An African dream – Motswari

An African dream

They say that you arrive at Motswari as a visitor and leave as a friend. This warmth and personalised attention are what sets this luxurious safari lodge apart, making it an exceptional destination for a honeymoon in the bush

Having taken visitors on safari adventures for almost 50 years, Motswari Private Game Reserve in the Timbavati-Umbavat area o ers an exceptional safari experience. Located within the Greater Kruger National Park, it is easily accessible from Johannesburg, with regular flights to Hoedspruit via Airlink.

Motswari, which means ‘Conserve and Protect’ in Tswana, is home to a vast selection of wildlife living within a biodiverse environment. Many of these wild animals are endangered species. In fact, Motswari was initially a rehabilitation centre for the endangered wild dog. These days, wild dog is a growing species in the area.

The moment you get there, the magic begins. Game viewing in Motswari is exceptional and guests find the entire experience at Motswari quite unique. Whilst you’re likely to enjoy plenty of luxury, there’s also a welcoming, home-from-home feel. You’ll find shelves filled with books in the intimate lounge areas, cabinets displaying fossils and precious memorabilia from the family that has run the lodge for nearly half a century and quirky hand-cra ed items that tell a story of a deep connection to the area and the bush. Not only has the family long been involved in the running of this exceptional game lodge, but some of its sta are third generation. That’s what makes a visit to Motswari such a personal experience.

Yes, you feel like you’ve come home at Motswari. There’s a choice of just 15 luxurious bungalows with en suite facilities and traditional African safari décor. All o er every facility and plenty of privacy in the bush. Motswari never hosts more than 30 guests at any given time, so you’re guaranteed personalised service that is taken to extremes in your haven of peace in the midst of the wilds.

Every day is filled with activities. Get ready to enjoy early morning and late a ernoon game drives, when the animals come out to eat and play, guided bush walks and plenty of time to relax by the lodge swimming pool or in your spectacular private accommodation.

Of course, on a safari experience the animals are the highlight, but Motswari also caters for hedonistic delights. Dining is a special African experience, sometimes at the lodge, at other times in the bush. Whether you’re savouring fine fare at the lodge or under the stars in an open air boma or in the bush, you’re in for a treat at breakfast, late lunch, high tea or dinner time. newmarkhotels.com/places/reserves/motswari-private-game-reserve

Wilderness safari

Zululand is renowned for its lush tropical scenery. It’s also home to some exceptional game viewing o erings, including the dream honeymoon destination Babanango Valley Lodge, which overlooks the magnificent Nsubeni River Valley in the south of the 22-hectare Babanango Game Reserve

Enjoy a warm welcome at this sumptuous lodge, which is surrounded by tropical bushveld. Look out over glistening sandstone cli s, granite koppies and quartzite ridges that stretch to the horizon towards the White Umfolozi River. This spectacular conservation area is home to a variety of wild animals including gira e, hyena, rhino, bu alo, zebra, several species of antelopes as well as the elusive aardvark and aardwolf.

Staying in the Babanango Reserve at this luxury lodge o ers a captivating bush experience combined with a groundbreaking conservation project to benefit local communities and protect precious wildlife for generations to come.

Here in the remote wilderness just 50km from Vryheid in northern KZN, you can commune with nature in luxury. Babanango Valley Lodge o ers cool white décor o set with accents of black, a sophisticated, laid-back canvas for you to make unforgettable memories. Guests are welcomed with a refreshing drink before being taken to their luxurious, beautifully appointed air-conditioned suites. For your honeymoon Nubian Bride suggests the Honeymoon Suite for the utmost privacy as it’s set slightly apart from the other eight suites on the property.

At Babanango you can do as much, or as little, as you like whilst soaking up the stunning setting and communing with nature. Relax at the infinity pool with views over the magnificent surrounds or enjoy hiking or mountain biking on more than 30km of self-guided trails across this diverse landscape. Of course, game viewing takes centre stage, and you can experience morning and late a ernoon game drives, helicopter rides over the bush and horse-riding safaris to see an exceptional selection of animals. Now that rhino and bu alo have been introduced to the reserve, there’s a plan in motion to introduce the rest of the Big Five to this beautiful part of the world.

Dining is an ambrosial experience, with South African dishes taking centre stage. Dine in the restaurant or enjoy a braai under the stars. If you prefer, you can also enjoy breakfast or dinner in the bush or in the privacy of your suite.

Babanango o ers a bush honeymoon experience that is luxurious and private, with excellent service and every amenity. Who could ask for more? www.babanangovalleylodge.co.za