Willem Pretorius Game Reserve, Free State

The Willem Pretorius Game Reserve is situated in the heart of the Free State with the Allemanskraal Dam forming the central part. The reserve itself covers some 12 005ha with a great variety of game and bird species. The great variety of wildlife and bird species is not the only draw card for tourists.

On the northern side of the dam there is a range of hillocks, surprisingly leafy for the Free State. On the summit of one of these hillocks, Doringberg, one can find a well-preserved ruin of a prehistoric settlement, apparently of the long-vanished Leghoya people. The Leghoya people built extremely small huts, cattle kraals and walls from stone, but without mortar. The size of the huts was probably dictated by the difficulty of roofing with slabs of stone. On Doringberg there are many of these ruined buildings, each pervaded by ghostly reminders of their former owners. One of these settlements has been restored and proclaimed a national monument.

The southern part of the Willem Pretorius Game Reserve consists of undulating plains of grassland, contrasting with the rocky ridges and ravines in the northern section. Among the many game species are the world’s largest herd of black wildebeest, as well as springbok, blesbok, gemsbok, kudu, red hartebeest, eland, zebra, white rhino and giraffe.

Notable among the trees in the reserve are white stinkwood, sweet thorn (Acacia Karoo), karee, taaibos, buffalo thorn, wild peach, highveld cabbage tree, ghwarrie and wild olive. An extensive network of roads ensures excellent game viewing at the Willem Pretorius Game Reserve. Other activities include fishing, boat tours, a swimming pool, sporting facilities a restaurant and picnic sites. A special feature of the Willem Pretorius reserve is the environmental education centre, controlled by the Directorate of Environmental and Nature Conservation.

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Lai-La Log Cabins - St Lucia Estuary

Lai-La Log Cabins is a rustic peaceful experience; offering our guests 6 x 2 two bedroom self-catering wooden log cabins with braai area.

Covered parking, a beautiful garden with many species of birds and small animals like e.g. red duiker and squirrels. A swimming pool with sea view, it is close to iMfolozi / Hluhluwe game reserves.

Boat trips and game drives, including fishing and hiking can be arranged. It is also near to walking trails, the estuary, and the beach. Use Lai-La as a base, and go to Cape Vidal, the Game Reserves and do a cultural tour, Whale watching and turtle tours when in season, and any other excursions.

The log cabins consist of 2 bedrooms (king size double bed and 2 single beds or 4 single beds) air conditioners, a bathroom, kitchen, with a fridge and deep freeze, a microwave and a four plate stove and oven, a lounge, television with DSTV (21 selected channels). There is also an undercover veranda if a person prefers to sit outside. There is a braai (barbecue) area, swimming pool, a carport for your vehicle next to the cabin and a remote control security gate.

Activities & Services:

1. Walking trail - 2 km   (500 metres from the cabin) - ideal for bird watchers, there is also a few duikers and antelopes.

2. Walking trail at the crocodile centre which can take for 30 min to 4 hours - At this walking trail you may see, Zebra, Wildebeest (gnu) and a variety of antelopes.

3. A trip to Cape Vidal where a person can do snorkelling. If You are not a beach person, on the way there are a few loop roads, and you can see buffalo, rhinoceros, hippopotamus, kudus, warthogs, bush pigs, zebra and a variety of antelopes. If you are lucky you can see the leopard and hyena. You can also stop at mission rock and take a walk to bats cave.

4. Deep sea fishing and or surf fishing

5. Horse Riding on the beach or in the reserve.

6. Kayaking.

7. Hluhluwe/Unfolozi game reserve (55km)

8. Cheetah Farm (about 1h. 30min.

9. You can hire a bicycle.

10. Boat ride in the estuary to see the crocodile and hippopotamus.(2 hours)

11. Cultural Tours. (2hours)

12. Trip to Khula Village (2 to 3 hours)

13. Night drive in the reserve.

14. Whale Watching during June to November.

15. Turtle tours during December and January.

16. If you want to relax you may go to the estuary (lagoon) and watch the hippoppotamus playing and the crocodiles.

17. There is a golf course in Monzi, 10 km away from St Lucia

18. A bowling green in St Lucia about 500 meters from the log cabins.

Nkomazi Game Reserve – Mpumalanga

Surrounded by towering ancient mountains, broad river valleys and impressive grasslands, The Komati Tented Lodge with River Retreat is a malaria free destination, situated on the banks of the Komati River. Luxurious accommodation is offered in 12 "African Campaign" styled tents, each with a carefully selected setting ensuring privacy and creating a sense of oneness with nature. Enjoy air-cooled accommodation, en-suite bathrooms, private plunge pools and viewing deck.

 Known as the ‘place of water’ the Nkomazi Game Reserve represents the true symbol of Africa – the real Africa with its vivid scenic beauty, dramatic landscapes, thunderstorms, rolling savannah, bushveld, wildlife, massive beasts, relaxed atmosphere and its fascinating cultural history.

