South Africa Cape Town/Garden Route/KZN and Safari

We offer a range of spa treatments and services. The property has a sauna and a steam room. Spa treatments are conducted by professional therapists on our private pool deck or in the privacy of your suite.

Traditional South African Braai (BBQ)

Dinner is served family style in the garden overlooking the ocean at sunset.

Ostrich Fillet, Free Range Beef Steak, Boerewors (South African Sausage), Cape Fish
Selection of Local Salads, Traditional Accompaniments and Homemade Garlic Bread
Desert: Traditional South African Malva Pudding, crème anglaise

Garden dinners are unique to 21 Nettleton and are served in our expansive garden overlooking the ocean. Dinner is set-up with candles and lanterns in a private section of the garden close to the pool.

From our two flagship estate restaurants, to the restaurants in our wine valley and into the towns of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, this is a culinary hotspot in South Africa, with a host of some of the country's finest restaurants and local favourites to discover.

On property restaurants:
Delaire Graff Restaurant (lunch and dinner)
Hōseki Restaurant (breakfast - included for lodge guests, lunch and dinner)

There are more than 160 wine estate to explore in the regions surrounding Delaire Graff Estate. From casual to elegant, modern to old and everything in between - discover wines to suit every palate during your time exploring the vineyards of the Cape.

Delaire Graff Wine Lounge offer an exceptional array of wines to savour during wine tastings, by the glass or by the bottle, as well as platters to enjoy.

Your journey to total relaxation and wellbeing begins at Delaire Graff Spa. Set in its own unique surroundings, we have five elegant Spa suites for guests to experience an altogether more rarefied calm, where skin perfection and treatments leave the body and mind glowing.

With treatments available for all ages, we craft our Spa experiences using the finest beauty products from Swiss Perfection, Aromatherapy Associates and Terres d’Afrique.

Delaire Graff Estate is home to the curated personal collection of Laurence Graff and includes exceptional pieces such as Tretchikoff's Chinese Girl, works by Lionel Smit, Dylan Lewis, William Kentridge, Cecil Skotnes, Deborah Bell and other important African artists. Wander through the Estate and enjoy the sculptures throughout the gardens as well as adorned interiors. This is a haven for art lovers.

In the areas around the estate, discover SMAC (Stellenbosch Modern and Contemporary Gallery), Dylan Lewis at the Oude Bank, Rupert Museum or a private visit to Lionel Smit’s Studio.

Delaire Graff Estate is home to four flagship stores in Africa; Graff Diamonds, 100% Capri Linen and Africa Nova.

Designed in the style of an intimate salon, Emperor marble and Indian rosewood welcomes guests into our exclusive Graff store. The ultimate indulgence for any visitor to the Cape Winelands, enticing collection pieces and iconic stones are on display, each handmade in London by Graff’s Master Craftsmen.

One of the world’s most exclusive boutiques, 100% Capri offers a luxury clothing and homeware range that evokes the essence of la dolce vita. Uniquely available in Africa at Delaire Graff Estate, the range is inspired by the stunning southern Italian island of Capri, where sun-drenched days are spent in covetable white linen.

Africa Nova offers a unique blend of art, craft and contemporary design. Best described as “New African” expect an urban, edgy and vibrant offering with echoes of the traditional forms of old Africa

Visit the heart of Stellenbosch and discover Southern Africa’s most scenically attractive and historically preserved town. Enjoy bespoke boutiques including the Deon Viljoen Gallery, Dorp Street Gallery and Quagga Books

Visit the neighbouring town (20 minutes’ drive) which known for its picturesque beauty, fine Cape wines, boutiques, galleries, Saturday market, hikes and trails as well as their exceptional restaurants.

There are a number of superb golf courses in the area, including the Erinval Golf Club, Pearl Valley Golf Estate and De Zalze Golf Club.

For horse lovers, we will happily can organise a memorable day riding in the Cape Winelands for all skill levels. For those who prefer to appreciate horses from the ground, the polo fields at Val de Vie are a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.

A special opportunity to experience 100 years of motoring history with its unique collection of vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles and memorabilia on the L'Ormarins Wine Estate.

