IVUBA RIVER LODGE M J E JA N E PR I VAT E GA M E R E SE RV E , K RUGE R & SU R ROU N DS
Luxury
Safari Living There’s a reason why we are all yearning for the simpler, more serene ways of life right now. The call of nature, and the wilderness in particular, beckons like a bossy nurse, urging us to do what’s only right for our souls. Where the skies are vast and ever-changing, the smells are that of the rich soil and all that grows and grazes from it, the sounds are primal and pacifying, and the air is crisp and clear with an invigorating waft of optimism. Being immersed in the beauty of bush life is the tonic of the times. It’s escapism in its healthiest existence, to where the wild things are. Perfectly positioned along the southern border of The Kruger National Park, overlooking the Crocodile River that meanders the plains of the Mjejane Reserve, Ivuba River Lodge – which means Kingfisher in Zulu – discreetly declares its contemporary character to the rugged wilderness that prevails. Set on one level of expansive open plan living, dining and reclining spaces, this bush hideaway has been gently planted amongst the Mahoganies, the Marulas, the Acacias, and the Leadwoods, allowing their leaves to dapple the walls
and surfaces from an abundant source of natural light. The u-shaped, double ensuite lodge is as connected to its modern luxuries and refined symmetry, as it is to the essence of the natural world that surrounds. Though the Mbombela architect, Tom Hattingh, has managed to retain the build’s small print in the Kruger sand, not much can be done about the resident antelope and birdlife from maintaining the wild garden as their own too. And just as it should be, according to the South African owner. She wished for her bush retreat to be simply lowered from the African skies and embedded into the beauty of the land it occupies. Yet with all of the necessary luxuries and amenities that come with modern-day safari living. Fine furnishings, luxury linens, modern appliances, decadent bathrooms, outdoor showers, massive glass doors and windows, screed cement floors and that delightfully inviting swimming pool make life very easy in such a remote location. Impressive 2.5-metre canvases of Ross Couper’s wildlife photography adorn the otherwise naked walls, alongside some Kingfisher pencil drawings by Andre Olwage, with a collection of a local sculptor’s work making the odd statement, and the bushveld doing the rest.
Throughout the hours of the day, the views over the Southern Kruger transform as different herds traverse the plains and drink from or wade about in the river. Hippo happily grunt away, as the elephant take their turns to drink and bath, as the giraffe saunter by and the buffalo take shelter from the sun under knob thorns. The area is a wonderland for any avid birdwatcher with its prolific birdlife. Fish eagles swoop in and out of the river and hang about the branches watching over, as resident kingfishers, spoonbills, sacred ibis, and wagtails occupy their reeds and river branches. Even a rare spotting of a Senegal lapwing has been noted. Tuning into nature becomes habitual at Ivuba River Lodge, where all of the finer things are taken care of. The night’s feast is on the flames of the boma as the evening sky is changing from dusk to darkness and the stars begin to reveal themselves. Elephant are gently breathing as they graze alongside the banks and the swallows take one last flight before night. The tonic joins the ice that joins the lemon that accompanies the gin, and the orchestra of the night cues optimism. Another day awaits that’s full of promise.
Spec Sheet 4
2
2.5
SLEEPING
RELAXING
All linen & towels provided
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LIVING
THE NITTY GRITTY
• 1 x bedroom (king) Open plan en-suite bathroom with bath & shower Toilet in separate cubicle • 1 x bedroom (king) Open plan en-suite bathroom with bath & shower Toilet in separate cubicle
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Stove (gas) Oven (electric) Dishwasher Fridge Freezer Microwave Toaster Washing machine Tumble dryer Nespresso machine (bring your own pods) Coffee plunger Aircon An outside patio Netflix (sign into own account) Fireplace (wood) WiFi Guest toilet Servicing not included but can be arranged at an additional cost.
BBQ/Braai (built-in) Lap pool (no net) 2 x pool loungers Outside shower Boma TV Apple TV (sign in into own account) DSTV Now Game drives (additional cost)
Hideaway Rules • No animals permitted • Smoking outside only • Child friendly • Max 4 guests • No children under 12 yrs • No check ins on Saturdays or Sundays
Safari • • • •
Big five Game drives (arrange with rangers that operate independently) Walking safaris (arrange with rangers that operate independently) Malaria area
Travel
• Three hours from nearest airport • Lodge access via dirt road • SUV/high clearance vehicle
www.perfecthideawaysforsale.co.za mandi@perfecthideaways.co.za