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a different way to feel the bush

Luxury Safari Experiences in the Lowveld

Embark on unforgettable Lowveld safari experiences at Ximuwu, a luxury safari lodge in Greater Kruger. Discover the bush on our expertly guided walking safaris, where trained rangers bring the wilderness to life. Spend a night under the stars on our private sleep-out deck, fully surrounded by the sounds of nature.

Included in your stay is a scenic helicopter flight over the iconic Blyde River Canyon — a breathtaking aerial journey perfect for photography. Back at the lodge, unwind with professional spa treatments, enjoy sun-drenched hours on the pool deck, and sip cocktails while watching wildlife at the waterhole.

From stargazing safaris to immersive sound experiences, every activity at Ximuwu is designed to combine comfort, adventure, and exclusivity — all fully wheelchair accessible.

patience is rewarded

Hides

One of our luxury safari experiences in the Lowveld is our specially designed underground hides, optimized for natural lighting. Here, you can capture serene waterhole scenes. Firstly, visit our morning hide close to the lodge for peaceful dawn views, with coffee, stools, beanbags, and power outlets. Additionally, explore our afternoon hide during the golden hour. A short drive takes you there, where adjustable chairs, camera gimbals, and spotlights enhance your photography experience. Moreover, both hides are wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy South Africa’s wildlife splendor at Ximuwu Lodge.

pictures from photographic hides

A sanctuary

ximuwu spa

Another example of our luxury safari experiences  at Ximuwu is unwinding at our Spa. Our Spa is a tranquil garden oasis just steps from your suite, where every guest receives an hour of complimentary spa treatment, including a hair blowout option. Indulge in luxury with L’Occitane products and Africology treatments, each service thoughtfully customized by our spa therapist to ensure your relaxation. Explore our spa menu for facials, massages, nail care, and the added luxury of exclusive hair treatments. Opt for in-suite spa services, transforming your room into a personal sanctuary for ultimate privacy and comfort.

Spa treatments

Indulge in a luxurious hair blowout

Ximuwu spa

After an exhilarating day on a game drive, it’s natural for your hair to feel a bit tousled from wearing a hat under the African sun. But no worries—Ximuwu Spa has you covered. We offer a professional hair blowout service to help you refresh and revitalize your look.

This special service is provided by Elly, one of the owners of Ximuwu Safari Lodge, who was a professional hairstylist in her early career. Elly brings her passion and expertise to this service, ensuring that you leave the spa feeling as polished and glamorous as ever. Whether you’re preparing for a special evening or just want to treat yourself, Elly is here to make sure you look your best.

At Ximuwu, we believe that every aspect of your stay should be exceptional, and our hair blowout service is just one more way we ensure your experience is unforgettable.

Under the Stars

sleep out deck

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our exclusive sleep-out deck. Designed for a deep nature immersion, it’s perfect for romance. Firstly, experience a wilderness retreat ideal for couples, offering stunning views and intimacy with Africa’s wild beauty.

Nestled in a secluded tree house for two, find privacy near the main lodge. Additionally, at night, let the wild’s sounds lull you to sleep under the stars. Moreover, awaken to vast skies and birdsong, welcoming a new day over Africa’s landscape.

Take to the Skies

Helicopter and Scenic Flights

The pinnacle of our luxury safari experience  at Ximuwu is soaring over Africa’s wilderness with our inclusive helicopter tours; each guest is treated to an aerial adventure. Witness vast savannahs and majestic wildlife from above. Begin with bird’ s-eye views of the Lowveld, a serene landscape rich in biodiversity.

Experience the grandeur of Blyde River Canyon from the skies, where dramatic vistas unfold beneath you. Capture the stunning beauty of Africa and create memories that last a lifetime. Our exclusive flights provide unique access to natural wonders, making every moment an unforgettable experience.

Movie helicopter ride

Enhance your stay

Unforgettable day trips

Welcome to the Heart of Adventure
Nestled in our Safari Lodge, embark on thrilling day trips.

Explore Hoedspruit’s Charm
Experience the warmth of Hoedspruit, a hub of South African culture. Wander its welcoming streets, browse local shops, and taste traditional flavors. Hoedspruit pulses with community spirit.

Blyde River Canyon Cruise: Scenic Wonders
Set sail through Blyde River Canyon and explore iconic landscapes. Look for wildlife as you cruise past stunning rock formations and lush greenery.

 

BLYDE RIVER CANYON SAFARIS

The Hippo

Jessica

Jessica the Hippopotamus, a 23-year-old resident near Hoedspruit, South Africa, is a unique example of interspecies interaction. Unlike typical wild hippos, Jessica has formed an unusual bond with humans, challenging the natural boundaries typically observed between wildlife and people. Found as an infant, she was raised with human interaction, and as a result, has become accustomed to and even enjoys the presence of humans, something rarely seen in her species. Jessica’s story offers a fascinating glimpse into the potential for harmony between humans and wildlife. Also, it serves as a reminder of the complexities of animal behavior. This gentle giant not only captivates those who visit her but also contributes to our understanding of wildlife conservation and the impacts of human-animal relationships.

Jessica The Hippo

Look behind the scenes

Mholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Center

Conservation at Moholoholo Animal Rehabilitation Centre
Moholoholo Centre is a wildlife sanctuary just a 45-minute drive away. By visiting and connecting with our natural heritage, you support animal rescue and rehabilitation efforts.