Famous for whale watching, beaches and nature, as well as its food and wine, Hermanus really is a destination that ticks all the boxes: its palpable history, thriving art scene, boutique shopping and busy programme of festivals, concerts and events.

The Marine has been a part of Hermanus’ history almost from the very beginning. The hotel was first built in 1902, with a modest 21 rooms. In its fledging years, Hermanus was a fishing village, and this heritage is still very much in evidence. Spend a day uncovering the history of this beautiful coastal town. Museums are all within easy walking distance of The Marine, so you can explore the town on foot at the same time.

The Old Harbour Museum is situated in the Old Harbour, at the centre of the town. There, you’ll discover exhibits depicting the history of the fishing and whaling industry in the area, among many other fascinating displays. In the Whale Museum there is a daily audiovisual presentation called The Whale Show, where you can go “below the surface” and enjoy an encounter with southern right whales. Then go on a journey into the town’s past through a collection of sepia photographs portraying Hermanus from the time it was a quaint fishing village, at De Wet’s Photo Museum.

Hermanus also has a wealth of contemporary art galleries, and some must-visits include Abalone Art Gallery, Walker Bay Art Gallery, Rossouw Modern Art Gallery, Old Harbour Gallery and Lembu Studio and Gallery.

To see unique pieces by acclaimed African ceramists Ardmore, guests and locals alike can visit The Marine’s boutique to view some selected artworks.

For written masterpieces, Hemingway’s Bookshop in the centre of town is a treasure trove for bibliophiles, and specialises in Africana, antiquarian, collectables, and any unusual and often out-of-print books.

There are many events and festivals throughout the year. Some highlights are the Hermanus Fynarts Festival, the Fernkloof Wildflower & Eco Fair and the famous Two Oceans Hermanus Whale Festival, which is held in celebration of our annual marine visitors, the southern right whales.

The whales stay for approximately six months of the year, and guests can enjoy the sight of them frolicking in Walker Bay from the comfort of their own suites, as well as along the cliff paths that meander in front of The Marine.

This special time can be enjoyed in a number of other ways, too, from boat-based tours to guided walks. For an interactive experience, visitors should try Dave de Beer’s Whale Walk Tours, which encompass beautiful vantage points for whale watching, as well as insights about these marine creatures.

The Overberg is an area of natural contrasts, from the deep green apple orchards of Elgin to the sweeping canola fields of Caledon, and the rugged mountainous coast of Hermanus, where marine life flourishes. The natural surroundings are at once diverse and awe-inspiring – and lovers of the outdoors are spoilt for choice with activities.

Hermanus is synonymous with land-based whale watching, and guests of The Marine can enjoy this pastime from the comfort of their own suites, or on a cliff walk in front of the hotel. Feeling a bit more adventurous? Then take to the seas, with kayaking or boat tours that will take you right up close to the southern right whales. Or get a bird’s-eye view of the gentle giants with a scenic flight over Walker Bay.

The southern right whale makes up part of the Marine Big 5! The rich waters of Walker Bay teem with marine life, and a visit to The Marine means you can tick off the Big 5 during your stay. Spy dolphins and seals frolicking in the water, go cage-diving to see great white sharks, and see the African penguin in its natural habitat with a tour at Stony Point.

Additionally, just below The Marine is Hermanus’ iconic marine tidal pool. To access the seawater pool, simply walk down from the cliff path onto steps leading directly to it. Offering fresh, bracing ocean water packed with micronutrients, as well as mesmerising views, it’s an experience the whole family can enjoy.

The beaches of Hermanus are white-sand playgrounds for avid swimmers, surfers and sunbathers. There are a variety of inlets and coves, as well as secluded beaches against coastal cliffs; a must-visit is Grotto Beach, which has Blue Flag status.

There are also trails for horse riding on certain beaches, as well as within the area’s vineyards and orchards.

No trip to Hermanus is complete without a visit to Fernkloof Nature Reserve, unique in that it is the only such reserve with both coastal and mountain fynbos, and has the most species in close proximity. Botanists and flower enthusiasts travel from far and wide to experience the magic of this place, and locals delight in the diverse beauty of their “backyard”. Fernkloof is also popular with picnickers and hikers.

