Menu
Quick search
CTRL+K
Quick search
CTRL+K
Located in the beautiful Sabi Sand Game Reserve, adjacent to the Kruger National Park, Elephant Plains Game Lodge offers excellent Big 5 game-viewing opportunities, exclusive and luxurious accommodation and delectable cuisineto nature lovers in search of something different. The lodge caters for the discerning traveler, and its variety of accommodation options, varying from rondavels and luxury suites to the Manyeleti honeymoon suite, will appeal to all tastes.
Elephant Plains Game Lodge is world renowned for its excellent Big Five game-viewing adventures. Two game drives and a bush walk per day creates ample opportunities for thrilling sightings. Facilities include two swimming pools, a spa, gym, conference centre, small library and games room. The lodge also caters for small, intimate weddings. It is owner-run and can accommodate a maximum of 24 guests. This guarantees personal service and attention to detail. Its unpretentious style and warm hospitality make valued guests reluctant to leave after experiencing the friendly atmosphere of this unique piece of wild Africa.
The iconic Elephant Plains game lodge is situated in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve which forms part of the world-famous Greater Kruger National Park.
The Sabi Sand Game Reserve was founded in the 1950s by a group of private landowners who decided to drop the fences between their properties in order to establish a larger home range for the wildlife to roam freely. The reserve is named after its two main rivers, the Sabi and Sand rivers, which both flow to the south of Elephant Plains Game Lodge. In 1993 the fences between the Kruger National Park and the Sabi Sand Game Reserve were dropped to allow for an even bigger area for the animals in which to roam. Currently the Kruger National Park encompasses around 2.2 million hectares.
The Steyn family used to own the Seville property, a farm just outside the village of Utah en route to Kruger’s Orpen gate. In the early sixties this land was reclaimed by the government and, along with many other neighbouring properties, became trust land. The reclamation led to the establishment of the Manyeleti Game Reserve, situated just to the north of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve.
Koot Steyn, his son, Dries Steyn and a third partner, Jannie Wilkens then bought the farm, Arathusa, from Mr Tresford in 1962. At the time the only buildings on the property were the old main building and two rondavels (currently Rooms 2 and 3). More rondavels (Rooms 1, 4 & 5) were added and the camp was utilized as a holiday venue for family and friends.
The infamous Harry Kirkman became warden of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve in 1958 and frequently visited the farm. After captivating his friends with his incredible wildlife stories around the campfire, he would always sleep on the porch of Room 2, despite access to the ready-made bed indoors.
Koot Steyn passed on and the northern section of the property was sold to the then German Ambassador for South Africa, Mr Jackel. It has since been resold.
Jannie Wilkens’s southern section was sold to Mr Abrahams.The farm is now owned by his daughters, Shirley and Joan. This is the private camp one can see from the original pool deck. Dries Steyn divided his property into two parts, and in 1994 the farm was inherited by the Witpoort Family Trust. Dr. Etienne and Ms Margie Swart are the current owners.
The Swart family decided to open up their piece of paradise to visitors and, on the 1st of October 1998, Elephant Plains Game Lodge officially opened its doors to the public. Initially we only 10 guests were accommodated in the rondavels of the original family holiday camp. The construction of the new main lodge and six luxury suites during 2003, as well as that of the honeymoon suite in 2006, has increased the lodge’s capacity to 24 guests. The lodge is owner-run by Etienne and Marlet Swart, who also reside on the property. With the assistance of their very capable staff component, they are able to live their African dream…
Because our environment supports livelihoods, Elephant Plains Game Lodge realises the need to ensure that its footprint and presence is as unobtrusive as possible. It is important to us to care for this incredible piece of magnificent wilderness entrusted to us, in order to ensure that future generations will also be able to share in this legacy.
Our main objectives are the sustainability of a healthy, balanced habitat through the implementation of specific conservation processes, as well as contributing positively to the socio-economic development of our surrounding communities. We believe there exists a fine balance between commercialization and its toll on the wildlife and their habitats. We have a conscientious land management programme which endeavours to maintain a naturally diverse ecosystem, and to minimize the impact of human activities on the environment. To this end – and in conjunction with the Sabi Sand Game Reserve’s ecological department – we have put certain conservation measures in place. These include projects such as the regeneration of erosion sites, the removal of alien plant species and sustainable habitat management through practices such as carefully planned block burning and special off-roading precautions during game drives.
