protect it making the public areas rather ghostly.

With everything closed, the only part of the lodge left open and working was the manager’s office, and the fridges and freezers. However, mother nature then decided that life was too quiet for the family and she unleashed a mini tornedo on the night of the 26^th March which tore through the concession,

In the space of fifteen minutes, trees had been uprooted, roofs had been damaged and walk ways smashed. The damage was fairly extensive and Sean was alone to try and clear up the mess left behind. – what a way to start lockdown.

Although through the doom and gloom, as time passed they had to check the concession to ensure there were no issues, and have been blessed with a number of glorious sightings, including the various wonderful general game Lukimbi has to offer, but a beautiful sighting of a Female cheetah with 3 cubs on Lukimbi Plains, and the heyana’s were back at their den site, and as curious as ever.

Once level 4 was introduced, life became a bit more bearable. We were able to bring in 7 other members of staff, And so the repairs and maintenance of the whole lodge commenced.

Since then our maintenance team made up of Stranger, Doctor and Sipho, Arie, Cindy and Kaitlyn have been really busy, not only did they have to clear all the broken trees, from across boardwalks, they have been able to get some vital maintenance done in areas, not always so easy to overhaul while guests are in camp.

Cindy and Kaitlyn have spent the last 3 weeks busy in the kitchen, giving it a complete makeover, sanding, repairing and repainting almost all of the kitchen areas, even the fridges have had a new touch of paint to give them a new lease of life…. A job well done ladies…

The tree over the boardwalk and those snapped in half in front of the rooms, proved a challenge to be moved, but with the heavy machinery and with Reece’s supervision, another job well done and was a good workout for all those involved.

Although we haven’t allowed them to stop there, we’ve so far managed to give the main lodge pool area an overhaul, and this is almost done with the decks, all being fixed up, and re varnished to make them look as good as new again. Now the project to scrubbing the pool itself is starting in earnest…. Watch this space…

With all the hard work going on around the lodge, there has been some down time and bonding of the staff, they have been able to go on some drives to check the concession which need to be done on a regular basis to ensure there are no problems, and a perfect opportunity for those staff members that don’t ordinarily get to enjoy the location they work in as much as others.

A friendly game of cricket was had, and Kaitlyn and Arie proved to be very handy with a bat, and to finish the night off a nice social braai was enjoyed by all.

There has been a constant stream of visitors, obviously curious as to why there were no guests and very little activity around the grounds. The elephants were the first to arrive. They stood across the river looking and watching what was happening in the lodge.

As the days passed and the concession has gotten drier, without much rain for some time the next visitors were a large herd of buffalo coming down to drink at the river and then George the resident hippo made his return to the lodge River… and to admire the lilies in there too. An old friend, the leopard tortoise who has lived in grounds for a long time, came up on to the lounge deck to admire the view and to check if anything was being served in the dining room.

Even the elephants were back at the entrance gate waiting for our guests to admire them.

The Lukimbi team along with them are waiting for the day we can welcome our much-missed guests again in the not too distant future, until that time we hope you are staying safe….

Accommodation Inside Kruger National Park

Safari Holiday Kruger National Park

6 Steps to Prepare for Your Safari Holiday in the Kruger National Park

There is no question about it: a safari holiday in the Kruger National Park is absolutely second to none. This wondrous piece of paradise has so much beauty to offer, and the thrill of adventure is always just a stone’s throw away. It really is no surprise to learn then that this is one of the most visited game reserves on the entire continent of Africa.

The Kruger National Park has been a popular destination for the ideal safari holiday for ages for several reasons. This includes the abundance of majestic wildlife that can be found in the reserve, including the world-renowned Big Five – the lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and rhino. South Africa is also known for its fantastic weather, making it a great safari holiday destination, even during winter. Or, in the case of the Kruger National Park, especially during winter.

If you are considering a safari holiday – or are in the process of planning one – to the Kruger National Park, we’ve put together some handy tips to help you have the best time of your life:

1. Choose Your Clothes Wisely

You don’t need professional hiking boots but be sure to take comfortable walking shoes. The days can get warm, even in winter, but awnings and evenings are cool, so take a jacket or warm top. Also, stay away from bright colours and white clothing. Rather opt for earthy colours.

2. Pack Sun Protection

The African sun can be harsh. Pack sunscreen and consider taking a sunhat and sunglasses for your own comfort and convenience. The last thing you want is to suffer from sunburn on your vacation.

3. Take a Camera

You are bound to see some breathtaking sights while in the game reserve. While you want to live in the moment, you will also probably want to capture some of these incredible memories.

4. Consider Getting Binoculars

There will be plenty of amazing things to see, but remember that this is not a zoo. There is no guarantee that all the action will happen right next to the road. Take a pair of binoculars if possible, especially if you’re interested in bird watching.

5. Be Prepared to Get Up Early

The early mornings are absolutely stunning – and your chance of spotting wildlife is so much better.

6. Book Your Accommodation at the 5-Star Lukimbi Safari Lodge

When planning a safari holiday in the Kruger National Park your choice of accommodation is very important. Treat yourself to bushveld luxury like no other. Contact Lukimbi Safari Lodge now to make your reservation.

