Arathusa Safari Lodge (Sabi Sand Game Reserve) South Africa
Location:
Arathusa Safari Lodge is located within the northern sector of the coveted Sabi Sand Reserve, adjacent to the Kruger National Park. This region has gained favor due to its lengthy history within the South African Tourism industry, its incredible concentrations of wildlife, and the high quality private safaris on offer.
The lodge flanks the bank of a large waterhole (approximately 250m x 150m) allowing for a 180- degree view of the water. Guests are able to view and enjoy a variety of wildlife (including the big five – lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, elephant). There are usually between 5 and 20 hippos “right on the doorstep” providing 24 hour entertainment.
Accommodation:
Arathusa Safari Lodge is an intimate and hospitable camp. Thatched luxury suites are within the camp's perimeter. Each have a bathroom en-suite (with bath and separate indoor and outdoor showers), and a verandah for optimum enjoyment of the surrounding wilds. Twin rooms may also be arranged.
Arathusa has recently launched 4 ultra-luxurious suites. These remote and exclusive units are further removed, and have their own private plunge pools and lounge areas. Fabrics are natural, furniture classic and the interior design both simple and elegant.
Additional amenities include a mini bar (stocked with a selection of beverages), an electronic safe, hairdryer, air conditioning, direct-dial telephone, mosquito net and tea/ coffee making facilities. There are no televisions in the rooms at Arathusa. In keeping with the traditional safari experience, the bush is best experienced “al dente”. Guests are however able to make calls from the reception area, and to send or receive e-mails and faxes.
The Camp:
The camp is an intimate one, completely open-plan and designed to harmoniously blend with the adjacent waterhole and African bush. Wood and thatch, air and water – an extension of the natural environment.
The main living area is intended for comfort. Whether quietly reflecting on the view; reading a good book; enjoying compatible banter with friends or fellow safari go-ers - the warmth and charm of the camp environment is the foundation of the Arathusa safari experience.
An infinity swimming pool overlooks the waterhole and is the perfect spot for wildlife viewing on a smoldering African summer’s afternoon. A traditional open-air boma (brick & grass enclosed dining area) presents guests with a novel way of appreciating an enjoyable meal under the stars to the sounds of the African wild.
The Spa:
Arathusa Safari Lodge now offers a comprehensive spa and wellness experience. This newly-built facility has two treatment rooms overlooking the camp's waterhole, and offers a wide choice of treatments to soothe the body, relax the mind, and indulge the senses. Two therapists are on duty at all times so that couples can enjoy their treatments in tandem. The Safari Spa uses Theravine , an innovative and world-renowned unisex Face and Body Spa product treatment range developed in the heart of the Stellenbosch Winelands.
Facial treatments include the TheraVine Appetizer which is an express Vinetherapy facial boost that is customized to specific skin types and takes a quick thirty minutes, and the TheraVine Balancing which is deep-cleansing facial customized to gently remove surface impurities utilizing specially selected aromatic botanicals for restoring balance to the skin. Mimicking the rhythmical patterns of an African dance, the TheraNaka signature massage blends light stretching techniques and specially designed body and facial wooden implements to relax and restore a weary body. Being drizzled with a warm Olive and Shea butter ointment will nourish and heal dry skin, while inducing blissful relaxation and rejuvenation.
Cuisine:
Meal times at Arathusa are a sociable affair. From the kitchen guests are treated to sumptuous dishes, fresh produce and home baked confectionary.
South Africa is renowned for its fresh produce – our fruits and vegetables are a primary export to international regions all over the world. Meat, venison and poultry are also first class.
A continental breakfast is served buffet-style, while a cooked meal is served according to guests' preference from the kitchen. A sumptuous lunch is prepared by the chef, and served plated to guests directly. Dinner is a 3-course affair on the deck overlooking the waterhole around a blazing fire (weather permitting).
Arathusa also offers a range of superior South African wines, produced in the Cape by well respective farms and estates.
The Wildlife:
Arathusa prides itself on its’ leopard viewing. As leopards are territorial, their regular appearances in our area allow us to plot their movements and to observe their behavior. Many of the animals become familiar and are easily recognized – this enables us to name them. There is a female leopard named ‘Safari’ who is often seen around the camp.
Approximately 14 leopards are found in the area in which Arathusa operate, 6 of which are seen on a regular basis. Large herds of buffalo numbering in excess of 300 often find their way to the Arathusa lake. One need not move far to enjoy the safari experience! Elephants are also seen in numbers. There are various lion prides in the area, as well as a few nomadic males. Over 90% of guests will experience The Big 5 – very often in one day, sometimes in one drive. General “lowveld” game are abundant in this section of the Sabi Sand Reserve, including giraffe, zebra, warthog, impala and more. This region is a bird-watcher’s mecca. A few of the rarer birds are seen from the camp itself, such as the Horus Swift.
Game drives in an open safari vehicle meander their way into the bush each morning and late afternoon in search of animals both large and small. Close contact encounters are guaranteed (the animals are not threatened by our presence in lieu of sound conservation management policies) affording unparalleled photographic opportunities of The Big Five and much more (including over 300 bird species - a treat for keen birders!).
Experienced and personable rangers are coupled with local trackers. Together they ensure a first class safari experience.
Guided walks with an armed ranger may also be arranged. Helpful Hint – do not head into the bush in the middle of the day during summer months! Walks are usually arranged in the more moderate hours of the early morning. Being on foot brings an altogether different view of the bush
Accommodation Rates:- From $550 per person per night sharing. Please contact us for a quote and suggested itinerary.