Includes: Return transfers from Johannesburg, accommodation, open vehicle safari drives, meals as per itinerary, local beverages
Idube Game Lodge is home to the Big 5 and a large variety of other animals, with frequent leopard sightings a major draw card for guests. Idube is a jewel among safari lodges in the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve, adjoining the Kruger National Park. This renowned reserve is known for its successful conservation efforts, particularly regarding the protecting of rhino.
The Thornybush River Lodge Considered may just be one of the best-kept secrets in the Thornybush Nature Reserve and offers an intimate safari experience ideal for special occasions. The River Lodge provides sophisticated luxury accommodation in five freestanding villa-style suites in a peaceful setting overlooking the Timbavati River. As part of the Greater Kruger conservation area, the reserve is home to herds of elephants, antelope, leopards and colourful birds guaranteeing sightings of a vast diversity of species during game drives. The relaxed and personal ambience at the lodge further creates a sense of being in a private home in the heart of the African bush.
Each luxurious, freestanding and spacious suite offers seclusion and spectacular views of the Sand River while the main building houses a library containing rare African books and magnificent works of art, an elegant, African themed air-conditioned dining room, historic bar featuring photographs of the early days of the area, a large wooden safari deck where meals and teas are served and a traditional reed “boma” for evening meals around the fire. A large infinity pool also offers magnificent views across the river while guests also have a safari boutique with quality clothing, jewellery and artefacts and a small fitness facility with a steam room available.
A 3-day safari into the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, with luxury lodging under canvas tenting at Umkumbe Bush Lodge, offers the ideal glamping opportunity.
This scenic area of the Sabie Game Reserve features a diverse habitat, from winding riverbeds and woodland to open savanna and riverine thickets. This wilderness reserve is home to the Big Five, as well as a wide variety of flora and fauna to be discovered.
The Umkumbe Bush Lodge sits comfortably under a canopy of indigenous trees in the southern reaches of the Sabi Sand. This luxury tented camp, the first of its kind in the reserve, provides all of the creature comforts of home, but with a luxurious twist.
A safari stay at Umkumbe Bush Lodge includes two daily game drives. The morning safari may include a scenic coffee stop, and the afternoon drive will include a classic safari sundowner and snacks.
The main lodge at Umkumbe overlooks a variety of habitats, including a winding drainage line leading to the seasonal Sand River, a forested thicket, and a section of open savanna. In between activities and meals, guests can observe wildlife, relax, and enjoy the natural surroundings.
The stylish accommodation and spacious tented suites are all situated on private raised wooden decks nestled in nature and named after various indigenous trees found in the region. The beautifully designed bush lodge has 9 tented-style suites, four of which are standard, one luxury, and four superior. Each tented suite has its own private balcony and is fully equipped for a comfortable safari retreat.
A tea/coffee station, standing fan, air conditioning, hand luggage stand, hair dryer, mosquito net, safe, bathroom amenities, changeable twin/double bed configurations, and a private seating area on a raised wooden deck are among the suite amenities.
The Superior Tented Suites are completely private, with a King bed, sleeper couch, and the option of an additional single bed for children. They also have a bathtub, his and her sinks, and an outside shower. The Superior Tents can sleep two adults and up to three children.
The luxurious Leadwood Tent is completely private, with a King bed and sofa bed. There is also a bathtub, his and her sinks, and an outdoor shower. It can also accommodate one child.
The standard tents are all stylish and spacious, with private raised wooden decks nestled in nature. Bathroom with shower only and a king-size bed that can be converted to two twin beds. These tents can only accommodate two people.
Breakfast and lunch will be served alfresco on private tables at the main lodge, and dinner will be served in the boma area around a central roaring fire – depending on the weather.
Collection and Drop off
For this package, Kruger Safari Company Tours and its service providers provide affordable private transfers. Guests are picked up from any Johannesburg hotel or address between 7:00 and 7:30. Guests are dropped off at their hotel or address as arranged or at Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport around 17:00.
