Meaning "protector of all living things” in Zulu, Londolozi is home to the "Big Five". Londolozi Game Reserve was established as a family bush camp in 1926 and has been run by the Varty / Taylor families ever since. Newly refurbished, Londolozi has a choice of four exclusive camps and a safari lodge all set along the banks of the Sand River. These consist of Londolozi- Founders Camp, Pioneer Camp, Varty Camp, Tree Camp, and Londolozi Granite Suites. Londolozi is located within the Sabi Sands Nature Reserve, which shares a portion of the Kruger National Park’s western border. The five properties are hidden from view in dense riverine forest, all situated overlooking the Sand River and with over 17 000 hectares of traversing rights within Sabi Sands, the lodges offer a sanctuary of meditative luxury for guests to experience an unforgettable safari. The Londolozi experience caters for mind, body and spirit by combining spectacular game viewing with carefully selected exercises and therapies at the Life Centre. The story of Londolozi started over seventy years ago when two friends camped alongside the Sand River, and today, Londolozi has a proud history of partnership with its neighbouring rural communities who have been an integral part of the wisdom and success of this award winning game reserve. The Londolozi philosophy is to facilitate a deep engagement with nature, drawing inspiration from ancient healing methods, and offering outdoor yoga, massage therapy and healing treatments.
Varty CampIn the centre of Londolozi burns a fire in the very spot where the Varty forefathers set up their tents 84 years ago. This fire has been lit every night on the same spot for generations and embodies the significance of this camp and the continuity of the Varty custodianship. Varty camp is the heart of Londolozi. This emphasis on family heritage means that children have always had a place at Londolozi, and this is particularly so at Varty Camp. All the chalets and suites have private plunge pools and elevated timber decks. The focal point of each luxurious bathroom is a magnificent view of the lush green riverine vegetation. The essence of relaxation is to gaze from your bath over uninterrupted views of the African wild. Characterised by a timeless safari ambience, eight chalets and 2 suites all feature private plunge pools and decks with expansive river views. Londolozi’s rich history is preserved and recorded in the original camp built in 1926. Four Rondavels, which date back to the original Sparta Hunting Camp, are a special feature. Each have been set dressed to reflect a time gone by, this museum is a tribute to the early Bush veld Pioneers, a well-stocked wine cellar and an library (with Internet access) also have a home at Varty camp but it is Varty Camps main deck offering aweinspiring views of the Sand River that captures the true essence of Africa.
Founders CampEnchanting and intimate, Founders’ Camp is ideally situated to provide an insider’s view on the secrets of river life. To visit Founder’s Camp is to discover an earthly paradise, where everything is timed to the cycles of nature and its fundamental laws. Founders Camp honours past Guests and staff who have contributed to building Londolozi. It is their efforts which have distilled the legacy of the past 30 years into a common mission. Seven idyllic chalets repose in the shade of ancient ebony and matumi trees along the banks of the Sand River. It is an intimate sanctuary filled with unexpected wonders in the warm heart of the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. This is safari in the classic style, elegantly and timelessly decorated with classic black and cream ticking fabric and original mahogany beds. Deep leather couches, military chests, compass safari lamps and a riverside lounge sala, create a mood of easy luxury and laid back welcome for discerning families and travellers.
Granite SuitesThe Granite Suites offers an unforgettable experience for no more than six guests. The exceptionally well-appointed rooms all have dramatic river views and the suites include a private ranger, game viewing vehicle and masseuse. Pinned to the bedrock and suspended over the Sand River the Granite Suites afford a dramatic proximity to the natural spectacles of the bushveld. Granite suites can be booked individually or as a private camp for six guests, making it ideal for honeymooning couples and intimate family celebrations. The three prestigious suites embody the very essence of Londolozi’s continuous striving to transcend and redefine the wildlife tourism experience, a combination of perfection and simplicity that wins the heart of all who stay there. Bold, inspiring materials mirror the extrusion of granite rocks that flank the camp while conveying the raw essence of Africa. A palette of silver, charcoal and elephant grey in a range of sumptuous materials creates an elegant and contemporary setting in each expansive suite. The emphasis is on space, light and privacy while blurring the barrier between inside and out. A seamless integration with nature is achieved with large doors and windows all opening directly onto the Sand River. The Private Granite Suites do not accommodate children under the age of 16, unless guests book the camp exclusively.
Pioneer CampPioneer is steeped in history. It is here, right in the heart of the reserve, where over eighty years ago the Varty ancestors arrived after three days of hard travel by rail, wagon and foot. In the falling light they pitched their tents on the banks of the Sand River where it runs cool and clear over vast granite rocks. They awoke in an illuminated landscape. Unique, beautiful, peaceful and remote, this wild and silent wilderness is still the defining experience at Pioneer Camp. The tents are now just part of the family mythology, replaced by expansive private suites hidden deep in a 500-year-old riverine forest of Water Matumis and Ebony trees.
Cresting a gentle rise with elevated views of the Sand River, massive granite extrusions stand sentinel over this elegant bushveld camp. This is the most secluded of Londolozi’s luxury camps. The three private suites have superb river views and are perfect for honeymoons. This adaptable camp can, however, be converted into a private bush home for a family or groups with enough space for 8 adults and 6 kids. The spacious entrance halls carry a Ralph Lauren feel, and its clean lines with floor to ceiling glass, sliding panels frame the wilderness that will take your breath away. The bathrooms are in classic Victorian style, yet perfectly carry their modern accents of marble, chrome and mahogany finishes. With a feel of honouring a bygone era, history pervades the camp with its photographs, old suite cases, silver, crystal glass and gramophones. You will find this camp a personal and romantic backdrop for adventures that belong to a new generation of sophisticated travellers.
Tree CampElegance and simplicity are the hallmarks of Tree Camp. In every detail and feature, from the crystal chandeliers to the hand sown linen, this exclusive camp provides a matchless showcase of African excellence and sets the trend for others to follow. Champagne, candlelight, princesses and African diamonds – this is the camp to defy every expectation. Undoubtedly, the most stylish family run camp in South Africa, Tree Camp is invigorated by the youthful energy of the fourth generation of Vartys, who now welcome guests at the front door.
- Six intimate suites
- Air-conditioning
- En suite bathroom and outdoor shower
- Private plunge pools and relaxing sala
- Spectacular game viewing dining deck
- Camp swimming pool
The three prestigious suites embody the very essence of Londolozi’s continuous striving to transcend and redefine the wildlife tourism experience, a combination of perfection and simplicity that wins the heart of all who stay there. Bold, inspiring materials mirror the extrusion of granite rocks that flank the camp while conveying the raw essence of Africa. A palette of silver, charcoal and elephant grey in a range of sumptuous materials creates an elegant and contemporary setting in each expansive suite. The emphasis is on space, light and privacy while blurring the barrier between inside and out. A seamless integration with nature is achieved with large doors and windows all opening directly onto the Sand River. The Private Granite Suites do not accommodate children under the age of 16, unless guests book the camp exclusively.
