Book Now

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.

social media

The Latest from Instagram

  • The Sark Pride caught well, and it shows. Full bellies, relaxed lions, and a younger generation that looks strong and healthy. Big Daddy made sure he got the best cut first and then settled in for a proper nap.

The pride hasn’t had much luck with their litters over the past few years, so seeing these youngsters doing this well makes us quietly hopeful that they’re here to stay 🍀

📷 @francoisfouriesafaris
  • Happy New Year from all of us at Ximuwu Safari Lodge ✨

We welcomed the new year the true bush way – celebrating quietly under the African sky, both at the lodge and at our hideaway villa. A glass of Veuve Clicquot enjoyed on bush time, knowing that the alarm would ring early… because game drive waits for no one. At 5:30 this morning we were back out in the wild, starting the first day of the new year exactly how we love it.

Thank you to all our wonderful guests who shared this special moment with us, and to everyone who has been part of our journey. We wish you a happy, healthy and adventurous new year, filled with beautiful moments and wild memories 🥂
We hope to welcome you back to the bush soon.
  • Looking back at 2025, it’s the golden moments that stand out.

The first light of the morning, painting the bush in soft, fresh colours.
The last light of the day, casting everything in a warm, peaceful glow.
From early morning game drives to sunsets on the deck, these were the moments that made this year unforgettable at Ximuwu.

A heartfelt thank you to all our guests who stayed with us in 2025 – you made this year truly special. Here’s to more golden days ahead!
  • Lunch on the deck, with a little Italian twist 🍕

Homemade pizzas prepared by our chefs, topped just the way you like them. A bit of bruschetta to start, a fresh Italian salad on the side, and plenty of time to simply sit back and enjoy. All of this while the bush unfolds in front of you, with the occasional animal wandering past as if it’s just another normal lunch spot.
It’s one of those Ximuwu moments we love so much. No schedule, no rush, just really good food, great views and the feeling that nowhere else in the world could quite compare. An Italian-style lunch, right in the heart of the African bush.
  • Sometimes you look out from the deck and think… do we really need to go on a game drive today? 

Zebra, wildebeest and giraffe casually strolling along the airstrip, the view stretching out forever, and you sitting back with your favourite cocktail in hand. After a big Christmas lunch, this feels like the perfect safari plan.
Front-row seats to the bush, zero effort required. The hardest decision? Another drink or a little nap.

Do we see you on the deck soon? 🍹
  • Merry Christmas from all of us at Ximuwu Safari Lodge 🎄

The bush is alive and vibrant at this time of year, full of colour, new life, and summer energy, and we’re feeling incredibly grateful. Grateful for our wonderful guests, our dedicated team, and the privilege of sharing this special place with people from all over the world.
May your day be filled with warmth, joy, and a little bit of wild magic. Wherever you are celebrating, we hope the spirit of the African bush is not too far from your heart.

We look forward to welcoming you back to Ximuwu soon. Merry Christmas and festive wishes from the bush 🌿✨
Book Call