Do you relish the opportunity to practise your swing while on holiday? Hermanus has an easily accessible golf course, in the most scenic of settings, and there are other courses in the region to explore. The Overberg region is a birder’s paradise, too, offering twitchers the opportunity to identify endemic bird species in fynbos, coastal and wheat field habitats.

Enjoy a once in a life time encounter with the peaceful giants of the sea, the Southern Right whale, by joining us on a fun filled whale watching cruise in Hermanus, South Africa, that will fill you with awe. July to December, daily at 9am, 12pm or 3pm, weather dependent. Mid December to mid January, we run a daily sun-downer cruise at 6pm.

Our beloved Southern Right Whale. Watching these beautiful creatures in Hermanus, South Africa, is an absolute delight. The total population numbers of the southern right whale are thought to be around ten thousand individuals. By studying populations found in South Africa, South American, and Australian waters, it has been found that these populations do not interbreed often. This is due to a mother’s choice to remain loyal to past breeding areas, and young females are able to choose this loyalty when they are able to breed.

Explore the magic of our unique coastline with its abundant marine life up close and personal, on one of our stable kayaks in the company of an experienced guide. Glide across sparkling Hermanus water in a sea kayak while enjoying a view of the majestic mountain, sea cliffs and marine life.

Before your Hermanus kayaking trip, you will have a short enjoyable briefing on sea kayaking techniques and safety, whereafter we paddle from the historical Hermanus Old Harbour and do a 90 minute round trip. The direction of your Hermanus Kayaking trip, dependant on winds, swells and paddling abilities. A knowledgeable guide shall open up the wonders of the Hermanus ocean to you, as we explore the beautiful natural surroundings.

Our ecologically friendly operators strive to have as little impact on the environment, in which we operate our Hermanus Kayaking tours, as possible. With minimal noise pollution and no environmental pollution they also do regular clean ups of any rubbish found in the Bay. Don't worry, that's not what you will do.

Perception Tribe sea kayaks that are manufactured in the UK are used that and are sit on top self-bailing, plastic sea kayaks. In short this means that anyone, whether they have been sea kayaking before or not, can hop on and stay on.

The guides are qualified in marine guiding and first aid at sea, but more importantly they love this job and hold great knowledge of the sea.

As we give you an adventure from the skies hanging over the African plains. African Wings flying safaris is the brainchild of brothers Evan and Dave Austin.
We know how challenging it can be for some to take the time off from their lives to experience the wonders of the bush that's why we have a variety of one-day trips. From the migrating herds of Antelope to the giant whales of the open sea, all can be experienced through African Wings.

We cater for all tastes. Our flights include breakfast, lunch and a game drive where you might be lucky enough to see the big five and other wild animals that roam these lands.

Before each safari, you will be advised on the relevant matters regarding health, local conditions, clothing requirements or discuss any special requirements you or your group may have.

Enjoy looking through our website and please contact us if you would like to receive more information.

The Blue Flag Grotto Beach is well known for its massive stretch of stunning sandy beach and ocean. It is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike and boasts a view of the mountainous areas behind whilst still having a seemingly unending view of the beach. This beach is perfect for swimming, suntanning, games and long, leisurely walks and with ample parking it is the ideal holiday point for many.

The beach itself stretches for almost 18 km, making the walk an exercise but an enjoyable one. The beach starts at Grotto's Blue Flag beach and ends at the seaside hamlet of De Kelders. Also, because of the massive expanse of beach, during peak seasons there is no fear of being trodden on, having sand kicked onto you from a passing crowd or being hit by a volleyball from one of the many games played there. The waves on Grotto Beach are great for the avid body boarder and the waters warm during the Summer months and, again, there is plenty of space for all of the holiday goers. There is also a park for children to busy themselves on, which is situated on the beach, near the parking lot. It is as relaxing as it is beautiful and definitely deserves its Blue Flag status.

