‘A perfect stay‘ simply describe our bush weekend stay at Royal Malewane Safari Lodge which is situated within the greater Kruger National park in the Thornybush Nature Reserve – the lodge redefines the concept of solitude.
“You ‘ll know the people that feed your soul…because you ‘ll feel good after spending time with them.”
I spent the weekend with the ‘aunty’ crew, the most amazing group of ladies – we laughed, we ate, we danced, they sang ballads till early hours of the morning. Not even a major storm that caused a black-out, could deter them from staying up late and having a jovial time.
Our itinerary was well put together by our hostess with the mostess, she’s a stickler for detail. We received information on what was planned for the weekend, what to pack and the weather forecast.
Our Itinerary: –
Friday
- Depart Joburg for Hoedspruit Limpopo
- Lunch at the Lodge
- Afternoon Game Drive
- Pajama Dinner Party
Saturday
- Early morning game drive
- Brunch
- SPA
- All White Dinner
Sunday
- Morning at leisure
- Brunch
- Depart Hoedspruit for Joburg
The Accommodation
Our home for the weekend was nothing but exceptional. The decor – classic safari style, furnished with rich antiques, african art paintings, cozy couches and persian rugs.
There were some questionable décor pieces but overall, beautifully curated and love the brave use of colours.
The rooms are uniquely decorated, the bathrooms are elegant, with inside and outdoor showers and Victorian-style bathtubs. The personalised welcome on the bathroom floor was super cool.
The lodge is surrounded by wilderness, with an outside pool that overlooks the bush where animals roam freely.
Royal Malewane has two accommodation options:-
- Main Lodge which has six Luxury Suites, two Royal Suites (which each have two bedrooms), and Africa House, the six bedroom villa.
- The Farmstead has three Luxury Farm Suites, and The Farmhouse – a three and a half bedroom private villa.
The property can accommodate up to 32 guests. Africa House and the Farmstead guests have the exclusivity of having a full team on site (Chef, butler, housekeeper, ranger and tracker) which works well as these villas are seperate from the main lodge.
The Game Drive – ‘Unique Encounters’
Game viewing at Royal Malewane is tailored to the individual needs of the guests. Like most people going on safari spotting the Big 5 animals (lion, leopard, cape buffalo, elephant and black rhino) is a must.
Royal Malewane takes pride in ensuring that ‘the most experience and qualified guiding team in Africa’ accompany guests on their game drives.
On our Friday afternoon game drive, we spotted Mufasa (Lion) and learned that he had just eaten Pumba (Warthog) for breakfast and was struggling with a bad case of itis.
On route to go see the pride of Lions, we spotted a Giraffe, Rhino and an abundance of ‘fast food’, a term used to describe impalas. Our game drive was unfortunately cut short by thunderstorm that was brewing and we did not want to risk being outdoors with the Limpopo lighting.
Our Saturday morning game drive, we spotted buffalos, nyalas, hippos and wild dogs. Unfortunately for us, no leopards were spotted but both game drives were a delight.
The Food – ‘A sensory experience’
A personalized menu set the scene to the type of culinary experience we were in for.
Our lunches were light meals but substantial, with our dinners being extra special – a four or five course meal. A full breakfast buffet with fresh fruits, cereals, pastries and eggs to order.
Our special dietary requirements were catered for by the chef who ensured that we had a sublime dining experience.
The Spa – ‘Complete Harmony’
The spa is a perfect refuge, its peaceful and tranquil. We spent most of Saturday being treated by their in-house therapist. A range of treatments and massages are available.
The Spa includes a fully-equipped gym, a heated lap pool, steam room, hot and cold African baths.
Royal Malewane is a perfect balance of luxury and nature, a perfect setting for a weekend getaway be it with friends or family.
There’s bush weekend getaway and theres Royal Malewane bush weekend getaway, simply exquisite. What a splendid weekend and grateful to have been invited to celebrate the life and friendship.
Splendid Experiences 