This was our first safari experience and it exceeded our expectations in every way, starting from the moment we arrived and Donna, the manager, had freshly made passionfruit lemonade waiting for us, which we drank while watching nyalas at the watering hole in front of the lodge.

The rooms are really casitas, very private from each other, and have the largest beds I've ever seen which are quite comfy, sliding glass doors opening to a huge riverfront deck, outdoor stone showers facing the river, and the best bathrooms ever--glass-walled on both sides, with a deep ergonomic soaking tub. It was summer but that wasn't going to stop me from taking a warm bath during daylight hours just to experience that view.

The game drives were incredible and our ranger, Craig, and tracker, Alson, made them unforgettable and fun for us. The reserve has an intimate feel which lets you get really up close and it never feels crowded. We saw the big 5 within the first 2 drives and repeatedly, and also a mother and baby cheetah up close twice, loads of friendly giraffes, kudus, wildebeests, warthogs, porcupines, beautiful birds...I will never forget seeing a male lion 10 feet away in a cozy little meadow eating its meal. The scenery is gorgeous and the mid-drive coffee/cocktails so civilized. The first 3 drives we had the land cruiser to ourselves, but it was also fun to meet new people.

The service at the lodge was unforgettable--I have never felt so well taken care of and it feels like the staff to guest ratio is 2 to 1 or something. And the food--fantastic! Great bar and library areas, etc. The smiles of the staff including Noel and Grace made our meals a pleasure. For lounging and looking at the stars. The infinity pool was great for hot afternoons and the spa was great for a jet lag massage.

I thought the size (18 rooms) was just right--it still felt very private and we sometimes had the lodge to ourselves, but there was a festive atmosphere at dinner (which is held in varying places--the braai barbecue in a sandy area, or else on the main deck and I think they have them on the airstrip).


I cried the day I left--that's how special this was.