Elephant Plains Game Lodge opened its doors in 1998 and has been in the same family ever since. The lodge is situated on the dry Manyeleti riverbed, overlooking an open veld and watering hole. The main building houses a reception area, dining areas, lounge, bar and wine cellar, as well as a curio shop for those souvenirs. It can accommodate a maximum of 24 guests, guaranteeing a warm, friendly atmosphere and personal service.
Elephant Plains Game Lodge is where you will find comfortable style and affordable luxury in the world-renowned Sabi Sand Game Reserve, adjacent to the Kruger National Park. Bordering the national park, with no dividing fences, the Sabi Sand is world-renowned for excellent game viewing and you can be sure of game drives and bush walks that will live up to your imagination. Apart from close encounters with the Big 5, you might even be treated on some wild dog or cheetah sightings.
The lodge offers a variety of accommodation options, from rondavels and luxury suites to the Manyeleti Honeymoon Suite. Other facilities include two swimming pools, a gym and games room. The exclusive, open-plan suites sports a lounge, double bedroom, en-suite bathroom and a private viewing deck with spectacular views over the riverbed and veld. All feature air-conditioning, overhead fans, fireplaces, mosquito nets, electronic safes, mini bars and tea and coffee facilities.
Nestled in the northern reaches of the legendary Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Elephant Plains Game Lodge stands as a beacon of luxury and adventure, inviting guests to embark on a safari experience unlike any other.
Adjacent to the iconic Kruger National Park, this esteemed lodge is renowned for its exceptional Big 5 game viewing, opulent accommodation, and delectable cuisine, promising an unforgettable escape into the heart of the African wilderness.
Elephant Plains Game Lodge caters to the discerning traveller, offering a variety of accommodation options to suit every preference and budget. From the cosy Rondavels and luxurious Suites to the indulgent Manyeleti Honeymoon Suite, each abode exudes comfort and elegance, providing a sanctuary amidst the untamed beauty of the bushveld.
Experience the thrill of encountering Africa’s majestic wildlife up close with two game drives and a bush walk each day. With Elephant Plains’ rich history spanning over 57 years, the lodge has perfected the art of Big 5 game viewing, ensuring unforgettable encounters with lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo.
As an owner-run lodge accommodating a maximum of 24 guests, Elephant Plains prides itself on delivering personalised service and attention to detail. From the warm welcome upon arrival to the impeccable hospitality throughout your stay, every moment is designed to create lasting memories and cherished experiences.
Elephant Plains is not only a destination for seasoned safari enthusiasts but also a haven for families seeking adventure and relaxation. Children over the age of 3 are warmly welcomed and entertained with the Mini Tuskers safari programme, while parents and couples indulge in daily Big Five game viewing activities and luxurious amenities.
At Elephant Plains, your safari adventure begins the moment you arrive, with game viewing starting right from the lodge’s doorstep overlooking an active waterhole. Indulge in sumptuous meals, optional wellness sessions, and restful siestas amidst the tranquillity of the bushveld.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic honeymoon getaway, a memorable family vacation, or an intimate bush wedding, Elephant Plains offers tailored experiences to suit your every need and desire. From intimate bush weddings to conference facilities, the lodge caters to a diverse range of events and celebrations.
Therefore, consider experiencing the magic of Africa at Elephant Plains Game Lodge, where luxury, adventure, and personalized service come together to create an unforgettable safari experience. From thrilling game drives to leisurely moments spent soaking in the beauty of the bushveld, every aspect of your stay promises to be a journey of discovery and delight.
The lodge offers a variety of accommodation options, from rondavels and luxury suites to the Manyeleti Honeymoon Suite. Other facilities include two swimming pools, a gym and games room. The exclusive, open-plan suites sport a lounge, double bedroom, en-suite bathroom and a private viewing deck with spectacular views over the riverbed and veld. All feature air-conditioning, overhead fans, fireplaces, mosquito nets, electronic safes, minibars and tea and coffee facilities.
In addition to the usual safari fare—such as game viewing in a Big Five area—this Sabi Sands lodge also has excellent facilities for stargazing, health, and wellness. The downtime is perfect for a massage, a workout in peaceful surroundings, or just lounging by the pool. Return to the boma (outdoor enclosure) for a supper feast illuminated by firelight after you have had a drink at the bar.
