South Africa Premier

Game drives at Londolozi are taken by professional, passionate and knowledgeable rangers and trackers, who amongst them have a wealth of 350 years of experience. With over 15 000 hectares of traversing wilderness, no two game drives are ever the same. Trackers sit up at the front of the Land Rover looking for fresh animal tracks, while rangers drive with astonishing skill into ravines and through thicket in pursuit of elusive animals, simultaneously wowing guests with their outstanding knowledge and unforgettable stories.

Many of the rangers and trackers at Londolozi grew up living off the land in these parts and therefore have an unmatched knowledge of both the area and the elements of nature within this wilderness wonderland. Londolozi boasts two of South Africa’s only 17 master trackers, which only adds to the excellence of the team and the experience they are able to deliver.

Come to Londolozi and embark on the experience of a lifetime. Allow our field guides to wow you with their knowledge, move you with their stories, and bring you one step closer to nature.

Suitable for the beautiful balmy bushveld days in May, June and July; there is nothing like walking in a winter wilderness. Drift down a game trail into a dry riverbed. Feel the crisp morning rhythm of Africa with each step on the winding path as you let nature captivate you in her essence. There is no vehicle, no noise and no distractions. This is when nature speaks to you.

Our children’s programme is uniquely tailored for each child, many of whom are budding junior game rangers. Our approach is based on a personal interaction with each child and is energetic and flexible. We regard nature as the great educator and with no set routines we allow the child to discover the world of the outdoor classroom which surrounds them. Nature sets the agenda and we enable these young people to discover something of themselves.

The birdlife at Londolozi represents a magic of diversity in perpetual motion and offers the visitor an entirely new frontier in wilderness engagement. A wide array of sunbirds seeking nectar from the flowering aloes is winter’s gift to the discerning birder, not to mention the other 450 species

which abound in these landscapes. Many fine ornithologist guides reside at Londolozi.

Yoga means ‘union’ in Sanskrit and refers to the bringing together of mind, body and spirit. Asanas, also a Sanskrit word, refers to the poses and postures developed in India to join mind and body in spiritual awareness.

At Londolozi we have added the powerful elements of nature to the yoga experience, using both the natural energy of the location and tailor made Asanas, to create a yoga form which is suitable for beginners and intermediate practitioners.

You are free to schedule a private yoga session in your room or in the shade of your deck. Alternatively, daily classes are held on the yoga deck at Founders Camp. Please ask your camp manager for class times. We look forward to you joining us to greet the sun and strengthen the vital life of the body.

"Londolozi could well be one of the most forward-thinking emotional-wellness offerings in southern Africa right now" - Condé Naste Traveller Magazine, The Spa Guide, 2019

At Londolozi, we believe in honouring ancient ways, harmony in flow and the rhythms of nature.

After four decades of delivering a photographic safari immersion to discerning international safari travellers, we believe that the time is now to create a new space which allows the Londolozi wilderness to become our enduring source of wellness.

Our hope is that at the Londolozi Healing House, situated at Varty Camp, you will rediscover what it means to be human, and attuned to the natural world.

The Londolozi Healing House is a place of remembering, a shift from the world of doing into the world of being, a chance to re-discover your own nature and access a deep and natural intelligence which lies within the still core of your own wild self.

The Londolozi Healing House experience will help you to combine the core safari excursions with artful resting, curated bodywork and yoga in the surrounds of the expansive wilderness presence of Londolozi. We have crafted some special activities for true rejuvenation, restoration and transformation.

Working with our trained Wellness Practitioners, Therapists and Wilderness Guides, we invite you to commune with the African wilderness and to find within you a sense of wellbeing. In the hurried world of today, true luxury is time to oneself in search of self-healing and connection to nature. The Londolozi Healing House is a place where time will allow for intangible magic, stillness and contemplation to stir deep within you.

“Wilderness reminds us what it means to be human, what we are connected to rather
than what we are separate from." – Terry Tempest Williams

Londolozi’s fully equipped gym offers running, cycling and rowing machines which allow for a perfect workout, complemented by a daily routine of eating well and relaxing into harmony with nature. The gym is situated in Varty Camp and is open to all guests.

Campfires, storytelling, red wine and good company are the hallmark of any winter safari. Coming from a long line of storytellers, Londolozi’s history is steeped in the tradition of campfire yarns told late into the night. In each of the 5 exclusive camps you can hear the whispers of our ancestors and embodied in our history, are the legends and myths of the mysteries and adventures of safari. Each camp has its own spirit and each has its own campfire which awaits you.

