Londolozi Private Game Reserve

The word Londolozi means “Protector of all living things” in Zulu, and as you embark on safari you feel this reverence from your tracker and ranger. We were fortunate to have Milton and Nic in these roles. The incredible knowledge they possess makes tracking to find an elusive cheetah a true adventure. As a Relais & Chateau lodge, luxury accommodations are assured. Our suite in Tree Camp was private and cozy with our own pool, deck and lounges area area overlooking the Sand River. The food was spectacular and customized to our dietary needs. This is a magical and nurturing environment that we hope to return to soon.

Wow, what an amazing safari camp. We loved it here and didn’t want to leave. Service was great, food delicious, massive safari rooms with magnificent views. Everything was planned to perfection. We had so much fun and look forward to coming back.

I am going on 50, have spent a lifetime traveling to all (7) continents in search of its greatest wildlife experiences. When people ask me what the best experience has been, the answer consistently is the Londolozi concession in South Africa’s Sabi Sand Game Reserve. I say this strictly based on the WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE. I’m not really talking about the hotel/lodge amenities (which are spectacular by the way), strictly what Londolozi offers to the wildlife enthusiast which is the best of the best. An African safari is the pinnacle of wildlife pursuits on this planet. I’ve done African safaris in The Masai Mara, Serengeti, Okavango Delta, & Ngorongoro Crater just to name a few. Londolozi tops them all. The predator density there is unbelievable. On most African safaris, you hope to at least once see predators on a kill. At Londolozi, it is almost a daily experience. The skill of the guides is exceptional. There are wildlife encounters I’ve had at Londolozi that I’ve largely forgotten that would be the best sighting at other destinations. As I write this, it has been almost (7) years since I last visited. I’ve visited The Antarctic twice, Svalbard for polar bears, Alaska’s Katmai National Park for Brown Bears, Yellowstone, India, Australia, The Amazon, Costa Rica, Australia, Komodo Island, The Canadian Rockies, The Galápagos Islands. All were spectacular. An African safari is better. And Londolozi is the best of them all

What I wrote on my personal Facebook post on my return sums up everything about my experience at Londolozi.... "From wild dogs to rare oxpeckers on our truck, to all 'Big 5' and their babies, to getting caught up in a lion hunt that included a buffalo stampede, to being stalked by hyenas, a guided walk with a lion approach, to starlings and eagles, to dung beetles and pythons, cheetahs, giraffes, sparring rinos and the ever revered leopards, this was an out of this world adventure. To 'Sundowners', sunsets and sunrises, to blood moons and indescribable vistas, Amarula with coffees, breakfast mimosas and BOMAs. There is no way to explain the magic that is Londolozi. I knew it would be spectacular, I just never expected to walk away with a tribe of people in my heart. I'd hoped it would connect me back to me, I never expected to feel so at peace with the world."

To call Londolozi the best holiday destination on earth is no exaggeration. This was my second visit, and this time I stayed at the newly renovated Founders Camp—it was truly next-level in every way. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted by our ranger, Barry Bath, tracker, Tshepo Dzemba, and camp manager, Rob. From that point on, every need and every request was anticipated and fulfilled with remarkable care and attention. The service was impeccable, and we were truly pampered. Our accommodation was flawless, complete with a private pool and deck that offered an oasis of luxury. The wildlife sightings were nothing short of extraordinary, as you'll see from my photos. Every morning and evening drive felt like a magical journey, culminating in moments that seemed almost too good to be true—like the tortoise sighting I had casually requested! The guides’ expertise and passion made each outing a true adventure. What sets Londolozi apart, however, is its story and ethos. Having read Full Circle by Dave Varty three times, I deeply admire the vision and culture that Londolozi embodies. The respect for nature, the sense of community, and the genuine pride that every staff member has in their work create a truly inspiring environment. It’s a culture that many organizations could learn from. One special highlight was watching a rugby game in the staff communal area, a moment that made us feel part of the larger Londolozi family. I cannot wait for the opportunity to return to this extraordinary place. Londolozi isn’t just a holiday—it’s an experience that stays with you long after you leave.