My husband and I just returned from four days at Londolozi Pioneer Camp. They haven’t coined enough adjectives to properly review the majesty of this place when it comes to beauty, quality of service and the many clever and carefully customized details the staff think of to make the guest experience one that will not be forgotten.
Pioneer Camp 1926 Entrance
There is no typical day at Londolozi. The only constants are those that book end the day; a luxurious suite where design and comfort envelope you. The beautifully appointed living room has magnificent sweeping vistas and provide the perfect sanctuary in which to sit and recall the magic after an early morning drive. In the evening, the oversized bathtub encourages a lazy soak while a refreshing dip in the private plunge pool on the deck is the perfect refresher on a hot afternoon. The amenities are plentiful, the mini bar puts other five star properties to shame boasting treats, champagne, local wines and enough ingredients to invent your own sundowner. No need to worry about over packing, they do your laundry every day. Don’t bother bringing that clunky adapter, they’ve thought of that too. If shopping is a must, someone has hand selected one-of-a-kind art, jewelry and a fun assortment of unusual gifts and housed it in one of the other camps within walking distance.
Londolozi Living
Meal times were special each and every time: breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner -extraordinary variety, artfully presented and delicious. Served in a different location each night, dinner was a time to share all of the things we saw and learned during the game drive. One of the most special during our stay was a candle light dinner in celebration of our anniversary set on our private deck. Wow! To end the evening, caramelized pineapple with chocolate sauce and a romantic candle lit bubble bath sprinkled with flower petals. Over the top!
Private Dinners at Pioneer Camp
Each day, we went on two game drives, one before sun up the other before sunset. The game drives featured so many different landscapes, it was hard to believe we were in a single national park, the cast of characters every changing keeping us rooted to the edge of our seats. We saw so many different animals and had the chance to witness some incredible behaviors. The big 5, many along with their babies, yes, but the other animals that make up the rest of the roster of creatures found here are equally awe inspiring.
The Maxabeni 3:3 Male
Seeing without understanding would be a great shame. This is where Londolozi again demonstrates how it excels in creating a superior safari experience. We were paired with Ranger Rich and Tracker Ox, people who are obviously passionate about their work. As we watched, they fielded our questions teaching us what the behaviors meant and how the animals fit together in natures puzzle.
Watching three male zebras standing in a line in the bush is incredible. Learning that they are actually working together to push a cheetah away from the female zebras who are protecting a little colt elevates that sighting to something extraordinary. We sat just a few feet away wildly snapping pictures as the cheetah climbed a fallen tree contemplating. One incredible moment out of so many!
Cheetah in a tree
You will be hard pressed to keep your inner child from making an appearance. Wide-eyed curiosity, nonstop questions, the breathless anticipation and delight from seeing a lion or a family of rhino up close. It was thrilling to become reacquainted with that sense of wonder. As if this is not enough, add into the equation the chance to experience the glory of an African sunset or the chance to see star constellations that may not be visible from your part of the world. If you’re reading this and wondering IF you should visit, don’t, choose a date, pack your bags and be prepared to be utterly blown away. I am busy planning our return visit. One trip is simply not enough!
Written by: Simone and Jim (Londolozi Guests)
Beautiful reflections Simone and Jim … and I couldn’t agree more. I’ve been dreaming and scheming of my return trip to Londolozi since my first adventure in June. Went away feeling like part of the beautiful Londolozi family and can’t wait to return. Thanks for sharing your experience and photos!
Excellent recount of the Londolozi experience! I agree on all counts.
I couldn’t agree more. In the early 80s while living in South Africa it was relatively easy to visit Londolozi. 27 years later it’s 35+ hours of travel time from Hawai’i. Did it in 2010 and we’ll celebrate Christmas there this year. We’re counting the days to departure.
Exactly why my husband & I are returning in March!
Dear Simone and Jim
Thank you so much for putting into words just how you feel about our home Londolozi, we are so excited to have you back again! I hope that inner child stays well front and center…see you soon
energy from all your Londolozi Family
Simone & Jim
thank you so much for your beautiful insight & great pics of Londolozi & the animals….I will be leaving for Londolozi on Nov 23 & will be staying for a whole week…..I’m super excitied & when choosing Londolozi I just knew in my Heart this where I needed to be!!
I hope you will return one day, just as I hope to do after my trip!!!
P.S. “Happy Anniversary”
Thank you Simone for a great blog post! I look forward to hearing more from you on your food travels as well.
Tammy –
Thanks so much! I can’t wait to hear about your trip. Have a wonderful time. You are in very good hands:)