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There are lodges that show you Africa. Jabulani shows you who you are in it.
Set within a Big Five private game reserve in the Greater Kruger region, one of the most ecologically rich wilderness areas in the world, Jabulani Safari is a Relais & Châteaux property shaped by a story as distinctive as its setting.
At the heart of Jabulani is its extraordinary herd of rescued elephants, a powerful symbol of resilience, care, and connection. Through respectful observation and the stories shared by their carers, guests gain rare insight into one of the region's most meaningful conservation journeys. An encounter that stays with you long after you leave.
Each stay is defined by space, privacy, and refined comfort. From the Superior Suites to Villa Somopane and the exclusive Villa Zindoga, all open onto private decks and plunge pools, inviting the outside in. Every moment unfolds at the rhythm of the wild.
As a Relais & Châteaux property, Jabulani brings the same care to its cuisine as it does to every element of your stay. Inclusive experiences through tailor-made itineraries, from game drives and walking safaris to birdwatching, time at the bush spa, and a one-of-a-kind all-inclusive dining experience.
A soulful safari, refined in luxury.
Superior Suites
Six ultra-luxurious, air-conditioned suites offer space, privacy, and refined comfort, each featuring an en-suite bathroom, private deck, and plunge pool. Thoughtful in-suite touches include a curated minibar and hot beverage facilities, complemented by attentive butler service.
Each stay is fully inclusive, with all meals, snacks, beverages, and a selection of local wines and spirits. Experiences unfold at a gentle pace, with daily game drives and meaningful elephant encounters forming part of your time at Jabulani.
Children are welcomed in the suites from the age of six when travelling with their parents.
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony , Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Ensuite, Fireplace, Foam Mattress, Fridge, Fridge/Freezer, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Heater, iPod/iPhone/USB Dock, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Lounge, Mid Ensuite With Separate Shower/Toilet, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Mosquito Netting, Plunge Pool, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Telephone, Vanity Cabinet
Villa Zindoga offers an exclusive-use retreat, thoughtfully designed for families and small groups, welcoming guests of all ages. Two private suites are connected by a shared lounge and dining space, creating a sense of togetherness while allowing for complete privacy. The suites are linked by an interleading door, offering flexibility and ease for families.
Each suite features a spacious bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, including an enclosed shower and separate toilet, as well as an expansive wooden deck and a private plunge pool. One of the suites includes a charming twin room with a separate bathroom, ideal for children sharing.
Designed with a sense of openness and refined simplicity, the villa is complemented by modern comforts, including wireless internet connectivity throughout for those who wish to remain connected.
Younger guests are invited to experience the JabuJunior Programme, thoughtfully created for safari-goers aged 6 to 12 years, offering engaging and enriching activities.
The villa is supported by a dedicated team, including a private guide and vehicle, as well as a chef and butler, ensuring a seamless and deeply personalised stay.
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony , Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Bunk Bed, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Ensuite, Fireplace, Foam Mattress, Fridge, Fridge/Freezer, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, iPod/iPhone/USB Dock, Kitchenette, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Lounge, Microwave, Mid Ensuite With Separate Shower/Toilet, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Mosquito Netting, Plunge Pool, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Table, Tea / Coffee, Telephone, Twin Bed, Vanity Cabinet
Villa Somopane is a private two-bedroom villa designed for families or two couples travelling together. Set within Jabulani’s private wilderness, it offers the space and comfort of a home in the bush, with all the thoughtful details of a Relais & Châteaux safari lodge.
The villa welcomes up to four guests and features two spacious en-suite bedrooms, separated by a generous living area. Each bedroom includes a king-size bed, with twin bedding available on request, air-conditioning, a freestanding bath, semi-outdoor shower, double vanity basins, luxury body products, a private toilet, fully stocked mini bar, Nespresso machine and tea and coffee station.
Days can be spent relaxing on the large wooden deck, cooling off in the private heated plunge pool, or heading out into the reserve with your private ranger and game vehicle. Villa Somopane is ideal for slow family moments, quiet time between friends, and shared safari memories.