Also, for those who own pets, the beach is dog friendly, as long as the dogs are on leads and any and all waste matter is picked up by the owner.

The beach can be reached by driving through Hermanus and turning off onto the demarcated road to your right. You will also find a fantastic little restaurant at Grotto that offers drinks, snacks and meals for the passers by or the evening relaxers. Lifeguards are constantly on site during peak seasons and numerous educational and charity events happen during season. These include Coastcare Working, environmental education for the viewers, coastal monitoring by schools and the Adopt-a-beach initiative.

The horse trails in and around the area offer beautiful and scenic trails that give riders a chance to experience the Overberg on horseback. Most of the service providers have horses for all riding levels – from novice to experienced – insuring that the experience is enjoyable for everyone involved. There is also a quick safety briefing and overview of horse riding so that riders know how to handle climbs, rough terrain descents.

The trails can take riders through mountain passes, vineyards and orchards, ending with a picnic beside a waterfall, or there are several coastal trails that trek along perfect sandy shores with the Kleinrivier Mountains as a backdrop during the trip.

For the less experienced riders (and younger children) there are shorter rides that encompass beautiful landscapes but have very easy-to-navigate trails.

Hermanus, on the Cape South Coast, is a charming fishing village famous for the whales that come here annually to calve.

With its unparalleled scenic beauty, modern infrastructure, upmarket shops and endless adventure options, it’s little wonder that Hermanus has grown in size and popularity during the last decade.

Visitors from near and far flock to the town to enjoy its many charms while local residents and homeowners savour the privilege of living in this unique region.

It is extremely popular with Capetonians as a weekend getaway and during the Christmas and Easter holidays the resident population swells dramatically.

Due to this influx, the Hermanus Golf Club has always experienced heavy traffic at certain times of the year. Despite this, the club, blessed with a dedicated and professional management has over many years deservedly gained a reputation for excellent year round standards.

Visitors to Hermanus are truly spoilt for choice when it comes to boating and river cruises. Boat based whale watching trips take place during the whale season months of June to December; however this may vary depending on the arrival of the whales.

Whale watching boat trips depart from the New Harbour in Hermanus and 3 boat trips per day are usually available. The duration of these trips are approximately 2 hours long, however the exact departure times need to be confirmed with the various operators when booking.

Other marine life that may be encountered en route include seals, penguins, marine birds, Southern Right whales, sometimes Bryde's whales, dolphins and Humpback whales at certain times of the year. Licensed operators and permit holders are only permitted to approach the whales up to 50m allowing the whales the freedom to move. They are naturally curious and often approach the whale boats to take a closer look. Pre-booking is recommended and all boat trips are weather permitting. Bay Cruises and Sundowner cruises are also available at certain times of the year.

For those who love penguins, the breeding grounds of the African (or Jackass) Penguins at Stony Point is the perfect place to watch these adorable and somewhat comical birds in their natural habitat. The wooden walkway winds its way around the edge of the breeding area, giving visitors a view of the rocky outcrops and swimming penguins on one side and the shrubbery and nests on the other. The best time to view the penguins is either early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when they’re returning from their long fishing expeditions.

This area is one of only two shore-based breeding colonies in the country, with the other being at the Boulders Beach near Simonstown. Along the coast at Stony Point, visitors will also be able to watch the endangered Whitebreasted, Black and Cape Cormorants that have made this area their home. They are known to nest along the rocks, leaving the land to the penguins.

Although the breeding colony is now fenced off it can still be visited daily from 09h00 in the morning until 17h00 in the afternoon.

The Harold Porter Botanical Gardens offers you 200ha of the finely bushed plants endemic to this area, known as fynbos, 190ha growing naturally and the rest cultivated.

These botanical gardens, located near Hermanus, lie within the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, South Africa's first UNESCO-proclaimed biosphere reserve.

The vivid Disa uniflora is one of many rare plants featured in these gardens, and to experience it when it is in bloom, make sure you visit the gardens between December and January. You should also not miss South Africa's national flower, the King protea, which blooms in spring.

