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Ximuwu Lodge Story

Welcome to Ximuwu Safari Lodge — where every detail has a purpose, and every guest matters.

Ximuwu was born from a personal journey. Founders Patrick and Elly Suverein fell in love with the untamed beauty of the South African bush over a decade ago. After living privately on the property for several years, a life-changing experience shaped their vision: Patrick temporarily lost mobility following a back operation — and suddenly realised how difficult, or impossible, most lodges made it for people in a wheelchair to enjoy a safari.

Determined to open up the safari world to everyone, they designed and built Ximuwu Safari Lodge from the ground up. Every pathway, room, and activity was carefully planned to welcome all guests — including those with mobility needs — without ever compromising on comfort or luxury.

Today, Ximuwu is more than a luxury safari lodge. It’s a sanctuary of inclusion, relaxation, and world-class wildlife experiences — where accessibility and elegance go hand in hand.

We invite you to read more on our About Us page and discover how purpose, passion, and design came together in the heart of the Klaserie.

In May 2026, the late Wright family acquired ownership of Ximuwu lodge. Paul and Astrid and Hylton and Charmaine have had a life long passion for wildlife, and for see this as an opportunity to play a role in protection South Africa rich heritage of wildlife game reserves. As a family we were attracted by the unique offering that Ximuwu has. Where it is all inclusive to those of all different abilities.

Our aim is to grow and develop Ximuwu so that many visitors can enjoy the wonders of the African bush.

location

Klaserie Private Nature Reserve

Ximuwu Lodge features four elegantly decorated luxury private suites, accommodating up to eight guests. Experience Africa’s wonders with unparalleled personal luxury. This setup ensures a dream stay, tailored for your group.

There is also the hideaway which also accommodates up to an additional six guest

about us

Private Safaris

Our mission is to deliver an authentic, intimate safari experience where luxury and freedom blend seamlessly with the wild.

Every stay at Ximuwu is your own. With a private game viewer, expert guide, and professional tracker, you control your safari schedule and focus. Located in a quiet, private corner of the Klaserie, we offer something rare — true stillness and space to reconnect with nature.

Unlike many busy reserves, where guides follow each other in a line from one sighting to the next, safaris at Ximuwu revive the old art of animal tracking. Guests join in the process, reading signs, following prints, and sharing in the thrill of the search. It’s a slower, more meaningful way to explore the bush — and one our guests describe as deeply rewarding.

A place where nature, comfort, and service come together effortlessly.

Looking after you

Our Management

Meet Rudi & Melinda Hulshof – Our Management Team

At Ximuwu Safari Lodge, we’re proud to have Rudi and Melinda Hulshof as our managers.

Rudi brings decades of guiding expertise, having led unforgettable safaris at some of Africa’s most renowned luxury lodges, including Royal Malewane and most recently Singita Lebombo. His deep knowledge of the bush, calm presence, and passion for conservation make every game drive an experience to remember.

Melinda has held senior management positions at both Royal Malewane and Singita, where she developed a strong reputation for excellence in guest service, operations, and team leadership. Her warmth and attention to detail are already felt throughout the lodge.

Together, Rudi and Melinda bring world-class safari experience and a personal, down-to-earth approach — perfectly aligned with Ximuwu’s intimate, luxury setting.

ximuwu

History

The Founders’ Story of Ximuwu Safari Lodge

Ximuwu Safari Lodge began as a dream shared by Patrick and Elly Suverein, originally from the Netherlands. After travelling extensively through more than 30 African countries, it was the raw beauty and tranquillity of South Africa’s Klaserie Private Nature Reserve that truly captured their hearts.

In 2016, they acquired the land that would become Ximuwu, and by 2021, they opened the doors to their private bush retreat — a bespoke safari lodge designed to offer exclusivity, comfort, and connection to nature.

Every detail of Ximuwu reflects their vision. Patrick and Elly’s distinctive design style is seen throughout the lodge, blending clean modern lines with natural textures and panoramic bush views. Their hands-on approach ensures every guest feels genuinely welcomed — not only through world-class service, but through real, personal encounters. Whether it’s a warm ‘howzit’ on the deck or sharing stories over a drink at the bar, their presence is part of what makes Ximuwu so memorable.

 

Let us welcome you to

UNTAMED AFRICA

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The Latest from Instagram

  • There’s a certain rhythm to this place. In the early mornings, the soft light, the stillness before the day begins… and in the moments that unfold when you least expect them. It’s not just about what you see, but how it makes you feel — the quiet connection to the wild, the space to slow down, and the sense of being completely present. And then there are the small, thoughtful touches along the way — the warm service, the special food, and the attention to detail that make a stay feel complete. These are the moments that stay with you. Long after you’ve left, they find their way back in small, unexpected ways. A glimpse into what makes Ximuwu so special. Ready to experience it for yourself?
  • The elephants are absolutely thriving right now ✨ With all the rain this season, the bush has turned into a lush green paradise — thick grass as far as you can see, water everywhere, and endless feeding opportunities. The energy out there is something special… playful mud baths, splashing in the waterholes, and herds moving through like they’ve got nowhere else to be but happy 🐘
  • Today is World Leopard Day, and it feels fitting to look back at a truly special sighting from this week at Ximuwu. Our guests were treated to an incredible encounter with a magnificent male leopard, completely at ease in his surroundings. He moved slowly through the bush, pausing often, allowing everyone to settle in and simply observe. For over an hour, the sighting unfolded at its own pace, with this stunning cat giving us the privilege of following him as he went about his day. There is something unforgettable about spending that kind of time with a leopard in the wild. At Ximuwu, we are lucky to share this landscape with them, and even luckier when they choose to share their time with us 🐆🍀 📷 @rudihulshof
  • Not every moment in the bush is about beauty in the traditional sense — but every moment has purpose. Hyenas and vultures may not be the first animals that come to mind when you think of Africa’s wildlife, yet their role is nothing short of essential. In this scene, they work together to return an elephant back to the earth, ensuring that nothing goes to waste. Vultures, with their remarkable eyesight, are often the first to arrive, while hyenas bring strength and persistence. Together, they form part of a highly efficient natural system — one that keeps the bush healthy, balanced, and alive. It’s a powerful reminder that even in death, there is life, and every creature has its place in this intricate ecosystem. The wild, just as it should be.
  • At Ximuwu, every detail has been carefully considered. From the moment you walk in, you’ll notice that nothing is random or off the shelf. Our interiors have been thoughtfully designed specifically for the lodge, with each piece reflecting the colours, textures and atmosphere of the bush around us. The paintings are commissioned to complement our palette, while many of the sculptures and features are created by talented local artists. These elements don’t simply decorate the space — they add character and a real sense of place. Ximuwu is designed to feel like a home in the bush. Warm, comfortable and personal, while still connected to the wild surroundings just outside. It’s this balance between refined design and a relaxed, natural feel that makes the lodge so special… could you see yourself settling in here?
  • A quiet encounter, until curiosity takes over. While we were watching this elephant from the vehicle, it slowly turned the tables — approaching with calm confidence to have a closer look at us. No rush, no drama, just a thoughtful inspection at close range. That subtle shift, where observation becomes mutual, is always something special to witness. Out here, it’s never just about what you see — but also about being seen
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