Limpopo Province, South Africa
Shambala
Unique Floating Luxury. So Peaceful. And Stylish.
The Shambala Reserve is another concession found in the central region of the Waterberg incorporating 12,000 hectares of private game territory. In terms of wildlife you’ll see the Big Five as well as many antelope species, black and white rhino, giraffe, wildebeest and zebra, however this particular reserve is renowned for its elephant safaris and the Zulu Camp’s spectacularly unique setting.
A river, quite literally, runs through the Zulu Camp of eight intricately thatched and cosy chalets here at Shambala. Also as a member of the Leading Hotels of the World, you won’t be disappointed with the level of luxury or services either: there is a spa, pool and driving range, all of which feel all the more pronounced in your wild surroundings.
A shrewd blend of chic African and provincial French décor has gone into the design and furnishings of the camp and its chalets, capturing the charm and wild sensation of your surroundings delivered with an elegant, pastoral polish. You’ll also be won over by the tranquility of the Zulu Camp and the staff at Shambala, who strive to deliver a very personal touch to your stay.
Highlights
Game Safaris by foot or 4WD
Elephant Safari
Bush Picnics
Sunset Cruises
Astronomy and Star Gazing
Eight Chalets
Spa
Swimming Pool
Driving Range
Heliport
Trip Inspiration
Plan your trip to South Africa
Whatever you want from your adventure in South Africa, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.
Places to combine Shambala with
Namibia
Anderssons at Ongava offers an unforgettable Namibian safari experience imbued with Afro-Mediterranean elegance. This extraordinary lodge invites you to explore nature with unparalleled comfort and style. From the moment sunlight filters through the mopane bush, awakening the landscape, Anderssons promises a seamless blend of relaxation and adventure.
The lodge’s nine suites serve as a harmonious extension of the surrounding environment. Constructed with natural stone and warm wood elements, each suite is a sanctuary of tranquility, featuring climate-controlled interiors and expansive glass frontages that frame the wilderness. Step onto your private viewing deck, where a sweeping 180-degree panorama immerses you in the sights and sounds of Ongava Game Reserve. Wildlife viewing becomes a part of your daily routine as the animals roam freely here, often within view of your suite.
Central to the lodge is a bar and relaxation area that seamlessly integrates with the landscape, overlooking a vibrant waterhole. Here, you can gather in convivial surroundings, sipping cocktails while observing wildlife. Nearby, the Ongava Research Centre invites you to delve into the cutting-edge efforts that drive conservation and expands understanding of African ecology.
Begin a day here with an early morning game drive in an open 4×4 vehicle. For a different perspective, venture into the underground photographic hide, where you can capture intimate moments of wildlife at eye level. Back at the lodge, the infinity-edge pool is a serene oasis that is perfect for cooling off under the African sun. Relax in the library, taking in the tranquil ambiance and panoramic waterhole views.
Tanzania
Rubondo Island lies in the tranquil southwest corner of Lake Victoria in Tanzania and is enveloped in lush subtropical rainforest. The island is a protected sanctuary, teeming with endangered chimpanzees and a wealth of other wildlife.
The camp features eight secluded cottages that sit at the edge of the forest, each crafted from traditional materials to harmonise with the island’s natural beauty. A spacious family unit provides an ideal retreat for larger groups, while every cottage offers a private veranda overlooking the lake.
Wake up to the gentle sounds of the forest: the rustle of leaves, the distant call of a fish eagle and the occasional splash of water as hippos stir in the lake’s shallows. Here sitatunga antelope move silently through the papyrus swamps, bushbuck graze at the forest edges and forest elephants forge trails through dense greenery.
Your mornings might begin with the aroma of fresh coffee, enjoyed as the lake shimmers under the soft morning light. From here you can embark on a variety of adventures. Days on Rubondo Island invite a range of immersive adventures. Trek through the forest in search of chimpanzees, traverse the lake on a boating safari or set off on a guided game drive.