On visiting Londolozi in 1992 Mandela saw the vision that was being lived by the employees and management in collaboration with nature.

“During my long walk to freedom, I had the rare privilege to visit Londolozi. There I saw people of all races living in harmony amidst the beauty that mother nature offers” - Nelson Mandela

It is in this light that the Freedom’s Way art installation has been completed to draw attention to the values which Nelson Mandela put forward to our nation and to compliment the Londolozi village walk which all guests are encouraged to experience.

Starting at the 1926 Sparta Camp, situated in the heart of Varty Camp, the village walk in the footsteps of Nelson Mandela is led by Linah Lamula. This short walk from Varty Camp is best taken after breakfast. The village walk allows guests to interact with many of our staff and their families who have lived and worked at Londolozi for over 30 years.

While it is important to recognise Mandela’s solo achievements, it is critical that we take his passion into our own lives, taking forward the elements of great leadership to heal the human affliction in the world. Nelson Mandela is an icon and leader who is loved by all South Africans, young, old, rich and poor. He is known and respected throughout the world. Through all he suffered and achieved and through his attitude and values he has taught us the most valuable lessons as a country and each of us individuals.

Courage: “I learned that courage was not the absence of fear but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid but he who conquers that fear.”

Freedom: “I have walked the long road to freedom. I have tried not to falter. I have made mistakes along the way. But I have discovered the secret after climbing a great hill, one only finds there are many more hills to climb.”

Resilience: “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling but in rising every time we fall.”

Trust: “We signal that good can be achieved amongst human beings who are prepared to trust, prepared to believe in the goodness of people.”

Unity: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

Empathy: “I stand here before you not as a prophet but as a humble servant of you, the people. Your tireless and heroic sacrifices have made it possible for me to be here today. I, therefor place the remaining years of my life in your hands.”

Vision: “The power of imagination created the illusion that my vision went much further than the naked eye could actually see.”

Patience: “Patience is waiting, not passively waiting. But to keep going when the going is hard and slow.”

Londolozi is the home of the photographic safari and has long been recognised as a superb location for wildlife photography, specialising in the big cats. Incredible light, diverse scenery and a plethora of African wildlife set the stage for unsurpassed photographic theatre.

There are many ways to take advantage of this incredible location.

The Private Vehicle
For the photographic veteran, or anyone who is looking for privacy while on game drive, wanting a vehicle entirely to themselves.

A private safari vehicle can be reserved for individuals and families. A dedicated Ranger and Tracker team will focus on tailoring the safari experience around the guest’s specific needs and interests (e.g. birding, botany, big cats, photography etc.). This is ideal for experienced safari-goers or those who enjoy a little more privacy.

Included:

One morning and one afternoon game drive per day
A dedicated Ranger and Tracker team

The Londolozi Wildlife Photographic Experience
Perfect for beginner and enthusiast photographers who are wanting to make photography the main focus of their safari. For this safari option, we will pair you with a photographic tutor who will assist you both in the field and in post-processing and editing.

Londolozi is known across the world as a destination which offers remarkable photographic wildlife opportunities and is the perfect place to learn and craft this incredible art form.

Included:

A private safari vehicle
A professional photographic tutor with advanced knowledge in:
The camera & best settings
Vehicle positioning
Expertise in the use of light (especially low light conditions)
Post processing & image organisation
A dedicated Ranger and Tracker team focused on getting you into the best photographic positions possible
Full access to the Londolozi Photography Studio for post-processing and editing.
This safari type must be requested and booked prior to arrival

Rent photographic equipment
The Photographic Studio offers guests the chance to rent a multitude of professional level photographic bodies, lenses and accessories. Gone are the days of lugging heavy camera gear around the world. Now it’s as simple as pre-booking your gear and finding it ready for use upon your arrival at the lodge.

First-time photographers can also try out the latest telephoto lens and body setups by requesting the equipment at the lodge. If you want to capture a close-up of a leopard in a tree, a fish eagle in flight or zebras grooming each other, the photographic studio has the right lens to get you the perfect shot.

