LUKIMBI SAFARI LODGE

SOUTHERN KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

ABOUT LUKIMBI

Lukimbi Private Game Reserve has a wide variety of habitats which attract excellent animal concentrations and a huge variety of game species. From the vast grasslands in the north of the concession to the more wooded areas and lush riverine thickets in the central and southern parts, it’s a haven for large herds of zebra, wildebeest and other plains animals. The elusive black rhino, however, prefer those areas with thicker vegetation. Elephants love to frequent the river in front of the lodge, creating hours of amusement for guests relaxing on the deck of the main lodge.

Lukimbi Kruger Park offers a wide range of activities to the discerning nature lover in search of something different. This elegant luxury Kruger safari lodge boasts a host of modern amenities, and excellent service and attention to detail ensure a pleasurable stay and a stellar African bush safari experience.

Lukimbi Safari Lodge truly is in a class of its own.

THE LODGE

The main lodge building overlooks the Lwakahble River where a wide variety of animal species often come to quench their thirst.

The earthy tones and clever use of rich fabrics in the lodge’s interiors, coupled with the huge inviting fireplace and sweeping staircase, create a warm ambience of hospitality which welcomes guests to this pristine establishment. The high ceilings and thatched roof add create an atmosphere of tranquillity and utter relaxation in the heart of the African wilderness. The stylish lounge with its comfortable couches invites the weary traveller to take a welcome reprieve while indulging in a refreshing drink from the bar. With its gorgeous views of the river, it is an opulent space from where to revel in the magic of this beautiful landscape.

The wine cellar boasts an impressive array of fine South African vintages, and the lodge library has an impressive selection of books, both fiction and non-fiction, as well as a computer station from where to contact loved-ones.

No detail has been omitted in the unique African boma with its hand-packed free-form walls. This comfortable venue with its open fireplace is the perfect evening retreat in which to share those rather unusual bush experiences, while enjoying scrumptious cuisine and delectable wines under the vast African sky.

The elegant restaurant also offers stunning views of the bush landscape, and – by moving the tables around – in- and outside – guest can enjoy a different view each day, while dining on the fine cuisine on offer.

Lukimbi Safari Lodge is a pristine luxury safari lodge situated in the easily accessible southern portion of the iconic Kruger National Park in South Africa. An exclusive 15 000-hectare private concession in the southern part of the park, Lukimbi is not only home to the Big Five – elephant, rhino, buffalo, leopard and lion, but also to a wide variety of other animal- and bird species, which roam freely in this, their natural habitat. It is also one of the few remaining strongholds of the highly endangered black rhino.

With a road network of over 120 kilometres to traverse, unique sightings off-road are daily occurrences in this wildlife Eden. Knowledgeable rangers and expert Shangaan trackers utilise their legendary bush skills to create an unforgettable bush experience for guests.

ACCOMMODATION AT LUKIMBI

Lukimbi Game Lodge accommodate guests in 16 spacious air-conditioned suites (14 Classic Suites and 2 more luxurious Premier Suites) in stylish comfort.

Wooden walkways from the main lodge lead to these standalone thatched chalets, all with breathtaking views of the river and surrounding bush.

Premier Suites

Even though the service at Lukimbi Safari Lodge is unrivaled, those discerning travellers is search of that extra privacy and additional space, will love the ultra-luxurious King Cheetah and Giant Eagle Owl suites. Both these opulent suites have a separate bedroom, dining area, larger lounge; main bathroom with huge double bath; an inside and outside shower; a second bathroom; and private pool with wooden deck, where elephants often stop by for a drink. It is the perfect retreat for that special celebration!

In-suite Facilities

Premier Suites

• Additional cloakroom

• Air-conditioning

• Private deck

• Lounge

• Non-smoking rooms

• Outdoor shower

• Separate shower & bath

• Private plunge pool

• Safe

• Tea / coffee facilities

• Minibar

• Telephone

• Fan

• Hairdryer

• Serviced daily.

In-suite Facilities

Classic Suites

• Air-conditioning

• Private deck

• Lounge

• Non-smoking rooms

• Outdoor shower

• Separate shower & bath

• Safe

• Tea / coffee facilities

• Minibar

• Telephone

• Fan

• Hairdryer

• Serviced daily.