We believe that our biggest contribution to conservation happens through education. We regard all our guests as ambassadors for conservation in South Africa. If, during their stay with us, we manage to expand their knowledge and experiences, we have achieved our goal. Amazing wildlife sightings, combined with the many lessons they have learned about conservation, will remain edged in their memory forever, enabling them to pass it on to others through their reminiscences.
Our staff is also educated on the sustainability of resources. Most of our staff members have been sourced from the local villages outside the Gowrie Gate. They are also our nature ambassadors, as the conservation principles they have learned at Elephant Plains are also shared with their families and various communities, spreading the message far beyond the lodge itself. By making use of local suppliers and services wherever possible, we create business opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
Teamwork lies at the heart of Elephant Plains Game Lodge’s success. We believe that by combining the collective experience and knowledge of our workforce, we are able to create a product from which everyone can benefit. This multicultural community provides the opportunity to learn from one another as we strive to continually raise the benchmark of our service offering.
Elephant Plains Game Lodge is situated on the dry Manyeleti riverbed, overlooking an open area with a watering hole. Our Africam wildlife camera, which gives website visitors a live feed v of possible Big Five sightings, is located in a big Jackalberry tree, facing the watering hole. The lodge layout caters for the discerning traveler, offering different types of accommodation to satisfy all needs.
Guests are able to choose from five rondavels, six luxury suites and The Manyeleti, our romantic and exclusive honeymoon suite. The main lodge houses the reception, dining areas, bar, lounge and wine cellar, as well as a small library and curio shop. Facilities include two swimming pools, the African Health Spa, a gym, a conference room and games room.
SOUTH AFRICAN WINES TO COMPLEMENT YOUR MEALS
Mealtimes are sumptuous affairs, with a combination of international cuisine and South African specialities.
Breakfast and lunch can be enjoyed in the dining room or on the pool deck, overlooking the open area.
Dinner is served around a log fire in the boma, to the backdrop of the mystical nocturnal sounds of the African wilderness.
MANYELETI HONEYMOON SUITE
Are you in search of an exquisite and romantic honeymoon destination?
The Manyeleti honeymoon suite provides honeymooners, or those who are still romantic at heart, with elegance, privacy and a stunning view.
This glass-fronted suite has all the regular luxuries and also boasts a private splash pool and daybed, ideal for a mid-morning nap.
Styled and decorated in warm, earthy tones, the natural earthy design and effortless architectural flow of the six glass-fronted luxury suites fall softly on the eye.
These exclusive, open-plan suites each has a lounge, double bedroom, en-suite bathroom and a private viewing deck that offers spectacular views over the riverbed and surrounding landscape. All suites feature air-conditioning, overhead fans, fireplaces, mosquito nets, electronic safes, as well as fully stocked mini bars and tea a coffee facilities.
The five rondavels are set in the beautifully landscaped garden of the original family holiday camp and the old bushveld charm is still very evident today. The rondavels have been renovated and redecorated to pay tribute to Oupa Dries and Ouma Anna Steyn, without whom Elephant Plains Game Lodge would not have developed into what it is today.
All the rondavels have sundecks, en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, overhead fans, mini bars, tea/coffee facilities, mosquito nets and electronic safes. Though very elegant and luxurious, the rondavels offer affordable game lodge accommodation to nature lovers.
Bordering the Kruger National Park, with no fences dividing them, the Sabi Sand Game Reserve is world-renowned for excellent game viewing and luxury Kruger Park Safaris. At Elephant Plains Game Lodge game drive safaris and bush-walk experiences will surpass the wild Africa of your imagination. Not only will you have an excellent chance of close encounters with the Big Five, but you may even be rewarded with a sighting of the elusive wild dog and the magnificent cheetah! As the lodge is situated on a dry riverbed, the surrounding habitat is a favourite hunting ground for leopard, as these creatures frequent the riverine and denser bush areas.
Avid birdwatchers will be mesmerized by the more than 300 bird species indigenous to this part of untamed Africa. Over time, and due to a carefully planned habituation process, some of the animals have become habituated to the game-drive vehicles. This afford our guests with an intimate view the animals in their natural habitat, as they go about their daily routine.
There are two game drives per day, during which your experienced game ranger and local Shangaan tracker will share their extensive knowledge of, and passion for the African bush with you. Each drive is about three hours in duration and include an intermediate break.
During the morning game drive, you will be treated to coffee and home-baked rusks. During the afternoon drive your ranger will select a suitable spot from where you can enjoy the stunning views, whilst sipping on a sundowner. After dusk the tracker will use the spotlight to locate nocturnal animals, before returning to the lodge for dinner. Your ranger will also brief you on the various game-drive safety regulations before departure into the bush.
