With its prime position in the northern corner of the world-renowned Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Simbambili Game Lodge heralds a feeling of coming home.
Arriving in time for lunch, our table is set up on the deck adjacent to the sparkling 19 ft. lap pool. Beige-covered loungers invite guests to recline poolside, enjoying the warmth of the African sun.
Overhead wooden slats let in lots of natural light, creating an ambiance of coziness while taking in the magnificence of the bushveld in front of you. On today’s menu, there are different pizza options, much to my daughter’s delight. When effervescent Chef Leeyah discloses that “you haven’t tasted pizza until you’ve tasted Simbambili pizza”, I am convinced to order one too and opt for the beef and blue cheese one. The chef is right – the pizzas are incredible! And whether you like parma ham and camembert or wild mushroom and feta, the pizzas are expertly made in the onsite pizza oven.
We are staying in Suite number 4, a short walk from the main area. Opening the large wooden door, the suite is a haven of coolness thanks to the air conditioning and ceiling fan. The king-sized bed is covered in white bedding, with accents of green, beige, and grey. A black-and-white picture catches my eye. Entitled ‘The Stare 2024’ the leopard seems to look back at me. Photographed by Simbambili Lodge Manager and Wildlife Photographer Mike Cowden, the gorgeous image of Tiyani has a QR code, which can be scanned and takes guests to the Simbambili Gallery. Containing many other images shot in and around the lodge, these can be ordered in different sizes to take pride of place in your home.
Each suite has its own inclusive minibar, coffee station, and snacks. The bathroom is exquisite, with double vanities, a freestanding bath, a shower, and a flush loo. Outside on our private deck, there is a plunge pool, sun loungers, and a sala to really revel in the magic of Simbambili Game Lodge and the vistas over the bushveld.
Following an extensive refurbishment in 2024 to further enhance the ethos that The Thornybush Collection stands for – ‘discover your dream safari’, guests are in for a real treat when staying here. Upgrades include a new thatch roof in the main area, doors to create a snug atmosphere in winter, a new two-level deck, and a firepit for safarigoers exchanging stories around a roaring fire. The bar area is newly designed, adding a sophisticated gathering point for pre-or post-game-drive drinks.
A favorite part of any safari stay is dining in the boma, where enhancements to the outside space create an inviting place for guests to savor South Africa in song and dance. An exciting transformation is the former conference room and gym, which now houses wellness facilities that include a Spa and gymnasium, as well as a library and a dining area. Walking towards the end of the walkway, a gate appears. Behind it, there is an Infrared Sauna, with the most astounding views over the Manyeleti riverbed, the ideal respite before or subsequent to your Technogym workout.
After High Tea, Field Guide Solomon and Tracker Roy round us up for our afternoon game drive. Our first sighting is of a very big breeding herd of elephants, and with lots of greenery around, they are having a feeding frenzy. Solomon is in his element as elephants are his favorite animals. The cutest and tiniest elephant calves stay close to their moms, who are fiercely protective of their offspring. An undisputed highlight is finding a lone leopard cub at sunset. This is one of Mokomsava’s cubs, and she has two youngsters. Her name means ‘Mother Earth’ in the South African Shangaan language.
During our morning game drive, we hear the unmistakable sound of a Woodland Kingfisher calling. Two are serenading one another on the bare branches of a dead knobthorn tree. As Solomon increases the speed of the game-drive vehicle, there must be something enthralling up ahead. Suddenly they come into view as they’re running right in the middle of the road – a pack of thirteen African Wild Dogs! Chasing after these endangered species, they play and squeal as a golden shadow gets cast over their patterned coats. One of them sits in the shade of the vehicle, looking up at Roy, with the rays of sun glistening in the Wild Dog’s eyes.
We find Mokomsava again, this time with both her cubs, and what a heartwarming sight to witness the interaction between mom and her offspring. Lunch is a delicious spread of wraps and salads, followed a few hours later by a scrumptious selection of baked goodies for High Tea. Our afternoon game drive doesn’t disappoint as Solomon and Roy drive us to a hyena den, where there are two very young boisterous cubs. Sitting and watching the rest of the clan of varying ages of hyenas playfighting is something really special.
Moments like these make me realize just how incredible nature is, and being cocooned at Simbambili Game Lodge is the most luxurious safari experience you could ever have.
How to Book with Mahlatini Luxury Travel | Heléne’s internal flights in South Africa were generously sponsored by Mahlatini Luxury Travel. Founded in 2002 as a luxury African travel specialist, Mahlatini has been curating bespoke safari and cultural itineraries for discerning clients who place sustainability at the top of their travel agenda. An independent brand with offices in the UK and South Africa, Mahlatini’s reputation is built on authenticity, exceptional customer service, and first-hand experience. Proudly certified as the first independent African tour operator to join the global community of B Corp businesses, recognizing their highest standards of social and environmental performance. Every single trip is uniquely customized to the client’s exact wishlist and from the moment of introduction to arrival home, you are guided through one of life’s great journeys. To plan your next African adventure, browse mahlatini.com, contact experts@mahlatini.com, or call +44 28 9073 6050.
