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Luxury Kruger Safari
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Lukimbi Safari Lodge Sabi Sands
Lukimbi
Safari lodge enquiries and reservations: bookkruger@madbookings.com
Lukimbi Safari Lodge is a stunning luxury
safari lodge situated in the easily accessible southern
portion of the Kruger National Park, South Africa.
Kruger is home to the Big Five and a wide variety of other animals
and birds, which roam freely in their natural habitat.
Game drives with informative Rangers, are done on our private roads
in open Landrovers.
Alternatively, guests can take guided walks or relax in the magnificent
lodge, it all happens on over 37,000 acres (15,000 hectares) of
exclusive use prime game and wilderness area.
Lukimbi Safari Lodge Accommodation
Accommodation consists of 16 spacious suites combine
luxury and modern African decor with private decks and river views.
Our Giant Eagle Owl and King Cheetah suites each include a private
pool and second bathroom. |
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The Suites:
Raised walkways lead guests to 16 spacious suites, all combining luxury
and modern African decor with stunning river views.
The ultra luxurious executive Giant Eagle Owl Suite and King Cheetah Suite
also have a private pool, dining room and second bathroom.
All suites are air-conditioned, have fans, safes, mini bars, as well as
tea and coffee facilities.
Private decks leading out towards the river provide the ideal place to
relax or enjoy bird spotting and game viewing in peace and tranquility.
The Lodge:
The lodge features carved plaster panels showing intricate mystical creatures
and African patterns, in a subtle yet extremely decorative way.
The main buildings are linked together with open wooden decks, making
the most of the view, as the lodge meanders along the banks of the river
Lwakahle.
The designer interior combines colours and specially created pieces artistically
and imaginatively. There is something different and interesting to look
at round every corner. Lukimbi is a photographers’ delight,
both inside the surrounds of the lodge and out in the beckoning bush.
The height of the lodge above the river provides viewing points with a
feeling of safety. The raised walkways provide guests with clear and easy
access to their suites.
Lukimbi Safari Lodge Facilities
- Baby sitting
- Bar
- Boma
- Business Facilities
- Covered Parking
- Curio Shop
- Gym
- Laundry Service
- Library
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Room service
- Safety deposit
- Wine cellar
- Telephone
- Chapel
Activities include:
Game drives, bushwalks, casting tracks, arts and crafts, treasure hunts,
interactive sessions with rangers, special boma dinners, Kids' dinners
and picnics.
Families with children under 8 years must reserve their own private vehicle.
Game Drives and Walks:
Game Drives go out in the early morning and late afternoons in open Landrovers.
Our Guides love to share their extensive knowledge, and work closely with
our Shangaan trackers to get the best sightings. There is great communication
between the two and our Trackers are encouraged to share their knowledge
of local uses of herbs and trees, animals and birds.
We can follow the Big 5 off road in careful, controlled
circumstances, this is an experience few guests would like to miss.
Guests are able to get really close to the animals and experience truly
fantastic photographic opportunities. Early mornings start off a little
cold, but a stop is made later for warming drinks, or cold ones, if preferred.
A highlight of late afternoon drives is the time spent at sundowner time.
This is the moment to appreciate the magnificence of an African sunset,
whilst sipping sundowner drinks.
Lukimbi is the place to enjoy wonderful walks, because it is so large
and unspoiled. It is quite a different experience to see animals on foot
and always very exciting.
The walks offer the opportunity to look at and learn about the smaller
things and just to appreciate the special smell of the African bush, listening
to the calls of the many species of birds. Walks are generally taken after
breakfast and guests are always accompanied by an armed Ranger.
Wildlife Talks and Displays:
Rangers generally have a special field of interest and are keen to give
talks on their chosen subject. Talks are also given on the culture of
the local communities. The Rangers have set up a small museum in their
office and guests are encouraged to wander through and discuss the exhibits.
Full Day Walking Safaris:
We are proud to introduce Full Day Walking Trails at Lukimbi Safari Lodge
during our cooler winter months.
Anybody who is reasonably fit and healthy, and is looking for something
adventurous will certainly enjoy "bushwacking" on foot. There
are emergency evacuation points along the route if there is any kind of
problem. The Wagon Trail, the Lwakahle Trail and the Gabro Trail depart
at approx 07h00 and guests will return back to camp around 17h00.
Lukimbi can take a maximum of 8 guests, from 16+ years on a walk.
If you love to walk, but not too keen on roughing it, our walks provide
the best combination of exercise, fresh air, fabulous game viewing, all
done in complete comfort, with rangers who clearly love the whole experience.
Game Drives and Walks:
Game Drives go out in the early morning and late afternoons in open Landrovers.
Our Guides love to share their extensive knowledge, and work closely with
our Shangaan trackers to get the best sightings. There is great communication
between the two and our Trackers are encouraged to share their knowledge
of local uses of herbs and trees, animals and birds.
We can follow the Big 5 off road in careful, controlled
circumstances, this is an experience few guests would like to miss. Guests
are able to get really close to the animals and experience truly fantastic
photographic opportunities. Early mornings start off a little cold, but
a stop is made later for warming drinks, or cold ones, if preferred. A
highlight of late afternoon drives is the time spent at sundowner time.