On a Sabi Sands safari, you can experience the real Africa through thrilling game drives from Elephant Plains.
Visitors to Elephant Plains on their Sabi Sands safari vacation have a great chance of seeing lions, leopards, buffalo, rhinos, and elephants (the Big five).
Two game drives are scheduled every day, at dawn and dusk, with refreshments provided at designated stops along the way. The tracker will return to the lodge for dinner after searching for nocturnal animals with a spotlight after sundowners on the evening drive.
By participating in a guided game walk within Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, guests will have the opportunity to get a more in-depth look at the surroundings of the reserve. The guests will be accompanied by a ranger who will point out details and share his knowledge about the various animal tracks, trees, grasses, and birds that are present.
Elephant Plains is one of the top locations in Africa for astronomical photography due to its isolation from urban lights. The rangers use an 8-inch Orion Intelli Telescope to study the night sky; they have taken a course in stargazing.
Guests who must adhere to an exercise regimen while in the wilderness can do it with ease thanks to the Fitness Centre’s well-appointed facilities.
Elephant Plains has a conference room with a projector and large screen, a lounge with satellite TV, and coffee and tea-making facilities, so you can mix work with pleasure. The camp is available for exclusive conference use and can host up to twenty-four individuals.
If you want a wedding that will be remembered forever, have it at Elephant Plains Lodge. Everything has been taken care of, so you can relax and enjoy this special occasion. There are two locations for your wedding: the lodge and a unique bush setting. The entire camp is reserved for weddings, and it can fit up to twenty-four guests.
Accommodation availability is only guaranteed once you receive a provisional booking confirmation.
Cancellation policy:
Elephant Plains charges cancellation fees, should a confirmed reservation be cancelled within the following periods:
Children under 3 years of age cannot be accommodated at Elephant Plains and a special price are paid by children up to 12, thereafter adult rates apply.
The best time to visit Elephant Plains is during the dry season, which typically falls between May and September. During this time, vegetation is sparse, making wildlife easier to spot as they gather around water sources. Additionally, cooler temperatures make for more comfortable game drives and outdoor activities.
During game drives, it’s essential to observe proper etiquette to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience for all guests:
The GPS Co-Ordinates for Elephant Plains Game Lodge are S 24º 44’ 38.9” E 31º 28’ 30.5”
Daily scheduled flights are available to both Eastgate (Hoedspruit), Skukuza and KMIA (Nelspruit) airports, all of which are in close proximity, from and to Johannesburg.
The lodge’s gravel airstrip is well-maintained and can accommodate private chartered flights from Johannesburg or any of the neighbouring airports.
Guests can easily self-drive to the lodge which takes about 7 hours. Alternatively, transfers can be arranged from Johannesburg or any of the local airports.
Self-drive guests can access the lodge only through the Gowrie Gate.
From Johannesburg / Pretoria one takes the N4 and bypasses Witbank and Middelburg, continuing on to Belfast and turn left onto the R540 through Dullstroom to Lydenburg.
From the town of Lydenburg, follow the R36 to Ohrigstad and pass through the JG Strijdom Tunnel
From the tunnel, continue for about 27km before turning right towards Klaserie, travelling along the Klaserie road until a sign pointing to Orpen and the South African Wildlife College (SAWC).
Turn left and continue along the R531 for about 30km (19 miles) until you pass the South African Wildlife College entrance on your left, then turn right onto a small dirt track and travel through the gate, then continue for about 11km until a T-junction (tar road) at Hluvukani.
Here you turn left toward Manyaleti (you will pass a BP petrol station) and continue for 6.8km until you see a sign for “Seville A, Sabi Sand” and take a turn off to the right.
Continue for about 13km to Gowrie Gate, Sabi Sand where you pay the entrance fees and drive a further 8.5km following the signs to Elephant Plains Game Lodge.
At Elephant Plains, guests can enjoy a range of exciting activities, including morning and afternoon game drives, as well as bush walks led by experienced guides.
Yes, Elephant Plains warmly welcomes families with children older than 3 and offers a range of activities and amenities to ensure an enjoyable stay for all. Children can participate in the Mini Tuskers safari programme, designed specifically for younger guests.
