Jock Safari Lodge

A tale of companionship in a vast wilderness, ‘Jock of the Bushveld’ is on most safari travellers’ reading lists and the lodge, being owned by the family of Sir Percy Fitzpatrick (the author), is christened in tribute to this moving story of man and his best Staffie friend.

Nonetheless it is not just the novel that makes the lodge so well-liked and why guests often return year on year, but its modest, informal atmosphere, warm staff and their knowledgeable and friendly team of rangers.

Located in the Jock Concession of the Kruger National Park, game drives here are ideally placed to spot and track the Big Five and there’s a fantastic nocturnal safari option to see the area’s 34 different species of amphibians.

The Main Jock Lodge has 12 individual thatched suites done up in the traditional ‘Old World’ style of colonial adventurers and named after various places in the novel (“treacherous Pettigrew’s Road”). Twisted Jackalberry tree trunks shape the supports of the typically open-plan suites which are all designed to enhance both the wilderness around you the comfort of your more immediate surrounds. The decor pervades the pioneer romance with classic luxury in the form of roll-top Victorian baths, oil lanterns and four poster beds blending with local Zulu and Shangaan artisanship. Plus each suite has its own “sala” (private viewing deck) and plunge pool.

Fitzpatrick’s Lodge at Jock offers personal service in an intimate atmosphere, perfect for small parties and families. Fitzpatrick Lodge overlooks the Biyamiti Riverbed and has just 3 large, luxury suites (2 of the 3 rooms can sleep 2 adults sharing with 2 children) and is a bit more modern in its design. Placed a little further away from Main Jock for greater personal service and privacy, the whole property can be hired exclusively for families or a group of friends (in which case you get your own personal chef, ranger and private game drives).

The Explorer Camp at Jock Safari Lodge offers guests a unique experiential insight of a bygone era, a time when exploring really was an adventure into this unknown Big 5 wilderness, as did the legendary Percy Fitzpatrick in the 19th century. The camp and tents have been meticulously recreated with the similar style camp beds, canvas washing basins, lanterns etc in order to transport guests back in time. This two day educational, walking safari is lead by two highly specialised guides and nights are spent around the camp fire enjoying hearty bush meals whilst learning more about the history of Jock of the Bushveld, Percy Fitzpatrick and how the Kruger was born. During the day, guests explore on foot, a remote part of this private concession in the heart of the Kruger National Park, to get a real sense of how trekking was done during the early days of exploration – a tribute to the original and authentic African safari adventure.