Nature lovers will share in the many wonders of Nkomazi - its diversity of wildlife and habitat, its natural beauty and major geological finds. Here guests can take part in a range of discoveries leading from one natural wonder to the next.

Watch the sun rise over the North Eastern boundaries of the reserve during a morning game drive or take in the spectacular view from lookout points among the rocky granite sentinels in the highlands of the reserve. Waterfalls and rock pools are impressive, while rolling grasslands support large herds of free-roaming wildlife, making Nkomazi a game-viewing haven.

And, when the sun sinks low in the Mountainlands, settle the day by returning to the luxury and opulence of the Komati Tented Lodge.

Guests can take part in many exciting activities including game drives that can last up to three hours, nature walks, bird watching, star gazing and rock art viewing. Guest can also take part in Biking Safaris.

The Lodge features a gift boutique, an outdoor boma dining area and a Majilis Lounge Tent with a viewing deck.

The River Retreat offers an escape to enjoy some pampering. Awaken your senses and allow us to rejuvenate body, mind and soul. Inspired by surrounding elements that guide us, our selection of body and beauty treatments cater for men and women.

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Jaci's Safari Lodge - Madikwe Game Reserve North West Province

Jaci’s Lodges are an oasis of calm and serenity in the arid African bush.  Whether you’re planning a short weekend trip out of the city or a longer stay to recharge your batteries, the luxury accommodation and five-star service you’ll enjoy at Jaci’s ensure that you can kick back and relax in comfort and style.

The lodges offer two very unique five-star experiences, catering to both families looking to reconnect in a peaceful setting, and couples looking for a more intimate bush experience.

At Jaci's Tree Lodge, perched high up in the trees, you can relax in one of eight expansive treehouses (six king rooms and two twins) overlooking the Marico River and watch squirrels play in the tree canopy.

For those looking for a more down-to-earth experience, Jaci's Safari Lodge offers guests a tranquil space in which to unwind and interact with some of Africa’s most impressive wildlife. From your balcony – or even from your bed – you can see buck come down to the stream to drink.

The Starbed

Just a short walk from Jaci’s Tree Lodge is a small watering hole and wetland area which attracts a wealth of wildlife. On the banks of the watering hole is a small hide in which guests can quietly observe the diversity of life Jaci’s has to offer. Perched on top of the hide there is also a four-poster bed, where guests can enjoy a night out in the wild and experience game at night from a special vantage point.

Gym

For guests looking to continue their exercise regime while on holiday, Jaci’s on-site gym means you can hop onto a treadmill or exercise bike and burn off some calories from under the shade of the acacia trees overlooking the river. A play area is attached to the gym, in which children can keep occupied while you work out.

Swimming pools

Guests at Jaci’s Safari Lodge have the use of two swimming pools. A small plunge pool situated near to the main lodge makes for a refreshing dip after an afternoon game drive, while the larger pool, surrounded by lush green grass, is the perfect place to both cool off and soak up the warm African sun. Tree Lodge guests have access to a swimming pool surrounded by comfortable loungers, perfect for relaxing on after a refreshing swim.

Games room

Jaci’s Lodges provide both luxury and comfort, and the games room at Jaci's Safari Lodge is a simple addition that buys tired parents time off. With table tennis, foosball, a pool table, and a wide selection of board games, the games room is sure to keep even the most active children entertained for hours.

Masala Spa

At our newly established Masala Spa, let Kate, a trained beauty and massage therapist, use her magic touch to help you shake off the stress of the city. The spa currently offers full body, Indian head, back and shoulder and foot massages. Be pampered in the comfort of your room or relax and unwind in the soothing Masala room near the main lodge.

River walk

Guests at both lodges are encouraged to make use of the river walk between the two lodges. Take an amble along the river and you might be lucky enough to see a shy leguan or even a crocodile.

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Askari Game Lodge, Doornhoek, Gauteng

Situated on the Plumari Private Game Reserve in the Magaliesberg, just over an hour from Johannesburg or Pretoria, Askari Game Lodge offers guests a memorable Big 5 wildlife experience within a malaria free environment.

Plumari Africa Game Reserve is set within a pristine wilderness area of over 4000 hectares with natural African bushveld and an abundance of flora, fauna, birdlife and wildlife. Two game drives, each approximately 2 to 2,5 hours in duration, are scheduled daily. Elephant Experiences include bush walks and interaction with our elephants, which include a 'touch and feed' experience.

Previously known as Plumari Game Lodge, the lodge will be trading as Askari Game Lodge from January 2010. The name change coincides with a number of exciting expansions which will be taking place at the lodge over the next few months. With immediate effect the room capacity will be increased, while retaining the current nostalgic look and feel of the lodge.