There are over 100 species of birds to be spotted in these botanical gardens, including colourful sunbirds, rare Protea seedeaters, Verreaux's eagles and Jackal buzzards. Also look out for the resident mongooses, baboons, genets and porcupines.

Venture along the many natural trails that snake across the gardens for beautiful displays of Cape fynbos, and enjoy the experience against the backdrop of the area's majestic mountains.

Listen to the grunting calls of baboons and watch them play, jumping from tree to tree and basking in this pristine natural setting. Summertime will welcome you with open-air concerts at sunset, so make sure you join in the celebrations.

Don't forget to visit the garden's small but excellent art gallery and then wrap up your visit with a meal at the restaurant or stretch out on the lush grass for a picnic.

Old Harbour Museum
The Museum in the Old Harbour contains several exhibits depicting the history of the fishing and whaling industry in the area. Talks by local experts on the inter-tidal zone are held on request and provide fascinating information about the mysteries that abound the shore line. The museum’s staff update the history of Hermanus on an ongoing basis so anyone researching information on historical buildings or old local families, has easy access to it. Funds for the museum are always needed and anyone who wishes to donate will automatically become a friend of the Old Harbour Museum. The telescope next to the war memorial cannons above the Old Harbour was donated to the town by the Rotary Club and a few coins can buy time to watch the whales frolicking in the middle of the bay. Many guided tours and walks start from this spot.

Whale Museum
Daily at 10:00 and 15:00 an audio-visual presentation is given at the Whale Museum, where one is taken below the surface to a face-to-face encounter with the visiting Southern Right whales.

De Wet’s Photo Museum
This picturesque and historic cottage was once the school house situated near the Dutch Reformed church in Westcliff. It was dismantled brick by numbered brick and painstakingly re-erected on Lemm’s Corner in 1986. The sepia coloured photographic exhibition it houses takes one on a journey through time to when Hermanus was a quaint fishing village.

Hermanus Story Walk
Guided walking tours can be take through the once quaint village where the history of Hermanus unfolds itself as one discovers the fresh water spring which was named after the shepherd, Hermanus Pieters, where Hermanus originally got its name, Hermanuspietersfontein, to the Old Harbour, the Burgundy Restaurant (our only registered national monument) to the old school house and fishermen’s cottages on the seafront among many other interesting buildings.

Local galleries are filled with local art and some artists display their work at local flea and craft markets. The area does not only abound with painters, but also with writers, ceramicists, architects, sculptors and glass blowers. Hermanus also has an active Art Society.

Amble through the art galleries in Hermanus and view Oil paintings, prints, water colours, wooden sculptures and much more with well-known artists such as Hennie Niemann, Shelley-Adams, Terry Kobus to mention but a few.

Dust off the binoculars and enjoy the natural birdlife from Bird Hide on Klein River Lagoon further bird watching can also be done on Onrus Salt Pan.

Birdwatching is a popular activity in all areas of South Africa and birdwatching tours are offered in most areas. Enjoy Birding in and around Hermanus.

If you’re a foodie looking for something a little ‘out of the ordinary’, need a unique event menu, or are keen to impress somebody special - then don’t miss the opportunity to take a front row seat with Executive Chef Kevin Joseph and his ace Team, for an extraordinary dining experience at The Chef’s Table in The Kitchen at The Oyster Box.

Your evening begins in the elegant Oyster Bar with pre-dinner drinks and live music from our resident musician, before being taken ‘behind the scenes’ where your culinary journey begins, with a tour of the working kitchen and your amuse bouche of Champagne and Canapes.

As the drama of this busy kitchen in ‘full service’ mode unfolds, watch as the Chefs prepare a delicious 5-course paired menu before your eyes. The Chef’s Table is available for groups of between six and 10 guests, from from Monday to Sunday for Dinner only.

Direct beach access to a swimming beach

Children between the ages of four and 12 years, have access to the supervised Holiday Club during their stay. .

Other vacation activities include story-telling, face painting, art and craft activities, pizza-making and movie screenings. Special programmes are offered during peak periods such as school holidays, Easter, Christmas and New Year.

