Shibula
Superbly situated, close to the best game viewing areas, in the 36000ha Welgevonden Game Reserve of the Limpopo Province and only 2.5 hours drive north of Johannesburg, Shibula Lodge hugs the banks of a scenic river and has magnificent views of the overhanging cliffs where guests are entertained by the daily activities of the resident baboon troops. This malaria-free game reserve, where the Big Five (elephant, leopard, rhino, buffalo and lion) roam freely, is home to an extraordinary diversity of plants and animal life, as well as more that 350 bird species. With access to the entire 36000ha reserve which forms part of a bigger 98000ha game reserve, guests are assured of exceptional game viewing - including good rhino sightings, whilst wild dogs and spotted hyena also roam the area. The Welgevonden Private Game Reserve was once home to the bushman and there are still rock paintings on some of the cliffs in the reserve. Guests can go on walking safaris to these sites, accompanied by knowledgable field guides who can explain the culture and art of this ancient tribe.
Nestled in the unspoilt wilderness of the Waterberg, Shibula Lodge and bush spa offers visitors a luxurious taste of wild Africa, combined with the sophisticated pampering of a health spa.
Rates on request
Luxurious en-suite accommodation
Breakfast/brunch, dinner, afternoon tea + cake, coffees, biscuits in room
Two open Land Rover safaris a day
Walking safaris accompanied by experienced trackers
Return game drive transfers from the main gate or Shibula airstrip to the lodge
1% tourism levy
Telephone calls
Purchases on the lodge
Mini bar in chalet, wines from our cellar + wine list
Air shuttle
Vehicle shuttle transfers from Sun City or Johannesburg International to and from the lodge
Health spa facilities
Laundry and valet services
Gratuity.
Park entry fees
The superbly decorated main lodge boasts a library - well stocked with information on wildlife, birds and plants - and an elegant lounge and dining area, complete with a baby grand piano. A sprawling deck with magnificent views, leads one to a communal swimming pool, perfect for sundowners as the sun bows to the majestic moon. The well-being of guests is paramount at Shibula. A well-stocked, specially designed wine cellar complements the healthy, distinctly African-inspired cuisine, personalized serviced and relaxing spa activities. Whether you would like to breakfast on the banks of the river, under the watchful eye of a ranger, or simply read a book in the comfort of a bush chair, the superbly trained staff will accommodate any request. Pre-breakfast or mid morning game drives or a bush walk with our FGASA-qualified rangers and trackers for the adventures, high teas of mouth-watering surprises, evening game drives with sundowners, and cosy boma dinners all contribute to the magic of Shibula.
A new wetland system has been developed at Shibula. Not only will this attract more birds to the area surrounding the lodge but it is also a natural way to filter and purify waste from the lodge!
Scheduled flights: - Johannesburg International AirportCharter flights: - To/from Johannesburg International Airport 45 minutesRoad transfers: - To/from Johannesburg International Airport 2 hours 30 minutesNote: For direct fly-in transfers, contact main gate at +27 (0)82 8910282
The lodge manager, Coetzer Deysel, has vast experience in the tourism field and has done guiding for a long time himself. He is also currently busy with his LLB degree in law. Your field guides - Gavin Holden-Smith and Darren Roux - are both qualified FGASA guides and very passionate about nature and their only goal is for the guests to expand their knowledge and have a great time doing so. Gavin is currently working on a leopard project. There are numerous leopards in the valley where Shibula is situated and Gavin is trying to differentiate between their calls, tracks and their habits.
Children under the age of 10 years will only be allowed on the lodge by prior arrangement and taking existing reservations into consideration. Children aged 10-12 pay 50% of adult rate when sharing. If not sharing with adults, they pay full adult rate.
8 en suite rooms Each room has its own patio and outside shower, which is ideal for moonlight rendezvous for the brave at heart. The romantic honeymoon hideaway boasts its own spa bath whilst the lavishly equipped Executive Suite has its own Jacuzzi. The Shibula Royal Suite features a private plunge pool and the ultimate in luxury and service. There are 3 standard suites that are joined and perfect for families. There are 2 luxury chalets that are free standing, each with a jacuzzi, private patio and garden area.