Kruger Safari Co – Umkumbe Safari Lodge in Sabi Sands Game Reserve
About Umkumbe Safari Lodge
Nestled within the legendary Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Umkumbe Safari Lodge stands as a testament to the allure and magic of the African wilderness. This intimate and owner-managed lodge embodies the essence of a true South African safari, offering guests a personalized and authentic experience amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the region.
Situated along the banks of the Sand River, Umkumbe Safari Lodge boasts six charming chalets, each designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. From the comfort of their accommodations, guests are treated to sweeping views of the river, where a symphony of wildlife unfolds with elephants, hippos, buffalo, and antelope grazing along the tranquil riverbed.
The lodge itself exudes a rustic elegance, with a warm and inviting atmosphere that immediately envelops visitors upon arrival. A refreshing swimming pool beckons guests to unwind amidst the African heat, while the lounge, bar, and dining area provide a welcoming space to share stories of the day’s adventures.
One of the defining features of Umkumbe Safari Lodge is its commitment to providing guests with an unparalleled safari experience. Led by knowledgeable and passionate guides, each excursion into the wilderness promises thrilling encounters with the region’s iconic wildlife. Whether tracking the elusive leopard or marvelling at the abundance of birdlife, every moment spent exploring the Sabi Sands is filled with wonder and excitement.
For those seeking a taste of traditional South African cuisine, the lodge’s boma offers a culinary journey like no other. Against the backdrop of a crackling fire and the enchanting melodies of the bushveld, guests indulge in hearty meals crafted from locally sourced ingredients, immersing themselves in the rich flavours of the region.
At Umkumbe Safari Lodge, every detail is carefully curated to ensure an unforgettable stay. From the unparalleled wildlife sightings to the genuine hospitality of the staff, this hidden gem in the heart of Sabi Sands invites travellers to embark on a journey of discovery, where the wonders of Africa await at every turn.
On the banks of the Sand River in a premier wildlife reserve, the Sabi Sand Game Reserve lies Umkumbe Safari Lodge. A visit to Umkumbe will give you one of the best Big Five game viewing opportunities in southern Africa. Umkumbe Safari Lodge is owner-managed which ensures you a personal, rustic and real South African experience. Most of the ten chalets and rooms overlook the seasonal Sand River offering you unlimited sights of elephant, hippo, buffalo and antelope grazing in the riverbed. Other facilities include a swimming pool, lounge, bar and dining area and the traditional boma, where hearty South African meals are served. Accommodation is comfortable and suitable for those looking for a value-for-money option in the Sabi Sand. All rooms are en-suite and airconditioned. Some rooms are set up to allow families or small parties of three friends with separate but connected rooms. Umkumbe has three Standard and seven Superior rooms, with the latter larger with outdoor en-suite showers.
Things to Do at Umkumbe Safari Lodge
One of the primary goals of a Sabi Sand safari is to go on a game drive.
On game drives, you can get much closer to the big game as the animals are generally accustomed to the vehicle approaching them and are aware that it will never cause them harm
All game drives are carried out in open 4 x 4 Land Rovers. There is no roof, so you can enjoy 360-degree views, which are ideal for photography and videography.
Two game drives are offered each day (included in the price). The morning drive departs around 06:00, followed by the afternoon drive at 16:00.
There is a coffee stop in the morning and a sundowner stop in the afternoon. After sundowners, guests will further enjoy a night drive which allows guests to see nocturnal animals that are not visible during the day.
During night drives, your tracker uses a powerful spotlight to look for nocturnal animals. Expect to see leopards, hyenas, aardvarks, bat-eared foxes, porcupines, bush babies, bushbucks, mongoose, genet cats, and nocturnal birds such as owls and nightjars.
Every day after breakfast, the more energetic can go for a morning bush walk. The walk provides an opportunity to experience the bushveld up close. All walking safaris are guided by qualified rangers. They will explain the animal tracks and what animals passed through during the night, as well as the sophistication of termite mounds and other fascinating aspects of the bush that are often overlooked on game drives.
Travel and Booking Information
Entrance Fees
When entering the Sabi Sands Game Reserve through one of the entrance gates, a fee per vehicle as well as per person is charged. Credit cards are accepted at every Sabi Sands entrance gate.
Malaria
Malaria exists in South Africa, particularly in the Kruger and Swaziland regions, therefore it is recommended that visitors seek advice from a health authority or a local travel clinic before using any malaria prophylaxis.
In addition to any prophylactics, the following mitigation measures are suggested: In the evenings, cover your arms, legs, and feet with a DEET-based mosquito repellent and a mosquito net. The mosquito net should ideally be treated with insect repellent.
If, despite these precautions, you develop a fever during or after your stay in a malaria-infested area, always seek medical attention.
Included in the Rate You Pay
- Accommodation in chalets with own private bathrooms.
- Two game drives per day, led by experienced guides and trackers who offer insights into the surrounding wildlife and ecosystems.
- Bush walks for guests interested in exploring the wilderness on foot and gaining a deeper understanding of the smaller wonders of the bush.
- All meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Tea and coffee throughout the day.
Excluded from the Rate You Pay
- Transfers to and from the lodge
- All drinks
- Personal expenses
- Transfers and day excursions outside of the reserve.
- Gratuities for the lodge staff and guides.
Bringing Children on Safari to Umkumbe Safari Lodge
With four of the chalets linked by an interleading door, this is the ideal lodging arrangement for families with children on a vacation.
Ensure happy children on safari by doing the following:
- Ensure you pack essentials like sunscreen, hats, insect repellent, and comfortable clothing suitable for both warm days and cooler evenings.
- Safari drives can be long and sometimes unpredictable, so prepare your children for the possibility of waiting patiently to spot wildlife.
