Drawing inspiration from the elegant design of nearby Shisaka Luxury Suites, Diopi and Passanwarri Villas are created for families or groups of friends travelling together. Set on the banks of the Timbavati River, each villa features distinctive elevated “salas” – cosy roof structures resembling bird nests. Accessed by a staircase from the timber deck, these secluded spaces offer sweeping views and are perfect for afternoon naps, birdwatching, wildlife spotting along the riverbank, or stargazing before sleep.

Guests enter through a lobby where stone-clad walls and raw cement contrast with polished screed floors that extend throughout the villa. Calming tones of blue and grey echo the surrounding landscape, while expansive floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors frame views of the river and distant Drakensberg Mountains.

To the left of the entrance, the first bedroom includes an en-suite circular bathroom with double vanity and central shower, opening onto the deck. The larger second bedroom features a dressing room and spacious bathroom with freestanding bath and indoor–outdoor shower.

Between them, a generous lounge opens onto a pergola-shaded deck with a sunken lounge and infinity pool, completing this private safari retreat.