Mholoholo Wildlife rehab

ALL OUR SAFARIS ARE PRIVATE AND PERSONALISED

Game Drives

"Experience the difference at Ximuwu, where our game drives are uniquely tailored to each guest's preferences and schedule, offering a personalized and flexible safari adventure unlike any conventional camp."

EXPLORE

Walking Safaris

"Immerse yourself in the stunning African wilderness with Ximuwu's guided walking safaris, providing an up-close, personal, and unforgettable journey as you track wildlife on foot through the spectacular landscape."

Night Drives

Unveil the hidden nocturnal world of the African wilderness with Ximuwu's advanced Pulsar thermal vision goggles. Witness elephants by the dam and herds of impala and zebra across the grasslands. Enjoy a truly immersive and enlightening wildlife experience.

Sound Safaris

Explore the unique sounds of the African bush with Ximuwu's sound safaris. Immerse yourself in nature’s symphony, experiencing the wilderness as a lion does. Discover a magical, new perspective.

Photo Safaris

Kruger National Park, South Africa's top safari spot, offers unparalleled photography opportunities. At Ximuwu, enjoy exclusive access to vast landscapes, ensuring you never compete for the perfect shot. Capture stunning views and ideal lighting—it's all yours.

starlit safaris at Ximuwu

Join us for a night safari at Ximuwu Lodge, where the brilliant stars of the vast African sky light your way through the untamed wilderness. Experience the nocturnal beauty of nature in this unforgettable journey.

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The Latest from Instagram

  • We are thrilled to share some incredible news!

This week, Ximuwu Lodge has officially been awarded 5 STAR PREMIUM status by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa.

This is the highest level of recognition in South Africa’s luxury hospitality industry – reserved only for a very select number of lodges and hotels that truly exceed expectations in both quality and service. We are proud to now stand among this elite circle.

What makes this award even more meaningful is that it also recognises our commitment to accessibility at the very highest level. At Ximuwu, we believe the magic of safari should be open to everyone, and we are honoured to lead the way in inclusive, barrier-free safari experiences.

For us, this is more than just stars on paper – it reflects the passion, dedication, and heart of our entire team, who go above and beyond to make every stay unforgettable. From magical wildlife encounters to our personalised service and world-class facilities, this award is a celebration of what makes Ximuwu unique.

A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful guests for trusting us with your journeys and being part of our story. And to our incredible team – this achievement belongs to you!

Ximuwu Safari Lodge is now officially 5 STAR PREMIUM – and we cannot wait to welcome you to experience it for yourself.

#award #awardwinning #luxurylodge #luxurysafari #fivestar #premium #SATGC #tourism #southafrica
  • Did you know… at Ximuwu we serve Veuve Clicquot as part of our all-inclusive experience? 

Whether you enjoy it as a pre-dinner treat, with your sundowner in the bush, or like today alongside fresh scones – it’s always the right moment for bubbles! 

And the best part… Albert’s beautiful smile is always included too 🥂✨

What’s your favorite way to enjoy a glass of champagne?

#champagne #veuvecliquot #luxurysafari #vacation #safari #ximuwu #lowveld #hoedspruit #klaserieprivatenaturereserve
  • Yesterday was one for the books here at Ximuwu!

During their morning helicopter flight, our guests spotted none other than Ezulwini – one of the most famous big tuskers of the Greater Kruger. Seeing him from the air was already a thrill, and in the afternoon we set out to try and find him again on the ground. No luck… and we thought that was the end of the story.

But Ezulwini had other plans.

Just as our guests were getting ready to head to their rooms after dinner, he appeared – now in the company of a herd of elephants – and made his way right to our waterhole. Imagine the excitement on the deck as this incredible giant quenched his thirst only a few meters from where we stood.

The video we captured might not be crystal-clear, but moments like this don’t need perfect pixels. They’re etched in memory, in the thrill of the unexpected, and in the privilege of sharing space with one of Africa’s true icons.

Ezulwini, thank you for making Ximuwu your stopover – you’ve left us all in awe ✨
  • Did you know zebras don’t have just one “baby season”? Unlike impalas and wildebeest, who mostly give birth in a short burst, zebras can welcome their foals any time of the year.

What’s amazing is how every foal instantly knows its mom by her unique stripe pattern — it’s like their very own secret code in the wild. This little one stays super close, always keeping an eye on mom, soaking up all the safety and love it needs to grow strong.

Moments like these—full of curiosity, closeness, and wonder—are exactly why we love sharing the magic of Ximuwu with you.

Have you ever spotted a zebra foal staying close to its mom on safari? Tell us your favourite wildlife moments!
  • This morning’s game drive had us crossing paths with a truly magnificent male lion, his beautiful mane catching the first light of day. He strolled past with the calm confidence only a king of the bush can carry. Moments like these are why we love waking up in the wild… Happy #Caturday from all of us at Ximuwu! 🦁✨
  • At eye level, every detail comes alive — the piercing gaze, the sleek muscles, the quiet power in every movement. Sitting in our photographic hide as a cheetah steps into view is a moment that stops time. It’s the kind of encounter that stays with you forever, a reminder of how raw and beautiful the wild truly is. Stay with us at Ximuwu, and perhaps you too will find yourself face-to-face with the magic of Africa 🍀
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