- Before embarking on your safari, educate your children about the animals they may encounter, their behaviours, and the importance of respecting wildlife and their habitats.
- Be flexible and understanding if they need breaks or become restless during game drives. Consider shorter, child-friendly drives or scheduling downtime at the lodge between activities.
- Encourage your children to ask questions, observe wildlife, and engage with their surroundings. Allow them to use binoculars and cameras to capture their own safari memories.
- Remind children to stay seated and quiet during game drives to avoid startling wildlife. Respect the guidance of your experienced safari guide and adhere to any safety instructions provided.
What to Pack
- Lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing for hot days and layering options for cooler mornings and evenings.
- Comfortable walking shoes for bush walks and exploring the lodge grounds.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection during game drives.
- Insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes and other insects.
- Binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens for capturing wildlife sightings.
- Personal toiletries and medications, as well as any necessary travel documents.
Etiquette During Game Drives
During game drives, it’s essential to observe proper etiquette to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience for all guests:
- Listen to your guide’s instructions and follow their lead regarding wildlife viewing and behaviour.
- Keep noise to a minimum to avoid disturbing the animals and fellow guests.
- Refrain from standing up or leaning out of the vehicle while it is in motion.
- Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that could startle the wildlife.
- Always maintain a safe distance from the animals and never attempt to approach them for a closer look or photo opportunity.
- Remember to respect the natural environment and leave only footprints behind.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Umkumbe Safari Lodge 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.
Getting to Umkumbe Safari Lodge
By Air
Getting to Sabi Sands Game Reserve by air offers travellers a swift and convenient option to reach this premier safari destination.
Sabi Sands Game Reserve is accessible via three major airports:
Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (for lodges in the western sector)
Skukuza Airport (for lodges in the southern sector)
Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport (for lodges in the northern sector)
Travellers from Johannesburg or Cape Town can opt for scheduled flights to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) near Nelspruit. Upon arrival at KMIA, they can then proceed to their chosen lodge either by road transfer or via a small chartered aircraft, ensuring a smooth transition from air travel to their safari adventure.
Another option is to utilize Airlink and CemAir, which serve Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport. Strategically located for travellers staying in the northern section of Sabi Sands, Hoedspruit Airport offers the convenience of road transfers to the lodges, providing flexibility in travel arrangements.
For those staying in the southern section of Sabi Sands, Skukuza Airport, nestled within Kruger National Park, presents a convenient travel hub. Skukuza Airport facilitates easy access to lodges in the southern sector of the reserve, allowing travellers to commence their safari experience promptly upon arrival.
With road transfers available from any of these airports to your lodge, travellers can enjoy a seamless and hassle-free journey, ensuring a memorable safari experience from the moment they arrive.
By Road
Embarking on a road trip from Johannesburg to Umkumbe Safari Lodge offers travelers the opportunity to enjoy the scenic beauty of South Africa’s landscapes as they journey to the heart of the Sabi Sands Game Reserve.
The journey typically takes approximately 5-6 hours, covering a distance of around 450-500 kilometres, depending on the specific route taken.
There are several route options available, with the most common route being via the N12 and N4 highways towards Nelspruit. Head east towards Nelspruit. Follow signs for the N12 highway, which connects to the N4 highway.
Travel along the N12 or N4 highway, passing Middleburg, until you reach Mbombela (formerly Nelspruit). Upon reaching Mbombela, take the R40 road, passing through White River, and proceed to Hazyview.
At the T-junction located between Kiepersol and Hazyview, turn left onto the R538 road leading into Hazyview. At the second set of traffic lights, where a shopping centre is situated on the right-hand side, turn right onto the R536 road towards Paul Kruger Gate in Kruger National Park.
After driving for approximately 38km, turn left onto a gravel road marked with a sign indicating Umkumbe. Drive for 4km, then turn right at the T-junction, and continue for another 4km to Shaw’s Gate, which serves as the entrance to Sabie Game Reserve and Sabi Sand Game Reserve.
Utilize the left-hand gate designated as Sabie Game Reserve Gate; no entrance fee is required. Follow the signposted route to Umkumbe (disregard any directions provided by Google Maps instructing you to take the turnoff to Newington Gate).
FAQ
How many guests can Umkumbe Safari Lodge accommodate?
Umkumbe Safari Lodge consists of six chalets, offering accommodation for a maximum of 12 guests at a time. This ensures an intimate and personalized safari experience amidst the wilderness of the Sabi Sands Game Reserve.
What wildlife can guests expect to see from the lodge?
Guests at Umkumbe Safari Lodge can expect to witness a diverse array of wildlife, including elephants, hippos, buffalo, antelope, and various bird species. Many of these animals can be spotted grazing in the nearby Sand River, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing from the comfort of the lodge.
Are safari activities included in the stay at Umkumbe Safari Lodge?
Yes, safari activities such as game drives and bush walks are included in the stay at Umkumbe Safari Lodge. Guests are accompanied by experienced guides who lead them on thrilling adventures through the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, offering opportunities to encounter the Big 5 and other iconic wildlife species.
Is Wi-Fi available at Umkumbe Safari Lodge?
While Umkumbe Safari Lodge aims to provide guests with an authentic safari experience, Wi-Fi is available in designated areas of the lodge for guests who require internet access during their stay. However, due to the remote location of the lodge, connectivity may be limited at times.
What dining options are available at Umkumbe Safari Lodge?
Umkumbe Safari Lodge offers delicious and hearty South African meals served in the lodge’s dining area and traditional boma. Guests can indulge in a variety of culinary delights, including traditional boma dinners served around a roaring fire, providing a memorable dining experience amidst the sights and sounds of the African bush.
