Located high on a ridge of the world-famous Sabi Sand Game Reserve, overlooking the magnificent Sand River, lies Kirkman’s Kamp, a lodge with a rich history and a safari experience like no other in the world.
Sharing an unfenced boundary with the Kruger National Park, South Africa’s largest and most well-known game reserve in the world, the Sabi Sand Game Reserve benefits from a great diversity of wildlife. The reserve is, however, world-renowned for its prolific leopard sightings that are just unmatched to anywhere else in the world. Guests staying at Kirkman’s Kamp have the privilege of traversing 10,500 hectares (26,000 acres) of exclusive-use land that is home to, not only the Big Five but other rare and iconic species. Safaris are led by expert ranger and tracker teams, that ensure sensitive off-roading practices and vehicle limits at sightings ensure the exclusivity of an up-close game viewing experience.
Back at the lodge, one steps back in time, into the classical ambience of an original 1920s homestead. Kirkman’s Kamp has spectacular views of the unspoiled landscape that surrounds the Sand River from each of its 12 guest cottages. Here, old meets new; with antique-styled beds seamlessly blending with modern comforts, while private verandas creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
A library offers a sanctuary filled with interesting reads, while the classical sitting room provides the ultimate setting to enjoy a pre-dinner drink. Immersed in the bushscape is a rim-flow swimming pool with views of the Sand River. Guests enjoy tea on the rolling lawn, while breakfast and lunch are served on the shady and picturesque verandas. Dinner is a magnificent affair, where mouth-watering Pan-African menus can be enjoyed in a boma, on the lawns, or in a candlelit bush setting.
Choose from a variety of exciting activities such as twice-daily game drives, interpretive bush and nature walks, private, family, birding or photographic safaris, or even a game of croquet or tennis (complete with Pimms and strawberries). Our WILDchild programme is designed especially for children visiting our safari lodge and is filled with fun, interactive activities.
The 12 air-conditioned guests cottages on Kirkman’s Kamp are reminiscent of an old farmstead, and each faces the glorious Sand River where elephants and other wild animals roam. The cosy rooms each have an ensuite bathroom with a shower, and a private verandah with magnificent views. Limited triple-bed room options are available for small families.
Set out in an open 4×4 safari vehicle in the company of a ranger and tracker team, who will attempt to track your favourite animals. The Sabi Sand Game Reserve is well known for its leopard sightings and you may well spot one of these elusive cats resting after a successful night hunt. These usually shy and elusive cats have become accustomed to vehicles in the Sabi Sand and, unlike many other areas, where leopards are rarely glimpsed in daylight hours, sightings of these magnificent animals are not uncommon on day drives.
For those looking for an active thrill beyond the excitement of Big Five sightings on a game drive vehicle, a walking safari offers an opportunity to connect with the African bush, interacting with all its inhabitants, from largest to smallest. Embark on an adventure where your feet tread in the tracks of zebra and buffalo, your nostrils fill with the scent of crushed wild grasses and you push through the brush and all six senses re-awake as Africa touches you and you touch Africa.
There’s no better way to get a glimpse into real African life than by visiting one of its rural communities. A trip to one of the villages surrounding the Sabi Sand Game Reserve provides a glimpse into the challenges, hopes and dreams of this local community in a way that not only educates but also inspires.