This is the moment to appreciate the magnificence of an African sunset,
whilst sipping sundowner drinks.
Lukimbi is the place to enjoy wonderful walks, because
it is so large and unspoiled. It is quite a different experience to see
animals on foot and always very exciting. The walks offer the opportunity
to look at and learn about the smaller things and just to appreciate the
special smell of the African bush, listening to the calls of the many
species of birds. Walks are generally taken after breakfast and guests
are always accompanied by an armed Ranger.
Wildlife Talks and Displays:
Rangers generally have a special field of interest and are keen to give
talks on their chosen subject. Talks are also given on the culture of
the local communities. The Rangers have set up a small museum in their
office and guests are encouraged to wander through and discuss the exhibits.
Full Day Walking Safaris:
We are proud to introduce Full Day Walking Trails at Lukimbi Safari Lodge
during our cooler winter months.
Anybody who is reasonably fit and healthy, and is looking for something
adventurous will certainly enjoy "bushwacking" on foot. There
are emergency evacuation points along the route if there is any kind of
problem. The Wagon Trail, the Lwakahle Trail and the Gabro Trail depart
at approx 07h00 and guests will return back to camp around 17h00.
If you love to walk, but not too keen on roughing it, our walks provide
the best combination of exercise, fresh air, fabulous game viewing, all
done in complete comfort, with rangers who clearly love the whole experience.
Spa Treatments:
Lukimbi offers a full range of spa treatments. Our Bush Buff massage using
indigenous blended African aromatic oils is a Lukimbi speciality. Or try
our River Flow massage to completely relax and rejuvenate. We do reflexology
and our cooling massages to reduce swelling or pain are chosen frequently
by guests suffering from the effects of air travel.
For our beautiful brides and wedding party, we have full wedding makeup
packages available. Nail enhancements, using the LCN method, won’t
damage natural nails and add the final touch to achieve the complete look.
Other Activities:
Wine Tasting:
Lukimbi is proud to serve South African wines and wine tasting is held
most evenings before dinner. This gives guests the chance to sample before
choosing the wines offered, or alternatively, visiting the cellar and
choosing one of the many estate wines available.
Golf at Leopard Creek:
Guests staying at Lukimbi are permitted to play golf at the nearby prestigious
Leopard Creek Golf Course. This is one of South Africa's best known golf
courses and only guests from a few select establishments can play there.
Reservations need to be made in advance through our office.
Swimming:
It is generally warm enough to swim 10 months of the year, the very brave
will use the pools all year round.
Gym:
A very well equipped gym is available. It looks directly out onto the
river frontage, so not a moment's game viewing need be lost.
Library:
The library has many interesting books, whether it is fact or fiction
guests prefer. A computer station is available for sending emails to the
family or office.
Curio Shop:
The well stocked curio shop features South African artistic creations,
as well as interesting clothes and curios.
Outside Trips:
Trips to places of interest outside the Park can be arranged. These include
helicopter flights to places of great scenic beauty.
TV:
TV viewing is not seen as an important activity on our lodge, but one
is available to view important sports or news events. Children's videos
are available in the children’s playroom.
Kid's Programme:
For children under 12, babysitting is available from 07h00.
The Safari Play room is available from 08h00 - 13h00 and again during
the evening game drives (16h15 - 19h30).
A supervisor is present at all times. Safari beds and cots are available
on request.
Unfortunately, no children under 2 are accepted.
Wildlife Experience:
Lukimbi Safari Lodge is situated in the game rich, southern section of
the world renowned Kruger National Park. Bounded by 3 major river systems,
the extensive 15 000 hectare area offers a diverse array of habitats.
The vast grasslands dominate the northern portion, whereas the southern
and central areas are more heavily wooded and interspersed with lush riverine
thickets.
This provides ideal habitat for large herds of zebra, wildebeest and other
plains animals. The white rhino enjoy the numerous pans and wallows, whilst
the shyer and more elusive black rhino can be found in the more thickly
wooded areas. Herds of buffalo roam through grasslands seeking the succulent
grasses, before moving down to rivers to amble slowly through the reeds.
Elephants can frequently be seen all over the concession and in the river
in front of the lodge is a favourite place for them to spend hours at
a time. Guests relaxing at the lodge pools can find themselves enthralled,
watching elephant families equally enjoying their own pools, particularly
if the families include endearing babies.
Where you find animals, you find the predators. Tracking lions in open
vehicles is one of the most exciting things to do and guests will never
forget the spine chilling and awesome sound of a lion roaring at close
quarters. Leopards are also found at Lukimbi, more difficult to spot,
but guests are rewarded with the sight of one of the most beautiful animals
in the world.
Weddings:
Our charming Baroque-styled chapel may be booked by couples looking for
an extra special wedding venue. Alternatively, couples might choose to
be married under a Jackalberry tree, serenaded by an African choir. The
bridal party is driven to the wedding site by Landrover - certainly an
unusual way to make an appearance.