Luxury Safari Lodge in Kruger Park

5 Things that Make This the Top Luxury Safari Lodge in the Kruger National Park

Where do you even start when looking for a luxury safari lodge in the Kruger National Park? As one of the largest – and the most popular – game reserves on the continent of Africa, there is certainly no shortage of accommodation in the area. The answer is actually simple: You start with the best, of course. And that would be Lukimbi Safari Lodge.

With a 5-star rating and Certificate of Excellence from travel site TripAdvisor, guests certainly agree. Located in the easily accessible southern part of the Kruger National Park, this luxury safari lodge exceeds every expectation:

1. The Luxurious Accommodation

Every room is a lush haven of comfort. The authentically African design and high windows submerge you completely into your bushveld adventure, and private viewing decks allow you to survey the surrounding natural beauty.

2. The Delicious Cuisine

Just because you find yourself in the Kruger National Park does not mean you have to rough it up. The head chef at this luxury safari lodge makes sure that each meal is absolutely delicious and just as beautiful. An award-winning wine list accompanies each meal.

3. The Amazing Bush Excursions

There are two 4×4 safaris each day, led by experienced guides and trackers, or guests can join a bush walk after breakfast to explore the stunning landscape on foot.

4. The Indulgent Spa Treatments

A holiday is all about relaxing and re-energising. Enjoy a rejuvenating full body massage, a revitalising facial, or any of the other pampering treatments on offer in the private on-site spa.

5. The Added Extras

Make use of the gym facilities, enjoy a cocktail in the bar, relax in the lounge, or ask at the reservations office about booking a round of golf at Leopard Creek – one of the finest courses in the world, designed by the legendary Gary Player.

Treat yourself to the 5-star luxury of the Lukimbi Safari Lodge in the Kruger National Park. Book your African adventure now to avoid disappointment.

Where to See the Big 5 South Africa

Where Is the Best Place to Stay to See the Big 5 in South Africa?

It is regularly voted as one of the most beautiful countries in the world and when one considers the vast array of landscapes and abundance of natural wonders, it is absolutely no wonder that South Africa has always mesmerised visitors – and continues to do so. One of the biggest attractions when it comes to wildlife is, without a doubt, the world-famous Big 5: the lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and rhinoceros. So, if you are on a quest to see these majestic creatures, where would be the best place to go?

While this narrows it down – you now have a country, a region, and a game reserve to focus on – it’s still important to note that the Kruger National Park in South Africa is almost the same size as the entire Wales in the UK. If you want to see the Big 5, you would probably want to commit to more than only a 1-day visit. This means you should also consider where to stay while on your African safari in the bush.

Thankfully, this last question is an easy one to answer. If you’re planning an overnight trip to the Kruger National Park to see the Big 5 and want to enjoy a Bushveld adventure of the highest calibre in South Africa, you’d definitely want to book your accommodation at Lukimbi Safari Lodge. It’s where opulent luxury and true African hospitality meet.

Lukimbi Safari Lodge is located in the easily accessible southern part of the Kruger National Park and offers guests a range of luxury suites, decadent fine dining, and opulent spa treatments. Furthermore, bookings also include private game drives and guided bush walks can be arranged for those who want to get up close and personal with nature.

So remember, if you’re wondering where to see the Big 5 in South Africa, your first choice should, without a doubt, be the 5-star Lukimbi Safari Lodge. Contact us to make a booking. We’re looking forward to welcoming you and treating you to a magical African safari that you’ll never forget.

Safari in Kruger National Park

7 Useful Packing Tips for an Unforgettable Safari in the Kruger National Park

There are few things as exciting as a holiday away, especially if that holiday is a wonderful safari in the Kruger National Park in South Africa. Packing for your vacation is perhaps not the most exciting part of the entire getaway but it is worth doing it properly to ensure you have a magical time while on your adventure. Here are a few practical tips to keep in mind while packing to make sure your safari in the Kruger National Park is nothing short of incredible:

Clothing: Careful with colour. Pack clothes that are comfortable and easy to move in and stay away from bright colours. Remember that you are on a safari in the Kruger National Park and dust might make white clothes look dirty quickly.
Shoes: Comfort is king. There is no need to buy fancy hiking boots unless you are planning a proper hike at some point. Pack comfortable walking shoes – ones which you won’t mind to get a bit dirty.
Think sun. The African sun can have quite a bite and the last thing you want to sit with while on holiday is an unpleasant sunburn. Bring a sun hat, some sunscreen, and sunglasses.
Pack medication and must-have toiletries. While you will be able to get the basics at some of the stops and at the lodge you’re staying, you won’t always be close to a town or shops. So, if there is anything you specifically need, like prescription medication, make sure it is in your bag.
Smile for the camera! While you want to live in the moment and take in all the splendour of nature, there are bound to be moments you’d want to capture for looking at again later.
Carry some cash. There is only one bank in the Kruger National Park, and that is at Skukuza. Take some cash with you or draw some when you enter the park through Skukuza.
Bring a book. There will be moments during your safari where you will have some downtime to enjoy. Pack a book or some other activity to keep you busy as you relax in the comfort of your room or on your private viewing deck.

That’s all you need. As for the rest, leave it to Lukimbi Safari Lodge, situated in the easily accessible southern part of the Kruger National Park. Book your accommodation with us and we’ll take care of all your needs. As our guest, you are in for a real treat.