Recently we visited the three lodges of Extraordinary Collection in Southern Africa: Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge, Hamiltons Tented Camp and Imbali Safari Lodge all located within the Kruger National Park on a private 10,000 hectare concession.
Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge
Hoyo Hoyo is a Xitsonga word that essentially means the enthusiastic welcoming of guests and that is how it was visiting Hoyo Hoyo: an earthy, traditional Tsonga styled lodge. The staff was the most welcoming with such warmth and smiles, ready with a welcome drink and a wet cloth to refresh after the journey getting there.
As you enter this very cosy camp, the waterhole is immediately visible from the main deck: teaming with wildlife. There were zebras, baboons and elephants, such a beautiful true African sight that fill you with excitement.
I just simply fell in love with the unique circular Tsonga “rondawels” adorned with bright colors of oranges and reds. The camp is not fenced which add to this feeling of excitement and wonder to be in this amazing authentic wilderness.
Dinner under the stars by the boma fire is another ‘never to forget‘ experience. Hoyo Hoyo is a place to return to.
Hamiltons Tented Camp
Hamiltons Tented Camp is a true luxury safari experience with that touch of nostalgia and romance.
This very special place truly reflects the colonial-era of the Kruger Park’s visionary Colonel James Stevenson-Hamilton. High wooden platforms link the six elevated tents where we stayed in total privacy complete with our own plunge pool and outside lounge. Yes, we had a lounge with stocked minibar, all drinks included, and a sofa. So often the sound of the resident hippos in front of my room would just remind me of being there, in the African bush. It is so amazing being on a safari following the rhythm of nature, listening to the sounds and just surrender, not knowing what comes next.
We enjoyed the silver service dinners on the deck of the main tent shaded by huge Jackalberry trees and overlooking a riverbed. The cuisine is a true feast for the most discerning foodie. All compliments to Chef Addie. The ambiance during dinner is an Out of Africa experience: crisp white table cloths, fine tableware, lamps, accompanied by excellent service.
Early morning and late afternoon game drives with experienced rangers. The afternoon drive preceded with afternoon tea and during the drive we stopped for sundowner drinks tastefully prepared by our ranger and getting to know our fellow guests from all parts of the world.
Imbali Safari Lodge
Imbali Safari Lodge, also situated in this untouched wilderness, concluded our visit. Such scenic views from the chalets as well as the main deck: a true wildlife-rich experience. Lovely to have our private plunge pool overlooking the riverbed, ideal for bird watching.
We also had a beautiful mosquito netting for the most romantic feel. This lovely place was our own bush sanctuary hidden amongst awesome trees on the banks of the N’waswitsontso River.
Dinner at the Boma around the big boma fire with the staff entertaining guests with traditional dances and music was so utterly enjoyable. Good food prepared with so much love: mainly South African dishes like meat grilled “braaivleis” a mouthwatering display of dishes. Lovely time to really engage with guests and share experiences.
Interestingly this lodge was built on the site of a 400 year old African settlement that has yielded such evidence of an ancient culture as clay pots and bone tools.
For so many people the safari experience is like a homecoming which lingers with you long after you left. Visiting these three lodges and experiencing the wildlife of the Kruger National Park will never be forgotten.
By Danielle Du Plessis