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Early Morning Drive at Ximuwu Lodge

This is how a day starts at the Savana

The call of a Crested Francolin signals a new day. The horizon lightens, and the air is crisp on this early morning. The smell and warmth of freshly brewed coffee are heavenly. Join us on a early morning drive while the bush awakens and the sun starts to rise

 Setting Off on Safari

Excitement crackles as we climb onto the game viewer. Blankets and hot water bottles keep the chill at bay. We hear the unmistakable roar of a male lion. It echoes across the plain, announcing his presence.

 

Following the Roar

We head north, towards the lion’s roar. Turning onto the airstrip, we switch off the engine. In comfortable silence, we watch the sunrise paint the sky in vivid colors. It’s the perfect start to the day.

 

Encounter with the King

Another roar rolls across the bush. We start up and head towards the sound. Our senses are tuned, searching for the lion. The tracker signals, “Ngala over there!” We see the lion emerge into the morning light. He scent marks bushes along the roadside, proclaiming his territory.

 

Close Encounter

The lion walks straight past us, focused on tracking his pride. We hold our breath, amazed by his presence. We follow him and are treated to a full-throated roar. The steam from his breath visualizes the powerful sound. A lion’s roar is felt more than heard.

 

Continuing the Adventure

We continue our morning adventure as the lion falls asleep in the warmth of the sun. This is why we love morning safaris! Now it is about time you really join us on a early morning drive while the bush awakens and the sun starts to rise

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  • Who’s ready to explore the Klaserie? Rudi is on the wheel and Thulani in the tracker seat, guiding the way on a game drive full of surprises. From majestic elephants to elusive predators, every turn brings a new adventure. Come and experience the magic of the African bush like never before! ✨🐘
📷 @francoisfouriesafaris @klaserieprivatenaturereserve 

#XimuwuSafariLodge #KlaserieWildlife #SafariAdventure #GameDriveMagic #LuxurySafari WildlifeEncounters
  • Over the last few months, the Ximuwu airstrip has been alive with activity. A wildebeest herd has been spending their time here, and it’s wonderful to see that all four of their calves are still alive and growing fast. The recent rains have brought fresh, green grass, and the herd looks healthy, strong, and full of energy. It’s a joy to watch them roam and thrive right on our doorstep!

#Ximuwu #LuxurySafari #PrivateSafari #Wildlife #AfricanLuxury
  • This is where many of our favourite moments unfold. Our cosy bar and lounge area is a place to slow down, settle in and truly relax. After a day out in the bush, guests gather here to share safari stories, enjoy a drink of choice and simply take in the atmosphere of Ximuwu ✨

It’s an inviting space to read, chat, or sit quietly and listen to the sounds of nature drifting in from outside. Whether it’s a pre-dinner drink or a long evening of conversation, this is a space that quickly feels like home 🍸 

📷 @francoisfouriesafaris
  • Over the past weeks, heavy rainfall has affected large parts of the Greater Kruger region.

We feel incredibly grateful that Ximuwu Safari Lodge has not suffered structural damage. At the same time, our hearts go out to many colleagues whose lodges are located closer to rivers and lower-lying areas. For some, the damage is severe.

The good news is that the rain has now largely passed. We hope to welcome our team back to Ximuwu later this week. Our next step will be a full assessment of damage to our roads and tracks, followed by necessary repairs.

With our first guests arriving at Eastgate Airport in just a week, we are confident we can resume our normal rhythm and safari operations.

The land is lush, and the animals couldn’t be happier, with water and fresh grass everywhere!

Thank you to everyone who sent kind and supportive messages over the past weeks. We truly appreciate it. We remain fully committed to creating unforgettable safari experiences for all our upcoming guests.
  • Tucked away in the heart of the Klaserie, Ximuwu  Lodge is surrounded by one of the most special and untouched parts of the Greater Kruger. This is a place where nature still sets the pace — open landscapes, fewer lodges, and no crowds competing for the moment.

Here, game drives are about immersion rather than interruption. Long sightings, soft sounds of the bush, and the luxury of peace and quiet while wildlife goes about its day. We feel incredibly blessed to share this wild, unspoiled corner of Africa with our guests — a place where nature can truly be experienced, not rushed.
Can you imagine experiencing the African bush like this?

📷 @rudihulshof
  • A bird’s-eye view of Ximuwu ✨

Seeing the lodge from the helicopter really gives a sense of how peaceful and beautifully set it is in the bush. Our suites and main building blend perfectly into the landscape, with space, privacy and those endless views we all dream of on safari.

Can you see yourself spending a few nights here?
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