With 96 000ha of unspoilt wilderness to explore, Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge offers the perfect getaway. This private lodge by Isibindi Africa offers the opportunity to truly unwind and let nature work its magic. Perched on the hills of Hluhluwe iMfolozi Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal, the views go as far as the eye can see, often blissfully interrupted by the abundant game found in the area.
By: Zaza Motha. Photos: iSibinda Africa
The lodge is the only private one within this famous reserve and the combination of rustic luxury and wilderness setting is a winning one. The rooms are spacious, too. Make the most of the rugged surroundings, chill out around the pool deck or take a dip in the 11m infinity lap pool. You have variety when it comes to accommodation. The Interior Bush Villa features a twin or double bedroom ensuite, with a fireplace, a private wooden deck, a mini bar and overhead fan and air conditioning. The Deck Bush Villa, Interior Safari Room and Bush Villa Bathroom are all great options and the Honeymoon villas with private plunge pools are the epitome of bushveld romance. When you are travelling with your family or partner, the Safari Family Rooms are ideal. The lodge is child-friendly.
While you may simply want to sit on the deck and exhale as nature works its magic, there is plenty to do around the area. Guests can enjoy guided safari walks, bird-watching, game drives or indulge in spa treatments. Go beyond the borders of the reserve, with a visit (at an additional cost) to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a World Heritage Site with incredible wildlife, beaches, estuaries and opportunities to interact with local communities. Take a day trip to St Lucia, where you can do some deep sea charter fishing, kayaking, scuba diving, horse riding and dolphin and whale watching, or take a turtle tours or an estuary boat cruise.
At Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge, guests enjoy game drives on a private concession within the Hluhluwe iMfolozi Reserve, while enjoying unlimited access to the greater park, which is Big Five territory. We came across a pack of wild dogs fresh from a kill on a daily game drive. The drives are included in your rates and are a real treat because of the abundance of animals and greenery.
For more information, tel: +27 (0)35 474 1473.
Text by Zaza Motha
Images by iSibinda Africa