Shishangeni Private Lodge lies tucked away amid towering mountains and high-lying grasslands, 30km from Komatipoort in the lowveld of Mpumalanga on a 15 000ha private concession in the south-eastern section of the Kruger National Park.
Bordered by the Crocodile River to the south and Mozambique to the east, Shishangeni has exceptional game-viewing.
Early morning or late afternoon game drives are usually unforgettable experiences. And the more than 500 species of birds can mostly be seen while lounging next to the pool with a cocktail in hand.
Shishangeni Private Lodge is a top-class establishment which includes two satellite camps, Camp Shawu and Camp Shonga.
The main lodge has a lounge area, library, intimate bar, wine cellar, compact fitness centre, a spa, swimming pool and 22 luxurious chalets decorated in modern African style with a fireplace, bath and outdoor shower, lounging area and a private game-viewing deck.
Tantalising and plentiful cuisine is served in the tasteful indoor and outdoor private dining room or in the boma.
For the wild at heart, African-themed breakfasts and dinners are served in the bush. Shishangeni Lodge’s conference facilities mix business with pleasure for up to 44 delegates with unusual team-building activities such as murder dinners, survival of the fittest, scavenger hunts, cocktail competitions, raft building, movie making, drumming, industrial theatre, dancing, fire dance shows and theme evenings.
Camp Shawu was named after the famous Shawu elephant bull, who roamed the Kruger National Park valley for 60 years, commanding respect and admiration from all who beheld the longest tusks ever recorded in South Africa’s history.
The small and intimate camp has an open bar and lounge next to the swimming pool, with elegant accommodation in five luxury en-suite twin rooms.
The rooms have buffalo dung walls, leather furniture, rich textiles, fireplaces and private decks overlooking the Mpanamana Dam – a landscaped masterpiece dotted with game gathered to drink.
Camp Shonga is a bush retreat in the foothills of the Lebombo Mountains. The emphasis is on nature, with a minimal impact on the surrounding ecosystem, yet retaining luxury and superior service. Imposing views showcase the bushveld from the lounge, dining area, splash pool and five luxurious thatched-roof tents, replete with en-suite ball and claw baths, outside shower, fireplace and private decks with recliner chairs.
After a fulfilling time absorbing the energy and presence of the bush, you can close the day with massage treatments on the privacy of your deck, watching the sun leave orange and purple streaks on the horizon.
Afterwards, relax further after a delicious dinner around a crackling fire beneath clear, star-filled skies, listening to the sounds of the nocturnal animals interspersed with tales told by one of the rangers.
Rates at this luxury retreat are around R3 120 for bed and breakfast, per person sharing. For more information call 013 735 3300, e-mail reservations@shishangeni.com or visit www.shishangeni.com
It’s a long drive to Shishangeni and flying with transfers from Nelspruit is easier and quicker. - Sunday Tribune