Children over the age of six are welcome and are invited to enjoy our JabuJuniors Programme.
Property Facilities
Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Children Friendly, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Gym on property, Halaal, Internet Access (Complimentary), Kiddies Club, Kosher, Library, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa, TV Room, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, Fan, Fireplace, Heater, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Plunge Pool, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
24-hour Security, Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Meal on Request, Private Vehicle (Available), Room Service, Travel Desk
Activities on Site
Big 5, Bird Watching, Catch-and-release Fishing, Elephant Interaction, Fine Dining, Game Drives, Game Viewing Hide, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Helicopter Scenic Flights, High Tea, Massages, Night Drives, Safaris, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
Activities Nearby
Art Galleries, Big 5, Boat Cruises, Catch-and-release Fishing, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Elephant Interaction, Game Drives, Game Walks, General Sightseeing, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Hiking, Horse Riding, Hot Air Ballooning, Mountain Biking, Natural History Tours, Quad Biking, Safaris, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
MEET THE BULLS
Our remarkable history and journey with the Jabulani herd is shared by our team of passionate elephant carers, many who have walked side by side with the elephants for over twenty years. Take part in an intimate and educational talk hosted by our elephant carers and in the company of Jabulani, Sebakwe or Somopane, who are older bulls of the herd. It is an opportunity to understand elephants on a deeper level, both physically and emotionally, and to appreciate the importance of the conservation and protection of the elephant species.
ELEPHANT SWIM
During the hottest times of the day, the herd enjoys taking time out from foraging to swim in one of the dams on the reserve, providing an excellent opportunity to observe the elephants drink, play and relax in the water from the comfort of our shaded vehicle. The perfect way to see their unique personalities in play from a respectful distance.
SIGNATURE SUNDOWNERS
Enjoy our Jabulani Signature Sundowner experience as you relax with a refreshment and view the herd as they pass by on their way to their stables after a day out on the reserve.
The Kapama Game Reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife including elephant, buffalo, rhinoceros, and large populations of giraffe, impala, blue wildebeest and kudu. Predators include lion, leopard, cheetah, spotted hyena and many smaller species. Bird-watching is most rewarding and more than 350 bird species have been recorded, including the rare Gymnogeg and Knob-billed duck.
Guests join their ranger in his open safari vehicle for a game drive, and head out in search of The Big Five, and the smaller (but no less significant) creatures that are part of an African safari.
Jabulani Safari rangers are consummate professionals. Highly experienced in guiding, they are the perfect safari ambassadors while out in the African bush.
Safaris may be arranged at any time of the day. A word of warning though – the summer months are incredibly hot in the middle of the day! This time is best spent enjoying the cool respite of a private plunge pool, with a chilled refreshment in hand!
The intrepid walker will take pleasure in experiencing a guided walking safari. Heading into the bush with an armed ranger, guests can learn more about the many different facets of the bush. From tracking spoor (animal prints left in the ground), to touching and examining trees and plants, to sitting quietly and simply absorbing the many smells, sounds and sensations of Africa in its most primitive glory – this is a safari in its purest form.
The lucky may encounter animals in close proximity on the Kapama Game Reserve, although great care is taken to ensure safe and respectful distances are always observed from the larger and more dangerous animal species.
It is recommended that walking during summer months is restricted to early mornings before the heat of the day fully sets in.
Walkers need not be fitness fanatics, as the pace is set around the guest.
Childern from the age of 12 years are permitted to partake in the bush walk.
An on-site gym is available with experienced therapists that offer soothing massages in the outdoor spa or in the comfort of the suites.
A bush-gym is equipped with basic weights and exercise machinery for those who enjoy something a little more active.
With each itinerary fully customised for our guests, visitors can choose from a wide variety of activities at the lodge. Options include relaxing spa treatments at our Jabulani Bush Spa, a steam session in our sauna, and enjoying our outdoor gym facilities.