Classic Suites

Our classic suits offer luxurious relaxation in the heart of the wilderness. With high windows, a well-appointed bathroom overlooking the trees and river, and a private deck extending from your lounge, you will feel part of the bush environment in a way you would never have thought possible.

The en-suite bathroom features a spacious bath, inside and outside shower and separate toilet.

King-sized beds draped in mosquito-netting creates a feel of opulence and relaxation, and the earthy tones of the interiors contribute to this atmosphere of complete relaxation. Even with children sharing the room, you can still indulge in the opulent luxury of these luxurious spaces

FACILITIES AT LUKIMBI SAFARI LODGE

• Bar

• Boma

• Business facilities

• Covered parking

• Curio shop

• Gym

• Laundry service

• Library

• Outdoor swimming pool

• Room service

• Safety deposit

• Wi-fi (in the lounge)

• Wine cellar.

LUKIMBI KRUGER ACTIVITIES

Wildlife

At Lukimbi you will feel part of the natural environment from the moment you arrive. From the impressive Big Five, antelope and smaller creatures – often termed “general game”; to the approximately 420 bird species, there is something for everyone. It is a bird lover’s paradise. Our experienced guides and trackers’ passion to share their knowledge of the bush with you, will make your safari experience truly memorable.

Sightings of the white rhino and the shyer and more elusive black rhino are priceless experiences. Watching the elephants at play in the river or even quenching their thirst in the pool will entertain and delight.

Birds
Lukimbi Safari Lodge is a paradise for avid bird watchers. Bird lovers can indulge their passion, as a host of species are to be found in the many different habitats. Remember to pack those binoculars!

Safaris
Bush Walks

After a scrumptious breakfast, guests can join qualified field guides on a bush walk, which is about two hours in duration. This walk creates a unique opportunity for nature lovers to experience the African wilderness like never before – up close and personal. Your knowledgeable guide will point out nature’s smaller creatures and plants, and even reveal some of its secrets, all of which will leave you in complete awe. The anticipation of a sighting of one of the Big Five in their natural environment, is guaranteed to get the adrenalin pumping!

Game drives

Early morning and late afternoon/early evening game drives in state-of-the-art open safari vehicles, take you right into the heart of the bush. It’s an experience like no other. The anticipation of a sighting of one of the magnificent Big Five, or even an elusive leopard, will keep you on the edge of your seat! Your knowledgeable ranger will unlock all the bush’s secrets in an informative and spell-binding manner, and the tracker will show you how to identify the animals by their spoor. These game drives under the guidance of knowledgeable rangers and experienced trackers, are one of Kruger National Park’s main attractions as it involves all the senses.

Golf

Experience an unforgettable game of golf at the iconic Leopard Creek, one of the finest courses in the world.

Quick facts about the Leopard Creek Golf Course:

• Designed by world-famous golfer Gary Player, Leopard Creek will challenge even the most experienced golfer.

• The 505-metre par-five 13th hole, is situated 32 metres above the Crocodile River with breathtaking views of the Kruger National Park.

• The par-five 18^th – with its island green, and par-four 9^th – with its peninsula green, jut out of the same body of water.

It is a course for the more adventurous, as you are required at times to share the greens with some of Africa’s majestic creatures, such as hippo, crocodile and an array of antelope. Bookings can be arranged directly through Lukimbi Reservations office. Terms & Conditions apply.

Functions

Conferences

Conferencing in the bush has the benefit of few interruptions, which allows for clear focus and an opportunity to build greater team spirit, discuss strategy and achieve pre-set goals. Our fully-equipped conference Centre boasts a complete range of audio visual equipment, a big screen, and full conference packs. Various seating configurations are available. We offer four breakaway rooms, as well as seating in the main plenary for up to 40 delegates. Our experts can tailor your conference to your needs, and we will also hire in any additional equipment you might need.

Lukimbi Safari Lodge Weddings

Your dream wedding awaits at Lukimbi Safari Lodge! Whether you prefer our charming baroque-styled chapel, a bush venue where you will be serenaded by an African choir or prefer to walk down the aisle to the rhythm of African drums, we will plan your special day to perfection. We will organise your theme, wedding cake, flowers, music, legal proceedings and cuisine.