The Holiday Club is open daily from 10h00 to 19h00

For a more intimate dining experience, the Wine Cellar, with its glass ceiling, is sunken just below the Oyster Bar and is unique for dinner parties, corporate functions, tastings or special events and offers a Chef’s Table for up to 10 guests.

Bespoke menus are created for every occasion and the resident Sommelier will present a selection of wines from the Diners Club Diamond award-winning wine list, which boasts the finest selection of South African and international vintages.

An intimate, 24-seater cinema/screening room is available to hotel guests. Each month a new schedule is set, running a new movie five times a day (10h00, 14h00, 18h00, 20h00 and 22h00).

24 hour access

We are dedicated to restoring beauty and balance through individual treatments and spa journeys, personalised for each of our guests by exceptionally skilled therapists. Our commitment to wellbeing focuses on holistic principles, combining ancient wisdom and modern expertise.

The Spa at The Oyster Box uses a variety of internationally-recognised treatment products as well as its own exclusive, signature range of all natural, body-care products and professional spa treatments B|Africa. This deluxe range combines indigenous African plant extracts and the natural goodness of West Coast Atlantic sea-salts.

B| Africa uses sustainable harvesting practices on renewable indigenous species, such as oil from the baobab tree, marula oil, avocado butter, honey, rooibos, Mongongo nut and Ximenia kernel oil. In addition, the range includes carefully-crafted B|Africa Spa treatment packages.

Our state of the art, 24 hour complimentary Business Centre, located on the first floor adjacent to the cinema, is available to all hotel guests. There are two desks, each with a computer, printer and a refreshment station offering thoughtful details such as dried fruit and mineral water, as well as tea and coffee on request. The Business Centre offers complimentary internet and the entire hotel has complimentary wireless Internet if you prefer to work from your room. The Business Centre also has a fax, black and white photocopier and secretarial services as available on request. Shipping and packaging, laminating and binding can be arranged directly with our concierge deck at an additional cost.

Clock Library

Stories of the Anglo-Zulu war have endured and enchanted for almost a century and a half. The famous battles of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift have captured the interests and imaginations of countless people for generations, as they did in Victorian Britain.

The epic of Isandlwana was a battle which shook imperial Britain to its core and questioned the illusion of European superiority. How did a force, armed largely with spears and shields, overcome a modern British army?

The tour departs after breakfast, at 7:30. On the way to Isandlwana, guests listen to a tape narrated by David Rattray which gives a background to the Anglo-Zulu War. There is a stop at 9:00 for a comfort break and to view the museum at Isandlwana. The lecture on the battlefield begins at 9:45 and end at around 11:30, when refreshments are served. Another tape, this time describing the story of the survivors and events after the battle of Isandlwana, is played en route back to the Lodge or Guest House, returning for lunch at 13:00.

The stories of the Anglo-Zulu war have endured for almost a century and a half. The battle of Rorke’s Drift is one of the most famous battles in the English-speaking world and was later the subject of the 1964 Hollywood blockbuster, Zulu.

A brave little band of British soldiers, many sick and disabled, held out all night against an overwhelming Zulu force. Douglas Rattray’s emotionally charged talk covers the battle at Rorke’s Drift through the experiences of the individual soldiers who, through great acts of selflessness and bravery, managed to hold out in the face of such dire odds.

Eleven Victoria Crosses and five Distinguished Conduct Medals were awarded for actions at Rorke’s Drift, restoring British military honour and securing its reputation as one of the most remarkable stands in British military history.

The tour to Rorke's Drift departs at 15:00. Guests have time to look through the museum at Rorke’s Drift before the lecture begins at 16:00. There is very little walking involved. The lecture concludes a just before 18:00 and guests are then given the opportunity to look around the memorials and graveyard before returning to the Lodge and Guest House.

In 1879, the British invaded Zululand. The central of the three major invading columns forded the Buffalo River at Rorke’s Drift. Within days, Lord Chelmsford’s invasion was in jeopardy. Part of his central column had been almost annihilated at Isandlwana, in a battle rated as one of the greatest military disasters in British colonial history. A few survivors struggled back into Natal, crossing the mighty Buffalo River at the Fugitives’ Drift.