Enjoy intimate dinners with wine pairing are offered in The Wine Cellar in an effort to continuously enhance Jabulani’s bespoke guest experience. Only South African wines are featured, and guests have the opportunity of selecting their own wine for dinners.
Guests may also choose from the boutique for gifts back home (or for themselves!). Stocked with a variety of art pieces, jewellery, trinkets, crockery, clothing and more, those who enjoy retail therapy will find their happy place here.
Jabulani’s culinary experience is crafted with care, creativity and a deep sense of place. Guided by South African flavours and fresh, seasonal ingredients, each dish is thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented.
Menus change daily and are tailored to each guest’s preferences. Dietary requirements are catered for with ease, while Kosher and Halaal meals can be arranged with prior notice. Whether guests prefer lighter dishes, vegetarian options, or something simple and comforting, every meal is created with warmth and attention to detail.
The subtropical climate blesses the region with an abundance of fresh produce, while our herb garden brings added fragrance and flavour to the plate. Wherever possible, Jabulani supports initiatives that encourage local employment.
Freshly baked muffins, teatime treats and sundowner snacks are prepared daily, with many elements made by hand. Guests may also enjoy private cooking classes, learning the secrets behind homemade breads, sauces and ice creams.
A carefully chosen wine can transform a beautiful meal into something memorable. Dining at Jabulani is intimate, flexible and personal, whether indoors, beneath the stars, or beside the soft glow of lanterns and bonfires.
While Jabulani does not have a photographic studio on site, the lodge will gladly arrange for guests to have their special photo memories captured at the lodge and printed in town (at their own expense) to share with friends and family on their return.
Should you be an avid photographer and wish to hire equipment in advance for your safari experience, please advise the lodge 45 days prior to arrival so that we can arrange the necessary equipment (subject to availability) in town. Jabulani does not have a camera and photographic equipment available on site. There are 2 Toyota Landcruisers available to use that are fully equipped for photographic tours, and each seat has a camera rest that can rotate respectively
Please note that the guides can assist guests as they are passionate about nature and photography, but that they are not professionally trained photographers
Cost: POA
Duration: POA
HOT AIR BALLOONING
Experience the magic of a lighter-than-air Hot Air Balloon experience as you glide over the vast landscape of our private game reserve below.
Meet before sunrise and enjoy a piping-hot cup of coffee while you watch your eight-storey high hot air balloon inflate in preparation for a flight you won’t soon forget.
Watch the sunrise as you gently drift over the scenic terrain below stretching over part of the Blyde River, as well as nature reserves, wildlife estates and farmlands that all form part of the Greater Kruger region.
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Whilst game viewing cannot be guaranteed, it is common to see giraffe, wildebeest, zebra, nyala, impala, bushbuck, waterbuck, duiker and even warthog, from the air. The big five are more difficult to find, but there is always the possibility that they too will be spotted
Sparkling wine and fruit juice are served after the flight that is approximately one hour long.
Passengers don’t have to be physically fit but must be able to stand in the basket for at least an hour. Youngsters are welcome but should be at least 1.2 metres (4 foot) tall, to see over the rim of the basket. Regrettably, pregnant ladies are not permitted on balloon excursions.
Please note: Hot Air Balloon safaris are entirely dependent on weather conditions. This service is contracted out to a third-party supplier and while we delight in making the arrangements on behalf of our guests, we cannot be held accountable for changes or cancellations to schedules as dictated by the service provider.
NOTE:1 hour flight time
Please contact us for further information, or to make a reservation.
HELICOPTER FLIP
Swoop over deep and mysterious gorges, linger above roaring rivers and cascading waterfalls and view the fascinating and dramatic rock formations of the Blyde River Canyon. The Mpumalanga Helicopter Co. is based in Hazyview in the beautiful Mpumalanga Lowveld. Most flights take place from the surrounding lodges, hotels, Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve, and Timbavati Private Nature Reserve.