The Photographic Studio- on location at Londolozi- is very popular with Londolozi guests, who are able to direct and produce their own creative work. With tuition from a qualified Lightroom instructor, you can spend time between game drives editing and printing your best safari shots on wide-format canvas or high quality photo paper, along with the final edited shots on a memory stick.

Londolozi Photographic Studio at a Glance

Open daily (booking required)
Edit your images using Lightroom CC on the latest widescreen retina display iMacs - an incredible process that would enhance any wildlife photo
Print your personal images onto wide-format canvas or photo paper
Take your edited shots with you on a memory stick

Go in search of Africa’s iconic wildlife on game drives with our highly-skilled Guides and Trackers. The aromas of the bush, the incredible sunsets and the thrill you get from following the Big 5 will stay with you long after you leave.

Exhilarating and detail-focused, a guided walk through our Greater Kruger territory will get you up close with creatures both great and small and introduce you to the fascinating workings of nature.

Our luxury spas, yoga studios, meditation spaces, and gyms create space for both mental and physical wellness and bring a therapeutic essence to your stay.

Have a hands-on approach to conservation and help play a role in preserving habitats and protecting endangered species, while embarking on some of the most thrilling wildlife experiences in the bush.

These activities are subject to availability and require booking in advance.

Rhino Dehorning | Additional Cost
Dehorning rhinos is one of the ways we are working to deter poaching in the Greater Kruger. Without their horns, rhinos are not valuable to poachers, and the incentive to poach rapidly decreases.

We invite our guests to participate in a dehorning operation with reserve management, wildlife vets, and pilots to give a helping hand in this crucial activity. It is an ongoing project and is incredibly resource-heavy, requiring the expertise of trained professionals, necessary drugs, equipment, fuel, and coordination to make just one dehorning possible.

APNR Ground-Hornbill Project | Additional Cost
The large, iconic Southern ground-hornbill is an endangered bird in South Africa, with numbers rapidly declining outside of protected areas. The successful breeding and increasing population in the Greater Kruger is due to the conservation and research carried out by the APNR Ground-Hornbill Project run by the FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology for over 20 years.

Our guests have the opportunity to join the experts in the field to monitor and assess the active nest site, and listen to an informative talk to learn about the complex existence of the world’s largest cooperative breeding bird.

Elephants Alive | Additional Cost
Despite the seemingly booming elephant population in the reserve, elephants are in fact fighting for space, and it is of vital conservation importance to properly manage elephant distribution. Elephants Alive has been monitoring, researching, and conserving elephants in the Greater Kruger for almost 30 years.

At Royal Malewane, our guests can join the team as they track down elephant bulls and work with vets and pilots to carefully dart and sedate the animal in order to capture vital data and/or fit a collar funded through this programme.

EWT Wild Dog Project | Additional Cost
African wild dogs – or painted wolves – are highly endangered with only an estimated 5,500 free-ranging dogs remaining on the continent, according to The Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT).

EWT’s wild dog conservation Project Leader Grant Beverley monitors, studies, and protects the local wild dog packs using telemetry collars to capture vital information and help keep them safe from threats resulting from human-wildlife conflict. Our guests are offered the unique opportunity to join Grant in the field to locate the pack and get involved in fitting a new collar, or gather data from a monitored individual.

K9 Unit Dog Demonstration | Included
Our counter-poaching dog unit is known as Tango K9; a team of Field Rangers and highly-trained detection and tracker dogs, who, working together, have added a crucial dimension to the counter-poaching activity on the reserve.

Our guests are invited to visit Tango K9 during their stay, where they can meet the Rangers and watch a demonstration put on by these incredible working dogs and handlers. Observing them in a training exercise allows you to see how this unique relationship is proving to be a force in the counter-poaching tool box. Seeing the dogs and Rangers work together is an amazing display of communication and trust.

Helicopter Patrol Flight | Additional Cost
Seeing the expanse of the reserve from above gives you a whole new perspective on the landscape and what it takes to protect the wildlife. It shows how human settlements, cultivated farmland, and wilderness exist in such close proximity, and how much space really is running out as our human footprint grows.

Take a flight through the airspace over the reserve where you can spot herds of elephants and some of the larger animals from above, over the dramatic mountain landscape, and through the exquisite green canyon of the Blyde River nearby.

Our Guides are passionate photographers and have an insight into wildlife that is key to anticipating movement and behaviour – the recipe for the perfect photographic opportunity.