Remember that if you intend to fly out of OR Tambo International Airport on the final day of your safari tour, we recommend booking a domestic flight no earlier than 19:30 and an international flight no earlier than 21:00.
You might also like our 4-day Sabi Sands Under Canvas Tented Safari or 5-day Sabi Sands Under Canvas Tented Safari.
Experience the Kruger National Park with a unique safari featuring three distinct accommodations within the park. Begin with a two-night stay at the exclusive Seasonal Satara Plains tented camp, followed by two nights at the Seasonal Tshokwane River Camp, and finish with two nights at the iconic Kruger Train on the Bridge lodge.
Start your adventure with two nights at the Satara Plains camp, a nomadic retreat immersing you in a land teeming with majestic lions, ensuring an unmatched wildlife experience. Embrace the vibrant AmaShangaan culture as the camp’s design and ambiance reflect the authentic essence of the region. The Satara Plains Camp offers 30 luxury tents equipped with amenities like chemical toilets and bucket showers, blending comfort with an authentic bush experience.
Next, spend two nights at the Tshokwane River Camp, an exclusive seasonal tented camp open during the dry winter season. Located in the southern part of the park, Tshokwane River Camp offers 30 luxury tents with chemical toilets and hot water bucket showers. Set alongside a tranquil dry riverbed, this camp provides a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, perfect for Kruger Park enthusiasts seeking close encounters with wildlife.
Conclude your safari with two nights at the renowned Kruger Shalati Train on the Bridge Lodge. Situated atop the historic Selati Bridge overlooking the Sabie River at Skukuza Rest Camp, this unique lodge offers 31 rooms, including carriage rooms and Bridge House rooms. Celebrating the park’s early explorers by train, the lodge promises an exceptional blend of luxury and natural splendor.
Day 1: Arrival and Satara Plains Camp
Your journey begins with a picturesque flight from Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport to Hoedspruit Airport, offering stunning aerial views throughout the 50-minute journey. Upon arrival at Hoedspruit Airport, you’ll receive a warm welcome and be escorted directly into the heart of Kruger National Park. From there, you’ll be transported to the tranquil Satara Plains Camp, nestled amidst the park’s natural beauty. After settling into your luxury tent, which features amenities like chemical toilets and bucket showers for a blend of comfort and authenticity, you’ll enjoy a light lunch at the camp. In the late afternoon, embark on your first safari drive, an exhilarating adventure into the wilderness. Guided by experienced rangers, you’ll have the opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat, from elephants and giraffes to elusive big cats. As the day winds down, return to camp for a memorable dinner under the starlit African sky, recounting the day’s sightings and experiences.
Day 2: Morning Safari and Bushveld Experience
Awake early to the sounds of the bush for a morning safari drive in an open vehicle. Witness the African sunrise casting its golden light over the savannah, illuminating the awakening wildlife. This serene experience captures the essence of the African bush, offering opportunities to observe animals at their most active. Return to camp for a leisurely breakfast, surrounded by the tranquility of your natural surroundings. After breakfast, relax at camp or take a nature walk to further immerse yourself in the environment. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the camp, prepared with fresh local ingredients. In the afternoon, set out on another safari drive, exploring different areas of the park and encountering wildlife unique to this part of Kruger National Park. Conclude your day with a dinner that showcases the rich flavors of the region, prepared by skilled camp chefs.
Note the lodge makes use of bucket showers and chemical toilets
A bucket shower is a simple showering system where water is heated and poured from a bucket or container. It’s commonly used in areas with limited water resources, such as remote safari camps.
A chemical toilet is a portable toilet that uses chemicals to break down human waste and control odors. It doesn’t require a connection to a water supply, making it suitable for use in places like safari camps where plumbing may be limited.