Routes during the game drive will include off-road sections into the natural bush. This enables us to bring you closer to the action! We do, however, work in accordance to guidelines set out by the Sabi Sand Game Reserve ecologist. Off-roading is only allowed in certain areas and by putting special precautions in place. The rangers will not traverse through sensitive areas as they take great care to limit impact on the natural environment. They will only drive over small trees if they are encroachment species and will do brush packing afterwards, for instance.
The bush walk gives guests the opportunity to view the wilderness from a whole new perspective – up close and personal. Experienced guides will share intimate and surprising facts about animal tracks and how to interpret them, as well as on the different grass and tree species and a host of other surprising facts about nature that will astound you.
This is also the ideal time for birdwatchers to get a closer look at their favourite species. The daily bush walk takes place after breakfast and comprises of an hour-long leisurely stroll. Please take note that you will be accompanied by either your ranger or tracker. Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are necessities for this experience.
► Please take note of the following:
Guests are not allowed to leave the camp and walk alone. Due to safety reasons, we do not allow children aged 16 and under, on the bush walks. Upon request, we can however, organize for a ranger or tracker to take the children on a mini bush walk inside the camp perimeter.
Guests over the age of 60 are required to submit a medical certificate stating they are in good health and fit enough for a bush walk. Please also ensure that you dress in neutral-coloured clothing and closed shoes. Also bring a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
The ranger/tracker are allowed to use their discretion concerning anything that could pose a threat or jeopardise the safety of guests, such as the level of fitness, agility and physical restrictions of guests. (This is stipulated by FGASA – the Field Guides Association of SA.)
You are welcome to go on the bush walk on the day of your departure. We would, however, appreciate it if you could vacate your room beforehand, or by 11h00 at the latest.
THE CONFERENCE FACILITY
Choose Elephant Plains for your next conference venue and incorporate business into an African adventure safari.
The Elephant Plains conference facility features a lounge area with satellite TV, a conference area with equipment such as a projector and big screen, as well as a tea /coffee facility.
• Please note that in order to secure this conference facility, you are required to book the whole camp for this purpose, up to a maximum of 24 guests.
THE FITNESS FACILITY
The Elephant Plains Gym is equipped with a treadmill, stationary bike, rowing machine, multi- gym, as well as free weights.
Although the Elephant Plains Bush Walks provide some relaxing exercise, those who does not want to interrupt their fitness regime are welcome to use the gym.
You can always spoil yourself with a relaxing treatment at our African Health Spa after a rigorous workout!
MINI TUSKERS
Children of all ages are welcome at Elephant Plains Game Lodge.
We have a children’s programme which can be adjusted according to the number of children in the camp.
Fun activities include painting, drawing, beading, constructing an ant farm, mini bushwalks and many more. Special children’s menus are also available. Babysitting can be arranged.
STAR GAZING
Join us for a night of star gazing under African skies of Elephant Plains Game Lodge. What better venue than in the heart of the bush, far away from the big city lights! The remoteness of this luxury game lodge makes Elephant Plains a prime astrophotography destination in Africa. Our rangers have had all completed a star gazing course through Cosmic Safari.
We use an eight-inch Orion Intelli Telescope to search for the secrets of the universe at night.
View constellations such as The Southern Cross and The Scorpion and discover interesting facts about nebulas and clusters.
PHOTOGRAPHIC SAFARIS
Elephant Plains Game Lodge is the ideal place to familiarise yourself with the inns and outs of your camera. Let the Tusk Photo team of wildlife photographers assist you to turn your ordinary wildlife photos into works of art!
The game drives at Elephant Plains provide ample opportunity to capture your favourite animals on camera, from the smallest chameleon to the biggest of the magnificent Big Five.
You might even be lucky enough to capture elusive species such as cheetah and wild dog, or any of the 300 resident bird species. The Tusk Photo photographic safaris are conducted over a four-day period. Two professional photographers accompany the morning and afternoon game- drive vehicles. These photographic workshops, directly after breakfast, will give you ample opportunity to further develop your newly acquired skills.
Elephant Plains Game Lodge is situated in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve which forms part of the Greater Kruger National Park.
GPS Coordinates: S24º44’38.9” E31º28’30.5”
BY AIR
There are daily scheduled flights between Johannesburg International Airport, Eastgate Airport (close to Hoedspruit) and Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (close to Mbombela). Private chartered flights from Johannesburg, as well as from any other airports nearby, have access to our gravel airstrip. The length of the airstrip is 1 200 metres, with a south to north approach and the following co-ordinates: S2444’38.9″ E 3128’30.5″. Please contact our reservations office, should you require us to charter a plane for you.