A few hundred yards from our lodge, two officers died in a heroic attempt to save the Queen’s Colour of their regiment, and became the first men in history to earn posthumous Victoria Crosses. We are privileged to have these brave men, Lieutenants Melvill and Coghill, buried where they fell on our property.

Join one of our complimentary daily guided walks down to the graves of Melvill and Coghill. The graves walk takes approximately one hour and includes 3km of stunning views across the Buffalo River and, often, encounters with wildlife. It is a relatively easy walk, but does involve a short climb.

Fugitives’ Drift is renowned for delivering awe-inspiring battlefield tours that bring the battles of Rorke’s Drift and Isandlwana to life. This experience gives a deep and tangible insight into some of the most moving of South Africa’s battlefields. Fugitives’ Drift is expanding on these experiences
with the addition of dedicated tours for children under 12 years of age.

While our world-renowned tours set off with the parents, shorter, more interactive tours on the property, led by a guide, will engage and inspire their children with stories of the bravery and courage of the British soldiers and Zulu warriors. These tours will be followed by a game walk and a more cultural encounter, which can be tailored to suit the individual needs or ages of the children.

Fugitives' Drift has an ever-expanding network of single track ranging from flat to steep, technical and not-so-technical. We have lots of Jeep track (two track).

Enjoy breath-taking views, and viewing the array of plains game that live on the reserve - such as giraffe, zebra, blesbok, kudu, wildebeest, impala, and more.

You do need to bring your own bicycle and helmet if this is an activity that you are interested in.

Fugitives Drift Lodge and Guest House are nestled amid the green slopes of the 2500-hectare Fugitives Drift Nature Reserve. The reserve is home to an abundance of indigenous flora and fauna species, including zebra, giraffe, different kind of antelope and approximately 300 species of bird.

These walking trails can be enjoyed at your leisure, either with or without one of our trained field guides.

Our informative guides are certified with the Field Guide Association of South Africa and have an extensive knowledge of all aspects of our African bushveld. The guided tours take guests along scenic walking trails through the reserve surrounds, while focusing attention on the vegetation, spoor, game (large and small!), birds, insects, medicinal properties and other fascinating facts.

Guests can experience the diversity of our reserve safely on foot as a relaxed and informative activity – the duration and distance of the walks can be tailored to suit guest’s individual walking preference, but generally last for 2 hours, covering 2 or 3 km.

For those keen on fly fishing, our game reserve is bordered by the Buffalo River Gorge and provides a fantastic fishing spot. Spend a morning in spectacular and tranquil surroundings, fishing for Natal Yellow Fish

Natal Yellowfish, also affectionately known as Scaly (Yellowfish), are a freshwater fish endemic to eastern South Africa, and KZN in particular. They can grow up to 65cm in length and weigh up to 4.5kg. The are an incredibly strong fighting fish, and readily take a well drifted fly.

Kindly note that you will need to bring your own equipment. Fishing in the Buffalo River is also season dependent and can only be done between May and October (with the best time being June – September).

Please also note that all fishing is strictly catch-and-release.

Another exciting excursion is to Blood River. This is where a battle was fought between the Boers and the Zulus on the 16th December (now a public holiday in South Africa), 1838. This trip is well worth the drive: 64 life-sized solid bronze wagons now sit on the site of the battle and are quite remarkable.

This facility is a delightful place to have lunch or while away a couple of hours taking in the view.
It is also an ideal venue for a party.

For Conference Use - Includes a mid-morning tea-break, bottled water & mints. Lunch and afternoon tea is included in the overnight rate. Screen & Projector for use. Rate is charged per day.

Africa has been called the greatest show on earth, and Lion Sands presents a safari that plays out like a highlights reel. Our reserve conserves 5 000ha (12 500ac) of a habitat that is home to the highest and most diverse concentration of wildlife in the southern hemisphere. You will see all of Africa’s iconic species – lion leopard, rhino, elephant, buffalo, giraffe, hippo, and zebra – along with a supporting cast of no less intriguing 137 mammal species and over 450 varieties of bird. Our safaris present an adventure that is wild, and then some!