Accommodation

The main lodge overlooks the Elephant Dam and invites guests to take a step back in time while admiring South African décor pieces dating back to the 1800’s. Slipper baths, a coal stove, wash stands, luggage chests, antique Oregon cupboards and tables are subtly placed within the luxury four-star surrounding, to emphasize the captivating history of the Magaliesberg area.

Askari Lodge has one of the largest private collections of ox wagons, carts and other animal drawn vehicles from the period 1800 to 1900. A variety of stone and iron-age arte facts, items from the Boer War and San Bushmen rock carvings tell the history of the area, which is also known for the nearby Battle of Nooitgedacht. Examples are available in the museum and guided bush walks take guests through areas where many stone carvings can be found.

Askari Lodge caters for romantic getaways, conferences, teambuilding initiatives, training courses and weddings. Nature lovers and birding enthusiasts will find the experience most rewarding, while stressed city dwellers will leave feeling rejuvenated and well-rested.

Weddings

Ever been blessed by an elephant? Enjoy wedding celebrations with a difference at Askari Lodge in Magaliesberg. Just over an hour from Johannesburg or Pretoria, Askari Lodge offers wedding parties a memorable Big 5 wildlife experience where Africa meets Antique Dutch, in an area steeped with history.

All wedding reception venues are within a short stroll from the 120-seater chapel. The Lapa, overlooking the Elephant Dam, accommodates small groups of up to 40. Set on pure river sand under a giant thatch roof structure, the Lapa with its central roaring fireplace, affords astonishing night sky views as well as a view over the Plumari Private Game Reserve.

Akira Wedding venue is situated in the new Day Visitors Centre. Accommodating up to 120 guests, it has a beautiful deck with views over the Magaliesberg mountain range and is abundant with African symbology, rich earthy colours and unique African décor focal points. The upstairs wedding venue opens up onto the Azima Restaurant, viewing deck and Enzi Bar, ideal for pre-wedding drinks or entertainment.

Conferences

The brand new Day Visitors Center, which houses four of the six conference venues, is abundant with African symbology, rich earthy colours and unique African décor focal points. This brand new addition to Askari Lodge is ideal for groups between 20 and 150 delegates. The upstairs conference venue opens up onto the Azima Restaurant, viewing deck and Enzi Bar, while the ground floor venues have a breath-taking view over the Magaliesberg mountain range.

The circular Lapa with roaring fireplace in the middle, is set on pure river sand under a giant thatch roof structure and accommodates up to 40 people . It is ideal for 'outdoor' meetings and conferences which call for a ‘bosberaad’ feel. Overlooking the elephant dam, this venue is open-sided with drop down canvas, ensuring your privacy, while affording an expansive view over the Game Reserve.

The spa

Askari Spa at Askari Game Lodge reflects the environment that surrounds it – African veldt and wildlife rise up to meet the African sky and majestic Magaliesberg mountain range. This Big 5 Game lodge is scenically set between Hekpoort and Magalieburg and pays tribute to South Africa’s rich archeological and cultural history within a malaria-free environment.

Located in the heart of the lodge, the spa complex boasts with an individual treatment room, a couples room with a double outdoor shower and a couples hydrotherapy bath, separate mens and ladies change rooms each with a unique steam room which opens into one. The entire spa opens up on outdoor relaxation areas and private gardens.

Numerous pathways throughout the beautiful surrounding gardens allow for leisurely walks pre- and post-treatment. The spa also incorporates a pedicure and manicure lounge, juice bar, swimming pool with day beds and a retail area.

Our core philosophy of natural health is based on nurture, inspiration and the use of mother Earth's ingredients, to provide you with the most invigorating treatments imaginable. For centuries, African women have utilized natural herbal concoctions, creams and oils to enhance natural beauty and to maintain health. Found on our reserve the Wild Olive Tree, Artemisia Afra (Wormwood) and Aloe Vera have been well known for centuries for its healing properties. We now combine both ancient and contemporary techniques in a natural manner, designed to bring balance and harmony to cater to the needs of every Individual.

Soothe away the stress of modern life and dissolve impurities, under the gentle fingers of our therapists. The benefits to body and spirit will be truly rewarding.

Attractions & activities

For those that wish to stimulate their minds, stroll through our history museum viewing historic memorabilia from stone age tools and thousand year old San bushman carvings found on the Reserve to viewing one of the largest private collections of ox wagons and carts in South Africa.

For those that wish to stimulate their bodies, we offer hiking or a session with our beauty/ relaxation consultant. If more exercise or adrenaline is required, in close proximity is clay pigeon shooting, archery, paint-balling, horse-riding, fishing and hot-air ballooning. Or, just be captivated by the game drives or elephant experience (learn about, touch, feed and even ride).

Your hosts will be delighted to cater to your every need. If you require information or assistance with tours, transport, outings or just general help please let us know. Also note we are in a Malaria-free area and don't worry when to come, the weather is perfect all year round.

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