Lukimbi Safari Lodge accommodates a total of 32 people. In the case of six or more people attending, the lodge must be booked for a minimum of two nights, but you’d want to do that anyway. A Lukimbi wedding is truly that magical!

Honeymoons

We know that your honeymoon is the most special holiday of your lives and we do everything in our power to offer you the ultimate honeymoon experience. Our suites are all tailored for romance – from the high ceilings and gorgeous king-size bed draped in mosquito netting, to the indoor and outdoor showers and stone bath with a view – it exudes an ambience of opulence and intimacy. Enjoy a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine on the privacy of your deck and delight in a private dinner just for the two of you, courtesy of management.

Other Activities

Curio shop

A range of South Africa’s top crafts, jewellery and clothing is available at our curio shop. Here you are sure to find the perfect souvenir. We also have a wide range of T-shirts and bush wear which will make perfect gifts for loved-ones back home. The shop also stocks basic essentials, such as toothpaste and disposable razors, for your convenience.

Fine Dining
Despite being located in the heart of the wilderness, you can feast on a wide variety of the most scrumptious dishes, designed to suit every palate and diet. From the exquisite presentation to the traditional flavours, dining at Lukimbi is a sensational feast. Our chefs are true masters of their craft.

Delight in scrumptious breakfasts, light lunches and hearty dinners, whether enjoyed in the dining room, on the deck, in the boma around the fire, or served in the privacy of your suite, cuisine at Lukumbi Safari Lodge is in a class of its own.

Spa Treatments

Relaxation is at the heart of any rejuvenating bush getaway. Our spa’s wide range of relaxing treatments makes it easy to revitalise body and mind while on safari. We definitely recommend that you pay this luxury retreat a visit!

Children’s Programme

For children under 12, child-minding services are available from 07h00 for under 12, but have to be booked in advance

The Safari Playroom is available for use during the day, but is unsupervised.

Safari beds and cots are available on request.

Children’s Activities include:

• Game drives

• Bush walks

• Casting tracks

• Arts and crafts

• Treasure hunts

• Interactive sessions with rangers

• Special boma dinners

• Kids’ dinners and picnics.

Because children love swimming, the lodge has a shallow kids pool. The older ones will enjoy the water running over the rocks, until it drops into a waterfall. There they can have fun sitting behind the cascading water.

Families with children under 8 years must reserve their own private game-drive vehicle.

Rates for child-minding and use of a private game-drive vehicle are available on request.

Unfortunately, no children under 2 are allowed.

Pools

Lukimbi has a main pool-with-a-view. It’s not unusual to share the pool with thirsty elephants at times! The kiddies pool is connected to the main pool by a shallow stream and a waterfall.

Gym

Those who love to stay in shape, even while on holiday, are welcome work up a sweat in our well-equipped gym which boasts awesome views of the bush.

GETTING TO LUKIMBI

Directions by road:

Directions from Johannesburg (in Gauteng Province):

• Take the N12 towards Witbank (Mpumalanga Province).

• Just past Witbank this highway connects with the N4 from Pretoria, en route to Mbombela (Nelspruit).

•  At Mbombela (Nelspruit) continue on the N4 (direction Maputo) for another 59km until you reach Malalane.

• About 3km past Malalane, turn left towards the Kruger National Park Malelane Gate (drive for about 3km till you reach the gate.

• From here, please follow the signage to Lukimbi.

Kruger National Park Malalane Gate closing times:

November/December/January/February: 18h30

March/April/August/September/October: 18h00

May/June/July: 17h30.

Charters

There are direct daily flights from Cape Town and Johannesburg to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) in Mbombela, and to Skukuza Airport in the Kruger National Park (KNP). Transfers can be arranged between both airports and Lukimbi, and transfer rates are available on request.

The transfer by road from KMIA in Mbombela to Lukimbi takes approximately one and a half hours. From Skukuza in the KNP, it takes about three hours, but since the road traverses the park, there is a likelihood of a few wildlife sightings, making this journey very pleasurable. Transfers are done in air-conditioned vehicles.

Charter flights to Malelane Airport can be booked through our reservations office.