At Lukimbi, we are also able to arrange the formal side of proceedings,
assisting with the legal documentation on the day. And when it comes to
your theme, flowers, your wedding cake, DJ and gourmet cuisine - everything
is in the hands of professionals.
Lukimbi accommodates 32 people. The lodge must be reserved for a minimum
of 2 days for weddings for over 6 people.
Conferences:
Conferencing in the bush will create memorable experiences for a lifetime.
Conferences and incentives have become effective tools to motivate staff,
launch new products or to discuss strategic corporate plans.
We offer on-hand expert advice, our conference consultant will guide and
plan a personalised programme to suit your needs.
Our fully equipped conference centre boasts full audio visual equipment,
big screen and full conference packs. Any special equipment required can
be arranged, if not already on site. There are also four breakaway rooms.
There is seating for up to 40 people and the seating configuration can
easily be adapted to suit requirements.
Directions from Johannesburg:
Lukimbi Safari Lodge is situated in The Kruger National Park, approximately
5 hours from Johannesburg, in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa.
Take the N12 towards Witbank, there it connects with the N4 coming from
Pretoria. Pass Nelspruit, then continue a further 59km to Malelane. The
same road continues towards Maputo (Mozambique). 3km past Malelane, turn
left towards the Kruger National Park Malelane Gate (3km). From here,
please follow our map shown below or follow the signs from the Malelane
Gate to Lukimbi.
Flights
There are direct daily flights from Cape Town and Johannesburg to KMIA
(Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport). Transfers can be arranged between
the airport and Lukimbi and transfer rates are available on request.
The drive between KMIA and Lukimbi takes approximately one and a half
hours and is in an air-conditioned vehicle.
Distances from Lodge:
Johanesburg International Airport 425km
Pretoria 428km
Nelspruit 91km
Malelane Gate at KNP 26km
Skukuza 61km
Idube Game Reserve 101km
Golf courses 27km
General Information
Arrival and Departure Times
Check in time is from 12:00pm. Check out time is 10:30am.
What to Bring:
- Clothing should be casual and lightweight in neutral, dull colours.
Bring also a light sweater and heavier, warmer jacket. Dress is informal
during the day, with long trousers worn in the evenings.
- Comfortable closed walking shoes and a hat.
- A warm jersey and jacket in winter months.
- Camera and binoculars.
- Swimming costume/Bathing suit.
- Prophylactic drugs as prescribed by your doctor, as this is a malaria
area.
- We do have a well stocked curio shop, where you can buy a wide variety
of items.
Special Precautions:
We are in a malaria risk area and therefore all beds are covered by mosquito
nets. Each suite is provided with insect repellent, which should be used
especially in the evenings. It is necessary that you consult a doctor
before visiting any such area.
Guests often forget the strength of the African sun, so please make sure
that you wear a high factor sunscreen and hat and make sure you don't
lie outside in the sun for too long.
Lukimbi Legend:
Lukimbi Safari Lodge is named after the elusive Lukimbi - half Eagle Owl
and half Lion.
Local oral history relates the story of the Mighty Toto, the strongest
warrior of the tribe, who was walking near the bank of the beautiful Lwakahle
River.
Suddenly he heard screams from the river.
Ntombi, his beloved, had gone down to the river to fetch water in her
traditional clay pot, and her leg had been seized in the jaws of Mbisi,
the largest crocodile in the whole river. As Ntombi's pot shattered and
her body was dragged into the murky depths, the Mighty Toto threw himself
in after her to rescue her.
All day the battle raged, Toto against Mbisi. When nightfall came both
were exhausted and the waters of the river were stained with their blood,
while Ntombi lay in the shallows, too weak to move.
The Great Nkulunkulu looked down from the heavens and took pity on the
Might Toto and the fair Ntombi and turned them into Lukimbis - mythical
beasts that are half Giant Owls and half Lions. With their new powers,
they were able to free themselves and find safety.
The Lukimbi has the wisdom of the Owl and the strength of the Lion and
is charged by the Great Nkulunkulu to safeguard all travellers in the
African bush against unseen and unexpected dangers.
So whenever the brave are faced with perils in the bush, they call upon
Toto and Ntombi, the guardian Lukimbis, in their most dire need and they
will be saved.
This is the heritage of the beautiful Lukimbi Safari Lodge.
History:
Lukimbi Safari Lodge is situated on a Kruger National Park concession,
known as the Lwakhahle Concession, bid for and won in the year 2000.
This area is steeped in history, as running through the concession is
the old trading road to Mozambique, used by ox wagon transporters carrying
goods to and from the coast. This road can still be clearly seen today.
This was all before the Kruger National Park was declared a conservation
area and National Park.
The opening up of private concessions is a bold move on the part of National
Parks to take advantage of the market for people who prefer to stay in
more luxurious and individual camps, but still want the animal and bird
viewing, as well as the wilderness experience which can be found in the
Kruger National Park. National Parks share in the income generating of
the Private Concessions, without the risk taken by private enterprise.
Lukimbi
Safari Lodge enquiries and reservations: bookkruger@madbookings.com
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