We visited Tintswalo Safari Lodge, located in South Africa on a private concession in Manyeleti Game Reserve that borders the Kruger National Park and the experience was truly a memory for life. Tintswalo means “the intangible feeling of peace, love and gratitude bestowed upon someone that gives you a meaningful and worthy gift.”
The lodge has seven individually decorated suites located along the banks of a seasonal river connected by a wooden walkway. Each suite reflects the adventures of 19th century explorers they are named after. We stayed in Kingsley Suite beautifully decorated in beiges and pale blues. I loved the feeling of being surrounded by, what felt like, a huge, amazing secret garden of natural bush, huge trees, birds, baboons, elephants, antelope of all sorts to be seen at intervals as from the suite. Add to that the odd hyena and even lions seen from the deck. The lodge is not fenced and this adds up to an amazing experience. Sitting by the plunge pool on the deck taking in all these sights and sounds is a memorable experience. Special mention to the beautifully appointed bathroom: so much more than just a bathroom with a beautiful old bath, Persian rug and armchair, all opening up with sliding doors to the outside patio.
The main lodge overlooks a waterhole frequented by elephants to the delight of guests. I was wonderfully surprised to have a pride of lions in front of the main deck one evening complete with the mighty roar: such an amazing true African experience. It’s always the unscripted moments on safari that make travelling into the wild such a rewarding experience. Situated a few minutes away from the main lodge is the well appointed five-bedroom Tintswalo Manor House presents the perfect private option for families and friends travelling together. Also excellent for executive breakaways for groups up to 10 people.
The daily afternoon game drives were preceded by a lovely afternoon tea. We were surprised with a beautifully decorated cake freshly baked every afternoon, what a fine detail beautifully presented. The game drive with our knowledgeable ranger was another experience of learning more about the African wildlife which he shared with us in such a special way. Wonderful sightings! The Manyeleti Reserve is unique for its very low vehicle density thus offering an exclusive safari experience.
The dining experience included a few surprises like an amazing stop in the bush, during game drive, to enjoy pre dinner drinks and snacks beautifully set up by the staff around a fire and even a hyena lurking close by! A private dinner in the impressive wine cellar at the main lodge is a great dining option. Bush breakfast, set up in a dry riverbed, was another experience enjoyed by all.
Manyeleti Means “Place under the Stars” in Shangaan.This 24,000 hectares reserve boasts an abundance of game including the “Big 5” as well as wild dog, cheetah and 571 bird species. Tintswalo Safari Lodge is easy accessible as from Hoedspruit airport and this untouched wilderness touched us deeply as only Africa can.
By Danielle du Plessis