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a different way to feel the bush

Luxury Safari Activities in the Lowveld

Embark on unforgettable Lowveld safari activities and 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 activities 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.

“Lowveld safari activities and experiences at Ximuwu”

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.

Camera & Lens Rental PDF

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

  • Seven guests in camp this week, complete privacy 🤩

With exclusive use of Ximuwu Safari Lodge, the day unfolds entirely on their terms — dining whenever the mood strikes, heading out on safari at their preferred time, favourite music setting the rhythm of a poolside celebration, and a team devoted to making every moment effortless.

And today, romance adds something extra.
Love is in the bush.
Happy Valentine’s Day from all of us at Ximuwu. ❤️
  • Early December marked the arrival of impala lambing season, and suddenly the bush was filled with tiny, wobbly new legs staying close to their moms. Fast forward a few weeks and it’s unbelievable how quickly they’ve grown — many are already starting to look almost like young adults. 😇

The recent rains have turned the reserve beautifully green, and the wildlife is thriving. Full bellies, shiny coats, and little ones racing through the grass everywhere you look.
What a privilege to watch these youngsters grow up right in front of us 🍀✨
  • Strength, presence, and a moment that makes you pause.

The Sark Pride has roamed this area for as long as we can remember, and spending time with them never becomes ordinary. During a recent visit, @francoisfouriesafaris captured these lions with remarkable artistry – power in every look, stillness in between.

In @klaserieprivatenaturereserve ,part of the Greater Kruger, encounters remain wonderfully unhurried. There’s room to stop, to watch behaviour unfold, and to wait patiently for that perfect photographic opportunity while the pride moves at its own pace.

It’s a privilege that feels increasingly rare: the freedom to truly immerse yourself in the sighting and savour every second.
This is safari, just as it was meant to be.
  • Today we want to put a spotlight on someone who usually stays behind the scenes: our Sibu 🌿

If you’ve been to Ximuwu, you’ve admired our beautiful gardens — especially now, after all this wonderful rain, when everything is bursting with life. What you may not have seen is the person who lovingly takes care of it all. Sibu is always quietly hard at work, kind, dedicated, and often invisible… but absolutely essential.

We’re also very proud to share that Sibu recently passed his exam to become a butler. So on your next visit, don’t be surprised if you see him behind the bar, shaking cocktails instead of tending the garden.

Watching our team grow alongside the lodge is one of the things that makes Ximuwu so special. Well done, Sibu — we’re proud of you.
  • A  young elephants decided to put on a little show right in front of the lodge 🐘
Tail straight, full of attitude, probably slightly annoyed by our presence and clearly trying to impress us on his way back to mom — as youngsters so often do 😂

Now imagine this: you’re sitting on our patio, gin and tonic in hand, overlooking the open plains… and this unfolds right in front of you.
Life really doesn’t get much better than this at Ximuwu. See you soon!
  • As Ximuwu Lodge continues to grow, we’re opening our doors to new team members! 
If you believe you qualify for one of the following positions, please send your CV to:@management@ximuwu.com

- Strong maintenance-trained individual who will also need a tracker qualification to fill a dual position, relieving in both departments for set periods during the 3-week on, one week off cycle 

- Trained spa therapist/lodge anchor. This person will cover the spa for one week and the remaining two weeks will take up a leadership role in FOH, also covering management duties whilst the managers are on their leave cycles

- Junior sous chef

- Butler

Start dates will be April 1st.
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