Waiting for a lion to yawn widely in the golden grass, or for a hippo to blow two streams of vaporised water out of its exposed nostrils is a game of patience that wildlife photographers know well. When the wait pays off, and your shutter clicks at just the right time, you take home an image that represents a moment between you and the wild.

Pursuing the perfect photo means journeying through the bush, your senses on alert, and allowing your environment to dictate the type of photo you produce. Ask your Guide for advice on settings or equipment suited to the bush, or ask us about rental gear that might elevate your photographic safari experience.

There are over 300 different bird species at Royal Malewane, from the minute grey penduline tit to the immense lappet-faced vulture, and there are all manner of weird, wonderful and colourful feathered creatures in between. Immersing yourself in this fascinating world is a rich and rewarding wildlife experience.

If you are travelling with a bird list, we’ll tailor your experience to give you the best chance of ticking it off. Let us know before you travel that you’re especially interested in birds and we’ll match you up with a nationally recognised birding Guide from our expert team and make sure we’ve got a copy of your sightings list.

We put together something ideal for amateur and professional birders alike. We’ll curate the experience according to your level of interest and take things as slowly as necessary to locate and check-off the specials of the area.

Flying out of Royal Malewane in a helicopter means every flight begins and ends with a view of the Greater Kruger wilderness below, and the time in between is a breath-taking show of mountains, canyons and plunging waterfalls. It’s a unique way to gain a fresh and thrilling perspective on the diverse landscapes that make up the wonderful mosaic that is South Africa.

Timed to fit between your morning and afternoon game drives at Royal Malewane, this aerial round-trip offers spectacular views of the world’s most impressive green canyon. The flight takes you over a remarkable diversity of landscapes.

This exclusive excursion combines the serene beauty of a helicopter scenic flight with the adrenaline thrill of the Graskop Gorge Lift. From the Royal Malewane Airstrip, you’ll fly directly to Graskop airstrip, from where you’ll connect with a vehicle transfer to the unique Graskop Gorge Glass Lift. Descending 51 metres down the cliff face lets you gain a greater appreciation for the scale and majesty of the canyon. This is where natural beauty and engineering excellence come together to create an experience you’ll never forget.

Once you reach the bottom of the gorge, you can explore the indigenous forest as you stroll along the raised boardwalk as part of a self-guided journey through a wondrous ecosystem featuring birds, butterflies and ancient, gnarled trees. Suspension bridges over streams lead you to the iconic Panorama Waterfall, before you make your way back to the lift for the ascent and return flight.

Introducing children to nature at an early age encourages a lifetime of discovery and wonder at the Earth’s great and small creatures. It is the start of a connection with our wildlife that deepens youngsters’ perspectives and builds curiosity that will lead them into the future.

The bushveld is a wonderful blend of playground and classroom, and our Guides particularly enjoy introducing children and teenagers to the wonders of Nature. With a full programme of activities for kids of all ages, and optional extra child-minding services, there are also opportunities for parents to enjoy some alone time in complete peace of mind.

Our Guides are some of the most qualified in Africa. More than that, they’re passionate about creating exciting, stimulating family safari experiences in the bushveld, and back at the lodge.

Royal Malewane is a place where every moment is quality time, and families are always welcome.

The team at Royal Malewane is skilled at putting together your African-inspired celebration - whether it's a marriage proposal, a safari-style wedding, a milestone anniversary or a special birthday. Let us know your dream of the ultimate celebration in the bush, and leave the details to us.

A helicopter flight to the exclusive Leopard Creek Country Club will land you at one of South Africa’s premier courses designed by golfing legend, Gary Player.

Leopard Creek is considered one of the top 100 golf courses in the world. The manicured greens morph into the wild surroundings of the bushveld. Luxury leisure facilities, a spa, a restaurant, and celebrated sculptural art define this premier country club.

Far away from the city lights, our galaxy twinkles in the darkness, and our skilled Guides will take you on a journey to learn more about our stars and constellations. From the darkness of the bush, you’ll see every swirl and sparkle of the Milky Way as it shines through the night sky. Planets, satellites, pointer stars, navigational markers, and constellations that come with stories and superstitions as ancient as the landscape.

A star safari is about an after-dark adventure, so jump into the game viewer with your Guide and keep your eyes open for a chance to see some of the nocturnal animals you won’t see on safari during the day. Spend quiet moments out in the bush admiring the night sky overhead and listen to the calls and communications of an active African night in the Greater Kruger.