Guests at Elephant Plains can indulge in delicious meals served in various settings, including the elegant dining room, the patio overlooking the waterhole, and traditional boma dinners under the stars. The lodge offers sumptuous breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, as well as bush breakfasts and private dinners for special occasions.
While Elephant Plains prioritises providing guests with a genuine safari experience immersed in nature, limited Wi-Fi is available in designated areas for guests who wish to stay connected.
Yes, Elephant Plains offers facilities for intimate bush weddings and conferences, tailored to meet the specific requirements of each event.
Elephant Plains Game Lodge is a Sabi Sands safari lodge that offers affordable luxury in a variety of room types, including rondavels (round en suite rooms), chalets, and the exclusive Manyeleti Honeymoon Suite.
At this reasonably priced safari lodge, guests can relax in colonial-style rooms while enjoying Sabi Sands.
Indulge in the epitome of luxury and style with six exquisite glass-fronted chalets at Elephant Plains Game Lodge. Designed to seamlessly blend into the surrounding landscape, each chalet boasts a sophisticated aesthetic with earthy tones and an open-plan layout that invites the beauty of nature indoors.
Step into your sanctuary of serenity, where every detail has been carefully curated to ensure a truly unforgettable experience. Relax in the spacious lounge area, adorned with comfortable furnishings and a cosy fireplace, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.
Retreat to your double bedroom, where tranquillity reigns supreme, offering a peaceful haven for rest and rejuvenation. The en-suite bathroom beckons with its luxurious amenities, including both indoor and outdoor showers, allowing you to connect with nature while indulging in ultimate comfort.
As the sun sets on another day in the African wilderness, step out onto your private viewing deck and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the riverbed below. Whether you’re savouring a morning coffee or enjoying a romantic evening under the stars, each moment spent on your deck promises to be a captivating experience.
In these glass-fronted chalets at Elephant Plains Game Lodge you can discover a world of unparalleled luxury and natural beauty, where every aspect of your stay is designed to exceed your expectations and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Step into a world of rustic charm and elegance with the five enchanting rondavels, nestled amidst a lush and meticulously landscaped garden. Each rondavel, with its distinctive round shape, exudes timeless allure and sophistication, offering a serene retreat in the heart of nature.
Indulge in the ultimate comfort and luxury as you step inside your en-suite rondavel, where elegant decor and stylish furnishings create a haven of tranquillity. Relax and unwind on your private sun deck, basking in the warm African sun or gazing up at the starlit sky.
Stay cool and refreshed with air-conditioning and overhead fans, ensuring a comfortable night’s sleep even on the warmest of nights. For your peace of mind, each rondavel is equipped with electronic safes, providing a secure space for your valuables.
Quench your thirst and satisfy your cravings with our well-stocked minibars, offering a selection of beverages and snacks to enjoy at your leisure. And for the perfect start to your day or a soothing evening ritual, indulge in a steaming cup of coffee or tea, prepared with our complimentary facilities.
Experience the perfect blend of comfort, style, and natural beauty, where every moment promises to be a delightful journey of discovery and relaxation.
Indulge in a romantic escape like no other at the lodge’s safari accommodation, where couples can immerse themselves in luxury and seclusion.
Retreat to your own private sanctuary, complete with a personal plunge pool and sala—an open pavilion—perfect for indulgent afternoon naps or intimate moments together.
Step into your glass-fronted suite and be greeted by a world of elegance and comfort. Every detail has been carefully curated to ensure a truly unforgettable experience, from the plush furnishings to the views that stretch out before you.
Savour the delights of our standard luxuries, including a well-stocked minibar and tea and coffee-making facilities, ensuring that every moment of your stay is filled with comfort and convenience. Outside, discover your own private oasis, where a splash pool and daybed beckon, inviting you to while away the hours in blissful relaxation.
Here you will find the ultimate romantic getaway, where privacy, luxury, and natural beauty converge to create an unforgettable experience for you and your loved one.
*Optional Activities – additional charges apply
We offer over 95 different safari packages to suit all budgets, from budget camping safaris to luxurious 5-star executive fly-in packages.
All of our knowledgeable, qualified, and expert guides are local to the area around your chosen lodge, providing you with in-depth information about the fauna and flora of Kruger National Park.
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.