BY ROAD
ENTRY
Guests need to enter through Gowrie Gate, which is the only entrance gate into the northern section of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. Due to river crossings it is not possible to use the other gates – Newington and Shaws – which are situated close to Hazyview. Please make use of our map and directions. The gate is open daily from 5h00 and 23h00.
ARRIVAL
Please schedule your arrival for between 12h00-14h00. This is to ensure that you are in time for lunch, as well as the afternoon game drive. On the day of your departure, it would be appreciated it if you could vacate your room before 11h00.
Adjacent to the Kruger National Park, Elephant Plains Game Lodge offers excellent service and facilities.
DIRECTIONS
Please take note that the lodge can only be reached through the Gowrie Gate and not through Newington or Shaws Gate. Due to river crossings it is also not possible to travel through the reserve. The last +/- 20km is a dirt road. Allow yourself at least 45 minutes from the end of the tar road to the lodge.
► To / From Lydenburg / Hoedspruit
Take the N4 from JHB / Pretoria. Bypass Witbank and Middelburg, continue on to Belfast. Turn left onto the R540 past Dullstroom to Lydenburg.
From Lydenburg take the R36 to Origstad. Pass through the JG Strijdom Tunnel. From the tunnel, continue for approxImately 27km before turning right to go towards Klaserie. Continue straight along the Klaserie Road until you reach a sign pointing to Orpen & The South African Wildlife College. Turn left and continue on the R531 for about 30km until you see the entrance to The South African Wildlife College on your left-hand side.
Immediately after the College you will see a small dirt track on you right, which takes you off of the tar road. Drive through the gate and follow the map as indicated.
OR
Drive past the Orpen & South African Wildlife College turn off and continue straight on until you reach Acornhoek.
Turn left at the traffic light and follow the map as indicated.
► To / From Nelspruit / Hazyview / Bushbuckridge
Take the N4 from JHB / Pretoria. Bypass Witbank and Middelburg and carry on through to Nelspruit. Take the R40 from Nelspruit to White River and continue for approximately 53km to Hazyview. Continue for a further 32km to Bushbuckridge and on for another 4km to Acornhoek. Turn right at the traffic light and follow the map as indicated.
► To / From Orpen Gate
Leave Orpen Gate and continue on the R531 for about 10km. Just before you reach The South African Wildlife College on your right-hand side, you will see a dirt track on your left. Take the dirt track. Drive through the gate and follow the map as indicated.
Journey distance by car:
• Johannesburg – O.R. Tambo International to Elephant Plains; ± 560km / ± 7-hour drive
• Nelspruit – Kruger Mpumalanga International (KMIA) / Mqp to Elephant Plains: ± 180km / ± 2½ – 3-hour drive
• Hoedspruit / Eastgate to Elephant Plains: ± 100km / ±1½-hour drive
• Orpen Gate to Elephant Plains: ± 55km / 1-hour drive.
Any time of the year is perfect for a visit to Elephant Plains! Spring and summer are our rainy seasons and during these times the bush is lush and green. Many animals also give birth during this time of the year, and migrant bird species spending their summers in the southern hemisphere are plentiful.
Autumn and winter are dry and the bush is less dense, which at times make game-viewing easier.
Animals also frequent the waterhole in front of the camp year round, due to the lack of abundant water in the bush.
Spring (Sept to Nov)
► Minimum: +/- 18 Celsius
► Maximum: +/- 30 Celsius
Summer (Dec to Feb)
► Minimum: +/- 20 Celsius
► Maximum: +/- 35 Celsius
Autumn (Mar to May)
► Minimum: +/- 15 Celsius
► Maximum: +/- 28 Celsius
Winter (June to Aug)
► Minimum: +/- 12 Celsius
► Maximum: +/- 25 Celsius
• A windbreaker or warm jacket for winter and night safaris
• A raincoat/waterproof for the wet summer months
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Swimming costume
• Sun block and sunglasses
• Binoculars and a camera /video camera
• Please note we are situated in a malaria area. We therefore recommend that you consult your physician about the necessary precautions to take beforehand.
Copyright © MoAfrika Tours 2024
MoAfrika tours and the Kruger Safari Co. are destination management companies (DMC) and are not entities of the South African National Parks Board (SANparks).