Duration : 1 Hour
Cost : POA
CASCADES AND CANYON SPECTACULAR
This exhilarating flight travels over canyons bursting with colourful vegetation and cascading waterfalls, allowing for spectacular photographic opportunities. Your flight will continue along the escarpment to God’s Window which offers unforgettable panoramic views of the bushveld below and on to the wonderful rock formations of the 1 000 metre deep, 30 km long Blyde River Canyon (the third deepest and greenest canyon in the world). You will be treated to a magnificent bird’s eye view of the curious Three Rondavels before landing at a picnic site with glorious views of the Mpumalanga Lowveld for a delicious lunch accompanied by South African Sparkling Wine
Cost: POA
Duration: 1 hour
Pre-booking recommended
The Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre aims to support conservation within a sustainable ecosystem by prioritising the survival of endangered species. This is achieved through maintaining diverse bloodlines of cheetahs, rehabilitating rhinos, educating both local and international communities about conservation imperatives, and conducting focused research for the long-term sustainability of endangered species
Cost: Adults: R750 per person Children under 12: R550 per child Duration: +/- 2 hours
The “Roots of Rhythm” show group presents an exceptional and lively evening performance, delivered directly to your lodge. Under the starlit sky, around a crackling fire, the rich songs and dances of various African cultures come alive. From the rhythms of the Shona & Venda, Tsonga, Shangaan, Pedi, and BaHananawa (Tswana), to the vibrant dances of the Swati and Zulu, guests are treated to an hour-long spectacle culminating in interactive dancing. Many lodges offer the option to welcome guests to the performance area with a medley of beautiful songs, ranging from local tribal tunes, gospel melodies, to popular English songs of Africa, serving as both an icebreaker and a delightful surprise before the main dance show begins. This is available for weddings, special events, corporate groups, and other celebrations
Costs:
Full village tour, Roots of Rhythm dance show and lunch: Adults: R750 per person
Children under 12: R450 per child Village tour and show (no lunch): Adults: R650 per person Children under 12: R350 per child
Duration: 1 hour
Visit the two schools in the town, Mpisi Primary and Xilaveko.
Obert Chauke is one of the highly respected butlers at Jabulani and has been at the lodge for 16 year. In 2014, Obert started a new venture outside of working hours, paying forward the opportunities he’s been given and opening a not-for-profit daycare in his garage, together with his wife. The daycare is situate in Timbavati Village in Acornhoek.
Obert and his wife, Ivy Sibuyi have applied for NPO status, as they endeavour to care for the children in the area who need supervision and support during the day.
Cost:
R1 500 per person
Duration: 3 hours
The Training Centre, an extension of Green Trax, offers a comprehensive range of services including dog and handler training, boarding facilities, educational events, and group activities for tourists and conservation volunteers. It serves as a base for highly trained dogs aiding local law enforcement in crime prevention. Green Trax values collaboration over competition, fostering partnerships with organisations and individuals to combat various crimes, including wildlife poaching. They believe in making a positive impact through active participation and dog-assisted conservation efforts, driven by a passion for working with animals and a commitment to nature conservation.
Cost: R8 500 per person
Duration: 3 hours
Third-party activity prices are subject to change without notice, and the prices listed here are provided as suggestions only.
At Jabulani, dining is a deeply personal part of the safari experience.
Menus are created daily with care, guided by fresh seasonal ingredients, South African flavours and each guest’s individual preferences. Dietary requirements are catered for with ease, while our chefs enjoy connecting with guests and sharing the inspiration behind each dish.
Meals may be enjoyed in our open-plan dining room, on the deck beneath ancient Leadwood trees, or in a quiet surprise setting in the bush, weather permitting. From bush breakfasts and relaxed picnics to sundowner canapés and intimate dinners beneath the stars, every dining moment is thoughtfully prepared.
As a Relais & Châteaux property, Jabulani’s culinary journey is shaped by creativity, warmth and a true sense of place. Paired with personalised butler service and the stillness of the wilderness, each meal becomes part of the story of your stay.
Jabulani is an all-inclusive experience, with all meals, snacks and a wide selection of beverages included.
