Tucked away on the northern edge of the Kruger National Park, lies the wilderness safari wonderland of Kapama Private Game Reserve, a 13 000-hectare haven of wild animals, including the sought-after Big Five. Kapama Karula Lodge is the most exclusive retreat in the reserve, and it boasts five standard and five luxury suites, two of which are specifically designed for families. If you’re keen to get even closer to nature, sleep in one of the two traditional canvas Meru tents – an authentic way to get closer to the true African wildlife experience.
Early-morning game drives could reveal some of the 40 mammal- or 350 bird species on the reserve. Your diligence could be rewarded with seeing predators feasting on a kill from the night. Wildlife such as nyala and vervet monkeys are common sights around the lodge itself. Afternoon game drives depart after a decadent high tea and end with sundowners admiring the mountains in the distance. For up-close wildlife encounters, nothing beats a bush walk with a trained ranger. You’ll learn about pawprints, medicinal plants and have a truly intimate experience with nature. There’s also the opportunity to do wildlife viewing on an elephant-back safari – an unforgettable experience.
Back at Karula Lodge, guests can relax in the exquisitely modern yet comfortable styling of this five-star establishment. Take a dip in the pool before enjoying a sundowner at the bar, in the open-plan lounge or on the deck with its views over the river below. The library offers complementary WiFi and two internet stations. Sumptuous meals are served in the dining room or in the outdoor boma which makes for an unforgettable experience under the African night sky.
Suites boast an iPod docking station and WiFi, but you’ll be hard pressed to draw yourself away from the treetop views that can be seen from the luxurious bath, outside shower, couches and bed. The contemporary décor theme is carried though in all the suites, and the family suites boast their own heated swimming pools. The tents are no less luxurious and each have a private wooden deck from which to toast your African safari experience.