Being entirely private, Lion Sands offers you an intimate safari experience. With only six guests to a game viewer and exclusive traversing on our reserve, you’ll have minimal encounters with other people. Though compelling sightings do attract more attention, the number of vehicles here is also limited. This ensures the animals aren’t put under stress and you are able to spend more time with them, observing their natural behaviour. While you are out exploring, you will by no means be roughing it. Your game viewer has cushioned bucket seats, waterproof device holders, blankets and ponchos – and stops off in a scenic spot for drinks and snacks.

Game Drive Credit: Lion Sands Private Game Reserve

Game Drives Credit: Lion Sands Private Game Reserve

Game Drives Credit: Lion Sands Private Game Reserve

Game Drive Credit: Lion Sands Private Game Reserve

Game Drives Credit: Lion Sands Private Game Reserve

These are our after-breakfast walks on the wild side. For those who wish to experience the bush, not just observe it, there is no better guided excursion. You are dropped in the thick of things and all five senses engage… Feel the scrub crunch beneath your feet, touch a velvety acacia seed pod, hear the crack of a branch indicating you are not alone, and spot the game appear just metres off – exhilarating! This is also a wonderful opportunity to encounter the smaller creatures, often missed on safari vehicles, and to discover more about the reserve’s plants – many with fascinating medicinal properties and traditional uses.

The African landscape stretches as far as the eye can see at Lion Sands, and we knew we had to find a special place to capture and enjoy its vastness and splendour. Guy Aubrey Chalkley once set up camp in a majestic centuries old Leadwood Tree to escape predators roaming the plains below.

We decided that this would be the ideal place to build the ultimate bush bedroom, the Chalkley Treehouse. The treehouse is a secure and lavish platform under the African stars, with all the comforts that a guest can experience at a five star safari lodge.

We take our guests to the tree house at sunset, where drinks and a scrumptious picnic dinner await them.The hours of African dusk can be enjoyed relaxing and absorbing the vastness of the bushveld as it transforms from day to night, before turning in for slumber beneath the incredible night sky.

Make your way through rows of magnificent white boulders and across a small drawbridge, and you will find Africa opening up in front if you. Set amid the pure and untouched wild, you will be surrounded by African bush and uninhibited wildlife at its best.

The Kingston Treehouse is constructed entirely from wood and glass, with contemporary décor in understated hues of greys, white, black and purple. No matter what the weather has in store, you will have a safe and luxurious setting with a unique window to enjoy the ever-changing views. In fact, we defy you to find two identical African sunsets.

The 60m2 Treehouse is situated about 5 minutes from the main lodge, and you will have radio contact with the rangers, should you choose to. You will also find some cellphone reception; but don’t expect any wi-fi in the bush. Kingston is equipped with full bathroom and shower facilities, and Africology products to complete your sensory experience.

Enjoy a dinner of tapas or a full meal with Champagne, under the splendor of an African starlit sky.

From boma feasts to safari refreshment stops, dining promises to be a highlight – for all our guests, with any dietary requirement, including kosher, catered for. Our chefs transform local recipes into contemporary dishes, giving you a taste for Southern Africa. Paired with premium wines from the Cape, dining becomes an experience. Our wine tastings are also a favourite of connoisseurs and dabblers, alike.

In our experience, being well taken care of inspires a fundamental sense of well-being. And how better to indulge than with luxurious accommodation, wholesome food, and spa therapies? We favour Africology products, instilled with the belief that self-care brings balance. So with our massages, wraps and facials, we promise a wellness experience to rejuvenate your body, quiet your mind, and revitalise your spirit.

Lion Sands together with More Community Trust assists our local Huntington and Justicia B villages, and you can get involved, too. Take a community tour, the proceeds of which go to our development projects here, or roll up your sleeves to help out through our Get Your Hands Dirty initiatives.

These centre on education, infrastructure, health and environment, and you can choose the area best suited to your skills and interest. These are extraordinary social experiences that bring you to the heart of Southern Africa to make your own and others’ dreams come true.