Toby has been visiting Londolozi since a young whippersnapper. It’s where his love and passion for safari all began. Below he’ll tell you exactly why you will fall in love with Londolozi too.

An Overview of Londolozi 

Londolozi Private Game Reserve is one of the most sought-after safari destinations in the world. It’s set right on the banks of the Sand River in the heart of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, adjacent to South Africa’s Kruger National Park.

At Londolozi, you’ll find five different lodges, each with its own charm and catering to a variety of tastes, experiences, and budgets (realistically, availability too - as it’s booked out quickly, for good reason).

• Varty Camp - The heart of Londolozi and home to the Varty family. With a classic safari style, it celebrates Londolozi’s history and heritage, featuring private plunge pools and expansive river views.

• Tree Camp - Known for its refined luxury, Tree Camp has six secluded suites elevated in the trees, each offering a sense of exclusivity. Perfect for couples looking for an intimate escape.

• Founders Camp - A tribute to the men and women who laid the foundation for Londolozi, this camp is ideal for families, featuring child-friendly programs and a welcoming environment.

• Pioneer Camp - This secluded camp combines modern luxury with a vintage feel, ideal for small groups or families looking for exclusivity.

• Private Granite Suites - With only three ultra-private suites, this lodge provides an exclusive experience overlooking the Sand River. For those seeking ultimate privacy and uninterrupted connection with nature.

What Makes Londolozi Stand Out?

1. The People

I challenge you to leave Londolozi without tears in your eyes. Tears of happiness and because it feels like you’re saying goodbye to your family. The warmth and genuine hospitality of the team at Londolozi is what sets this place apart, making every visitor feel like they’ve truly become part of the family.

Whether it's swapping stories around the campfire, sharing a beer after a day out in the bush, or listening to staff members strum a guitar under the African sky, there’s authenticity in every interaction.

The staff don’t just work here; they live and raise their families here, and they love nothing more than inviting you behind the scenes to share a glimpse of their lives. Just try and avoid being there when England loses the Rugby World Cup final to South Africa; then it’s less fun…

One special highlight is the village tour, where you’ll visit Londolozi’s community projects and staff village. This offers a genuine glimpse into the lives of the people who work here, as well as to see the vibrant vegetable gardens and learn about Londolozi’s sustainability initiatives. It’s a heartwarming experience that deepens the connection between you and the people who make Londolozi so special.

Personal connection is woven into every moment of your stay, and this is why leaving Londolozi is never easy. 

2. The Service Level

When it comes to highly personalised service - Londolozi truly sets the bar. 

They have the ability to anticipate every one of your needs before they even cross your mind, making every moment feel completely tailored to you and absolutely effortless. Nothing is too much to ask.

What makes the service so outstanding is how genuine it feels. They know how to do first-class service in the best sort of way, focusing on connection rather than formality, creating an atmosphere of relaxed luxury. You’re always greeted by name, treated like family, and yet every little detail is curated with precision. 

3. An Amazing Kids' Club

Londolozi is a dream come true for kids, offering a perfect balance of family connection and exciting activities designed just for the little ones. 

While you’re having some me-time, your kids can dive into endless adventures at the Cubs Den. 

The dedicated team at Londolozi understands that every child is different, and they’re experts at personalising experiences to suit your family. Whether it's learning to cast a fishing line, tracking animals, or roasting marshmallows around a campfire, your kids will have the time of their lives while discovering the wonders of nature.

4. The Londolozi Leopards

Currently in its 8th generation descending from a single female, Londolozi’s wild leopard lineage is one of the most documented in the world.

The expert team of guides (called rangers at Londolozi) and trackers have been tracking and documenting these big cats day in and day out without fail. When speaking to your ranger, you’ll soon realise their incredible depth and knowledge of these leopards and their stories.

Exciting leopard sightings are almost guaranteed at Londolozi, usually with some extraordinary behaviour on display, a recent example includes a young male leopard being chased up a tree by a crash of rhinos. 

Besides the world-famous leopards, white rhino and lion concentrations are some of the highest recorded on the African continent. Breeding herds of elephants, giraffes, and buffalo also frequent the reserve. 

5. Exceptional Rangers and Trackers

Londolozi’s rangers and trackers are the backbone of the safari experience, with decades of experience and a deep understanding of the land and wildlife. 

In fact, the tracker I had when visiting Londolozi as a kid, Milton, is still there today and that says everything about the bond Londolozi’s team has with this land. 

They know every sound, every track, and every story - placing you in the heart of the action and creating a wildlife experience that’s second to none. 

6. Conservation Pioneers

“During my long walk to freedom, I had the rare privilege to visit Londolozi. There I saw people of all races living in harmony amidst the beauty that Mother Nature offers. Londolozi represents a model of the dream I cherish for the future of nature preservation in our country.” – Nelson Mandela.

Londolozi’s journey began in 1926 with the Varty and Taylor families. Over time, they transformed the land from a hunting reserve into a pioneering conservation model. Renamed Londolozi, meaning 'Protector of All Living Things' in Zulu, the reserve quickly became a symbol of harmony between humans and wildlife. 

Today, it remains a beacon of conservation, inspiring guests to reconnect with nature and protect its wonders.

7. Outstanding Food and Wine

Food and wine at Londolozi are an experience in themselves, thoughtfully crafted to complement each moment of your safari.

Picture starting your day with home-baked treats on your morning game drive, followed by a hearty al fresco breakfast back at camp. As the day unfolds, indulge in a laid-back lunch and a high tea, which you really don’t need but can’t refuse, before heading out on an evening game drive with delicious sundowner snacks. End your day with a fireside feast or private dinner under the stars.

Londolozi’s cuisine focuses on fresh, organic ingredients, from homegrown produce and herbs from the garden, to free-range game, and sustainable seafood. 

The wine selection is equally impressive, offering some of the finest South African vintages, curated to enhance every dining experience.

8. The Wellness Centre 

Wellness is woven into every part of your safari experience. 

If you’re looking to truly unwind and recharge, The Londolozi Healing House offers holistic treatments designed to reconnect body, mind, and spirit with nature.

Here you’ll be in the hands of world-leading wellness experts, therapists, life coaches, bodywork specialists, sound healers, reiki masters, yoga instructors, and more.

9. Super Luxurious Rooms

As far as luxury goes, Londolozi’s rooms are of the highest level. Each room is thoughtfully curated, blending modern comfort with authentic African design. As soon as you walk through the door,  you’ll feel a personal touch in every little detail. 

From handcrafted decor to locally sourced materials, each element is intentionally chosen to reflect the surrounding wilderness and the culture of the land.

Whether you’re soaking in a freestanding bath with a view of elephants crossing the river or relaxing in your private plunge pool, you’re immersed in an experience that brings the outside world in. 

10. High Rate of Repeat Guests

Londolozi has a way of getting under your skin, in a good way. While many of our guests always like to visit new places, I’ve met countless who make an exception for Londolozi, returning year after year.

Ness, one of our team members, met a man on her last visit who has returned to Londolozi twice a year for the past 20 years - proof that this special place becomes a home away from home. 

It’s the kind of experience that stays with you long after you’ve left, making it impossible not to return. 

Londolozi: A Safari Experience Like No Other 

Londolozi will leave a mark on your heart. From the wonderful team who welcomes you like family, to the breathtaking encounters with wildlife, it’s a place that feels like home from the moment you arrive.

If you’re thinking about adding Londolozi to your next safari itinerary, let’s chat and we’ll help you plan the African holiday of your dreams.