Our overall aim is to expose local children to the importance of ecotourism and inspire an environmentally sustainable future. Through sponsored school excursions into the reserve, the younger generation can start to form meaningful connections with wildlife, and see the value in protecting it.

At the core of conserving our wildlife and wild spaces is supporting the growth and development of environmental education in our neighbouring community. Through our Foundation, we are able to create meaningful change in the lives of the children of the Sigagule and Langutelani Crèches; and through game drive experiences, help pupils and teachers of the local Sihlekisi Primary School discover the wonders of the wild.

Our guests have the opportunity to join us on a visit to these schools located in a village nearby and to see first-hand how these support networks function.

Perfect your swing at one of Cape Town’s most renowned golf courses and create memories to last a lifetime. As part of your stay, treat yourself to an extraordinary day of golf at De Zalze Golf Course. Set in the heart of the Cape winelands, this world-class course combines breathtaking scenery with expertly designed fairways and greens, offering an outing that blends sport, relaxation, and natural beauty.

Whether you are an avid golfer or simply seeking a serene outdoor escape, this renowned course promises a memorable outing. Marvel at the sweeping vineyard vistas, expertly designed fairways, and immaculate greens that make De Zalze a favourite among golf enthusiasts.

Our team is here to make your day seamless. From reserving tee times tailored to your schedule to arranging transport and special requests, we will handle all the details. Speak to our concierge team to begin planning your ultimate golf outing in Cape Town.

Golfing in Cape Town Credit: Mehmet Erzincan

Golfing in Cape Town Credit: Mehmet Erzincan

Nourished by nature. Enabling genuine connection to self, others and nature through the essence of the Cape.

Uniquely situated in the heart of the city, our serene and exclusive Fairmont spa and gym spaces exude an intimate atmosphere akin to a private retreat.

Embrace the natural beauty of South Africa’s coastal treasures, majestic mountain ranges and grand floral kingdom at our spa, where the soothing whispers of the sea and the enchanting aroma of fynbos create an unforgettable sanctuary of tranquility.

Fairmont Spa Credit: Fevzi Ondu

Fairmont Spa Credit: Fevzi Ondu

Fairmont Spa Credit: Fevzi Ondu

Cries of the Atlantic seagulls, roar of seals and the rhythmic clink of yacht masts with the air imbued with a welcoming sea breeze. Embark on the sensory voyage that is Cape Grace’s afternoon tea overlooking the picturesque V&A Waterfront yacht marina and with the majestic Table Mountain as your backdrop, Cape Grace’s afternoon tea, curated by our renowned pastry team, promises an experience of unparalleled sophistication and charm.

Afternoon Tea Hours:
Thursday to Sunday
Bookings at either 14h30, 15h00 or 15h30

R550 per person.
R650 per person including a glass of Cap Classique.

Afternoon Tea Credit: Candice Bodington

Afternoon Tea Credit: Candice Bodington

Afternoon Tea Credit: Candice Bodington

Afternoon Tea Credit: Candice Bodington

Embark on a captivating journey into the rich history of whiskey and delve into the intricate art of distilling, maturing, and blending this timeless spirit. Guests can select from two immersive experiences: an expertly guided tutored tasting or a more flexible, refined self-guided exploration.

Tutored tastings are offered daily from 12h00 to 16h00 providing ample time to savour and appreciate the nuances of each whiskey. For those opting for the tutored tastings, there are two tiers available:

•Standard Tutored Tasting: A guided introduction to whiskey appreciation.

•Premium Tutored Tasting: A more elevated journey, complemented by expertly curated pairings to enhance the tasting experience.

Credit: Claire Gunn

Credit: Claire Gunn

Credit: Claire Gunn

Credit: Claire Gunn

Discover Cape Town in a whole new way with Cape Grace’s exclusive RE:CYCLE bicycles by Vélosophy, crafted from recycled Nespresso capsules. This unique offering combines sustainability, design, and adventure, inviting guests to explore the city’s vibrant landscapes on two wheels. As the first hotel in South Africa to offer this innovative experience, Cape Grace invites guests to enjoy an eco-conscious way to discover the beauty of the Mother City. With names like Grace, Two Oceans, Mermaid, and Breeze, each of the 10 bicycles adds a touch of personality to your journey.

Credit: Candice Bodington