Ximuwu Lodge

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Safari Beyond Anything We Imagined||We’ve just returned from four unforgettable nights at The Ximuwu Lodge and honestly, words barely do it justice. It wasn’t just a holiday — it was pure magic from sunrise to sunset.||From the moment we arrived, the team made us feel like the most special guests on earth. Every single person went above and beyond — anticipating our every need before we even realised we had one. The warmth, attention to detail, and genuine care from every member of staff set a new standard for hospitality.||And the food… utterly exceptional. Every meal was an experience in itself — imaginative, beautifully presented, and so full of flavour that we found ourselves looking forward to each sitting with childlike excitement. We’ve never been so thrilled about food before — each dish somehow managed to top the last.||The surroundings are breathtaking — elegant yet deeply connected to the wild. Our rooms were immaculate every day, the views spellbinding, and the entire property radiates calm luxury. The spa was divine — serene, indulgent, and the perfect counterpoint to the adventure of the drives.||The game drives were simply extraordinary. We expected them to be special, but nothing could have prepared us for the sheer awe of seeing such magnificent animals up close — lions, elephants, leopards, giraffes — each moment a cinematic scene come to life. Watching our kids’ faces light up in pure wonder will stay with us forever.||And just when we thought the days couldn’t possibly get any better, there were the surprises — pop-up champagne sundowners in the middle of the bush, breathtaking backdrops, and laughter under the setting African sun. Every single day unfolded with new delights.||A true highlight was the helicopter ride, soaring over the reserve and witnessing the vast wilderness from above — even spotting animals chasing one another from the sky. It was unforgettable, for the kids and us alike.||Everything about this stay — from the phenomenal staff and world-class food to the beauty of the reserve and the endless attention to detail — has been beyond extraordinary. We thought a safari would be epic; we had no idea it could be this extraordinary.||This experience has filled our hearts to the brim. We leave with memories — and smiles — that will last a lifetime.

The best experience ever! From hospitality to gamedrives, the helikopter flight, a bush dinner, it was all like a dream. And, everything was accessible for people with reduced mobility. I could go everywhere in my wheelchair. The staff was so sweet, almost like family. We will definitely come back!

Tracking African wild dogs and finding their den was an impressive display of skill, knowledge, and preparation of our incredible guide and tracker. Guide Mike Karantonis and tracker Bernard really are the best of the best. (Google Mike to learn about the founder and judge of SGOTY.) Beyond the big 5 that we saw, they led us to appreciate how the different species fit into the bigger picture. Ximumu is not the kind of lodge where you chase the radio calls and wait in line to view the animals. It was an exclusive, tailored adventure, and with only two game drive vehicles on the private estate we really felt immersed into the Bush. I will never forget the memory of sitting under the tree of life, illuminated by the light dimmed from the setting sun, as a herd of 300 Cape Buffalo surrounded us and then moved on. Dihno, Albert, and Chef Anna provided friendly, impeccable, personal service while Melinda kept it all running smoothly and assisting us overcome our mobility challenges. The lodge was exquisite and truly designed for accessibility, even the outdoor shower. Our visit was perfect. We will be back.

I visited Ximuwu last month for my first safari, and it really was a trip of a lifetime. I don't think I can express in words how amazing of a place Ximuwu is. The staff at the lodge all feel like family (Albert and Dino are truly the best!). I would highly recommend the lodge if you are looking for one of the best experiences in Africa! The lodge is also specifically adapted for wheelchair users - and over all of the years I have travelled around the world I have never visited a place which is so thoughtful for those of us with accessibility needs. It is without a doubt a one of a kind place! Rudi (and his team) are extremely knowledgable and did a magnificant job tracking down so many rare animals. A big thanks to Melinda, Elly, and Patrick as well for making the trip so special - their hospitality is unmatched! I hope to be back soon one day!

We had such an amazing visit to Ximuwu. The lodge was beautiful. Staff was incredibly helpful and kind. Food was delicious. Helicopter was such a wonderful surprise - as was the dinners and breakfast across the property. The owners have thought of everything. I cannot recommend them highly enough! It was the perfect start to our visit to South Africa!

I've been putting off writing this review because I was afraid I wouldn't capture how truly incredible the experience at Ximuwu really is. We had the pleasure of visiting in July with a group of friends and every aspect of our stay was unbelievable!||Elly & Patrick are gracious hosts and their team made us feel like we were part of the family. Melinda, Albert, Dino, were so attentive and fun but never intrusive - as were the entire team (sorry, I'm terrible with remembering all the names!). Special shout out to Amanda, the Chef who delighted us with every meal! Her flavors, creativity, and attention to detail were unbelievable. Some of the best meals I've ever had! We were surprised by a lovely bush dinner one night by a watering hole and lunch next to a beautiful Baobab tree, both of which would have made a Michelin star restaurant jealous. I could go on and on about the food, but you get my point. ||Troy our guide and Tulani our tracker were outstanding. We could have done nothing but game drives with these two, and that would have been enough. Their knowledge, patience and expertise were second to none. They put up with our group, always made us feel at ease and taught us so much about the local wildlife. ||The lodge itself is simply gorgeous. It's a modern take where every detail has been carefully considered. Having been to Sabi Sabi and Singita on a prior trip (both exceptional lodges), I can say that Ximuwu is a cut above. Patrick & Elly have raised the bar with a bush experience that simply can't be beat.||Thank you so much for making our stay so memorable!

Ximuwu Lodge was truly the greatest experience of my life! As a full time wheelchair user, I can vouch with 100% certainty that this lodge is truly fully accessible at every level. I spent 4 nights with 6 friends and I was able to partake in every activity without a worry. The staff was beyond amazing and the establishment was 5 stars. Ximuwu lodge truly delivered on their “fully accessible” description. It’s the perfect safari spot!! The service, the friendliness, cleanliness, safety and overall safari experience is completely unmatched. Everyone must experience Ximuwu Lodge once in their life.

An incredible stay at Ximuwu lodge. The location is incredible, overlooking a watering pond where animals frequently visit, game drives morning and evening and all the staff were truly wonderful. So much attention to detail and thoughtful experiences. Highly recommend for a luxury safari experience.