Day 3: Transfer to the Tshokwane River Camp
Begin your day with another early morning safari drive, eager to witness the morning rituals of the animals as they start their day. After the safari, return to camp for a hearty breakfast. Take time to bid farewell to Satara Plains Camp, appreciating the unique experience it offered. Then, embark on a scenic transfer to the Tshokwane River Camp. This seasonal camp, located in the southern reaches of Kruger National Park, is renowned for its abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes. Nestled alongside a tranquil dry riverbed, it offers the opportunity to view wildlife directly from your en-suite safari tent. After settling in and enjoying a refreshing light lunch, the afternoon invites you to embark on your first safari drive. This thrilling excursion offers a chance to spot a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat, guided by experienced rangers. As the day draws to a close, gather under the African sky for a delicious dinner, sharing stories and marveling at the day’s wildlife sightings.
Day 4: Bush Exploration
Awaken to the symphony of the bush at dawn, signaling the start of an early morning open vehicle safari drive. The cool morning air enhances wildlife viewing opportunities, as animals are most active during this time. Return to camp for a hearty breakfast, replenishing your energy for the day ahead. After breakfast, take time to relax amidst the camp’s tranquil surroundings or embark on a leisurely stroll to appreciate the natural beauty. Lunch will be served midday, followed by an afternoon safari drive to explore different regions of the park. Each drive offers a unique chance to encounter diverse wildlife species, guided by expert trackers and rangers. Return to camp for dinner, where you can unwind and share the day’s adventures with fellow travelers.
Note the lodge makes use of bucket showers and chemical toilets
A bucket shower is a simple showering system where water is heated and poured from a bucket or container. It’s commonly used in areas with limited water resources, such as remote safari camps.
A chemical toilet is a portable toilet that uses chemicals to break down human waste and control odors. It doesn’t require a connection to a water supply, making it suitable for use in places like safari camps where plumbing may be limited.
Day 5: Kruger Shalati Train Experience
Begin your day with another memorable morning safari drive, capturing the serene ambiance as the sun rises over the African savannah. After breakfast at camp, bid farewell to Tshokwane River Camp and embark on a journey to the iconic Kruger Shalati Train on the Bridge Lodge. Located atop the historic Selati Bridge at Skukuza Rest Camp, this luxurious lodge offers a one-of-a-kind accommodation experience. The train has been refurbished to blend historic charm with modern comforts. Upon arrival, savor a delicious lunch with panoramic views over the Sabie River before an afternoon safari drive to continue your wildlife exploration. Return to the lodge for a sumptuous dinner, reflecting on the day’s wildlife encounters amidst the park’s stunning landscapes.
Day 6: Wildlife Encounters
Rise early for another exhilarating morning safari drive, guided by expert rangers who share insights into the park’s ecosystem and wildlife behavior. After your drive, return to the lodge for a leisurely breakfast, savoring the flavors of freshly prepared meals amidst the tranquil setting. Lunch will be served midday, followed by an afternoon safari drive to explore different areas of the park. As the sun sets, embark on your final safari drive of the day, soaking in the changing hues of the landscape and the possibility of encountering nocturnal wildlife. Dinner at the lodge concludes another remarkable day in the heart of Kruger National Park.
Day 7: Final Safari and Departure
On your final morning, wake early to catch a last glimpse of wildlife awakening to a new day during your morning safari drive. Return to the lodge for a leisurely breakfast, savoring your last moments surrounded by the serene beauty of the African bush. After breakfast, prepare for your departure as you bid farewell to the Kruger Shalati Train on the Bridge Lodge. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and wildlife sightings made during your safari adventure as you transfer back to Skukuza Airport for your onward journey.
Enquire about this tour now
We offer over 95 different safari packages to suit all budgets, from budget camping safaris to luxurious 5-star executive fly-in packages.
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We promote conservation efforts and support local communities. Visitors can experience the National Parks diverse ecosystems, while contributing to the preservation of its natural heritage and cultural richness.
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Over 25 years’ experience in assisting guests with their safari reservations.
Over 25 years’ experience in assisting guests with their safari reservations.